CaliFabrics – SewSophieLynn

Basically Jalie Blog Tour

I can rarely pass up a blog tour opportunity. I love the chance it gives me to try new patterns, play with pretty fabrics, and the deadline is always a big motivator to get me in my sewing room. I was especially thrilled to join in the Basically Jalie Blog Tour hosted by The Petite Sewist and Auschick Sews. Jalie is known for their impeccable drafting, huge size range, and classic designs. Speaking your love language too?!

Make sure you read to the end of this post for all the blog tour goodies- giveaways, sew-a-longs, and soooo many incredible bloggers joining the party!

I’ve had my eye on the Mimosa Scoopneck tee (3890) since it’s release. It’s full of options- multiple sleeve styles and lengths including plain short sleeves, tie short sleeves, flutter shoulder ruffles, and long sleeves. My favorite part of each sewing project is sitting down with my kids and picking fabrics and pattern options. I love to see what they gravitate to and it makes it so much more likely they’ll get lots of wear when they’re part of the design process.

My spunky Payton went for florals and ruffles. She’s still super girly and usually picks all the extras- ties, ruffles, ribbons, you name it. For this top, I dug deep into my Raspberry Creek Fabrics stash for a print I’ve been saving FOREVER. It’s one of my absolute favorites (I love anything on grey!) and I’d been keen to use it for myself. One of my goals this year is to CUT THE FABRIC, you know those ones too pretty to actually use… I’ve decided it’s soooo much better to see it on my kiddos or in my own closet than just sitting on my shelves. Remember, there’s always more fabric!

My oldest seriously kills me with her fashion taste. She tends to be more classic and dresses like a cute college kid and not your average 5th grader. It was no surprise she picked one of my new favorite fabrics, this dreamy modal jersey stripe from Cali Fabrics. It’s so incredible soft and those stripes are just perfection!

My girls measured into the same size for their chests which made it super easy. For Payton, I added an inch to the size L (8) bodice and sleeves and Sophie got 2 inches added to the bodice. There’s a lenghten/shorten line which made it easy peasy! Sewing these up was very straightforward and the instructions are so clear. I love that you can download the pattern instructions before purchasing the pattern. If it looks too complicated or time consuming you can skip it but I’ve always found it just the opposite! Looking over the tutorial beforehand gives me the confidence to tackle a new project.

My little guy lives in raglans and I’ve been hearing the greatest things about the Nico Raglan (3669). I’m thinking a boys raglan comparison post needs to happen soon. I have four raglan patterns that I rotate through but I think we may have found the winner. Just look at that neckline alone!

The slim fit just fits this kid so well! I did a size J (6) with a little length added. He’s generally in a size 7 height and measured into a size 5 chest, 6 waist, and 4 hip in this pattern. Is he my kid or what?! I’ve found that Jalie patterns tend to run on the slim side which works really well for my kids but might be something to consider. My older boys like things a little looser and I usually size up a couple of sizes for them.

His shirt is all cotton jersey from Raspberry Creek. He would have only teal in his closet if it were up to him and I’m happy to oblige. I used this triangle print (retiring this week!) for the sleeves and it’s been one of my favorite boy fabrics to date. I struggle finding just the right prints for him. He’s too big for most of the boy fabrics I find in the stores but RCF keeps him pretty well taken care of.

Ready for the good stuff?

GIVEAWAY!

Are there some Jalie patterns you’ve been itching to get? Now’s your chance to WIN YOUR JALIE WISHLIST! Head over to Jalie’s website, create an account, add your favorite patterns to your wishlist, and complete the rafflecopter form below (patterns must be added by February 12, 2019 11:59pm EST to be eligible). Incomplete entries will be eligible for fabric prizes only.

For extra entries, join our Jalie sewalong! Make a Jalie “basic” between January 28 and February 12 and share it on Instagram with hashtag #basicallyjalie and/or in the Basically Jalie Album in the Sewing with Jalie Facebook group.

