Tag Archive for 'sewing pattern'

BIRDIE SLING



Birdie Sling, originally uploaded by the workroom.

Amy Butler Birdie Sling Pattern
Exterior fabric – Amy Butler Tree Peony in Lime
Band & Handle fabric – Lecien Centenary Collection
Lining fabric – Amy Butler Happy Dots in Grey

I tend to tote too many things back and forth from home to the shop. Piles of fabric that need to be washed and dried for projects, books, my camera, Maisy supplies, various groceries, wallet, and all the other extra bits of things that I may or may not need on a daily basis. The new Amy Butler pattern for the Birdie Sling arrived at just the right time. I was starting to feel like a sloppy bag lady.

This was my first attempt at one of her handbag patterns. So far, I really like her patterns a lot. There was a glossary of terms included with the pattern that explained all of the technical terms quite clearly. The pattern calls for both fusible interfacing and fusible fleece. I didn’t have any fusible fleece and just did the interfacing only. I’m happy with how it turned out, but if you want a much ‘stiffer’ band around the top, you might include the fleece. There are two pockets on the inside, which could easily be further customized with a zipper or additional compartments. My goal was to finish the bag as quickly as possible, so I passed on doing additional any work. The one thing I did do, was make the small pocket using the handle fabric for a bit of contrast inside the bag.

This bag is amazing! You wouldn’t believe how much stuff it can hold and the shoulder strap is very comfortable. The design is very smart and easy for a beginner sewer. I learned a lot of great tricks from making this pattern. I especially like the curved gussets at the bottom and the pleating along the top.

I absolutely recommend this bag for both looks and function. I’ll be slinging this birdie with me everywhere from now on.

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13 DRESSES : DRESS 1

In the spring, I made a little personal challenge with myself to make ten dresses by the end of the summer. There are a couple reasons for this challenge – 1. I love dresses and 2. I was finding that I was doing very little personal sewing, being so caught up in running the shop.

Looking in my closet this morning, I realized that I had made six dresses so far! With still two more months until Labour Day, I decided I should up the ante and go for thirteen. (this is my favourite number & the day of my birthday) I’ll be posting each dress, starting with the ones I’ve already finished. Wish me lucky thirteen!

Dress #1 – Amy Butler Lotus Tunic
Fabric – Kaffe Fassett Winding Floral in Pastel

This is the first Amy Butler pattern that I’ve attempted to make. I found her directions to be quite clear and easy to follow. Amy suggests using a contrasting fabric for the upper bodice pieces and bias trim. I decided to stick with just one fabric. This William Morris-inspired print is so stunning that I wanted it to get all the attention. The pattern also calls for belt loops in the side of the tunic and a belt. I tend to avoid belts and I really like the look of the girl on the cover of the pattern. (They have styled it with the belt tied in the back, which is another option)

The only other adjustment that I made was to make the back darts bigger, to cinch the waist in more. I have a very curved back, so I make this adjustment a lot. Other than that, the fit of the dress is amazing.

I wasn’t planning on doing the lining. You can use the facing pieces from the tunic top instead. This is what Dory did with her dress. At the last minute I changed my mind and decided to do a solid Lilac cotton lining. I’m really happy that I did. The dress feels very finished & proper with the lining. The sleeve detailing is my absolute favourite part.

Already I’ve been spotted wearing it on multiple occasions by certain people. Yes, it’s THAT dress, the one you wear because it requires no thinking in the morning and you know you’ll look good.

Amy Butler Lotus dress

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