Not my fault... but I’ll still take it

Peace!

I know it’s been awhile since I posted. I think all bloggers go through dry spells. And since this blog isn’t monetized, you get what you get. Lol!!! I’m not trying to be cheeky, but it is what it is. Plus since I’m not working at an office anymore, I don’t find myself sitting regularly st a computer. But let’s get to the meet. Shall we?

My mother died last January. And with all the condolences I received, I also have received a lot of foolishness from folks. I had no idea how many people resented not so much me as an individual, but what my parents gave me.

My parents were very successful... and very hard working. They met in college, got married and had children. My father owned his own insurance agency and was s broker. No one gave him anything to start his own business. He worked a bunch of jobs and saved his money. He started with a small storefront and it grew. My mother was a teacher. She was always at the top of her pay grade because (a) she had an advanced degree and (b) she took every certification offered. Mommie earned her masters while recuperating from having me! My parents came up in a time that if you had a college degree that guaranteed you a good life. My dad earned his degree with GI Bill money and my mom got academic scholarships because she was batshit smart. She was her high school valedictorian. She got skipped twice and was so young when she showed up on campus, she wasn’t allowed to stay in the dorm until she was 17... her junior year! So I say all of this to say.... my parents had money. Not Carter or Cosby money but they could buy what’re they wanted. Be it a house, new cars, good clothes or private schools for their children. And this is the reason I’ve been getting hate.


I’m not one to claim that everyone is jealous of me. I know they aren’t. But jealousy is real in some instances.
Apparently people resent how my parents raised me. Like literally someone got in my face about it at my mother’s repass. I thought that was a one time occurrence but more and more people have been coming out of the woodwork.

I had nothing to do with how my parents raised me. I did what I was told. As any obedient child would. I recognized that we had more than others. I never held that over anyone’s head. My parents friends were like them so their children had lives like I did. I thought that was normal. And I won’t accept that it isn’t. But my mom worked in a public school and she thought I needed to learn how to exist amongst people from different socioeconomic levels. Also she wanted me to learn how to actually fight. Since she was always working, I was put in after school programs with children that lived mostly in the projects. I learned to fight... talk shit... basically how to code switch amongst my own people. Because people really don’t want to see you living well. You can blend, not care or a mixture of both. I learned that some people were simply interested in my life. Others wanted me to fail and wanted their hands in it. Some folks wanted to hustle me out of what was mine. I took the best part. I really appreciated my mother’s vision with that.

So my mom left me her home. I already have a home in a different state. I rented it to a childhood friend. Do you know what? She says she doesn’t have to pay me because my mom didn’t like her. Ummmm no. My mom didn’t like that she had a baby at 14. Therefore I wasn’t allowed to play with her anymore. Really? You moved in my mother’s house to spite me? Too bad I evicted her. Another former friend is mad that she is paying off student loans and my parents paid for my undergrad. Why am I supposed to care? My god sister is mad that she grew up in the projects and I grew up in a house. What???? That whole line of conversation confused me, my husband, and her husband. And then she blamed me for it. All kinds of people have told me that my wedding was too big, my mother’s funeral was too grand, that my fathers cars were too flashy. Blaming me and my brother for our parents success. One chick even went as far to say that my brothers death was payback for all my parents had as if they were results of organized crime or a pact with the mystery devil. I punched dead in the mouth. I just can’t anymore

You show yourself to me in this foolish current, we are done for life. I can take anyone but immediate family off my planet and sleep very well at night.

And I’m posting this mostly as a cent but also a cautionary tale. Don’t be a fucking hater. It’s not a good look.



Peace

Missing Mojo

Peace,

I've been swing a lot. But not for me. For clients. The last garment I made for myself was Easter... and I don't like it really. I wasn't inspired and I only made it because it's a tradition. I'm still dieting and my body hasn't worked out it's kinks yet. Even for my class reunion, I couldn't muster up the mojo to make something. I just bought a dress. I know... Shameful!

And sewing for clients is a bit joyless. In my community... there is a need for seamstresses. A lot of the garments that folks require for their spiritual work, you're not going to find it in the stores. So I will always have a client base. But the clients.... They never know what they want and some of their expectations are unreasonable. And the alterations.... I HATE alterations. I altered a garment for a young man that took me 3 hours!!!! I could have made that entire garment in an hour. People don't get that. What I don't understand is why you would have a garment made in Africa to be worn here and you aren't in Africa. I guess it's a status thing. They bring me these ill fitting garments with no extra fabric (the Africans didn't send the remnants) but want me to fix it? Why not just let me have the fabric from the start? That feels a bit insulting. And when I do get a client that wants me to create their garment... They insist on the remnants back. I don't mind, but the way they demand them is ill.

I don't know what this is. I think I've evened out over my mom's death. I'm not stressed out over relationships or money. I feel strong. IDK whats going on. Bloggers make me feel so guilty because y'all cranking out dresses all day every day!

I'm hoping this passes. After I finish up a few more client jobs, I'm taking my baby to be serviced.

Baby Shower

Peace!

Have you ever made a dress for a client that you didn't like? I'm a woman of a certain age.... and I'm a 5%er. I have clothing restrictions! I've been a 5%er (among other things) for so long... 3/4ths is ingrained in me! But I had a client come to me to make her a dress for her baby shower. I whipped out the patterns I had for maternity dresses and she poopooed all of them! She wanted a TIGHT dress with sequins... It just didn't seem appropriate to me. But this isn't about me. It's what SHE wanted. She's 25... This was one of my gifts to her for her shower.



If this was Project Runway, I would have definitely gone home on this dress.

