The Sewing Chronicles

Goober Peas Designs ( https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/GooberPeaDesigns) has just released two sleep sack patterns: Starlight, and Starbright. I was privileged to be one of the testers, and these are great, versatile patterns that are quick and easy to sew. Starbright is a scoop neck sack, with snaps at the shoulders.  There is an option to add a snap opening in the bottom section to make it easier to get on and off.  Designed to be sewn in a knit fabric, it can also be made in a woven, simply by making a larger size. Starlight has a crossover bodice, also with snaps, and the option for a bottom opening.  The other main difference is that starlight has a gathered bottom section, making it a bit roomier. The sacks pictured are size large, and are a great fit for my 18 month old grandson.  The pattern is designed for sizes ranging from newborn to approximately 4-5 years. The amazing thing about these two patterns is that you can mix and match to suit your personal...

One of my discoveries since returning to sewing is the world of PDF patterns.  There are many indie pattern makers who design and sell PDF patterns online. The variety and scope of patterns is amazing.  A very important part of the process of developing these patterns is pattern testing.  The designer sends out a draft copy of a pattern to a number of people who proceed to print the pattern, then cut and sew the garment. The testers have several important roles in the process: checking the pattern markings, checking how well the pattern assembles (which affects how accurately the garment will assemble), sewing the garment while ensuring the instructions are clear, then trying the garment on to check for how well it matches the size it is supposed to be.  After all of this, modeled pictures are taken of the completed garment, to help showcase the pattern designer's creation. I find this process very interesting; perhaps enjoying the process of evaluation is an ext...

Since retiring from teaching last June, I have rediscovered the joy of sewing.  In my teens and twenties, I used to make most of my clothes  This was mainly in self defense, as in the 60's and 70's, finding clothes that were both fashionable and long enough for a female who was 5'10" tall, was a daunting challenge. Then life got in the way of this hobby.  Marriage, children, activities, pets and work left little time for sewing, except on rare occasions.  Returning to my hobby, I was amazed by the changes that had occurred during the barren years: Indie pattern makers selling online, custom fabric groups, facebook sewing groups, pattern testing, and more. As I continue further exploration of the art of sewing in the 21st century, from time to time I will blog about patterns, fabrics, and the trials and tribulations of learning new tricks of the trade.