I totally get the being discouraged if there is nothing you love. I was in that situation a few years back and started reading blogs to get advice on style. The big thing that helped me was to just try on, not buy, clothes in store til i found a look i loved. For me at the time it was fitted jeans and a loose flowy blouse. Then i just made it my uniform and did that one look in different colors until i felt interested in exploring other things a few years later. So maybe do some trying on sessions, short ones so you get overwhelmed when it doesn't work the first time.
I can totally relate to your dilemma. I think for every 10 items I make only about two turn out how I like, or that I like to wear. Sewing is not about saving money, it’s a hobby for me, but still I wish more of the stuff I make fit better. Even sewing the same pattern, it can turn out totally different. Crazy! lol
I like your perspective, that’s a good way of looking at it. Considering you don’t really know how things will turn out, it makes sense that it’s more about the journey than the destination!
Don't stop sewing, I did and I still haven't gotten back to it and it's been ten years since I have sewn. I had a couple makes that didn't fit well and I gave up. Worst think I ever did. Just keep trying!
Very nice to see you again! I agree with everyone else here who said to go clothes shopping to try stuff on. Take lots of pictures and when you find an outfit you love, copy it. That will get you started thinking about the clothes you want to wear and make. I can also recommend the Everyday Style School podcast for style advice. She is amazing - very down to Earth and practical with her advice. That podcast really inspires me to try different styles and see what I love. Good luck with all of it!
We aren't guests - we're friends! No cleanup necessary. I am in a similar spot, and can relate to the frustration and the disappointment experienced when the garment doesn't turn out the way you want it to. I think a trip to Greece would be fun.....
I can relate to the question of how to dress post-pandemic. No one in my neck of the woods bothers. Kids are wearing their pj's to school. It's as if we can't move on from that period. One thing I've realized is that when I matched fabric and patterns I was making things I would never buy in a store. It doesn't help that Joanne's is my only in person fabric source. I do still love the actual sewing even if the outcome can be disappointing. Lots of my makes never go out of the house.
You’re right, it’s more about the journey than the destination. I should still be proud of my makes, rather than disappointed, since so much hard work goes into them.
Always a pleasure to see you! I'm starting to feel the same way about my closet. Fortunately pretty much everything is loose fitting so that weight gain thing isn't as much of a deal - but ugh. Time for us to sew something cute!
I can definitely relate to the ‘not loving your wardrobe’ dilemma. I find that if I can decide on one key piece that I do love like a great shirt, then I can build a few things around that x
I know how you feel about not wanting to make it again. I think you could make a smaller size, looks more over-sized than it should be. The fabric is not the correct weight either. But it’s a muslin and you can wear around house. That’s what I do. Then the things I like, I wear out😊 I made one Style Arc dress three times. It’s the pattern that looks bad on me. I’m still figuring out what looks good on my heavier older self. But I can’t quit sewing! Please don’t stop. I enjoy watching you.
Always love your videos. I was in the same pandemic style rut which was really getting me down. I spent some time looking online finding clothes I liked if money or occasion were no barrier. A lot of what I liked were a million miles from what I was wearing and that's given me inspiration to try new patterns and more interesting garments than the sweat pants I had been living in. I work at home but now I'm wearing things I like which makes me feel better and less slouchy. I'm going to suggest Austria for Sew Frugal. I went to Vienna in November and it was beautiful.
That’s a good idea, looking at clothes from a blank slate like that. That would definitely help shift perspective to get some fresh inspo! Also, I’ve always wanted to go to Austria, that would be really fun!
My husband and I would go to Mexico. Anywhere by water and a beach is our idea of fun. Snorkeling is fun too. Also, I have been where you are right now with your clothes. You are a beautiful woman. Don’t be afraid to show it off. No more baggy polos! It’s cute for pajamas on those very cold winter nights, with a cup of tea. What designer or store is catching your eye for Spring?