The dress is cotton jersey with sequins at the top and bottom. It's tight too.... (She's 8 months pregnant in the pic) The dress wasn't hard to make but the sequins.... were a nightmare. I broke 10 needles on this dress!!! And I've sewn sequins before. So I'm pissed. I eventually gave up trying to machine sew it and just hand sewed the bottom. So a dress that should have taken an afternoon, took 3 days. Not 3 consistent days... I have a part time job.

But.... she was very happy. I guess at the end of the day that's all that matters. She was so pleased... She's referred me to a bunch of people.

Have you guys ever sewn for other people a garment that you didn't agree with? Would you? If a white supremeist came at you with some confederate fabric and asked you to make a KKK robe would you for money? At some point, I have to decide where my boundaries lie....


Peace

New Look 6226

I lost weight.

I did according to the scale. 50 lbs. My issue is that I don’t feel like I lost weight. Yes my clothes are so loose, I have to take them all in. And everyone is telling me how small I’m getting. I just don’t believe them.

I went shopping with my trainer, and after the 2nd store, she asked me why I kept going to the plus sized section. That’s the size I feel like I wear. But, to humor her, I tried in a large in a standard size.... and it fit! Like really fit. I really don’t know what to do with that information.

When I cut patterns, I cut the largest size. Even with the weight loss... and I’m not done... I still have at least 30 more pounds to go before I’ll be satisfied.... I’m still top heavy. So when I cut patterns, I still cut the largest size in the envelope. I think maybe... if I get small enough, I’ll stop buying plus sized patterns and buy the regular size ones and cut the biggest size on them.

I made this bomber jacket the first time in 2014. It came out too small and I gave it away. I didn’t blog it either. I don’t blog wadders. Maybe I should. But I really wanted this in an African print fabric. I plan on making my husband something to match but I haven't gotten that far yet.

Shall we?




New Look 6226: Misses Baseball jacket

Patterns sizing: 16

Did it look like the photo?: Yes

What did you like or dislike about the pattern?: I don't like that the pockets open in the side seam. You have to put your hands way to far behind you to use them

Fabric: I used an Ankara fabric. I love Ankara. As you can tell a lot of the clothes I make is African fabric. I love that isht.

Pattern alterations: I added 2 inches all around and lengthened the garment. I didn't really need to add 2 inches all around. I could have gotten away with 1 inch all around. But I really needed the 2 extra inches of length.

Would I sew it again? Nope. I really don't like the pocket placement. And whereas I could make welt pocket further in the front.... I don't want to.

Would I recommend this pattern?: Yes I would. Its a good pattern, but its not for me.



Peace

PS: I made my Easter dress too big. It's gonna take awhile.....

Simplicity 8556

Hey y'all!!!

I've been sewing.... kind of. If been doing a ton of a lot of isht. I got a ptj. I needed it. I was losing my mind as a stay-at-home housewife. I still don't work a ton of hours, but it gives me a reason to get dressed and leave the house. I appreciate that. I got an initiation. Very excited about that. I've been really working on the exterior of the house. Its a lot. You'd be surprised.... And I have a side hustle that has been keeping me busy. And.... I'm on a 21 day juice cleanse, superimposed on a diet I've been on since the beginning of the year. I've lost 30 lbs even before my fast. But you didn't pop in for that.

There is something in my life that has impacted my sewing a great deal. I have come to the realization that I am done with regular gigs. Like.... I don't think... nor am I planning to ever have another job perse'. I am working, but it's sooooo casual and plays into my side hustle. Also, I can wear what I want. So I can wear jeans or a ball gown. I no longer need to cultivate "work" attire. And since I really haven't worked n 2 years.... I need to figure out what I wear now. I don't want to be hella casual, nor do I want to be hella dressed. And on the days I'm home or traveling I want to be cute AND comfortable.

I normally HATE Simplicity patterns. But I liked this one. I really like it. I paid full price for it. But that's the new normal since Hancock's is gone. Oh well...... What I like most about this pattern is that it's a transitional garment. It's only cold here (GA) for about 3 months. Doesn't really pay to have a full wardrobe of winter clothes. So I make summer clothes and clothes that can transition.

Simplicity 8556....


Pattern Description: It's a top, jacket, coat and pants.... I made the top

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, it looked exactly like in the picture down to the color which I'm obsessed with

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yup. Only 5 pieces

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Everything. I love all the pieces

How long did to take from cut to finish?:
About 2 hours

Fabric Used:
Medium weight stretch fabric.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Nope

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I would totally make it again

Did y'all notice the pants I have on in the pic? I haven't been able to wear them in years. The only reason I kept them was because I paid a ton of money for them. I will never throw them away. Feels good to be able to wear them again.

I'm glad I got the pics..... Because after I washed it.... It shrunk to the point that I can no longer wear it. No I didn't wash it in hot water. No I didn't prewash it. I never prewash. Judge me.

Question.....

Peace Y'all,

Its been awhile since I posted.... And I have been sewing.... mostly for other people.... I'm grateful for these people (I have to say that over and over again) because I haven't found a job yet. We aren't struggling since the hubs got a promotion! But.... I feel like I should contribute financially, even though I do all the housework and a lot of the yard work... which I swore I wouldn't do once I secured a husband....

Oh well....

Here is my question..... I have been sewing. B.U.T.... Since Hancock's closing, I haven't been buying a ton of new patterns. The clothes I'm sewing are clothes I've already made and blogged. So are y'all interested in seeing repeats?

Egungun Suit

Peace!

Its been awhile since I posted. So much life has been happening to me.

