My 2009 Sewing Goals

Since 2009 is coming to an end, I began to reflect on my sewing achievements over the past 12 months. In January, I started with a list of goals that I wanted to accomplish. I am happy to say that I made significant progress on all of them. Although, some will definitely have to carry over next year.

1. Update my wardrobe.

I updated my wardrobe to include clothes that better suit my figure/frame as well as styles that are much more contemporary. I don't follow fads and mostly sew what I like. I did, however, recognize that my wardrobe was seriously out of date. I had clothes in my closet from when I was in graduate school (that was almost eight years ago).

2. Make a good fitting woven blouse.

I still don't have a good fitting woven blouse, but I have learned so much in the process. I have a better idea of what pattern alterations I need to make. Needless to say, this goal will definitely carry on to 2010.

3. Purge unwanted fabric and patterns.

I did manage sell a small bit of fabric. As I review my stash, I will probably put more up for sale. My stash has gotten out of control and I need to trim it down. I don't think I sold any patterns this year. I'll have to review my pattern stash and remove the ones I don't want.

4. Make a coat.

Yup, I made a short coat and don't like it. I think it's too big in many places and very poor fitting - despite the muslin saying other things. Maybe I'll come back to this later next year.

5. Sew with a plan.

I have become better at picking items to sew. I started thinking about the clothes I already have and how I can punctuate them with new items. I also completed my first full wardrobe plan (Not Your Usual Fall Colours) on Pattern Review. It was stressful and rewarding to finish the plan. I don't know that I'll sew another 10 garment capsule (I find that too limiting), but I will definitely take the lessons learned and sew smaller, more manageable wardrobes.

Month of Pants Sew-A-Long

It is December in Michigan. I need pants. Short skirts are no match for that cold Canadian arctic wind. Here are some pants patterns that are in my current mental rolodex:

Kwik Sew 3384

McCall's 3935 (OOP)

Simplicity 2700,3686, & 4965

Jalie 2608

Vogue 2812 (OOP)

I've already traced and altered McCall's 3935. I need to cut it out in muslin to check the fit. More updates soon!

L~