Sponsored Post- The Fabric Fairy- Pebble Waves Collection as Love Notions Patterns Forte Top

Love Notions Forte Top (view C) in The Fabric Fairy Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex

It's no secret that I love to sew swim (sometimes referred to as nylon spandex) fabric! Plus, with Missy being a competitive swimmer, I've had lots and lots of experience sewing up lots and lots of practice suits for her. One of my absolute favorite places to buy high-quality, fun prints (and great customer service!) swim fabric is The Fabric Fairy! This week, they are releasing a brand new collection of custom printed fabric called Jaguar Pebble Waves and I'm so excited to share my make!

First, let's go over the specifics of the new Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex fabric: 

-Ethically sourced 

-78% Nylon 22%Spandex

-230GSM (Grams per Square Meter- aka, the weight of the fabric)

-58"/59" bolt width

-Moisture-wicking

-Interlock finish/superior weight and opaque stretch (aka squat proof! ;)

-4-way stretch (75%/35%)

-50+SPF (I LOVE fabric that has SPF- so helpful for warding off harmful UV rays!)

-Comes in two colors- Purple/Pink (shown) and Blue/Teal

Love Notions Forte Top (view C) in The Fabric Fairy Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex

Did you know that nylon spandex (and, specifically this The Fabric Fairy Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex) is also great for other garment sewing? Here are just a *few* reasons why I love to use nylon spandex for my WHOLE wardrobe:

-Requires very little (if any) ironing/pressing! ANYTHING that doesn't require me to pull out the iron is a WIN in my book! ;)

-The Fabric Fairy Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex has a cool hand and great drape- that means that not only is it flattering to wear (because of the drape), but it also feels GREAT to wear (and not too hot, either!)!

-Nylon spandex is made to take a beating (think sun, sand and chlorine) and this The Fabric Fairy Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex washed up beautifully while still retaining its vibrant color and texture.

-The Fabric Fairy Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex is not see-through- I can confidently wear this in an office setting OR on the beach (when sewn up as a bathing suit) and not have to worry about it being too see-through.

-Because of the 4-way stretch and characteristics of nylon spandex, The Fabric Fairy Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex has great stretch and recovery. This means that it can be stretched, and pulled and still spring back to shape without sagging and drooping- necessary fabric characteristics inside AND outside of the pool! ;)

-The Fabric Fairy Jaguar Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex is so, sew easy to sew up and handle. My machines cut through it perfectly, without bunching, snagging or catching.

Love Notions Forte Top (view C) in The Fabric Fairy Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex

Now, let's quickly discuss pattern details! I sewed up the Love Notions Forte Top (view C), mid-sleeve with gathers, size Small. I always love the professional drafting and spot-on sizing of Love Notions patterns. I love variety that this one pattern provides- depending on the view that you sew up, you can have a whole wardrobe of different looking tops. My Love Notions Forte Top (view C) can be dressed down with jeans and Converse (shown), or dressed up with a pencil skirt and heals- The Fabric Fairy Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex is good like that! ;)

Now, maybe I should sew something SWIM with the remaining The Fabric Fairy Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex fabric....!?!

Love Notions Forte Top (view C) in The Fabric Fairy Pebble Waves Nylon Spandex

***Disclosure: "I did receive free fabrics from The Fabric Fairy The opinions expressed here are my own."***

****This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small percentage of the sale.****

Patterns for Pirates- Fabric for Pirates- January 2022

Pattern for Pirates Sweater Weather in Fabric for Pirates

I'm kicking off the New Year with a little something special just for ME!! I signed up for a one-time Fabric for Pirates monthly box. In case you're wondering what Fabric for Pirates is all about, it's a monthly (or, a one-time purchase!) subscription to a box full of sewing goodies mailed directly to you! The box includes two yards of mystery fabric, a special sewing swag (this month was the ever-handy Bodkin for threading elastic), and a discount code to purchase a(nother) Pattern for Pirates pattern. Sew, sew FUN! ;)

In this month's Fabric for Pirates, I was completely spoiled with this luxe cashmere sweater knit in a warm winter white- BEAUTIFUL and CLASSIC! This warm, stretchy sweater knit has a solid hand, a beautiful drape and is opaque.

Since we've received not one but TWO actual snowfalls in the past week, here in the Carolinas, I just *knew* Sweater Weather would be the perfect pattern to sew up! I sewed up a size Medium, low side slit, regular sleeves, turtleneck Sweater Weather. I did take off some length in the sleeves and body length to account for my 5'-0" height. 