I quit my day job My boss was a HUGE liar. Just lied and lied about everything. Even stupid stuff that he didn't need to be lying about. There came a point where I lost all trust and confidence in him. I'm good surprisingly. My mother left me 2 homes that are currently being rented out. and I still have my side hustles... one of which is sewing.
Osunfest recently passed in Atlanta. I'm not going in on the whats and hows. If you know you know and if you don't.... ask. I love being involved in this community especially for sewing. You just can't buy hotep clothes at Macy's, so these clothes have to be made.... and since seamstresses are few and far between, especially Black seamstresses.... BOOM! I made a ton of money during Osunfest. But it does mark the end of festival season. It'll be back come spring.

One of the things I made... which was on my sewing bucket list... was and Egungun suit.

Whats that Serenity?

I'm glad you asked!



Egun in Yoruba refers to ancestors. Egungun Suit is a masquerade garment used to commemorate and honor all ancestors of a given community. Technically it's supposed to made of strips from garments that were worn by folks ancestors. That's not how I made this one...

I never made one before. I never saw one in person. When tasked with this task, I was all over the internet to no avail. I'm a smart girl. I figured it out. First make a tunic. You'll need the tunic to attach the strips of fabric. Don't sew the tunic up though. I made that mistake. But the wearer would have to try it on so..... this is wear it kind of went left.... I had help from ile members who cut the strips. They don't sew and I wasn't there when they got to cutting. They cut most of the strips 1 inch thick. I couldn't use those strips because of the seam allowance. But they didn't have a ton of extra fabric because they cut all the fabric they had wrong. Well.... my remnant scraps to the rescue! I had a bunch of scrap, but not a lot of hotep scrap. Either way... I made it work. Big note.... DON'T USE SATIN! Frays like a motherfucker....



That cutiepie model is my husband. He wasn't the one to wear the suit. The suit has a basket woven headpiece and a breastplate made with crystal and leather. I didn't get a pic of the wearer dancing in the suit. Other obligations kept me from that part of the festival. It looks crazy, but the Babalawo was mad satisfied with the result and has offered me a job running his new clothing line. Do I have experience? No. But neither does he. We will fly or sink. But I will enjoy it!


Peace!

Vogue 1534

Peace!

It has been a minute. I’ve been going through some things. This is no surprise, but I really miss my mother y’all. And everything that goes along with handling her estate is…. Pinching. This shit really sucks. I have been stupid busy with a ton of other non-estate duties. And my friends have been in these trenches with me. I struggle. But I not complaining…. Much.

I am really excited to finally have made my entrance into the Ifa community here in Atlanta. Initially it was to be their seamstress, but you know…. I think I might have found my home. I have officially 2 side gigs and a square job. Websites and all. Another reason I’m super busy. One of the gigs is, of course sewing. And where as I’m part time with my square job, I’m certain I will have to come on full time in the near future. I’m not opposed…. But I have gotten used to working just 3 days/week. Anywho…..

I made a prom dress!!!!! One of my Ile sister’s daughter wanted a prom dress that she could not (a) find in her daughter’s color scheme and (b) afford. So…. Serenity to the rescue! As always, when I sew for a relatively new client, I make sure they understand the value of what they are receiving. Folks be wanting you to create wedding dresses for $50 and the fabric costs more than that. My client was cool with my process (especially since she doesn’t know other seamstresses) and we had a successful result.

Shall we?

Vogue 1534



Pattern Description: Close-fitting through the bodice, lined dress has halter neckline, full skirt and contrast bodice.
Pattern Sizing: I don’t actually remember. I do remember I made the largest size and had to take it in 4 inches
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?. YES!!!!

Were the instructions easy to follow? They were

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? It wasn’t for me to like or dislike the pattern. It was for the graduate to like or dislike it. She loved it!!!! I, however…. Did not like working with sequins. Sequins were everywhere and still is. I made that dress in April, and occasionally I still see my cat walking around with sequins in his fur. I found some in mine and my husband’s fur as well. I truly hope that there aren’t sequins somewhere they ought not to be.
For this pattern to be a “special occasion dress” and it being a Vogue pattern… it was very easy. The front had 3 pieces the back 6. Once I got rolling it was easy to finish. Especially since I had to tuck sewing into my day with all my other responsibilities.


Fabric Used: Silver sequins for the bodice…. Midnight Blue Satin for the skirt… a lovely gray-silver silk like lining for the lining. I liked more than I liked the outer fabrics. It was easier to work with and I cut the lining and the sequins together which made the process easier. I had initially cut the sequins separately and had to re-cut because it was completely wonky

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Actually none

Would you sew it again? Yes I would see it again if someone wanted it. They let me keep the pattern, because… well… what were they going to do with it? Would you recommend it to others? Sure. It’s a satisfying and easy pattern

Conclusion: Yay!!!!!

NL6495

Peace.

A few months ago, I was completely inspired and made 4 garments for myself in 1 day. That’s crazy! But the universe was letting me know that I was gonna be too busy to sew for myself for a while.

Since then, I have been so busy, but busy sewing for other people. I have made prom dresses, festival clothes, pillows, steaming shrouds and tons of alterations. I have really enjoyed the extra income and have not gone crazy spending it.

NL6495 was one of the frenzied garments. (My Easter dress in in there but I haven’t blogged it yet) I have been involved in some traditional African practices. I initially bought the pattern and fabric for an initiation. But I decided to go in a different direction after I got cut the pieces. And for that I’m grateful. I threw away the clothes I bought and wore for initiation because they got stained, and I didn’t want to deal with touching the garment to launder it. I’m glad I followed my intuition. I know… Don't ask. I have been compelled to wear more white garments. I be feeling some kind of way before Easter…. But now that we are comfortably passed Easter, I can freely wear white without worrying that my mother and grandmother will haunt me. We shall see what happens after Labor Day....


Shall we? 

