My new summer uniform and a bias binding tutorial!
I have taken on the challenge of building up my wardrobe and sewing most of it myself. It sounds daunting when I say it that way…so I just take it one piece at a time and promise not to get overwhelmed. I’m really fine with buying some of my clothes, I don’t want to overcommit myself to make everything myself, but I’m really enjoying making some basic pieces for myself. And, I’m learning a lot about sewing, too!
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Last week I made two basics: the Pocket Skirt and the Basics Tank by Cali Faye Collection. Once I got the sizing figured out on these, I was in love.
The tank is amazing because the fit is exactly what I needed: free flowing through the belly and hips with a nice fit through the neck and armholes. The armholes are just the right depth for me and the neckline doesn’t shift around. In other words, my bra stays covered throughout the day — wrastling with kids, gardening, hauling groceries…you name it…no annoying need to tug or reposition anything. Hooray!
The best part about this pattern is that it is only TWO pieces. Super easy. Just add a little bias tape around the armholes and neckline and you’re done. I used a thrift store refashion for my tank…so just ignore the buttons down the back and the extra seams. Those are leftover from the dress it used to be in it’s former life. I love the buttons down the back and the shape of the hemline in the back…I just think it’s so flattering (if I do say so myself).
I usually wear a medium in all store bought shirts, so I had a bit of a conundrum when the size chart said that those with a 36″ bust should make a large. I went ahead with my first go at this and made a large…and it was too big. This pattern does have a bit of positive ease to it, so next I tried the medium (pictured) and it is perfect. I’m learning to size down on patterns with positive ease…I think I just like my clothes a little more “fitted” than most.
The Pocket Skirt is quickly becoming my friend. It is very comfortable…I even wore it on a short family hike last weekend and it was so cool and perfect for hiking. The pockets are really useful, too. They are nice and deep and actually hide small items without a lot of bulk.
Speaking of cool (as in temperature), I am so glad that I used Art Gallery Fabrics denim for this skirt. It is very lightweight (for denim) but a bit more substantial than quiliting cotton. I love the design of the Casted Loops denim. Actually, I love all their denim and think I could find something to make with every single one.
This time I made a size medium on the skirt. Next time I think I will try a mashup of a medium waistband with small skirt pieces. I want to see if I can get the skirt to be a little more fitted, but not too tight, of course. And the pattern does call for a 2″ hem…but I only had room for 1″ with the length I wanted. I still like the way it looks, but (if I remember) I would add an inch in length next time just so I can try out the 2″ hem. (I’m 5’6″.)
And now you can watch me sew bias binding on the neckline… If you’ve never sewed a binding this way, you can watch the video to find out how. The Basics Tank is so easy to make once you get the hang of this…and I think it’s pretty fun.
I’m so happy my summer wardrobe is starting to take shape! I can’t wait to make a few more of each of these. How about you? What are you making for summer?
Tag me on Instagram and show me your makes! I would love to see them!
Happy sewing!