Welcome back! I was happy to see you posted a video. I made the Bert Pattern also. I found it to be a little large, but I do like it. I made mine out of a sweatshirt knit and it's super cozy. I may size down if I make it again. I like the button placket on it; it makes it more elevated. Your placket looks great. The directions are a little confusing, but I find their patterns are well drafted. It sounds like maybe you've lost your sewjo. I have also been struggling with that. I get it. I'm just trying to patient with myself.
Yeah, the button placket instructions were lost on me. I agree, their patterns are really well drafted and I usually don’t have as much trouble. The sewjo will be back soon hopefully. I will try to be patient with myself as well.
Great to have you back! Let's see... Since you are sewing sporty pants what about a trip to the Swiss Alps? I'm sewing for Alaska right now - cruise this summer!
I'm not crazy about my wardrobe either. I keep making and making things but I feel like I've just ended up with a mishmash of garments. Part of the problem is I still can't make a stupid pair of pants that fit so I have tops but not many bottoms And I also have post-pandemic issues. I gained weight that isn't coming off and I find it hard to go away from home very often so why do I need clothes?. Your pants muslin looks great! I do love your idea of sewing for an imaginary trip for Sew Frugal. I think Ireland or Alaska in May could be interesting. Both are beginning to warm up but not shorts/t-shirts weather and might be rainy (probably muddy in Alaska with the spring thaw). As a challenge within a challenge, you could make a travel wardrobe to get through 7-10 days, but everything must fit in only a carryon bag plus a personal item bag. You'll be helping me out as both these destinations are on our travel bucket list.😘
it sounds like maybe you would be happier working on your personal style first before doing a lot of sewing. you could try doing a closet cleanout, figure out what you like/dislike and why (fit, silhouette, fabric, lifestyle) and then do some window shopping, in person or on pinterest to find items that you like. after that you'll be much more inspired to sew because you'll have a better grasp of what you want. There's some good books out that might help--The Curated Closet or Wear it Well are two popular ones.
I have felt totally disenchanted with sewing, also. It is very frustrating when you've spent a lot of time and money on fabric and it just doesn't work out. But then I go shopping for ready-made clothes and I like them even less! Just curious, is it easy for you to find clothes that you like in the stores? Hope you find a pattern you like soon! The pants you made fit you really well and look very nice.
Finding clothes in stores is usually difficult for me. I like a lot of things, but fitting is an issue there as well (especially since now that I see I know how things are supposed to be). Clothing myself is a journey for sure haha
I think we all have had the same feelings about sewing/wardrobe that you are experiencing. You just need to try and push through or look for another hobby that you really enjoy to satisfy your creative side. Your top looks well made but my opinion is that it might be too big and you might want to size down a bit.
Style Arc have great patterns but their instructions really bother me. They should make more effort. As to the top. I think the dropped shoulder isn’t the best style for your body shape. I think a more fitted shoulder would be better I think. I have been sewing a lot over the past few years and am just now really understanding what style I like. It is an iterative process. Annoying when you spent the time and money on it. Have a look at the book The Curated Closet. I’m finding it really interesting and useful. Good luck.
I’ll check out the book! You are right, dropped shoulders, not the best. I’ve sort of had that in the back of my mind lately, so I am glad to hear another opinion. It’s kind of annoying because SO many patterns have dropped shoulders. Probably since it makes it so a pattern can fit a wider range of body types. Definitely going to keep an eye out for fitted shoulder patterns now.
I totally get the being discouraged if there is nothing you love. I was in that situation a few years back and started reading blogs to get advice on style. The big thing that helped me was to just try on, not buy, clothes in store til i found a look i loved. For me at the time it was fitted jeans and a loose flowy blouse. Then i just made it my uniform and did that one look in different colors until i felt interested in exploring other things a few years later. So maybe do some trying on sessions, short ones so you get overwhelmed when it doesn't work the first time.
That’s a great idea! Actually, now that I think about it, it’s been a really
long time since I’ve actually been into a store to try on anything.
