I spent the weekend with my new brother. Oh no, that’s not right… I mean I spent the weekend with my new Brother sewing machine. The first few projects are definitely learning experiences. I have already learned the following: Joann Fabrics is a nightmare around Halloween, and I am not a size 2 in the world of Simplicity patterns. I will most likely be donating my first few pieces to someone with smaller arms, waist, bust, hips.. okay, someone that is just smaller, period. I am also learning a lot about which types of material to use, by trial and error mostly. I finished a top (I’m still not sure if I consider it a tank top or blouse or what) on Saturday morning. The material is stiff and just about sheer in the right light, but its a finished product and that is all that matters to me. Granted, I can’t even fit into it, but in theory someone could wear it.
I spent Saturday looking for the dress pattern and material for my second project. The pattern was on sale for $.99(!); the material and lining were 40% off. I chose a V-neck maxi dress pattern and a blue and white polka-dot satin. I thought it was different, a little Pretty-Woman-at-the- races inspired, but still very pretty. The cashier takes one look and comments ever so pleasantly, “Oh, this must be for a Halloween costume.” She was a young girl and I’m sure she was just making small talk, but– Halloween? Really? At least she didn’t ask me how far along I am and if I’m having a boy or a girl.
After spending four hours cutting and pinning the material, lining, and interfacing, I was ready for bed. Mental note: hire an assistant to do all cutting and pinning. It is so time consuming! Not to mention the work space I have deemed suitable for such activities. My work space consists of 5 1/2 feet between my bed and closet; my sewing machine is stacked on two boxes; my chair is my new exercise ball. No joke. It is only a matter of time before the pins or scissors get acquainted with my “chair”, then I’ll be managing a constant lunge position just to get the job done–my quads could use it. Two birds, one stone. 🙂
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