Done and Done: The Chanel Coat

This coat has been many years in the making. In September 2015, I decided I would take a sewing class at a local shop to “unlearn bad habits” and work my way up to a pattern alteration course. I knew I probably had to start with a beginner class, so I signed up for a basic skirt course.  When I walked in to the shop, I immediately fell in love with the most amazing grey and silver wool in a rose pattern. I asked if I could use that for my skirt. “It’s Chanel,” was the response. So I guess that means no? … Read More Done and Done: The Chanel Coat

Samantha Schmidt3 Comments

How to: Pattern Hack a Knit Kalle Top

For a long time, I’ve been searching for the ideal top for work: easy to wear, comfy and versatile. I wanted a knit box top that passes the lean over test (I’m a teacher), has enough detail to pass as a work shirt, but casual enough to wear on a weekend and is basically secret pyjamas. I thought to myself, I pretty much want the Closet Case Kalle, but in a knit and without a collar. And then I remembered that I can do that, so I did.

I whipped up three so I could perfect my method before sharing this hack with you, and I’m pretty confident in this top. It. Is. The. Best. There are shockingly few adjustments to make to this pattern to make it knit-appropriate and the great design details Closet Case snuck in for the woven version still elevate this top in a stretchy fabric. If you are looking for your spring/summer uniform, look no further!… Read More How to: Pattern Hack a Knit Kalle Top

Samantha Schmidt7 Comments

How to: Sew with Sequins (for beginners)

Sewing with sequins. The words used to conjure images of super experienced sewists, painstakingly hand stitching with shimmery fabrics. No way could I sew with sequins, I so don’t have the patience for that. But then, I needed a sequin dress and couldn’t find anything in a store, so I set to research and discovered it’s actually not that hard if you do it right. If you love sparkle, but are terrified, read on! I promise you can do it.… Read More How to: Sew with Sequins (for beginners)

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