pattern testing – Page 2

Call Ajaire’s Ruffled Arch Skirt

I had a chance to test for Ajaire again so of course I jumped on it. With summer winding down I knew my sewing time was limited so I choose to do the simple version of her newest pattern, the Ruffled Arch Skirt. I had a remnant of this striped twill that fit the pieces perfectly with no room to spare. It was a sign that it just had to become this skirt, I couldn’t ignore it.

The view of the pattern I did was simple and quick to sew. The skirt is a cute a-line with a waistband facing and elastic in the back, creating a sleek front. This version will be a wardrobe staple for sure.

The main view of this pattern is so darling with a cute little ruffle back. The other testers versions were so adorable. I love patterns that offer multiple views so you can use them again and again. You can check out Ajaire’s and get the link to the pattern here.

Sometimes I catch this one on a good day and she kills these little photo shoots. She’s just started first grade and it has been torture not having my partner in crime with me in the afternoons. She has the best giggle and just is always so happy. She’s missing so many teeth and I can’t stop taking pictures of that cute smile. She just got a ‘first grade’ haircut that I’m sure will be making it’s debut on here real soon. Love this girl of mine!

Summer Sewing- Why is it so hard?

With five kids, sewing time is precious. When they are all home for the summer, it’s even more sparse. Here are a few of the projects I eeked out this summer.

I had the pleasure of testing for Striped Swallow Designs again this summer. Her Wildflower kimono is so unique and simple to sew. I sewed one up for Soph in a cute striped knit and Payton got a cozy french terry version (from Raspberry Creek Fabrics, of course).

I also had the pleasure of testing for Terri from Sew Straight and Gather. Her Cousu Collection was kinda groundbreaking for me, pushing me to try new techniques and totally taking me to a new level. This time I tested her versatile Urban Garden Dress and Tank. It’s such a cute pattern and her tutorials are THE BEST! If you haven’t tried one of her patterns you are totally missing out. Beware though that once you do, all other patterns will be lacking in comparison.

This summer my quest for myself was to make the perfect pants and shorts. I tried a gazillion patterns and I think my quest is still on…

Peek-a-boo Pattern Shop Summer Lovin’ Shorts

School starts this week and it’s always a little bittersweet. I adore having my kids home and the adventures we get to do every day. For the most part, they get along great and we spend a lot of time laughing and just being together. BUT… we are together ALL THE TIME. I feel guilty stealing away for an hour or two to create. So the sweet part of back to school is that I will have every afternoon to myself (thanks to a cute three year old that still naps)! I’m so excited to be able to sew without the guilt of negletting the kiddos. Oh, the project list… 🙂

Paneled Sunsuit for the win!

I had the pleasure of testing Call Ajaire’s first pattern, the Paneled Sunsuit. Sometimes designers rush their patterns out to consumers and take shortcuts on the finished product. Ajaire was just the opposite- thorough, detailed, and the final pattern shows all her hard work. My girls couldn’t get enough of this pattern!

I did the Maxi version for my oldest in a gorgeous Art Gallery cotton from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. It was pure perfection! I think my Sophie should have a wardrobe full of that brilliant blue color and the silhouette was so cute on her tiny frame. The fitted waist and flared skirt make the dress seem so fancy and sophisticated. She declared it her favorite thing I’ve ever made her! Win, win, win!!

Payton got the darling pantsuit version. It is so adorable in a light chambray with floral details. The pantsuit is easy on and off with the cute elastic shoulder straps but it stays snug against the bodice with the simple elastic casing in the back. So cute and classic!