Pattern Description:
Misses' Dresses with Length Variations View C. I’ve been on a diet since January and have lost enough weight to affect my sewing so I cut an 18 rather than cut the biggest size in the envelope.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes. Yes it did

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes they were

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
The flounce on the sides. I kinda thought it was too much but the dress needed a little too much to make it special. Otherwise it’s just an ordinary sheath dress. I’m not crazy about the collar area. I like to show at least my clavicle. This dress does not have an option for that. Next time I’ll adjust that.

Fabric Used:
Cotton knit, not ponte, but not sure what it is. It has some texture on the outside but not on the inside. And it’s a beefier knit. Maybe y’all can tell me… I choose knit because I was clear from the purchase of the pattern that there was no way in hell I was hemming this dress. So the edges are raw, but tidy.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
As always I added 3” to the bodice to make room for the girls and my low waist. But I didn’t have to do that. Now the waist sits damn near on my hips. I really need a dress form…. Plus the flounce is now way too long and touches the ground. I have to wear it scooped up at the waist to prevent dragging

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes! It’s very cute. And y’all should try it. I’m not going to make it soon, but I will make it again eventually.

Conclusion:
I need a dress form


Peace

McCalls 6920

Peace.

Its been awhile. Life happens. Let me tell you that 2017 sucks for me and has sucked for me since the 4th of January. I'm getting through.... kind of. I'm putting all my energy on my hobbies and interests to keep from falling into depression. I swear they are keeping me from cracking up.

This dress is the beginning of a new trend for my wardrobe. I'm incorporating more African print patterns into my wardrobe. The reason I'm doing this is because of one of the interests I have is Ifa. Even though I swear I'm not a religious person, religions intrigue me. Not so much that I want to practice. But enough that I want to learn. I have been studying with an Ile. I really love certain aspects of the lifestyle. And as a person who is descended from people who practiced this lifestyle, it feels a bit like I've come home. One of the aspects of the culture (which falls with the definition of culture) I adore, is the clothing.

I've worked with enough African clients to understand that there are only a few traditional garments. And they are worn for ceremonial reasons. The clients who want African outfits of special events or just for social reasons, they just want clothing that is pretty ordinary. So I've made African clothes for African people, using regular patterns. So... why cant I do that for myself?

It brings up another point.... Africans feel some kind of way about African Americans wearing African fabrics. Which I find ironic because wax printed African fabrics are usually made in India. Their argument is AAs don't have the information on wearing the garments correctly. That we wear them at the wrong times. That we mix patterns that shouldn't be mixed. That we aren't really African anymore and AA wearing African prints is no different than white people wearing them. And I don't like to see white people in African print.

That puts AAs in a weird limbo. The Africans are correct in what they are saying. But we have a stronger link to Africa than white folks do. And it's not our fault that our heritage was erased during slavery and Jim Crow times. Even now, when we have our DNA analyzed, we find that we are from all over the continent and other places in the world. African Americans are TRULY swirled... more than any other collection of people in this world. I feel strongly that I can... should... and will wear whatever I want. Not only am I from 5 different African countries, there is European(Irish), Indian (from India) and Pacific Islander within me. I am making the concerted effort to learn more about African culture. So why can't I wear the clothes? I've made party dresses for clients. I party. I've made church dresses for clients. I occasionally go to Ifa services. I've made casual outfits. Who doesn't do casual?

The bottom line is Africans sell the fabric to anyone, and I'm waiting to meet that bad mf'er who's gonna make me stop.

I originally bought M6920 to make a denim dress. I decided to go with a different pattern for the dress and ended up with a wadder. I'm still trying to figure out how I can rectify the wadder. It was a really nice piece of denim. I wanted to make this dress for our anniversary. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to. I'm working now and have some other drama happening. Life... So I made it as soon as time freed up for me.

The way this dress is supposed to work is it is supposed to be a transitional garment. Something to wear in the spring and fall. It can hang in the closet year round. And a year round wardrobe is always a goal. Especially here in the south where winter is so short and mild. My original plan with this dress was to have one panel of the African print in the front and the rest be knit. I was also going to change the collar so that I can pull it over my head since most of it was going to be knit and omit the zipper and facings. And I was going to lengthen it 3" for refinement. Well.... That didn't happen. It was because of the direction of the stretch and the way the fabric was cut.

I've learned my lesson with regard to the direction of stretch. The fabric had only 1 direction of stretch. If you cut a garment in the wrong direction, then the garment is no longer stretchy. So I knew that the garment had to be cut in a particular way. The problem is the direction of the stretch didn't correspond with the yardage... if you get my meaning. The stretch went in the direction of the length not in the amount of yardage I purchased. I didn't know that when I bought the fabric. That has never happened to me before in the 30+ years I've been sewing. So the way I HAD to cut the dress wouldn't allow me to cut the entire dress and maintain the stretch. I had enough of the African print to use it in the back. But.... that means the I wouldn't be sure if I could pull it over my head since now half of the garment would have NO stretch. And since I had a lot of fabric left over, I used the facings and added a zipper. But I didn't use interfacing. Since I had to use more fabric than I intended, I didn't get to make the African print headwrap that I wanted.

Also.... the African fabric was short (36"). So I wasn't able to add the 3" to it like I planned. Initially I was going to try to piece 3" at the bottom. But I didn't like the way it looked. As Michael Kors would say, "It looked Becky home-ecy." So I just went with the length I could get. It comes slightly passed the knee. That is the bare minimum of my refinement. I can wear it with tights and boots. But I just got these new clogs and feel strongly like I want to wear the hell out of them. So I'm wearing them with footless tights. When the weather warms, i wear them with the clogs alone and when it really warms with sandals. See? Year round wardrobe!


Shall we?