We are so grateful to our generous sponsors who have teamed up to provide the following prizes (please stop by their shops and show them some love!):

Grand Prize (Worldwide)
Win Your Jalie Wishlist – Up to $100 CAD in patterns!
Discovery Trekking Outfitters – One (1) x 50 USD gift card
D&H Fabrics co. – One (1) x $50 USD gift card

Sewalong Prize (Continental USA only)
Win Your Jalie Wishlist – Up to $25 CAD in patterns!
The Sewciety – One (1) Subscription box (value: $48 USD)
Simply By Ti – One (1) x $20 USD gift card

Sewalong Prize (Worldwide, excluding Continental USA)
Win Your Jalie Wishlist – Up to $25 CAD in patterns!
PatternReview.com – One (1) x $30 USD gift card
Discovery Trekking Outfitters – One (1) x 50 USD gift card

(Note: gift cards exclude shipping unless otherwise stated on sponsor website)

Enter the Sweepstakes Here!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blogger Lineup

Be sure to visit these talented sewing bloggers during the tour:

Wednesday, Feb 6 – The Petite Sewist | auschick sews | Replicate then Deviate | Deepika Blogs

Thursday, Feb 7 – Sew What Yvette | Sew Cucio | Shalini’s Sewing Space | Curtiepie | A Jennuine Life

Friday, Feb 8 – SeamsLikeStyle | It’s Liesel | SewSophieLynn | Danvillegirl Sewing Diary | Skirt Fixation

Monday, Feb 11 – The Crafting Fiend | Sprouting JubeJube | its sew colorful | Diskordia’s Curvy Sewing

Tuesday, Feb 12 – All Things Katy! | BigFlyNotions | needle and the belle | Zoopolis

Made For Mermaids Mama Camila

I’ve been sewing swimsuits for my kiddos this summer and I’m finally sharing one for ME! Let’s be honest though, I’d much rather be posting pics of my kids than of me, especially in swimwear, yikes! This swimsuit has been in my head since last summer and I’m so excited to have it done, it just has to be shared with the world!

The Mama Camila suit is one of my favorites (I also have a healthy obsession with the girls version as well). I wore last year’s Camila so much throughout the year that I knew another one would be a welcome addition.

When I snagged this lemon print from CaliFabrics last year I knew I selfishly wanted it for myself. I loved it so much when it arrived that I had to order more just in case my girls needed a suit or two too. I love that CaliFabrics gets designer ends so their selection is always great quality. For better or worse, their selection is constantly changing so check back often and make sure to grab your favorite prints before they disappear.

Let’s talk about this pattern. I love how incredibly versatile it is. The main bodice is a simple one piece with elastic ruching through the tummy area. There are options to sew the flounce like this or over the arms. I like to do the off shoulder view because you can still slip it off your shoulders and wear it like this easily. You can do shoulder ties, a halter tie, or skip the ties altogether. This is my first time doing the double ties and I love them! If you choose to skip the ties the top of the suit feels super secure with the elastic.

When I’m chasing kiddos at the pool, I tend to tuck the ruffle under my arms. It’s a little more freeing, lol!

Off the shoulders feel so chic though! This is my vacation with the hubby look. Cute but a little sexy too 😉

I like to add all the inner options to my suits. This one has foam cups, a shelf bra, power mesh and a full lining. The pattern walks you through adding everything to get a suit that’s flattering and supportive. I love being able to make something that makes me feel as comfortable as possible strutting around the pool.

Are you new to sewing swim? Looking for swim tips? I’m over on the CaliFabrics Blog too sharing some of the things I’ve learned throughout the years. Swimsuits are so much fun to sew and I look forward to sewing a new batch each season. This Camila is at the top of my list of favorites for sure!

Love Notions Ravinia Skirt

I feel like Tami at Love Notions has secret powers. Every time I find a whole in my wardrobe Tami magically knows and poof! A new pattern appears. This summer I’ve been wanting to add a few more casual skirts to my closet and the Ravinia Skirt (Affiliate Link) is just perfect!

This post contains affiliate links. Purchasing through my links provides a small kickback to me that I use to keep up this sewing hobby of mine 😉

Our summer days are usually spent either at the pool, sports lessons and games, or lazy days at home. With temps close to triple digits, these skirts will be perfect for whatever our day holds.

The Ravinia pattern comes in sizes XS-XXXL and can be made in three lengths- knee, calf, and maxi. There are three waistband options- a simple yoga waistband, a slimming contoured band, and a maternity option. As always, the pattern features no-trim pages which make putting it together a breeze. There is also a copy shop file so you can send it off to be printed as well.