I can totally relate to your dilemma. I think for every 10 items I make only about two turn out how I like, or that I like to wear. Sewing is not about saving money, it’s a hobby for me, but still I wish more of the stuff I make fit better. Even sewing the same pattern, it can turn out totally different. Crazy! lol
I like your perspective, that’s a good way of looking at it. Considering you don’t really know how things will turn out, it makes sense that it’s more about the journey than the destination!
Don't stop sewing, I did and I still haven't gotten back to it and it's been ten years since I have sewn. I had a couple makes that didn't fit well and I gave up. Worst think I ever did. Just keep trying!
Good advice…I could definitely see myself doing that 😱 gotta keep on keeping on!
Very nice to see you again! I agree with everyone else here who said to go clothes shopping to try stuff on. Take lots of pictures and when you find an outfit you love, copy it. That will get you started thinking about the clothes you want to wear and make. I can also recommend the Everyday Style School podcast for style advice. She is amazing - very down to Earth and practical with her advice. That podcast really inspires me to try different styles and see what I love. Good luck with all of it!
I will definitely check out that podcast! Thanks for the rec!
We aren't guests - we're friends! No cleanup necessary. I am in a similar spot, and can relate to the frustration and the disappointment experienced when the garment doesn't turn out the way you want it to. I think a trip to Greece would be fun.....
😊 def friends! I have always wanted to go to Greece!
I can relate to the question of how to dress post-pandemic. No one in my neck of the woods bothers. Kids are wearing their pj's to school. It's as if we can't move on from that period. One thing I've realized is that when I matched fabric and patterns I was making things I would never buy in a store. It doesn't help that Joanne's is my only in person fabric source. I do still love the actual sewing even if the outcome can be disappointing. Lots of my makes never go out of the house.
You’re right, it’s more about the journey than the destination. I should still be proud of my makes, rather than disappointed, since so much hard work goes into them.
Always a pleasure to see you! I'm starting to feel the same way about my closet. Fortunately pretty much everything is loose fitting so that weight gain thing isn't as much of a deal - but ugh. Time for us to sew something cute!
Yes, cute things for spring! Perfect time to be re-energized! I am over winter which could be part of it!
👏🏻👗
I can definitely relate to the ‘not loving your wardrobe’ dilemma. I find that if I can decide on one key piece that I do love like a great shirt, then I can build a few things around that x
That a great strategy!
Maybe try going to the store and try a bunch of stuff on and take photos and when you land on something you like, copy that look.
Sounds like a great idea. It’s been forever since I’ve shopped in person 🙈
I know how you feel about not wanting to make it again. I think you could make a smaller size, looks more over-sized than it should be. The fabric is not the correct weight either. But it’s a muslin and you can wear around house. That’s what I do. Then the things I like, I wear out😊
I made one Style Arc dress three times. It’s the pattern that looks bad on me. I’m still figuring out what looks good on my heavier older self. But I can’t quit sewing! Please don’t stop. I enjoy watching you.
I can’t quit sewing! It’s a journey we are on and i love it, even if it’s frustrating and I hate it LOL
GK Fabrics is an excellent choice for knits with matching ribbing
I’ll make sure to check it out! Thanks!
Always love your videos. I was in the same pandemic style rut which was really getting me down. I spent some time looking online finding clothes I liked if money or occasion were no barrier. A lot of what I liked were a million miles from what I was wearing and that's given me inspiration to try new patterns and more interesting garments than the sweat pants I had been living in. I work at home but now I'm wearing things I like which makes me feel better and less slouchy. I'm going to suggest Austria for Sew Frugal. I went to Vienna in November and it was beautiful.
That’s a good idea, looking at clothes from a blank slate like that. That would definitely help shift perspective to get some fresh inspo! Also, I’ve always wanted to go to Austria, that would be really fun!
My husband and I would go to Mexico. Anywhere by water and a beach is our idea of fun. Snorkeling is fun too. Also, I have been where you are right now with your clothes. You are a beautiful woman. Don’t be afraid to show it off. No more baggy polos! It’s cute for pajamas on those very cold winter nights, with a cup of tea. What designer or store is catching your eye for Spring?
