Finding the natural waistline

I mentioned that I have problems finding my natural waistline (evidence from Simplicity 1368).
I found some references for the natural waistline from various blogs:

Lolita-Tips Blog

Reneet Bouchard Blog

Sew Store Bought Blog

Project: Simplicity 1368 - Elastic Band Skirt - Fail

I took another JoAnn's sewing level 1 class - making an elastic band skirt.  I took pride in almost making a skirt in 2.5 hours!  I had to thread the elastic when I got home (about 30 mins).  I used a safety pin, which I found to be tedious. I bought a bodkin which used for another project; the bodkin was much better!


Pattern:  Simplicity 1368, View B
Details:  Pattern Size 18 (I used the largest pattern size, with the intention to bring it in)
Changes:  Enclosed the waist band, used a less thick waistband
Outcome:  When I tried on the skirt, the waist was 5" too big.
Lessons learned: I don't how to interpret the measurements in the envelope. I don't know where my natural waist is. I took my waist measurement around my belly button, which is wrong. After research, use your natural waist, lean over sideways and look for where your torso bends.  For me, it pretty high, but that is your natural waist.  I also learned a lesson that the fabric makes a big impact to your clothes.
Future Alterations: Next time, I will add another 3-4" to length.

My First Attempt

I found some references for the natural waistline:

Lolita-Tips Blog

Reneet Bouchard Blog

Sew Store Bought Blog

My Lastest Obsession - Sewing Patterns

I like sewing patterns.  So far, I have 29 different patterns.  I buy them on sale when they are $1.99 (Butterick/McCall's/Simplicity) or $4.99 (Vogue) from JoAnn's or Hobby Lobby.  When I get more skilled, I want to make every pattern.  I want to make a new spring/summer wardrobe.  I am making a sewing pattern database that I view from my phone.

Project: Skillet Hot Holder

I wanted to make a holder for my cast iron skillet. I got the idea from So Sew Easy. I had trouble making this work.  I made 3, but I didn't understand the instructions.  I will try again some other time.  Hers were so cute; mine need some work :-)

Fitgirl's Pot Holder

Craigslist Find: Dressform

My ultimate goal is to make dresses and skirts for myself.  I wanted to find an adjustable dressform.  I noticed how much they cost at JoAnn's.  I didn't want to spend alot of money, so I checked Craigslist.  Now, I have a adjustable dressform, in good condition.  The couple that we bought it from was really nice. The lady even gave me some patterns!  Not bad for $65!!  I treated myself to a early birthday present.

I was sewing on the dining room table :-).  Now, I want a dedicated sewing room in my house. 

Project: Child's Apron (My First Solo Project)!

Simplicity A1526

I took the challenge to make my niece's apron for Christmas.  I took a leisurely approach, started Friday night and finished on Sunday.

I ripped the fabric using the seam ripper, but Jay helped me to patch it.  I was under the impression that I would have to start over, but he was calm, patient, and he showed me what to do.

I am very proud of my accomplishment, and my niece will be elated with her new apron!  She is 3.5 years old, and she loves to "cook".

JoAnn's Class: Sewing 101 - Sewing Basics

I had a JoAnn's half off coupon, so I took a Sewing 101 class. There was no project for this class, but I need a refresher before starting the apron for my niece.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn basic sewing skills
• Sewing machine & tool basics
• Sewing seams
• Sewing 3-strand gathers
• Demo: How to change feet
• Demo: using the automatic button hole maker

The instructor was very good. It was a small class, and it was very hands-on.  I plan to take most of their sewing courses.