My favorite feature is the pockets! They are nice and roomy and that gathering is so unique and fun!

I got both of my fabrics from Cali Fabrics brick and mortar shop Fabric Outlet when I was visiting San Francisco earlier this month. Anyone else feel the need to fit in just a little fabric shopping on vacation? I love shopping their online selection but touching and feeling all the pretty fabric in real life just can’t be beat.

You can grab this dreamy modal jersey here and it’s such a steal! It’s so soft and that drape is dreamy! I paired it with my stripe modal Classic Tee and it’s almost like wearing nothing at all- it’s just so comfortable, breathable, and soft! (And way better on my family than if I did cruise around in my birthday suit all day, lol!)

This skirt is a cozy double brushed polyester. It’s super soft and I didn’t want to take it off! This particular print is sold out but Cali has a large selection of dbp to pick from. I really like this pattern in DBP too!

I love the fullness of this skirt. These cuts were 2.5 yards each and I used almost every last scrap for these skirts. The floral fabric was a wider piece so I was able to fit the size small maxi out of it easily. The taupe modal wasn’t quite as wide and the midi length worked great for it. I did the contour waistband in the taupe and that needs four waistband pieces instead of the one yoga waistband piece. There is an option to add power mesh to the contour waistband so of course I was all over that! I sandwiched my power mesh between the front waistband and front lining piece and like the extra ‘help’ it gives the stomach area.

You can grab your own Ravinia pattern on sale now through Sunday July 22nd!

Love Notions Classic Tee

I’m a jeans and tee girl 95% of the time- even in summer time it’s usually cut-off denim shorts and a simple tee. The new Classic Tee from Love Notions will be my new best friend! It’s the perfect relaxed fit basic t-shirt and the big bonus- you can get it for FREE!

There are multiple sleeve and neckline options making this such a versatile pattern too! There are crew, scoop, and v-neck choices and short, elbow and long sleeves so you can use this pattern no matter what season you’re in.

I want to wear this version every. single. day. I literally almost cried when I had to take it off. It’s so darn soft and lovely. I used this modal jersey from Cali Fabrics. It was my first time sewing modal and now I want a whole wardrobe of it. It’s a bit thicker than rayon spandex and so much softer. The drape is amazing and it’s just thick enough to glide over all the little lumps and bumps. It sewed up so nice and easily too! Excuse me while I go buy a million more yards…

I’ve done a handful of v-necks in my day and they still always intimidate me. They take a little longer than a basic crew or scoop neck but are so flattering and well worth the little extra time. I love the depth of this one- not too low for my super modest tastes.

This version is about as basic as it gets. Everyone needs a good white tee in their wardrobe and this one is perfect.

I used a white double brushed polyester for this version. I love the drape and thickness of this fabric. It’s also super soft and plush. The only drawback of dbp is that it doesn’t breath as well as a natural fiber. I still wear dbp on most days, only avoiding it on super warm days where I’ll be outside in the heat for extended periods.

Make sure you hop on over to the Love Notions shop. Take the short and sweet survey in the listing and you’ll get a coupon code upon completion. Super easy and you’ll be whipping up your new favorite Classic Tees in no time!

LOL Swing Top and Expansion Pack

Our weather has gone from spring to blazing hot summer this week! It was the perfect time to sew up the new LOL Swing Expansion pack for the LOL Swing Top from Jennuine Designs. The fact that this pattern can be sewn up in both knits AND wovens meant the sky was the limit!

The first version I made was an easy knit version using this darling Lemonade Stand print from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. It was the perfect pairing to create the essential summertime top!

We used the new pinafore option available in the expansion pack for a darling open back look. She loves the breeziness and didn’t want to take it off after our shoot on this 90+ degree day.

I think this will get worn mostly on pool days or lazy days around the house. It’s not up to school dress codes and knowing this little lady we’ll have to be careful because she’s always cartwheeling and flipping any chance she gets! This top is definitely not ‘tumbling’ proof 😉 I do think the pinafore options looks especially adorable on babies and toddlers! All that cute baby chub is too darling in this top!

I did skip the neck gathering on this version (not necessarily a design choice but trying to get it done quicker) and it still turned out so nicely in front. I seriously love the volume and swing this top has!

