Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Emily Culottes Blog Tour and Giveaway

A couple of weeks ago I was surprised to see my phone telling me there was a call to pattern test the Emily Culottes from Itch-to-Stitch patterns. Before doing the testing I was unaware that culottes are making a comeback. That may have been the best news I've gotten this year. Culottes give the coverage I appreciate from capris with the added bonus of the fullness for comfort and air flow. Even better was that I immediately knew which fabric I would use. I got some lovely eyelet for 75% off then hated every idea I had for what to do with it. The culottes were a perfect project.

The pattern comes with plenty of options for whatever makes you happy. I opted for the welt pockets and lining to eliminate the peekaboo factor of the eyelet. I already had some knit fabric for the lining that matched beautifully.

My lighting is off...which is to be expected I use my phone for pictures. Which is always.
Working with the Emily Culottes pattern was a pleasure. Several digital patterns I have used in the past left something to be desired. I didn't feel this way about the Emily Culottes. Not even a little. The pattern is sized well, the instructions are clear, and the sewing techniques are professional. I was very impressed with the quality of the pattern. It was plain to see that a lot of care and skill went into its creation. Coming from me, that's saying a lot.
I always lean against the wall on my porch; don't you?
One portion of the patterns that is pretty great is the welt pockets. The welt pocket instructions were different than I had used before, but every bit as effective. I was able to squeak out just enough fabric from the unembroidered selvage edge to make the welt flaps. Pants without pockets are pretty useless to me so I was glad they were available. Patch pockets are also included in the pattern.


Some of the other options I used were the front pleat and lengthening the culottes. I added five inches to the length so they will be appropriate wherever I go. We're putting in our backyard this year and I look forward to going outside to play with the kids. With the culottes I'll be able to horse around with them while still looking pretty and keeping my underwear covered at all times. And that's to say nothing of the bike rides I have planned for our little family.

I love the drape and flow of the culottes. It's so feminine and comfortable.
I'm very happy with the way the culottes turned out. They are comfortable, cool, and pretty while allowing me all the movement I need as a mom of four. I already have another pair cut out in denim and just waiting for the serger to come back from a tune up. I'm fairly certain I'l be living in culottes this summer. And I'm okay with that.
I mention summer in the text yet I'm still standing in the snow. In my sandals.
Kennis from Itch-to-Stitch is giving away a copy of the Emily Culottes. Just enter the Rafflecopter below for your chance to win! If you're not feeling particularly lucky or just want to get a jump start on your spring and summer wardrobe, the Emily Culottes are on sale for 20% off. Grab a copy, get sewing, and spend the summer wearing culottes. a Rafflecopter giveaway

10 comments:

  1. Hi, Jordan! I found your blog through the Itch to Stitch Emily culotte pattern post. Yours are lovely; I'm pleased to see that even with the pleat, they are not "frumpy." :) I really like culottes, too, and plan to make several pairs for spring/summer. Your blog looks really fun; I'm glad I found it.

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    1. Thank you! I was so happy with how they turned out. These culottes are great!

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  2. Your culottes are lovely! I have some white linen that would make great culottes. Thanks for sharing.

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    1. Thank you! A white linen would be fantastic for these!

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  3. I love the fabric you uded! I'd make them in blue gabardine ;)

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    1. Thank you! Blue gabardine is lovely and would look great!

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  4. I have some lovely floral linen. Love culottes!

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    1. That sounds gorgeous! I'd love to see how they turn out!

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  5. Your culottes are lovely, you did a great job.

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  6. I am impressed with the modesty and fashion of the culottes. And...what a cute family.

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