Monthly Archives: March 2008

A Valance, In the French Style

Posted on March 31, 2008 by Noile

Just when you think you’ve found the perfect valance, another one comes along: This one’s from France, early 18th century “linen plain weave with silk and wool embroidery in half-cross and cross stitches”. That blue would work very nicely with … Continue reading →

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Folkwear 153 – Siberian Parka

Posted on March 29, 2008 by Noile

I’ve wanted to make this parka for decades. Two years ago, I found a lightweight upholstery tapestry fabric that seemed just right for it. The primary colors are a muted olive green, a dark gold, and a muted rust. I … Continue reading →

Posted in Coats/Capes/Wraps | 6 Comments

Simplicity 3583 – Zabuton, Zafu and More

Posted on March 28, 2008 by Noile

If you’re interested in making meditation accessories, this Andrea Schewe pattern has a slew to chose from. The items I made are a little different, but this pattern has instructions for what looks like a fairly traditional zafu, as well … Continue reading →

Posted in Home | 6 Comments

Vogue 7640 Jacket with Draped Lapels

Posted on March 27, 2008 by Noile

This is another strangely-shaped pattern (like Miyake’s Vogue 1476), and I actually marked “sleeve” “collar” and “shoulder” in big letters on the front jacket pattern piece, one side of which resembles a mad architect’s idea of the outline of a … Continue reading →

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Sign Your Work

Posted on March 26, 2008 by Noile

I sew a tag into everything I make. I bought several spools of this ribbon, printed to look like a measuring tape — perfect for someone who sews. This is my ‘signature,’ an easy, quick way to identify the clothing … Continue reading →

Posted in Tips | 2 Comments

Pick-A-Pocket Dress

Posted on March 25, 2008 by Noile

Erin, of the wonderful blog A Dress a Day, posted this photo today, of a vintage offering on eBay: I may try to make something similar. Much more exciting than my Travel Vest, don’t you think? But, wow, just as … Continue reading →

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Sewing Workshop Haiku Jacket

Posted on March 25, 2008 by Noile

This is an Asian-influenced jacket with reversed lapels. Sewing Workshop’s current pattern is the Haiku 2, which is a shorter version; I used the old pattern, which I much prefer. According to Sewing Workshop, the length is the only difference … Continue reading →

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Green Pepper F847 Norwester Hat

Posted on March 21, 2008 by Noile

When I joined a local hiking club, I learned, much to my surprise, that hikers in my state share the woods with hunters in (at least during bow hunting season). Not surprisingly, blaze orange gear jumped to the top of … Continue reading →

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Kwik Sew 2843 – Travel Vest

Posted on March 20, 2008 by Noile

One of my dreams is to manage day trips without carrying any kind of bag, yet also without leaving any essential (or desirable) accessory behind while out exploring. I’ve been planning a vest-with-hidden pockets for a long time in my … Continue reading →

Posted in Jackets | 8 Comments

A Chin String for Hats

Posted on March 19, 2008 by Noile

To make a continuous loop for a chin string, slip a bead onto the string before attaching it to your hat. Holding the bead at the center point of the string, slip both cut ends through a spring toggle. Attach … Continue reading →

Posted in Tips | 3 Comments