The second version I did was using the dress expansion. Again, the swing of this pattern is everything!

I used a large scale buffalo plaid I got from CaliFabrics last year and played with the direction of the print a bit. I love the bold black and white print with the pop of color from the bias binding. The pattern calls for narrow bias binding but I really wanted it to pop so I used 1/2″ bias for this version.

I’m always nervous sewing up tank patterns that the underarm coverage may be lacking. I love how this pattern fits though! The racerback style and thick straps keep everything where it should be.

The knit version can easily slip over the head but the woven version calls for a simple shoulder button. This makes it easy on and off and keeps the construction clean.

The dress version includes pockets and I had a hard time deciding whether or not to add them here. We LOVE pockets but this fabric is slightly sheer so I chose not to do them this go round.

You can get your copy of the LOL Top here, the Expansion Pack here for just $2 if you already own the LOL Top pattern, or get the bundle here on sale through Sunday June 10th.

Toaster Sweater from Sew House 7

I’ve got a new addiction this winter. The Toaster Sweater patterns from Sew House 7 have become favorites to sew and wear. They check all the right boxes for me- comfortable, loose fitting, quick sews, and stylish.

I shared my first two over on the Cali Fabrics blog. I made this green one out of a mid weight sweatshirt fleece and it’s the ultimate in warmth and comfort. This particular sweatshirting has a bit of two way stretch that makes it easy to wear. It’s the first thing I grab on a snowy day.

The tall neckline of #1 is so cozy and I love the boxy fit of this version. The topstitching details add such a professional finish. I added length to this version to provide optimum coverage!

After sewing a version #1, I just had to try sewing #2. I used a luxurious stretch velvet and had the perfect holiday party top.

It’s loose and chic and I get compliments every time I wear it. I love that it looks dressy while still feeling like I’m wearing next to nothing. I think I’d wear velvet all day every day if I could.

So after those first two sweater all I could think about was sewing up another. When I laid eyes on this amazing quilted knit from Raspberry Creek Fabrics I knew it had to be a boxy sweater and the Toaster #1 was just what I was after.

I lined the body and sleeves in a lightweight double brushed poly and kept the length I added to the pattern previously. This fabric is a bit less stiff than my first version and the neck line has a slouchy effect. This top is incredibly warm and just about as pretty as a sweatshirt can get.

I found these darling tags at Hobby Lobby (in the yarn section) and like to add them to those special things I know will get extra love. Just a tiny detail that I adore that looks upscale from afar but only I know the care that went into this piece.

My latest Toaster just might be my favorite. This beauty happened when I stumbled across this fabric in my stash and realized I had just enough to make the cutest Toaster ever. This fabric is a remnant from Girl Charlee years ago, a sweatshirt fleece with absolutely no stretch. I literally could hold the leftover scraps in one hand when I was done cutting this out- totally meant to be!

I used the original cropped length and cropped the cuffs a bit also. Because of the lack of stretch in this fabric this top is a cinch to get on but man, oh man do I have to Houdini myself out of it. If I had thought through this sew a bit more I may have sized up to account for the lack of stretch but I sewed this on a whim from finding the fabric to sewn in under an hour. No time for actually thinking about it- just a quick, rewarding sew!

I really love how different fabrics take to this pattern. I’m thinking next fall I’d love a chunky sweater knit version of either pattern. I think a light jersey knit would look cute as a version 2 for spring or a drapier french terry for that matter.

Have you sewn up a Toaster? Any favorite fabrics you loved for yours? I might have sewn my last version this season (no guarantees 😉 but know it will be at the top of my list when cooler temps hit again this fall.

A New Batch of Halifax’s

I’d like to pretend that I wake up every morning and get dressed to the nines but my reality is not so glamorous. My biggest debate every morning is whether or not I can get away with wearing sweats all day. More often than not you can find me in a sweatshirt and jeans or joggers getting all the glorious mom-life done.

One of my go-to sweatshirt patterns is the Halifax Hoodie from Hey June. I’ve currently got about 10 in my closet- a bit obsessed is right (you can check some out here, here, here, and here). They are quick sews and I just adore all the options.

