The Denim Skirt--Simplicity 1760

I am finally getting around to posting this skirt,  Simplicity 1760.

This was a fun project to put together.  It started out as part of a mini-wardrobe and has been cut out for ages.  It's turn to get sewn came around at last.  Please forgive all the wrinkles, I'd been running around all day but was determined to get these photos before end of day.  (Got them just before sunset.)  

I love the curved seams on the front and the contour waistband, which makes it so comfortable to wear.  I topstitched the waistband seam and the front "princess" seams in gold jeans thread to make the seaming stand out.  

On the inside of the waistband I finished the facing with pink bias binding and a specialty stitch . It's my own private little treat.  

The skirt is made of light- to mid-weight denim that I've forgotten where or when I got it.  I love how easily cottons sew up.    The pattern itself was easy to follow along, pictures helpful, and directions were good.  I think a beginner with a few skills under their belt could easily tackle this.  It also has a back zipper and vent.  The pattern has several different views to choose from.  This one in particular, I think, lends itself to creative interpretation from decorative topstitching to color-blocking. 

I think it's a real winner but is out of print, unfortunately.  I did find it available on Etsy and Ebay, if you're interested.  

Vacay, Shingles, and a Missing Mojo

For once, I'm missing in action due to being absent and having little to report sewing-wise.  But I can catch you up on what's been happening in my corner of Kentucky this past month.  First, we went on a short vacay to Texas to see Hubs mom.  She's in her 80s and beginning to have health problems but remains very independent with a great support system down there.  Daughter #1 and her family flew in and joined us for a few days.  A few pics of the trip:

Daughter and her family.

The Grands up to shenanigans.

Grandma and The Grands at Blue Bell Creamery.

We were lucky to arrive in time for the bluebonnet show. I just love them!

I needed a small hand project for the 2-day drive to and from Texas.  I found this cute little piece in the closet.  It was a gift from a very dear lady many years ago.

                    Between driving, navigating and just plain gawking, I got a little done on it.

When we got back, I broke out into a rash that quickly revealed itself to be shingles.  Oh dear god, this stuff is pure misery!  Itching, burning, weird tingling, and pain. It's enough to drive you insane.   I'm in the healing stage now but still itching.  Needless to say,  there's been no sewing mojo to be had.  All my energy had been devoted to not scratching.  I have so many projects in the works too:  

the Friendship Quilt needs quilting, the skirt just needs a zipper and hem,  the crazy quilt block needs some attention, and now I've started the Rejoicing Angels.  Hopefully, as the itching resolves I'll be able to pick up the sewing again.  Moral of the story:  50 and ups, get your Shingles shot!

Til later,

         Cathy

A New Dress--New Look 6298

I took a break from the quilting to get a little garment sewing in.  Just a quick little something that I had already cut out as part of a mini-wardrobe I had set for myself last fall.  I got the skirt and 2 tops done, but the dress. skirt and jacket are still on the top of my pattern cabinet cut and ready to go.  Waiting.....  

I got to a good breaking point in the quilt process and decided to pick up this dress again, New Look 6298.

It's a simple knit sheath dress made in a Liverpool double knit from Fabric.com, I believe.  I cut a size 18 neck & shoulders, a 20 bust, waist and hip.  I also added 3 inches so it would come to mid-knee on me.  My last version of this bears far too much thigh for my age and size.

Photobombed by the cat, Fritzi, making a rare appearance.  The double knit is such a pleasure to work with -- it just hums under the machine. The pattern is an easy one too with raglan sleeves that sews up quickly

I have a off-white jacket that looks great with this.  I forgot to "style it" for the photos.  

In Crazy Quilt News:  I've started on a new block.  Here's my blank slate:

Quilty news:  I finished both the inner border and the outer pieced border.  Got my batting tonight at Joann's but couldn't find the 505 spray recommended by class.  Will check at Wally World tomorrow and if that's a no go I'll order on line I guess.  

In the meantime, I'll be working on the skirt I had cut out, Simplicity 1760.