Made By A Fabricista: Refreshed

Hi everyone,

I’m back with another blog post this lovely May. However, to be completely transparent I had lost my sewjo for a couple of months. If it weren’t for me to have work on this post, I probably still would not have started anything. I know this is something that happens commonly, but I’ve just felt so unmotivated to sew and I love sewing. Going from constantly working on projects and pushing out content to not having the urge to do much was completely different for me.

I’m so glad I started with this neutral color palette to bring me out of my funk and get back into expressing myself through sewing. I feel like it’s a perfect way to start over with a clean slate. Sometimes we just need a break, rest then start again.

I saw this gorgeous off-white stretch twill and the texture was so soft and fun to work with. Most times I choose fabric first then figure out later what I want to make with it. So, I went to my inspiration board, and realized that I love the trend of the fitted vest with slacks look.

I used Simplicity 9689, View A to make the vest. The vest features princess seam lines and a front button closure. I wanted to make the slacks to complete the look as in my inspo picture however since I cut out the vest first, I wasn’t strategic with cutting to have enough for slacks, so I opted to make shorts instead. For the shorts I used McCall’s 7726, View A. The shorts are very high waisted with pleats the cinch the waist. You can then roll and cuff the hem.

As a bonus I got this gorgeous leather hide, yes in case you didn’t know Fabric Mart does sell real leather hides. The leather was very soft, perfect to use in apparel or for accessories. I was inspired by the brand Cult Gaia and their Jaala bag. I used McCalls 8272 View C. I chose not to add a strap but rather keep it as a clutch. Whenever I am sewing with leather I like to use my Teflon foot to help it glide through the machine easier, if you don’t have one another tip is to use tissue paper to help sew. I also got these cool bee rivets to install into the bag which I think really pulls it together and add a nice touch.

During the time when my sewjo was low I decided not to beat myself over not being “productive” I just take the time that I needed. I’m glad I had this project to help get my started back into creating again because it really is a magical feeling.

JASMINE | @sewmuchjazz