Pattern Description: Misses'/Miss Petite/Women's/Women's Petite Dresses. Of course I cut the biggest size, as usual. I planned version C with the short sleeves and not the cap sleeves

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes it did

Fabric used: African waxed fabric and ponte knit

Time? Took 2 hours from start to finish. Even with all the hiccups

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I was planning to make plenty. But in the end I made none

Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use them

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes. I would on both questions

Conclusion: It's good to not have a wadder for a change. And sewing is keeping me sane.


I've kind of been on a diet. It's beginning of the year and I've decided to lose 25 lbs a year (and keep it off) for the next 4 years. The ultimate goal is losing 100 lbs. Apparently, I've been losing weight. the dress is really big on me. It's more like a tunic. I plan on making this dress in turquoise for the summer. I'll cut a smaller size then.


Peace

Kwik Sew 3472

Peace

I just want to go on record and say that I HATE Jo-Annes. I am utterly distraught that Hancocks has gone out of business. I did everything I could to keep it going. I went every week! Jo-annes doesn’t have the sales on patterns that Hancocks did…. The customer service sucks…. Their fabric ain’t all that… And now that they are the only game in town, they are funny about honoring their own coupons. There are other fabric stores, but not one that is the one stop shop that Jo-annes is and Hancocks was. I really hate them. I’m a seek out other options. I really just need a place to purchase patterns on sale. I don’t pay full price…..

The reason I’m so super pissed with J’s is because I went there and bought 3 yards of ponte knit and it totaled out to $30. I could have bought a rtw dress for $30. A nice one at that. I don’t have to sew every garment I wear. I can still buy. Them jokers would not honor their coupon. They told me my interpretation was wrong. I should have walked out… but I didn’t. I purchased the fabric because it was in my hands and I wanted it. No more. J’s isn’t even close to my home. If I have to drive, I’ll drive somewhere else.

The God and I have a running joke. I say he buys me the best gifts. He does. I use his debit card to purchase gifts for myself. For my birthday, he gifted me with a box of feet!!!! My newer machine has a different set up than my older one and those feet don’t work on the new machine. I missed my rolled hem food, my ruffler and so forth. I got a box with 30 feet. Half of them I have no idea how they work. But I will….. I used the rolled hem to finish off the bottom of the dress. Sweet…

I was originally going to make M6886. I wanted to have a black dress to wear that I could dress up or down and a new black headwrap. My black headwraps get a LOT of use and need to be replaced frequently. But after I spent $30, I decided to make something a little more involved. Hence KS3472.

I’ve wanted to make this dress for a while. It still made a flexible black dress like I originally wanted. It used most of the 3 yards though. I had to creatively get the wrap…. I don’t think I ever sewed a Kwik Sew pattern before. My first surprise was the pattern is on REAL PAPER!!!! I couldn’t stop talking about how this pattern was on real paper. It cracked my husband up. I always cut patterns on bed while we are watching TV.

Shall we?

Pattern Description: Kwik Sew 3472
Dress with two variations for knit fabrics - must have at least 35% stretch. I think it might be out of print.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Didn’t follow them. Essentially the dress has 5 pieces. Not really rocket science

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I liked the style of the dress. I used to have dresses like this when I was younger. I don’t know why I got out of wearing them. I guess trends changed.

Fabric Used:
Ponte Knit

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I made the “B” version. But I wanted the long skirt. But the long version was too long and the shorter version was too short. So I went midway with the skirt. Also… I’m not happy with how I cut the sleeves. Since the sleeve had so much ease, I decided to cut it against the stretch so I would have enough to make a headwrap. I’m not going back to J’s for more fabric and further abuse. I’m not quite loving it nor am I quite dying. I might take the sleeves off come spring. We’ll see.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes. I have plans for several. This is going to be one of my TNT dress patterns. Also I like the top as a top

Conclusion: I like when a plan comes together. And I'm done with black.... for awhile

S1070: My Birthday suit!

Peace!

I know it's been a minute. Life happened... My Husband and I bought a house for Easter... then a week later I got fired. I'm still not over it. since I wasn't expecting it, I had to hustle with my sewing machine to cover the small bills and learn to live in Georgia heat with no AC. I finally got another job, but it's part time. I like it.... I'm just not sure if I can survive on a part time gig. Since it's all I have right now...... Anywho......

My birthday!!!! And for my birthday I always make or buy a new outfit. I do the same for Easter. But this Easter I bought a house so that was my new Easter thing. This year I used 2 parts of S1070!

I bought S1070 during my last Hancock haul.... RIP Hancock. I soooooo like them better than Joanns... The top was super easy with only 3 main pieces. The top was supposed to be a midriff. But.... Not everybody can wear a midriff. I know I'm supposed to have body positivity. I'm certain I do. But more importantly... I'm a realist. I don't have a good midriff tummy. It's not flat. It has a ton of stretchmarks... And I don't even have children! So I made the shirt shorter than normal but longer than the pattern called for. I'm not going to wear something that doesn't flatter me just because society says I should.

Also.... I am REALLY bad at using the fabric that the pattern calls for. So I really need not to complain when I don't always get the result I was looking for... that's on me.

Pattern: Simplicity 1070

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the envelope?
Yes it did

Were the instructions easy to follow?
I didn't really need to follow them because the bottom has 3 pieces not including the facings and the top had 3 pieces not including the collar. But I did glance at the instructions for the collar. I have a way that I put in collars that works for me. The same can be said about the way my sleeves work. But this time... i decided to see what the instructions said with regard to the collar. And I'm happy to say, that I was pleasantly surprised. I now have a new way to do collars. Bully for me!

How long did it take from start to finish?:
About an hour and a half for the skirt and a half hour for the top.

