Maisa by Named in 3 Denims

October 14, 2017.Reading time 3 minutes.

Finally, I can cross ‘denim jacket’ off my sewing bucket list! This amazing pattern is part of the Named SS17 collection, the Maisa jacket and I’ve had my eye on it since it was released. The photo on the pattern envelope is made from recycled jeans, and I orginally planned to do the same with […]

A White Shirt and Jeans: Classics Recharged

April 29, 2017.Reading time 3 minutes.

I’m such a fan of wearing classics – jeans, button-down shirts, tee shirts to name a few, so it’s always fun when you see an updated classic that brings something new to the game. When I saw this white Vince Camuto shirt in the Nordstrom catalog, I just had to make a DIY version. It’s […]

A Moto Jacket, part of a..capsule wardrobe?!?

March 31, 2017.Reading time 6 minutes.

When Pattern Review announced their Wardrobe Sudoku Contest, I said, Never! 10 garments in two months that all have to coordinate with each other and shoes and accessories? Too mind-boggling for me. So I told myself I’d play along and use only fabric from my stash. Well, the phrase, ‘never say never’ now clearly applies […]

A Ruffle Skirt and Cold Shoulder Top

March 24, 2017.Reading time 4 minutes.

If you told me a year ago that I would be sewing a ruffle wrap skirt in denim for Spring, I would have laughed out loud. Ruffles have never been my thing. But if you show me enough of a trend, I am usually happy to hop on board! Such is the case with this […]

2016: Top Five Hits

December 31, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

Hi All! It’s almost time to ring in the new year, so I thought I’d take the opportunity to review my top five makes of 2016. Looking back at my sewing projects always makes me a little nervous, because I can’t bear to face the facts. Sometimes the makes that are the most fun to […]

Simplicity 1160-A Cut-Out Tee

June 24, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

Hi all! After completing my denim skirt last week, I needed to find an easy, fun, ‘instant gratification’ project to cleanse my sewing palate. This little tee was the answer, inspired by a recent visit to Anthropologie. I found so many wonderful tees to admire there. I’m always amazed at how they can take a […]

Having a 70’s Moment: Denim Button-up Skirt

June 15, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

Hi all! In anticipation of summer travels, I’ve been sewing up a storm! I’ve also been aware of a huge gap in my me-made separates wardrobe that must be fixed before I travel. I have very few skirts and almost no pants. My recently completed jeans helped to fill the gap, but I still need skirts, […]

A lace top inspired by Dolce & Gabbana

June 8, 2016.Reading time 3 minutes.

I used to think lace was reserved for prom dresses, frilly wedding dresses and other hyper-girlie looks. But I think I’ve given that up. I can’t resist the combination of feminine lace with the edge of denim it seems. And if the lace is blue, I’m all in! My inspiration for this top was this tunic […]

DIY Jeans and a Burda Spring Top

May 19, 2016.Reading time 6 minutes.

Hi all! Yes, I have FINALLY finished my first pair of jeans. My class at Modern Domestic here in Portland is over and I squeaked over the finish line with only five class minutes to spare! It feels sooooo good to have this project under my belt. I have wanted to sew a pair of […]

Sew the look: Denim and Lace

May 7, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

My summer travel wardrobe is starting to take shape. I’m determined to pack efficiently, but this will be tricky. The trip includes a Danube River cruise and some evenings will be dress-up events. Of course, jeans are my go-to wardrobe staple, but they’re probably not ‘cruise-appropriate’ (LOL), so I’m sewing some separates that […]