Level 2 Completed

Just like the YCMI program BurdaSyle labels this pattern a level 2 or 2 threads out of 4 for someone who has some sewing experience.  The pattern is well drafted and goes together pretty quickly. The only change I made to this pattern was to add 3 inches to the length.

Center back vent

 For the most part I followed along with the program so it was a breeze to make. My only changes was that I inserted the zipper a little differently and that is because I can not find 1/4 inch basting tape here. I did not use the selvedge edge of the fabric as a finish for the waistband, I used my serger to finish the inside and I used a double turned hem.

I was not able to find a fabric that had a one design which this level called for so  just went with a print and treated as a one way design.

almost invisible zipper

Pressing over my ham for shaping

Pressing the shaped side seams is not something you will find in the YCMI program, this is just some knowledge I have gained over the years with sewing.

My green non matching zipper

I wasn't able to get the notions I needed when I went for the fabric, I ran out of time so I just went with what I had on hand.

Center Back on a windy day

Full Front

Again there is a lot more to this level than what you see and I do recommend it for anyone who is not able to go out and take a class, needs something explained in a very clear way or needs to it done a few times before trying. Now on to level 3

My post at Sew Fashionably Modest

Until next time, happy sewing...

Level 1 Complete

  

There is level is a pretty good start for anyone who has not sewn in awhile or new to sewing clothing with a pattern. It explains almost everything a beginner sewer would need to start making clothes with a pattern. I say almost because they fail to mention prepping your fabric and also finishing your seams. She puts effort into wanting  you to make your garment to look clean on the inside with a neat hem and waistband casing but not the seams. For me I used my serger to finish the raw edges inside.

 

Another thing which I have learned over the years is directional sewing, this is very important in keeping your seams even and neat. Here you can see the chapter on it from Susan Khalje's book Cotton and Linen

I tried to keep as close to the program as possible this time around, using the recommended fabric and notions unlike the first time when I started this. But when it came to getting the hem tape I was in a rush and could only find bias tape. So a hong kong hem finish it was. I did use a plain pink stretch linen for the skirt.

Both sides of the hem

Skirt complete. It looks better on me.

Here it is with a t-shirt draft I'm working on.
















Until next time, happy sewing...