What did you like/dislike about the pattern?
If you follow the pattern suggestions, you will be fine

Fabric used?:
Teehee.....

For the top I used a sweater material. I worked just as anticipated. But for the skirt..... I used really, really, really stretchy woven fabric. I am able to wear it... But in retrospect.... I should have used knits as suggested. Even with the facings not interfaced.... I was able to wear it as intended. But the waist feels like a tourniquet. By the end of my workday, I was in hell. I had to change out of the skirt to go to dinner.

Pattern alterations or design changes made?
I lengthened the midriff or shortened the top... depending on your perspective

Would you sew it again?
Oh absolutely! I made plans to.

Would you recommend it to others?
Do it!!!

Conclusion:
This is a really nice pattern. Y'all should try it

Happy Birthday Mommie!!!!

Peace. 

I'm really grateful to have my mother. Really. We DON'T get along. And neither of us is about to change. My immediate family was mom dad and brother. I've lost daddy and brother. Mommie is all I have left. Yes I have a husband... But still my Cipher is tiny.

I made this basket for her. She absolutely hates any gift I get for her. And tends to regift. So I hope this makes it easy to pass on.

Love you Monmie!!!!

Peace

PS: she actually spells it Mommie...

Ajay

Peace, 

I've been wanting one of these skirts for a minute. They are all over Pinterest. Why would I buy something I can make?

I made one a few months ago. But when I tried it on, I knew it wasn't my silhouette. The flowiness made me look extra big. I know some women don't care and wear just what they want, but I like to look good in my clothes. That's me.... Confidence is good, but confidence alone won't make you look amazing if the clothes don't flatter you.

A classmate needed a skirt made quickly. Her daughter is graduating today and there is an Agrican theme. Since I'm not working, (I lost my job of 13 years on April 6th. I haven't mentioned it because I was still a bit bitter...) I told her I could help her out. She gave me the fabric on Monday and I gave her this skirt Thursday. I actually had it ready on Wednesday. 

You like? I didn't use a pattern. I freeballed it. And my client seems very satisfied. 

The client actually wanted it shorter. Like a high-low with it really high in the front. So high, I had to shorten the pockets. I like it better longer.

The class I'm taking is in Ifa. I'm not going into an explanation of what it is or why I'm taking it. But I went to a bembe on Sunday, and I saw people in clothes I KNOW they didn't buy at Macy's. My client is deep in the culture and I'm hoping to get the word out that I, a member of their own community, can custom make their ritual clothing. Now that I'm out of work, I could use the money....

Peace

 

Hancocks

Peace,

Now that Hancock Fabrics is closing, where am I supposed to purchase patterns and notions? I never liked Joanne's, plus there isn't one close to me. The closest one is 30 miles away.

Who has pattern sales? I'm not paying full price for them.... Where do you get notions?

I'd appreciate any comments...

Peace

Malik

Peace!

I haven't been sewing... more on that later. But the last thing I have sewn was this.....


One of my dear friends is adopting a child. I wanted to make her a baby quilt. Baby quilts are all I have the patience for. Anything else will cause me to quit right in the middle of the job. I have a larger baby quilt on the UFO pile that I made for one of my line sisters... 2 years ago! I put her son's name on it and everything. That's what happens when quilts get too big on me. I don't enjoy the process. I plan to finish the UFO.... if I can find it... and pick the name out of it. Whoever has the next baby is going to get that quilt!

Peace!

Hate

Peace y'all!

I hate winter. I'm okay with fall and spring. And I adore the summer. But I sincerely hate the winter. I hate being cold. I hear people say they can get warm if they get cold but they can't get cool after being super hot. I am the frank opposite. Once cold... I'm cold for hours. I'm not saying I don't warm up. I'm saying it takes awhile. Maybe it's because I'm severely iron deficient. And try as I might, I can't seem to come out of the anemia. I have been on IV iron and it just doesn't take.

I moved to GA for a number of reasons. But my main PERSONAL reason was because I wanted to live somewhere warm. And I WAS warm for the 1st 10 years. But my blood acclimated and I'm back to being cold again. This is the pits. Luckily GA is only truly cold about 2-3 months. Then we warm up again.

Since I hate winter; I hate winter clothes. And closed toed shoes are the worst! I like my feet to breathe! I have been struggling to find a pair of shoes. I wear a 10.5. Those are few and far between. 11 are too big, 10 too small. these feet have the unmitigated gall to be narrow! My feet are hurting right now. I will be miserable until... say.... April. So just know that.

Anywho..... I have decided on this January 5th... that I am going to begin to sew my summer clothes. I may not be able to wear them, but I can dream..... So when you see some weather inappropriate posts... don't call the looney bin on me. It's me getting ready for the season I prefer the most!


Peace

My Birthday Suit: S1276

Peace!!!!

It's my bornday y'all! And you know what that means. It means I had to send out search party for my mojo (I think it was in the witness protection program) and make me a brand new garment to celebrate!

Since I last Built with y'all, The God and I decided to get married. Getting legally married is not something that is common within the 5% Culture. Our righteous compadres have been looking at us side ways. But it's fine. They always look at us like that. We don't fit the standard mold for God and Earth. One of many reasons we got hitched is because we are striving to purchase a house! We thought we had one. But the inspection came back scary, so we passed. But we loved the house so much initially, that we started packing. I had packed up my sewing room. I had to unpack it some to make this garment.

This is not what I initially intended for my birthday suit. I wanted to make a cream corduroy skirt and a black knit top. But for some reason I couldn't find the pattern for either. (Found the top pattern after I was done making this one) So as I was going through the Air Jordan boxes that I keep my patterns in I came across S1276 and thought, why not? Now that I have a stash.... I went to see what could work.

