It’s been almost a month since the Love Notions sewing retreat. I can’t believe I was one of the lucky ones in attendance and it’s definitely an experience I’ll cherish. Friendships were made and strengthened, sewing skills were learned, projects were finished, fabric was scored, and a great time was had by all. I can’t wait to share with you my experience and of course all the projects I was able to start or finish while there!
I’ve worked with Tami at Love Notions for a couple of years now. She was one of my first ever pattern tests and it was such a great experience. I loved how hands on she was through the testing process, sometimes sewing up a dozen or more of each design right along with the testers. She puts so much effort into perfecting a pattern and her eye for detail and design is amazing. I also just really love her classic, simple style! Needless to say, I was super excited to finally meet the whole Love Notions crew in person! It felt like being with old friends! My favorite parts of the whole weekend were talking sewing, family, and life with these ladies. Kelly (Handmade Boy), Rachel Ring (Handcrafted By Red), and Caroline Gaddy (Sew Like A Sloth) have been such inspiration and it was incredible spending time with them in the flesh.
The venue was perfect! A cabin in the woods with 38 women- all there to share their love of sewing, what could be better. There was a big main room where we had classes (a fitting class, a pattern hacking class, a vinyl workshop, a photography class, and a sew-a-long) and free sewing. The Sly Fox Fabrics crew were amazing and treated us to the best game of Yankee Swap I’ve ever played (purses and fabric prizes, hello!). We hung out in the hot tub, ate lots of yummy food, and of course sewed our hearts out. These women were all so different and brought so much to our group. I’m so grateful I got to know these ladies from all over the US (and you cute Canadian Lisa!). For this shy, introvert sewing can be so solitary but it was so nice to be able to share this passion of mine with so many inspiring, incredible women. Thanks for such a fantastic few days!
While I was there, I did actually sew a few things 😉 My plan was to cut out projects and I was super productive cutting three Moto Maxx joggers for my little guy and a Classic Tee for myself. While there I sewed up this Serenity Sweater during the Sew-A-Long and also a Rockford Raglan. I’m also sharing my latest Boyfriend Cardigan that I tried to have done in time for the retreat (everyone sews the day before a big trip, right?!) but had to save til I returned.
The Serenity Sweater (affiliate links included in this post) was a bit out of my comfort zone and I’m so glad I sewed it up. I love the clever construction! It’s such a cute, on-trend piece that I love to dress up or down. I stopped at Raspberry Creek Fabrics a few days before my trip and loaded up on pretties to sew up. This Teal Brushed Hacci Sweater Knit was perfect for this pattern. I love the vibrant color so much!
The other thing I sewed while at the retreat was this Rockford Raglan. The retreat was located just outside of Rockford so it was only fitting that I sew one up!
This gorgeous Floral Sweater Knit made for such a pretty sweater. I tend to always use contrasting fabrics for raglans but love the simplicity of this one done in a single fabric. I love the relaxed fit of the Rockford and the quick finish that it is.
The Classic Tee is a favorite in my wardrobe and I’ve been wanting to add some long sleeve versions. I cut into this pretty Rust Floral Double Brushed Polyester at the retreat and sewed it up as soon as I was back home.
The fit of the Classic Tee is nice and fitted through the chest and shoulders but relaxes through the belly and hips. It’s absolutely perfect in my book!
And now for the ultimate piece in my new Love Notions wardrobe, a cozy Boyfriend Cardigan. I hate to play favorites but the Boyfriend Cardigan pattern is the chosen one for me. It’s the quintessential layering piece and works so well in so many different fabrics.
I scored this plush, thick sweater knit in LA almost two years ago and have been meaning to sew it up ever since. It was just made to be a cozy cardigan and I’m so glad it’s now in it’s rightful place in my wardrobe.
I may or may not have worn it three days in a row… taken a day off, then wore it two more days, lol! The big shawl collar, deep pockets, and long length just make it the best thing ever to throw on for those cold fall days. And in gray, c’mon, it’s a no brainer. This puppy will get worn to death this season.
K- thanks for indulging me as I gush about all things Love Notions. I’m such a fan and I’m so grateful to Tami and the team for letting me join their fun. PS- you can still grab the Ladies Constellation Hoodie on sale through Saturday for $8!
SewSophieLynn 