New in the shop! Introducing the Ali Sweatshirt PDF Pattern

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Today I'm very excited to announce the launch of a new pattern. I first started developing this pattern in January of 2017. I was looking for a casual and sporty sweatshirt that would be really easy to sew but also had some interesting style lines. The Ali Sweatshirt features dolman sleeves, a shoulder yoke and a cropped length that narrows to the high hip. It's the perfect addition to your me-made athleisure wardrobe. Whether you're working out or just lounging you'll love wearing this sweatshirt. You can wear it to the gym, to the beach or anywhere you need an extra layer of warmth. The roomy fit pairs well with jeans and leggings for everyday stylish comfort.

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This sweatshirt has some fun design features and lots of opportunity to play around. The yoke provides the perfect place to experiment with color blocking and the simple shape is a great basis for all sorts of hacks. There are two views, a traditional crewneck and a scoop neck plus the option of bracelet length sleeves or longer, slouchy sleeves. The instructions will walk you through an easy method of sewing and topstitching the center back yoke and sleeve seams. The topstitching is optional but provides a kick of visual interest and enhances the sporty vibe. 

I designated the skill level as Advanced Beginner but I think it really is simple enough for a beginner too. If you’re just getting your feet wet sewing with knits, you can keep it simple and not include any topstitching. But I encourage you to give it a try, because with a little practice it’s not too hard to master. Plus, I have a sewalong in the works that will roll out over the next month. The sewalong will include tips, tricks and photos to walk you through every step of making your own sweatshirt.

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And, until Sunday, Sept 16, 2018 at midnight Pacific, you can get 15% off using the code ALISWEATSHIRTLAUNCH at checkout. I hope you love this pattern as much as I do! 

Fall 2018 Sewing Plans

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For the first 7 months of the year, my sewing queue was pretty focused on making things for my trips to Denmark and Hawaii. Now that the trips are done I’m ready to refocus on my everyday wardrobe. I participated in the Seamwork Design Your Wardrobe program earlier this year. It really helped me determine what styles I gravitate towards and need to add to my wardrobe. I’ve had a list of patterns and a huge pile of fabric just waiting for me to job back in and start sewing. 

But with such a big list and limited time (I’m planning to release a new pattern very soon!) it’s hard to decide where to start. I recently heard about the #SeasonalSew3 idea that was started by the gals at Sew Altered Style. It’s like the Make 9 but it’s for a shorter period of time. I really like the idea because I find myself often changing my mind a few months into the year and not making half of what’s on my list. So I’ve selected 3 pieces as my top goal (numbers 1-3 in the list below) and have a few more to round out the inspiration queue.  

1. Lander Pants by True Bias
I actually did a muslin of these months ago and then set them aside to focus on sewing for Hawaii. The pattern still needs an adjustment or two but I’m not starting at zero. I’d also love to try the Persephone Pants by Anna Allen Clothing but will force myself to focus for the moment. :) When the Fabric Store closed earlier this year, I picked up a lot of pants fabric so I think I already have some good options in my stash. 

2. Esme Cardigan by Named Patterns
I love wearing cardigans and I’m excited to try out this pattern. I’m going to be making this as a collaboration with StyleMaker Fabrics so it is guaranteed to be made soon and to be fabulous. 

3. Hadley Top by Grainline Studio
This pattern looks like such a classic, just the kind of thing that I’d wear everyday. 

4. McCall’s M7788 Jumpsuit
This is another one I’ve started and want to finish. I think the design is really unique and cool and I’m curious how it would turn out. I’ve cut out the pattern and attempted a tissue fitting. The pattern pieces are currently a jumble in the closet but I’d still love to give it a go. I’m definitely on the fence about the faux skirt wrap. It takes a lot of fabric and may look weird.  

5. Calyer Pants by French Navy Now
I love the design of these pants and bought the pattern a few months ago. On work days, pants are my go-to and I’d love to add another style to my rotation.

6. Kalle Crop Top by Closet Case Patterns
I made a Kalle dress earlier this year and I’d love to have to crop to wear with high waisted jeans. I think it would make a great wardrobe staple. 

And just in case you’re interested, here’s my extra extended list if I’m somehow able to add a few hours to the day. :)

7. Willamette Shirt or Cheyenne Tunic by Hey June
I have both of these patterns and I’d really like to try the Willamette again in a more drapey fabric. 

8. Kobe Dress + Mito Cami by Papercut Patterns
These are on my Make 9 list. I love the cross over back design of the dress. And the Mito is perfect to layer underneath. I have copy shop versions printed of these patterns and fabric in the stash so it’s just a matter of queue and time. 

9. Ginger Jeans by Closet Case Patterns
JEANS. I wear jeans all the time and my RTW pairs are really starting to show some wear in the tush. I’ve only made one pair before and would love to give the Gingers a go. I enjoy wearing both flare and skinny styles so I love the options with this pattern. Again, I have the copy shop version printed and fabric on hand.

10. Ulysses Trench by Victory Patterns
This pattern is kind of my dream pattern. It’s so beautiful and elegant (maybe a little too much for work wear) but I think this is a piece that I’d be really proud of making. It’s outside of my usual repertoire and I think could be challenging in a good way. Also I've never made a Victory pattern before and it would be really fun to try out a new-to-me designer.

Have you started planning your fall sewing yet? Anyone else have a hard time narrowing down their sewing lists?