Out of the big 4, simplicity is my least favorite. I get more wadders from Simplicity than any other pattern. If I'm using Simplicity I allow extra time just in case I need to sew something else or buy something. This is not my 1st attempt at making this particular brand of simplicity pattern. I made a capsule wardrobe for a friend using S1167. These patterns work for some folks. I don't think they really work for me. I wanted to be supportive. When I made S1167 it was a lot of confusion. The tutorial didn't help. The instructions were hazy and at some points contradicted the tutorial.... Just a bad time. I don't' know if my friend even liked her capsule. We've not discussed it. So with MUCH hesitation I went on and made S1276.

I don't hate the dress. I don't think color blocking works for me. I've tried it a few times and never like the result. Even this simple Black and white combo. I was worried about the light band across the middle. And I was right. Whatever. I don't' mind the top and the “peek-a-boo.” You can't see it. If I make this in the future (because I don't discard patterns unless they piss me off) I won't make it with a band. Just solid all the way down.


I didn't make many changes. I made it out of knit so there is no zipper, nor did I interface the neck facings. I need to be able to get it over my head. To keep the facing down I tacked it. But you can't really see the tacks unless you were looking for them. the directions were really vague about what pieces to cut out. My suggestion if you decide to make the peek-a-boo version is instead of cutting a front facing, cut a second front piece and use the entire piece as a facing.

I used ponte knit. I love this stuff! I have finally been convicted after 30+ years of sewing that the good fabric, sews better. No pulling, no getting stuck in the machine, stitches stay in and it's just a pleasure to work with. I've heard that before, but I finally believe it. I never wanted to PAY for the good fabric. But you get what you pay for. I realized at the end of construction that I wasn't even using the correct needle. But even still, everything went smoothly.

From the completed pics of other folks work, I noticed that the waist was elongated. So with my breasts, I didn't think I needed to add the 3 inches that I normally would. I guessed correctly. This white band hits at my waist. I'm not sure I like that. No. I don't like it at all. But it is what it is.

I added 2” to the skirt. I really need for my clothes to pass my knees. If I take that big band out then the skirt will be too short. I might replace the band with just a black one. But I don't' really want to putz with the dress.

I'm still mourning. But 6 months will be officially over on 11/12. I'll transition into wearing brighter colors. Hopefully, if I feel up to it, I can be festive around the holidays. It will be my first holiday EVER without my brother. My brother always called me at 12:01 on my birthday to be the 1st to wish me a good day. I hate to say this.... because last time I said this I ended up needing it for that purpose... but this dress will serve as a winter mourning dress. I hope I don't have to use it.


Peace

B4545

Peace!

This pattern is from the 1993. Clearly it's out of print. (I refuse to use the acronym for out of print... because I'm an AKA) That means it's vintage!!!!! I can't. Nope. I ain't ready! According to the interwebs... anything over 20 years is vintage. Damn.

I got this pattern in a mystery bag. This now defunct mom-pop shop used to sell like 10 patterns and odd notions in a mystery bag for a $1. Every time I'd buy some fabric from them (And I went like once/week) I'd buy a mystery bag or 2. Why not? I was always more curious than anything what was in the bag. There were a lot of baby clothes, doll clothes, bags and stuff that I don't wear. The sizes were super small too. But it was a dollar mystery bag. What do you expect? Some of the patterns I gave away to people who CLAIM they want to learn to sew but really just like the idea of sewing rather than the practice. But occasionally they had something in the bag for me. Usually 2 of the 10 patterns I could use. That's worth a dollar, right?

I sooooo remember the young woman I was in the 90's. I turned 21 on a Sunday in college in SC. LOL! Was super mad I couldn't buy alcohol on my birthday. My friends all came through with bottles for me to drink legally from. I had a drink from every bottle that came in the door that day and even went to an underground speakeasy. I was so hungover that Monday. I graduated college (92) ready to take on the world. I attended dental school until 96 graduation. Got married in 98. A cool wild ride of a decade. First (legal) drink to 1st car to doctorate to wife!

I remember how I looked too... It used to scandalize my mother. I did “Black-Girl-Grunge.” Grunge was a 90's thing but you know Black people do style their own way.... I had Janet Jackson/Patra Poetic Justice braids. Actually. I wore my hair braided/cornrowed all while in dental school. Black hair takes a lot of time. I needed that time to sleep, eat, study and party. I wore the dark lipstick and also that green stuff that changes color... the baby doll dresses.... the Dr. Martens.... My mother used to tell me that I didn't look like a woman.

My favorite go-to go-out outfit was a thrift store man's suit that fit my bottom and closed in the front. (I've always had large breasts. And that is ALWAYS a big concern for me) I cut the pants into shorts took them in in the waist and put a professional looking cuff on them. I rolled up the sleeves of the jacket and actually tailor tacked them down so they would stay like that but not look altered. I wore this suit to every party! Either in pieces or all together. I changed out the top, hose and shoes. I had a kente cloth sleeveless tank with a pussy bow... I had that peasant white top with the big lapel that makes you look like a painter... Some times I wore the blazer with no top at all. I used to rock tall boots with platforms... another with stiletto heels. (my mother used to rock tall boots in the 70's and she used to keep them in her closet. She couldn't war them anymore, but wouldn't let me have them. So I'd steal the boots and leave the boxes)When I wore the suit with my DMs, I'd get that thick granny hosiery and tear big holes in it. My mother would have a hissy fit watching me get dressed. But she'd laugh it off. I promise you I had more fun than was allowed. That's why I'm not a 40-some woman not lamenting my lost youth. I just wish I had the energy to party all night and still be able to work or go to class then next morning. Now I gotta got to sleep before 10 or I'm no good for work the next day. I did what young people are supposed to do.

