Friday 21 April 2017

Kamaria - Sansahash Patterns Debut!

 

The new kid on the block is here!! Let me acquaint you with Sansahash Patterns! Brainchild of Mgeni (formerly of Bella Sunshine Designs) and Christine – sewer extraordinaire!


 

Their very first pattern release with Sansahash is Kamaria. Kamaria is a versatile pattern, it can be sewn as a dress, top or sunsuit!


 

This halter neck style pattern boasts a paper-bag waistband ruffle option (go on, say that 6 times fast! LOL) The ruffle option can be applied on the dress and sunsuit version.


 

The sunsuit has options for pockets, I did find them to have a petite opening when using them with the ruffled waistband. However, my daughter was able to get her hands in ok and there was room in them for a lolly or 5!
 
Is your princess still diapering? No problem! The pattern includes the option to add a snap placket to the sunsuit crotch.


 

The ruffles can be completely omitted for a different look (or a quicker sew!)


 

This is a pattern that suits adventurous beginners to intermediate sewers. No one step is difficult, although certain steps can be fiddly and need doing carefully. I’m talking here about attaching the skirt/bottoms to the top...... I recommend plenty of pins and patience. The top version would be considered a beginner sew, so if you’re unsure where to start, give the top a go!

 
 

This beautiful pattern includes a full range of sizes, 6 months to 12 years (approximately.)

 
 

The tutorial is written clearly and illustrations of each step make sure your garment is made perfectly!


 

Pattern pieces are layered (a feature I really, really love!) So you only need to print the size(s) you need.


 

While I found this pattern suits those who have a serger (overlocker) as well as a normal sewing machine, you don’t strictly need one. If you use French seams or adjust your hems you can still create a professional looking garment, inside as well as out.   


 

Now, to the best bit! Talking about my sews!! (Because come on, I know your here to see the photos!!)

 
 

During the testing process I actually sewed up 3 versions. The first one I accidently misread the skirt dimensions – completely my own fault! So my dress turned into a little peplum like top!
 
My "stuff up" version

Version Two
 
The second version sewed needed refining a little, but is still a good example – although I don’t have any nice photos!

 
 

My final reflects the actual released pattern and I just love the way this pattern can be made to achieve different looks. I loved the idea of the top bodice having a separate, almost blouse like look, hence my choice of white poplin.


 
 
 
 

For my sunsuit version I wanted to pick fun fabrics which would really appeal to my daughter (as she doesn’t love sunsuits!! But she looks so fantastic in them!)







 

I love sewing the Kamaria pattern, it’s so classy and really looks great on children of all ages! Some of the tween testers sewed up some real beauties! And I can see myself revisiting this pattern again and again over the years.

 
 

If you would like to see more or purchase your own copy of Kamaria, please visit the Sansahash Etsy store HERE.
 
To join the Sansahash pattern group to find more inspiration, see the latest specials and patterns, PLUS show off your own work, please click HERE.  

Wednesday 12 April 2017

Abby's Road Trip Tunic - The Wolf and the Tree

 
Abby's Road Trip Tunic is the third The Wolf and the Tree pattern I've had the delight of sewing. I'm so "sew" happy to be able to show you this fun little number!
 
 
Abby's RT Tunic is designed for knit fabrics - at least for the main shirt - the skirts can be made in woven if desired. I opted for a very slinky 2-way lightweight cotton knit.
 
 
The Tunic pattern comes with two length options - top and dress - I picked the dress version. I also decided on the hi-lo curved edge, but there's a straight edge & flapper band alternative. (I can't wait to sew my next one with the flapper band!)
 
 
The pattern boasts 5 sleeve options!! Sleeveless, short, medium, 3/4 and long. I selected long! All sleeve options except the sleeveless version, are set in. (Sewn into the bodice after the sides and neckline of the main are sewn.)
 
 
As you can see, the tunic itself makes a wonderful canvas to add embroidery or applique. This is a FMA "Snow Queen" (Elsa by any other name...) Free motion applique pattern by Ric Rac and Retro. I picked up the pattern in the One Thimble e-zine, volume 4.
 
 
The skirts are completely optional, however I feel they are the beauty and feature of this pattern. I added both layers, however you can opt to add just one.....or none.
 
 
I made the 3T length with 18 month width for my slender little person. I love the length of the dress and it will look totally adorable come winter with a pair of woolly stocking and boots!
 
 
With sizes 12 months to 14 girls included in this pattern, Abby's RT Tunic is a pattern that can be used again and again as your child grows.
 
 
 
 
This pattern suits any sewer familiar with sewing with knit fabric, although a beginner could certainly have a go.
 
 
The pattern is well written, has clear illustrations and layered pattern pieces.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
To celebrate Abby's Road Trip Tunic release, ALL patterns are on SALE over at The Wolf and the Tree website right now. Not only that, you can WIN a copy, plus another pattern of choice!!
 
Enter the GIVE AWAY here.
 
 


Saturday 8 April 2017

Hello Kitty!!! Kingston - Denim Jacket - Pattern by Mummykins & Me

 
Well, hi there friend! I'm excited to introduce the newest pattern by Mummykins & Me, the Kingston Jacket. Now, yes, this is a denim jacket pattern....but don't let this intimidate or restrict you!

 
The Kingston jacket pattern comes in sizes newborn to 12 girls, XXS to 5XL ladies, plus a dolls version!!

 
There are FIVE sleeve options - trumpet (as I've sewn), classic, half angel, bell & 3/4 bell sleeves.

 
Breast pockets are optional, along with the side seam pockets (these are mostly for show, although great for popping in a lolly or a small gumnut.)

 
The back tabs are also optional, not functional in any way, but totally adorable!

 
The pattern tutorial is written in an easy to understand format, with plenty of photos throughout. The pattern pieces are layered, so you only need print the size(s) you need.

 
The traditional method of sewing denim jackets - with flat felled seams is explained in depth and even an adventurous beginner could sew one of these lovely jackets up (but be prepared to reserve a fair chunk of time!) I'm not a novice, but my first jacket still took around 4 hours to sew up!!
 
Oh, and be ready with your iron, pressing these seams as you go is an absolute must!!
 
However.......if those flat felled seams seem like too much, there is always the option to serge/overlock - although you won't have the same appearance inside or out as the flat felled seams.

 
My Hello Kitty fabric is a cotton canvas upholstery fabric! Yes! I know, the fabric you would use to cover chairs or make curtains from! I knew my little girl would never wear an actual denim jacket - too thick, unmoving & uncomfortable. Not to mention, pretty unexciting when your 3 years old!

 
This canvas was medium weight, soft and just right for this Kingston jacket pattern. I always recommend checking out your furnishings section of your fabric shop when sewing garments that call for a heavier weight fabric.....you will likely find a little gem!!

Kingston jacket paired with Mummykins & Me Berry Bubble shorts & Madison Necktie blouse



Searching for above mentioned sweet in her side pocket!

My little cat lady approved of the Hello Kitty print

Yep! That's a button!!



 
I will make a mention on sizing, as jackets can vary, some generous and some not so. The fit on the width of this jacket is slim, if your between sizes, I would recommend going up a size. The length however is generous, so please consider this also.

 
The Kingston......not just a delicious Arnotts biscuit .... but an amazing denim jacket pattern!
 
You will be so proud of yourself after sewing one of these, I promise you! This is just the sort of sew I love, full of challenge, a labour of love.
 
Pick up your copy HERE.  
 
Happy sewing!!
 
- Zoe