This cute plaid and polka dot version is my new favorite thing. I used french terry dots and plaid double knit from Raspberry Creek Fabrics– the BEST place to get your cozy fabrics for this pattern. This is view B- the view I do the most. I can whip one of these bad boys up in the time it takes to watch an episode of the Office. So stinking fast! It’s also my favorite pattern to use up scraps and mix prints.

I’ve been dying to do a big bishop sleeve sweatshirt and this pattern was a great place to start. I used view D with a couple of tweaks. For the sleeves I extended the length a few inches and drew a straight line from the shoulder to the new hem- keeping it nice and wide. I made an elastic casing and 1/2″ elastic instead of a cuff. I like the added fullness it gives the sleeves but it’s not too much drama- still nice and wearable everyday.

I raised the neckline up a bit and added the cowl. I love the cowl a little snugglier around my neck. Such a cozy sweatshirt! I used an incredible organic bamboo french terry from CaliFabrics for this version and it’s a little piece of heaven. This slate blue color is so pretty and works well in my wardrobe.

Some of my favorite sewing buddies are having a little party over on Instagram celebrating this fun pattern. It’s a great little refresher from all that holiday sewing and perfect for a little gift to yourself. Search the #halifaxholidayparty to join in the fun!

Love Notions Sloane Week

This week Love Notions is celebrating it’s newest pattern and update- the women’s and girls (affl. links) Sloane. All week long I’ll be sharing my Sloanes- it’s such a versatile pattern I can’t stop making them! Today I’m starting with this repost from the CaliFabrics blog. I love this sweater and just had to share it here too!

Make sure you check out all the bloggers joining in the Sloane Blog Tour. There’s hacks and such a huge variety of looks you won’t want to miss.

Monday: Sew Shelly Sew, The Wholesome Mama, Ruby Rue Creations

Tuesday: Third Shift Creations, Sew Like a Sloth, Four Seasons and a Roadtrip

Wednesday: Seamly Behaviour, My Heart Will Sew On, Ma Moose

Thursday: SewSophieLynn, Very Blissful Blog, Kainara stitches, Sprouting JubeJube

Friday: Sew and Tell Project, Sewing curves, Princesse et trésors, All Things Katy!

I love scouring fashion magazines and Pinterest as we head into a new season. I’ve been loving the huge embroidery trend and knew I wanted to incorporate it into my daughters fall wardrobe (I’m hoping to add some to mine too- can’t let her have all the fun!). I hopped on Amazon and grabbed a bundle of embroidered flowers and then started brainstorming everything I was going to floral-fy! Jackets, sweatshirts, pants, tees… you name it. Then when I was browsing the CaliFabrics site inspiration hit! I wanted a subtle print and in my book leopard print is totally a neutral. This leopard sweater knit was perfect!

Now that I had fabric picked out I struggled to find just the right pattern for the look I wanted. I knew I wanted a boxy cropped sweater and really struggled to find a pattern that suited what I had in mind. That was until Tami at Love Notions magically read my mind! The women’s Sloane Sweater is one of my favorites and just recently went under a revamp. While she was busy fixing it up she threw in a girls version too- hello! With a few little tweaks it was just what I had envisioned!

I used the basic banded version, view B. I cropped off three inches at the hem then did my bottom band the same width as the hem. That’s it- super easy alterations to get this easy-going cropped look!

This was one of my first times machine sewing embroidery on. The applique has a black base that made the thread blend in fairly well. If it was a fancy garment or special occasion dress I think I’d spend the time to hand sew the pieces on but for this everyday garment the machine was perfect. Do you have any tips or tutorials you love for attaching embroidery or appliques? I know there will be many more in my future. I think it really elevates the garment and there are so many possibilities.

I love that this outfit could work for both a grown woman and your fashion-minded girls. It’s hard to find clothes in stores that are sophisticated without being too-grown up looking. Her school has a fairly strict dress code and it’s so nice being able to sew things that are suitable.

I’ve decided having a tween is the best! She will happily wear all the latest trends and styles that I feel might be a little too ‘young’ and ‘hip’ for me. We have very similar styles so I always know that if I’d like it then she will be thrilled with it too. It’s a fun age and sure makes sewing for her rewarding. As a sewing blogger, I’d much rather be behind the camera taking the pics instead of front and center! She’s such a willing model that I honestly could just happily sew for her all day.

