Day: 31 August 2014

adult's clothing, sewing

cocoon cardigan

There are so many talented people sharing information free on the internet.  One of those talented and generous people is Kelli from True Bias.  When I read her tutorial for a Cocoon Cardigan I quickly filed it away for future reference and just the right piece of fabric.  When I came across some soft merino jersey in Rathdowne Fabrics a little while ago I knew that it was time to get the tutorial out.

True Bias Cocoon Cardigan

This was a very straightforward garment to make, and it’s one size fits most. I am quite short, and if I make it again I’ll remove some of the depth so that it isn’t quite so long. However, I was looking for a comfortable, cozy, slouchy garment, and this is what I got!

True Bias Cocoon Cardigan

There are gathers at the upper back to the neckline for some shaping around the body, and this is a very straightforward sew. Kelli’s instructions are terrific, and in this jersey the cardigan folds and falls in a very soft and warm way.

True Bias Cocoon Cardigan

I used vliesofix tape to stabilise hem edges before twin stitching them in place. Interestingly, I recently acquired a vintage pattern that includes a very similar cardigan, although for a woven! Everything old is new again.

vintage Vogue 8458

If you’re looking for a quick sewing fix that doesn’t really require fitting, or to make a gift for someone else, this is a wonderful tutorial to use.  I have worn mine surprisingly often this winter!

True Bias Cocoon Cardigan

children's clothing, kids clothing, sewing

pyjamas for Clare

Clare has been asking for new winter pyjamas for ages.  I finally sewed up a couple of pairs just before we left for Thailand – and she definitely didn’t need winter pyjamas there!

pyjamas for Clare - Oliver + S Hopscotch top and Ottobre pants

I used the same patterns that I usually use for pyjamas – the Oliver + S Hopscotch for the top, and Ottobre 06/2009, no.35 for the pants. When Oliver + S digital patterns were last on sale I bought a digital copy of the Hopscotch pattern, as I keep on using it and it’s easier to reprint it each time I need to go up a size. I used size 10 for the top, and traced the Ottobre pants in their second largest size. As it turns out the pants are a little big, and Clare has to fold over the waistband to keep the crotch from hanging halfway to her knees. However she still finds them comfortable.

pyjamas for Clare - Oliver + S Hopscotch top and Ottobre pants

The floral is a cotton/lycra knit from Spotlight – I bought quite a bit at the time and you’ve seen it on the blog before but finally there is none left – and the stripe is a lovely cotton/lycra knit that was given to me and is now also all used up! I made two pair of pants and two tops, each trimmed with the other fabric. Clare can mix and match them however she likes.  Floral top with striped pants, striped top with floral pants, floral top with floral pants, striped top with striped pants.  As the mood strikes!

pyjamas for Clare - Oliver + S Hopscotch top

I’ve raved about the Hopscotch pattern before. It comes together so easily and so nicely! The v-neckline trim and front gathers are very pretty. I used a zig-zag to secure hems and for topstitching.

pyjamas for Clare - Oliver + S Hopscotch top

Not much more to report about these really – Clare should be right for winter for a couple of years now, and the last pairs have been handed down to Stella. It’s two years since I made these spotty ones!

pyjama top - Oliver + s hopscotch knit top; pyjama pants - Ottobre 6/2009 patt.35

Wow, haven’t they grown!

pyjamas for Clare - Oliver + S Hopscotch top and Ottobre pants