One of my first loves was blogging about my experiences in making my own clothes. I realized that I'd gotten far away from it...for no reason! On my last blog site, I had limited data. I got overwhelmed and never searched for a new engine. Since my current website includes space for blogging, I'M BACK!!
Last night I had the honor of attending the 30th Celebration for my beloved Upsilon Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Although UEO is my current graduate chapter, it was also my first! I can still remember the warmth I felt when I entered the room for my first UEO meeting in 2004. The way I have witnessed this group of dynamic women serve communities within Fairfield, AL is nothing short of amazing! A celebration was truly in order. It did not disappoint!
Now...what did you wear, Stac???
I'm glad you asked. Lol!
Several months ago, I purchased a beautiful blush floral satin gown. It had never been worn and was ideal for the occasion. However, I wanted something more. I was itching to make my own gown simply because I felt it would be better. Please know that yours is always better because it is made with love.
Which sewing pattern to choose? I have a pretty vast library of the "Big 5" patterns in my sewing studio. I started brainstorming the way that I've always done...I pick the fabric. The vibes flow from there. I had about five yards of hot pink accordion pleat fabric In my stash. That selection drove my mind straight to an image of flowy caftan from the 1970s. I knew just the pattern! Easily, I decided on Simplicity Pattern's 9777. It had just the drama I was seeking and would give a great "wow" factor with that fabric.
I could not wait to get started with this simple, yet elegant dress. Immediately after cutting out the pattern and fabric, I hit a brick wall. The first issue that I had was that the collar had to be interfaced. Therefore, the fabric would have to be pressed with an iron. I was so afraid that it would burn or not press to my satisfaction. I tested a piece of scrap fabric to avoid any damage. After realizing that it could withstand high heat, I pressed the collar pieces and re-trimmed each, since ironing stretched the pieces. I was very pleased!
In the picture below, you can see the contrast between the original fabric (top) and ironed (bottom).
The next issue was that the thread bunched terribly as I sewed. I spent nearly two hours troubleshooting by changing the thread, needles, needle type, bobbins and even cleaning the bobbin case. My hand grazed the tension dial as I was moving the machine. It was in that moment, I thought to adjust the tension. Once it increased to level seven, the machine began to sew like brand new. I don't know if you caught that I said two hours of troubleshooting. I was so relieved and tickled because I had wasted so much time. That was the perfect example of why one shouldn't sew when already exhausted. Lol!
After those hiccups, I managed to complete the dress within a few hours. It was everything I knew it could be!
Annnnnnnnnnd then, it was time to dress up! I purchased a bib statement necklace set from Amazon. It gave the perfect amount of chunk to set off the gown. I finished the look with a brand new purse and shoes that had taken up residence in my closet sometime ago.
It felt so good to write this blog post! Sewing is therapeutic for me. To be able to talk about my finished projects is the cherry on top. So, it really bothers me when there's no time for my projects. Since I now realize that I have the bandwidth to maintain a blog, please stick around. The best is yet to come!
Again, congratulations on 30 years of excellence to the Upsilon Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I'm so thankful to be in the number!
Til the next time, be careful out there. Take care!
~Stacie