She’s the reason I started sewing and the namesake of my blog afterall…

Are you sewing for fall yet? Make sure you check out the huge selection of sweater knits in the shop! So many cute fabrics, so little time!

Love Notions Sloane Sweater

Fall is here and that means sweaters and sweatshirts are taking over our closets! The newest Love Notions patterns are perfect! The Women’s Sloane got a revamp and while she was at it she added a girls version too! (affl. links)

This post contains affiliate links. I became a Love Notions Affiliate AFTER falling in love with her patterns, testing process, and attention to details. Purchasing through the links provides me with a little kick back that of course gets spent on more fabric 😉

There are two different views- view A is a relaxed fit, curved hem top and view B is a boxy fit with bands (similar to your favorite sweatshirt). There are tons of options too! You can add a contrast yoke, elbow patches, kangaroo pocket and a hood. You’ll want to sew up a handful just to try them all!

I sewed up this version pre-revision and blogged about it over on the CaliFabrics blog. This super soft french terry version is one of my favorite makes! The fit didn’t change much during testing but many of the options are new including extended sizing and a FBA piece (so nice to have the work done for you!). This is a simple view B with lace added to the yoke seams.

I had just enough left of the rose french terry for this fun top for my girl. She picked some camo french terry (from LA) as a coordinate and I love this combo sooooo much. Pink and camo is just a sweet little match!

I love that these tops coordinate but aren’t exact copies. I’m sure we won’t wear them at the same time but it was pretty fun to get pics with my mini me!

Of course lil sis needed one too! Are you scrambling to fill in all the gaps in your kids cold weather wardrobe? I was shocked to see this girly had outgrown most of her long sleeved tops. A plain view B was a quick and easy solution! This is a quilted knit from Hobby Lobby last year. It’s a bit thicker than the recommended fabric but I love the boxier fit. The perfect loose fitting sweatshirt without being sloppy!

The grey and flannel version was an early tester version. The final pattern is a bit more slim but we still love this one! I can’t get enough of plaid flannel and french terry together- especially this mustard and grey combo. You might recognize it from this rad Halifax of mine 🙂

That yoke and those elbow patches are pretty fantastic!

This will be such a staple pattern for us. There are so many possibilities, such a great basic pattern that can be hacked to fit your needs.

I’ve got a little sneak peek of an easy hack that I’ll be sharing with you on the CaliFabrics blog real soon. I’ll link it here when it’s up!

Make sure to grab your copies on sale through Thursday, October 19th! (bundle, girls, women’s– affl. links)

My New Fav Halifax Hoodie

I feel like everyone has that one pattern that just speaks to them. The Hey June Halifax Hoodie is that pattern for me. I made a handful during testing and just after but seasons change and my other sewing commitments have kept me from pulling it out again. When I got my hands on this gorgeous french terry from Cali Fabrics I struggled with what it should become. Joggers were high on the list until I remembered this view A of the Halifax. Duh- it really was meant to be a cozy, relaxed hoodie, just perfect for after the pool and those cool summer nights!

Shockingly, I had never made view A for me! One of my favorite little Hatteras Hoodies for my girls is a woven view A that I’ve had serious envy for. Like in that version, I left off the bands to give it more of the beach poncho look. It’s such a quick sew and I absolutely love this style. I really, really want a couple more to transition to fall.

I’m always lost without a good kangaroo pocket!

This fabric is so amazing! It’s a soft, stretch rayon blend french terry. I had been on the hunt for leafy palm print and threw this in my cart as soon as I saw it. It sold out super fast so I know I’m not the only one obsessed with this print!

After a busy few months, okay more like a busy blogging year, I was so happy to sew up a project just for fun. No deadlines, tour promoting, etc.- just picking a pattern I love and being able to really enjoy the process. It sure made getting these pics more relaxed too. I set up the tripod and had my little eight-year-old manning the buttons. She cracks me up and was loving her job as photographer. She thinks she’s a super model herself so she gave me lots of direction too 😉

This is her mouth open, hip pop move!

I love when the whole process is such a joy. I think we sewing bloggers need reminders every now and then as to why we do this gig. It’s all about doing what we love and having fun while we do it! I’m so lucky to be able to share that with people that feel the same way!

Tag: CaliFabrics