Aw thank you! Hmm I don’t even know what’s been catching my eye, I haven’t been paying much attention to be honest 🙈 what about you?
Welcome back! I was happy to see you posted a video. I made the Bert Pattern also. I found it to be a little large, but I do like it. I made mine out of a sweatshirt knit and it's super cozy. I may size down if I make it again. I like the button placket on it; it makes it more elevated. Your placket looks great. The directions are a little confusing, but I find their patterns are well drafted. It sounds like maybe you've lost your sewjo. I have also been struggling with that. I get it. I'm just trying to patient with myself.
Yeah, the button placket instructions were lost on me. I agree, their patterns are really well drafted and I usually don’t have as much trouble. The sewjo will be back soon hopefully. I will try to be patient with myself as well.
Great to have you back! Let's see... Since you are sewing sporty pants what about a trip to the Swiss Alps? I'm sewing for Alaska right now - cruise this summer!
I’ve always wanted to go to the Swiss alps! What are you sewing for Alaska? I would love to do that too! 🌎
I'm not crazy about my wardrobe either. I keep making and making things but I feel like I've just ended up with a mishmash of garments. Part of the problem is I still can't make a stupid pair of pants that fit so I have tops but not many bottoms And I also have post-pandemic issues. I gained weight that isn't coming off and I find it hard to go away from home very often so why do I need clothes?. Your pants muslin looks great! I do love your idea of sewing for an imaginary trip for Sew Frugal. I think Ireland or Alaska in May could be interesting. Both are beginning to warm up but not shorts/t-shirts weather and might be rainy (probably muddy in Alaska with the spring thaw). As a challenge within a challenge, you could make a travel wardrobe to get through 7-10 days, but everything must fit in only a carryon bag plus a personal item bag. You'll be helping me out as both these destinations are on our travel bucket list.😘
It sounds like we are in the same dilemma together. We must persavere in our sewing journey! 💪 I like your sew frugal ideas…. 🤔
it sounds like maybe you would be happier working on your personal style first before doing a lot of sewing. you could try doing a closet cleanout, figure out what you like/dislike and why (fit, silhouette, fabric, lifestyle) and then do some window shopping, in person or on pinterest to find items that you like. after that you'll be much more inspired to sew because you'll have a better grasp of what you want. There's some good books out that might help--The Curated Closet or Wear it Well are two popular ones.
I think this is a good idea. I’ll check out those book recs! Thanks!
I have to check out fashion fabrics club😊
💯
I have felt totally disenchanted with sewing, also. It is very frustrating when you've spent a lot of time and money on fabric and it just doesn't work out. But then I go shopping for ready-made clothes and I like them even less! Just curious, is it easy for you to find clothes that you like in the stores? Hope you find a pattern you like soon! The pants you made fit you really well and look very nice.
Finding clothes in stores is usually difficult for me. I like a lot of things, but fitting is an issue there as well (especially since now that I see I know how things are supposed to be). Clothing myself is a journey for sure haha
I think we all have had the same feelings about sewing/wardrobe that you are experiencing. You just need to try and push through or look for another hobby that you really enjoy to satisfy your creative side. Your top looks well made but my opinion is that it might be too big and you might want to size down a bit.
I will push through 💪 I think you are right about sizing down, too much extra fabric going on.
Style Arc have great patterns but their instructions really bother me. They should make more effort. As to the top. I think the dropped shoulder isn’t the best style for your body shape. I think a more fitted shoulder would be better I think. I have been sewing a lot over the past few years and am just now really understanding what style I like. It is an iterative process. Annoying when you spent the time and money on it. Have a look at the book The Curated Closet. I’m finding it really interesting and useful. Good luck.
I’ll check out the book! You are right, dropped shoulders, not the best. I’ve sort of had that in the back of my mind lately, so I am glad to hear another opinion. It’s kind of annoying because SO many patterns have dropped shoulders. Probably since it makes it so a pattern can fit a wider range of body types. Definitely going to keep an eye out for fitted shoulder patterns now.