Anywho......

My goal with this dress was to have something black to wear on the weekend that wasn't super clingy. My fibroid is growing and becoming super noticeable. At first I was gonna make M6559 but that seemed more form fitting than I was wanting. I made M6559 a few years ago and I liked it.... but I just wasn't feeling it for this summer. I also wanted to have a high-low dress. Vanity, forced me to google high-low to see if it was still a thing. When you sew for yourself, you tend lose trends. That lends to looking homemade. High-low shirt is still hanging on... but by a thread. But High-low tops are trending. I decided to high-low the dress and leave the front a midi thereby making the trend current!

The fabric was a remnant that I got at Fine Fabric for $1.99. I assumed that it wasn't long and had planned to make a top out of it. Imagine my surprise when I unrolled it. It was enough to make this dress and plenty of fabric left for a headwrap that I don't need because I have a lot of black knit headwraps. FF just keeps on surprising me. I hope they never do anything to turn me off.

Pattern:
B4545... loose fitting tunic/dress/separates. I made the "E" version pictured in the green dress

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the envelope?:
Sort of. I made a few changes

Were the instructions easy to follow?:
Didn't bother

How long did it take from start to finish?:
Several days. For some reason, I just didn't finish it. IDK why. I'd sew a seam and something would catch my attention. And I'd be gone for a few days. Then I'd come back and do something else and then get distracted. I did run out of black thread. That took a few days to correct. I think the dress was TOO easy and just didn't keep my attention.

What did you like/dislike about the pattern?
I dislike that the 90's is considered vintage.....

Fabric used?:
soft Black knit so sweet I keep feeling myself

Pattern alterations or design changes made?:
I made a lot...
1. Instead of cutting the pattern pieces all separate and having a seam running up the front and back.... I just cut it in 2 pieces
2. the pattern comes with a facing... that I decided to not use
3. Since I didn't use the facing I needed to add on something around the collar and armscye
4. and I made it a high-low

Would you sew it again?:
YES! If I like a pattern, I will sew it about 3 times then retire it.

Would you recommend it to others?:
If you can find it

Conclusion:
I'm old. I planned to wear this dress only on the weekend, but I find myself wearing it belted to work. Belting it makes it a bit high. But not belting it makes me look a bit pregnant. I wish I still had my Dr. Martens....

I have been making some other garments. If I blogged them before I don't see the reason to reblog it. Like I said earlier, 3 garments from 1 pattern is enough for me (unless it's a TNT basic). I'd planned to make 4 more black dresses for the summer. I probably won't. My eyes have turned toward the fall and when that happens I lose interest in summer clothes. That happens in the spring too. I'll be in mourning at least until Thanksgiving, probably until the end of the year. I bought some things from the thrift store. A few tops... a skirt. A bathing suit for parts. All Black. My boss asked me how long I was going to publicly mourn. I told him. He told me 2 things. (a) It was a nice and fitting tribute to my brother (He lost his sister recently) and (b) I'm really making it look good. I appreciate that....


Peace

Pre Fall Ideas..... (pic heavy)

Peace....

I'm not a designer. I'm good with that. I make clothes either from patterns or from something that I see. I give it up for creative people who create trends and lines and so forth. Because designers have it hard...

Collections used to be just Fall and Spring. Now you have Pre-fall and resort in addition to the fall and spring lines. That isht is cray cray. Is there no down time? Well if not, oh well... They are compensated well for their time....

It's July.... My thoughts start drifting FROM summer clothes (though it will be very warm here until October) TO the fall clothes. Here in GA I can wear my summer frocks longer than I could when I lived in NJ. But I don't really need snow clothes. I'm also a big girl and I need for folks to know and understand that big girls can be fly, fashionable and non-sloppy. I actually crack up when I'm around standard sized girls dressed busted. The look at me with shock and awe. And when they open their mouths to say something crude, I ask... “Have you EVER seen me busted?” So to be extra fine... I peruse the fashion runway shows to decide what I'm going to make. An aside: When other Earths try to qualify how I'm dressed by saying the only reason I look good is because I make my own clothes... I remind them that 14:14 says that they should be proficient in sewing just like I do.

Pre-fall is perfection for the weather we get here in GA. I suppose this post is more of a record keeper of what I plan to sew/buy for fall...

You're gonna have to click on the image to see it. I can't seem to get it small...

I like this look from DVF. DVF is one of my favorite designers because her stuff is timeless. This her standard wrap dress. I like the boots. I need new boots. I had to toss my black boots and I tossed the brown boots 2 years ago. I'm not going to feel guilty when I buy boots this year. I don't like the extra flourish at the wrist of the sleeve, though. If I was to buy this dress, I would remove the flourish


I love Donna Karan too. She makes age appropriate clothes for grown women. All the models are wearing Flatform shoes. I have a pair and kinda don't like them. I've been wearing them all summer and find them hard to walk in.

Gucci has some nice things too....

I already have a suede coat like this


This is cute. And should be easy to figure out. I'll be mourning until November so I have to decide what color to make this or make it in this color and and just wait to wear it.


This dress is pretty amazing...


This is old-school enough to find in a thrift store in the men's wear section. It would be cute with a cream corduroy skirt and some brown boots would it not?


This is from Halston. This is dressier than my life really demands but I think it would be nice to have on hand


I'm feeling the skirt... a lot


From Jason Wu... A black mock neck is on my list. I prefer at least short sleeves for fall. That belt is hot


Vuitton... I saw this look in the magazines. I don't wear pants but I can do this with a skirt. Imagine a dark wash denim with a gold topstitch...


WOW!!! I should be able to make this Versace with my remnants.... Teehee!


Ok... this is a good start of me dreaming about the fall.

Peace