Spring is here!

Thank you for all the advice about cutting. It was really helpful with my most recent project.

I used a combination of all suggestions to see what worked best for me: a bit of rotary cutting, a bit of tracing, using a table (not the floor), and pin-pin-pin. And ta-da!!! Neat and accurate cutting!

on the "very unsuitable for any craft work" dining table

And here's the end result:

The "Spring is here" top

I am so pleased with how this turned out. I used Simplicity 2593 and the lovely Liberty Claire-Aude. The fabric was a dream to work with and is so comfortable to wear.

The pattern itself is very easy and straightforward. I used french seams throughout and the only adjustment I made was to lengthen by 1", but next time I might add another 0.5". It was my first time sewing binding on garments (I've done it for quilts before), and I think it turned out pretty well. It's a bit wonky in some places, but the print is so busy, it's hardly noticeable. I should probably sew closer to the edge next time.

I wore my new top to work yesterday. It was such a great feeling to wear something beautiful that I made myself. Even though it isn't perfect, I think I love it more than anything else in my wardrobe!

And while I'm on the Liberty-love, I treated myself to a little notebook for all my sewing notes. The plan was to pick up an plain black, spiral-bound notebook. But really, how could anyone resist this?

Speaking of new purchases, I also treated myself to some new fabric from Croft Mill.

This white cotton lawn with dobby dots is lovely and soft, but a bit sheer. I think I'll make another version of the Simplicity 2593 for summer (I'm hoping for a hot hot summer this year!).

Another cotton lawn. I'm saving this for the Pendrell blouse. I've seen so many wonderful versions of Tasia's pattern, that I simply must make one for myself!

And yes, another cotton lawn! This has a slightly satin finish and is sort of bluey-black with a grey-light blue and cream pattern, and it's what I will use for my next project.

I'm going to try View 1. I think I'll adjust the neckline - it's a tiny bit too high for my liking - and I think I'll need to do some fitting work for my not-especially-generous bust measurement.

Has anyone else tried this pattern, and if so, do you have any tips/advice?

No sewing for me this weekend - I'm off to Cambridge to visit with my lovely in-laws.

Have a lovely weekend & speak soon!