Monday 20 June 2016

Berry Bubble Shorts - Sew-a-long by Mummykins & Me


 
Recently I took part in the wonderfully fun "Berry Bubble Shorts" sew-a-long run by Mummykins & Me patterns.

It was a dilemma as to weather I would purchase the pattern & take part, as the weather here in the golden land of Oz is not so golden at the moment! I was talked into it and very pleased I was!!




 
These puffy, fully lined, pocketed, flat front shorts are simply sublime & scream of quality inside and out.

 
The PDF pattern includes sizes newborn to 12 girls. The shorts have the option of gathered bubble legs or straight. Adjustable elastic waist or fixed elastic waistband.

 
I chose for my versions to have the bubble leg & fixed elastic waistband. I altered the elastic insertion & will show you how shortly.

 
Since it is winter here in Australia I decided on a heavier fabric as the main - a stunning dark blue velvet and then lined the shorts with some bright blue floral quilters cotton. (As shown in the blouse.)

 
If your sewing with heavier fabrics, make sure you use a needle suited to the job. I did break a needle or two making these shorts & I should have popped a "jeans" needle in earlier in the sew.

 
These shorts ask for four functional feature buttons for the front waistband panel. This is an excellent opportunity to show off some gorgeous buttons! I of course being the button lover that I am couldn't resist some shining bling to set off my dark velvet. 
 
 
This pattern is suitable for intermediate sewers. You will need to sew in four buttonholes and given the shorts are fully lined, it can be a rather involved sew.

Dandy Dylan Blouse - Pattern by Grammies Dolls
 
 
I highly recommend pressing when the pattern requires it - I know its easier not to, but for this pattern it is particularly important. The pattern is well written & photos of each step provided to guide you.

I'm very pleased with the end result and paired with leggings, makes a wonderful winter wardrobe option.

 

Alternative Fixed Elastic Option


I decided when I read the directions on the elastic insertion that I would do something a little different. I wanted the elastic to sit a little further back & away from where the buttons would be stitched  on. Complete the pattern as directed up until the elastic insertion part.



 
Firstly, you will need to allow for the elastic to be a bit shorter, as its sitting further back. Measure your model or subtract the length from the side yokes where your elastic will now sit. I simply made a mark on the panels where the front panel overlaps.



 Take your elastic and pin it to the inside of the lining only - right where you've made your mark. Try & butt it up against the top stitching but not over it as you'll pinch the top of the waistband.


Elastic sitting internally just above your top stitch line



 
I like to use the stretch stitch or the little lightening shaped stitch to secure elastic on. You will see the stitch from the inside on the lining. Try & match your bobbin thread to your lining fabric colour.
You will see some stitching internally along the waistband where your elastic is fixed

Repeat the process with the other side. Make sure you don't twist your elastic while pinning then sewing the other end on.
Externally there will be no visible stitching

Once elastic is secured on both sides, your shorts should look similar to this


Once the elastic is secured, generously pin the internal waistband to the main waistband. This is going to be a little bit tricky as the elastic will gather. As you've pressed the internal waistband prior, the lining will just cover the stitching from the main waistband.


If you've placed your pins carefully, they can be used as a guide, so when your stitching from the outside, your also catching the lining. Make sure you go slowly, stretch out the waistband while sewing.

 
Now you've enclosed your waistband! While there will be a line of stitching internally, nothing will be seen from the outside & you can fix on your buttons easily!


 
I chose to sew on the leg bands when I gathered them. So all that was left was buttons.

No matter how you insert your elastic, you will have a wonderful pair of stylish & comfortable shorts!!
 

More photos! (Just so you know how adorable these shorts are!)





 
 
 

 
If you would like to purchase the Berry Bubble Shorts pattern or find out more, please visit Mummykins & Me HERE
 
If you would like to find out more or purchase the Dandy Dylan Blouse/Playsuit outfit, please visit Grammies Dolls HERE
 
Did you notice the cute FMA? (Free Motion Applique.) This is the Eloise Trapeze design by Ric Rac & Retro. If you would like to try your hand at free motion (which I highly recommend you do!) You can purchase the Eloise design HERE
 
 
 
 
 

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