Morphing patterns together

This was one of those projects that I began in 2012 but didn't finish until just recently.  Actually by recently I mean 3 weeks ago! It's a top that I morphed together from two patterns, and made some tweaks here and there to get exactly what I was looking for.

The base pattern is New Look 6713   The pattern provided for an a-symmetrical or cow-neck front, neither of which was what I wanted, so I took the a-symmetrical pattern piece and cut it on the fold at the centre front so both sides were the same.


On the back I didn't just want two straps which would look as if I was going to the beach instead of work, so I took a back pattern piece from another pattern and used it as a template to create the back, matching the side and shoulder seam pieces to the front piece.

On the back I inserted a zip and removed the need for elastic.  This meant I had to slightly alter the width of the pattern across the back so it wouldn't hang but would provide a snug fit.

The fabric is gorgeous, a very light weight cotton (could even be bamboo??) which I've fully lined.  It was a piece that I had in my stash - I think I originally brought it to make a dress, but then changed my mind!  I have already worn it a few times, either on it's own with a simple straight skirt (as you see in the photos) or just yesterday with black skinny pants and a jacket.

Haha! this isn't exactly the most flattering of photos but all the same is a good shot of the full front of the top.  I would probably make this pattern again as it is a versatile piece for my work wardrobe, but next time I would lower the neck line in the front and take about half an inch off from around the empire line so it has a firmer fit.

I'm interested to hear from others on their success with morphing patterns to get what you want rather than looking for a whole new pattern.

First Summer Dress in the Wardrobe

I've been up to a few things in November, but have just never found time to share.  So firstly I'd like to give you a look at my summer dress.  It doesn't look much just hanging on the hanger, but self-portraits aren't looking any better.  You will need to believe me, it looks way better on!

I'm really looking forward to santa getting me a dress form for Christmas, then I can get some decent photos of my projects to share with you all.

The dress is a New Look pattern 6013 - very easy to cut and sew.  I needed to adjust the pattern to allow for wider hips and length to allow for my height (5'9").  The dress is a delight to wear, feels like a glove and makes me want to make more - however I've got far to many other patterns I want to sew before repeating the same pattern!

Originally I was going to line the dress, but decided against this, instead I did decided the the inside of my dress needed to look just a stunning as the outside.  So the seams are french seams and the hem is hand sewn.

After I finished the dress I wasn't sure whether I liked it or not because it looked more camo than animal print.  However, since wearing it a few times and receiving some very lovely comments I think it is very now!  (oh and I am into NOW).

Not an animal print 'Summer Dress'

Animal prints are all back in fashion now, just not for me!  The fabric for my next project is a bit of a mix between animal print and camouflage, not that I am a huge fan of either, but this print just popped out at me.

Today was such a beautiful day in Wellington, which really inspired me to look at my next project - a new summer dress.  I've chosen a simple, slim fitting, easy to wear New Look pattern.  A little something to add to my summer work wardrobe.

 

The pattern only provides inner facing around the neck and sleeves, so just to make it a little more challenging I'm going to add a lining to the dress.  I really love the feel of a lined dress, and just cause I can!