Three Pattern Tests!

I recently got to do one of my favorite things, namely testing patterns for Itch-to-Stitch. Four(!) new patterns were just released and I was able to test three of the four of them. Lucky me, I was able to test three pieces that work up beautifully into a suit. Lucky you, all Itch-to-Stitch patterns are on sale until March 13 using the coupon code on the banner. I'll be picking up the one I didn't test. It's lovely.

First up is the Hepburn Turtleneck. This is a FANTASTIC basic piece. The top is very fitted and perfect for layering. I chose to use the short sleeve option an used a classic white cotton spandex I got online. I prefer my tops with a bit more ease when worn alone so this will be for layering and I'll size up with anything I plan to wear on its own. I love that this top and these pictures show off my weight loss (I am thisclose to 40 lbs down from where I was when I started in November). The top is a quick sew and very straightforward. I love a good instant gratification project.

Still self-consciously posing my belly. Suck it in, Jordan, suck it in!

Next on the list is the Seville Skirt. This one is a very fun an feminine little number. It is fitted through the waist and hip, then flares below the hip for a trumpet effect. I used a jacquard fabric, so this skirt is very structured. I have a cute charmeuse fabric I've been saving for when I'm done with the weight loss and this is the pattern I plan to use for it. It will have a different look with such a flowy fabric.

The perfect professional skirt

The waist and hips here are rather fitted, so pay close attention to the finished measurements to get the ease you're looking for. The pattern uses an invisible zipper and a waistband with a hook and eye for the closure.

Finally, we have the Salamanca Cropped Jacket. It's completely lined, but the method is so easy it's not overwhelming. 

A fully lined interior makes for a very professional look

I had so much fun making this one. I started off looking for fabric with the idea of using a boucle in a springtime color, preferably a lavender. As fate would have it, the selection at my nearest fabric store was pretty abysmal and I was force to go to the red tag table. I'm pretty sure the red tag table is stuff they're trying to clear out, so they put a red tag on it but don't actually mark it down any. That, however, is a discussion for another day. With the idea of a suit in mind for the jacket and skirt, I happened upon this delightful fabric. 

Once I saw the fabric I was pretty sure that Jacqueline Kennedy would be crying tears in heaven if I didn't use this fabric to make the jacket and skirt. It's got a great mod vibe to it that I thought would work well with the patterns. I wasn't disappointed.

Worn open...

...and closed

 To fit my orangutan arms, I needed to lengthen the sleeves about two inches. Not a problem with the great instructions.

Does anyone else feel weird looking at their own backs? I kind of do.

Along with the orangutan length in my arms, I also have some extra thickness there. I didn't think about that before making up the pattern, so next time I'll need to check my adjustments to make a bit more room for my arms. Future plans for this pattern include something lighter and in a really bold solid color. There's also the though in my head that I'll shorten the sleeves to elbow or bicep length.

My favorite look is with the jeans

This jacket is fun and looks great every way I've seen it styled.

Don't forget to stop over at Itch-to-Stitch and pick up the patterns while you can get them for 20% off. Also check out the other new release, Zamora Blouse. Gorgeous!