Although we’ve all felt the strain of the unknown over the past months, for me, there have been some positive things about the quarantine. I’ve truly appreciated the gift of time. It’s been lovely to slow down and savor making things. As Oregon gradually reopens, I hope I can resist the urge to rush!
Denim Wiksten Haori
When considering what to do with several old pairs of jeans, it’s probably no surprise that I reached for my well-used Wiksten Haori pattern. I do love creating from scraps.
My last two versions are soft now and well worn (hereand here).
For this Haori, I mixed and matched the legs of several pairs of jeans, all from different colors of denim.
To get enough denim for the front and back bodice, I cut pieces from the legs. I also ripped off pockets and added them to the front and inside of the jacket.
To tie it all together, I used white topstitching thread and double stitched where ever possible. For lining, scraps of soft chambray came in handy. I hardly noticed the time as I ripped and cut and sewed. It’s a lovely weight, perfect for our cooler summer evenings. This will be one of my entries for #joinupjuly on instagram.
Libby Shirt
This month, I enjoyed revisiting one of the older Sew Over It patterns, the Libby shirt. This easy button-up top is cropped and loose fitting for a modern look. I made both versions from rayon. Even though it’s easy to sew, the pattern has lovely details. I love the vintage collar and cute cuffs. Rayon is a great fabric for this one. Since the fit of this top is loose, I cut the smallest size.
McCalls 7052
My last make is a tried and true top that I’ve made so, so many times. It’s a easy-fitting top with a swing-y peplum, McCalls 7052 (also made here). I love this top because you can throw it on and feel put together, even though the style is relaxed and easy. This is project you can finish in an afternoon – -instant gratification! I’ve used different fabrics for other versions, but love the feel of it in rayon.
The journal/diary format I’m using here on the blog today is new for me. It seems to make sense when I’m reviewing makes I’ve sewn before. What do you think?
I hope you’re enjoying your sewing projects as much as I am these days. Happy sewing and thanks for stopping by!
Elle Gee Makes 
I am so glad you showed us the recycled denim Wiksten Haori…I have been trying to pull the trigger on something similar for a while but with the exception of a few online examples (your quilted one being one)
I haven’t been able to get a real feel for how a heavier, more rigid fabric like pieced denim would work
Thank you, thank you
It’s moving up in the queue
(PS: I don’t know if the slight vee shape of the hem of the yellow striped Sew it Over blouse is intentional or just a camera angle thing but I am using that too)
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Glad to hear you found my denim version to be helpful, it was such a fun project, I’m sure you’ll love making yours! I made the SOI blouse as drafted. Another fun sew!
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I do like the new format. (I’d like it even more if my internet were working and I could get the links, lol.)
Your Wiksten Haori is fantastic – pre broken in! Did you size down from your measurements?
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Thanks! It’s good to know this format works for you! Yes, there’s nothing like broken in denim! I did size down from my measurements. The fit is pretty loose.
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You’ve been busy! I enjoy seeing what you have been sewing. All of your pieces look great. I like the journal format and might copy you, if you don’t mind 🙂
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Thanks Lucy! I’ve enjoyed these projects a lot, a bit of brightness in a somber time.
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I really like the new blog style and love the denim Haori! I finally made one- the day I finished summer appeared with a bang so will have to wait until fall. My linen is a little heavy, wondering if I should wash the jacket to see if it will soften. Pieces of jeans in the drawer, maybe there is enough. . . .
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Thank-you! I’ve softened linen by putting it in a hot dryer with tennis balls:) desperate measures….it is a great pattern! Glad to hear you’ve given it a go.
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