Pattern for Pirates Sweater Weather + Fabric for Pirates- It's like wearing a warm hug!

Pattern for Pirates Sweater Weather in Fabric for Pirates

Sponsored Post- Smart Casual Work Wear with The Fabric Fairy

I recently started a new job with a Fortune 50 company doing what I love and know best! Now, I am working in a totally different town, company, team and environment than the one that I had previously been employed with for the past decade. The dress code is MUUUUCHHH more relaxed than my previous employer and I'm enjoying the more easy-going attire. 

For the longest time, I've wanted to do a capsule wardrobe (where you mix and match a set number of clothing pieces to come up with multiple outfits). So, with the start of a new job, I decided that this was my chance to do just that! While I shopped retail and/or my current closet for most of these items *gasp*, I just couldn't find a white and navy striped shirt that I loved/fit well to fill out my capsule wardrobe. SOoooo, I decided to sew my own!

Full disclosure- I HATE sewing stripes- too much stripe matching and all that! ;) However, I was willing to bite the bullet with a large enough stripe, IF I could achieve my intended goal of a nautical shirt to round out my wardrobe. I found a great navy and white 1" stripe nylon spandex fabric from The Fabric Fairy to use for my dream shirt. This fabric is typically used for swimsuits but it makes a GREAT base for a top! It's cool to wear and has great stretch, drape and durability. It's thin enough to wear in layers and the color if bright and vibrant!

In my humble opinion, a simple dolman sleeve shirt would be simplest to match stripes. So, I turned to a trusty favorite PDF sewing pattern, the Made for Mermaids Paige Piko (a freebie!). I sewed up a size Purple, half sleeve, top length Paige Piko with low neckline.

Following, are a couple of ways I styled/would wear my latest make!

Boots, cardi and scarf- perfect for Fall!

A splash of color and some leopard flats- oui, Paris!

A black blazer, statement necklace and some nude pumps make this top ready for the office.

Ready for the weekend in jeans and some ballet flats!

I am so happy with the end results of my inspirational navy and white striped top! It's so easy to wear and mix and match with clothes that I already have in my closet. I cannot wait to wear my new top!

And, can we just all pause for a moment and admire that beautiful stripe matching along the side...?!! 

;-P

***Disclosure: "I did receive free fabrics from The Fabric Fairy The opinions expressed here are my own."***

****This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small percentage of the sale.****

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Spring/Summer Collection Wrap up

...And that's a wrap...!! 

Hopefully, by now, you've had a chance to see throughout the blogosphere and web, all of the wonderful makes from the newest collection of Jalie Sewing Patterns! So many wonderful patterns, so many talented seamstresses and so many great interpretations, representation and fabric selections!

Today, we wrap up the end of the newest collection of Jalie Sewing Patterns by talking about the last three patterns that I sewed up.

First up, Laurent Crew Tee and Hoodie (4131). This relaxed fit, unisex crew pattern includes optional kangaroo pocket, optional hood and several hem/sleeve lengths/finishes. I sew up a size "T" in double brushed poly from one of my favorite online fabric retailers, the Purpleseamstress Fabrics (CRAZY FAST shipping, too!). Speaking of crazy fast, this pattern is crazy fast to sew up because it's a great simple wardrobe staple!

Jalie Sewing Patterns-Laurent Crew Tee and Hoodie (4131)

Jalie Sewing Patterns-Laurent Crew Tee and Hoodie (4131)

Next, I paired the Beatrice Tank Top (4135) with the Sylvie Cozy Lounge Pants and Shorts (4129) for a comfy summer set for Missy to wear during our hottest summer temps. Both were sewn in size "R" and both were sewn up using fabric from my stash. The inner waistband of the Sylie is a precious swim scrap from The Fabric Fairy. 

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Beatrice Tank Top (4135)

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Beatrice Tank Top (4135) and Sylvie Cozy Lounge Pants and Shorts (4129)

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Sylvie Cozy Lounge Pants and Shorts (4129)

Jalie Sewing Patterns are always a personal favorite! I love that the patterns can grow with my growing gal (because each pattern includes multiple sizes). I can always trust that the drafting, sizing and fit are spot-on. Each pattern piece includes (VERY!) helpful notches that ensure for seamless matching and construction. The newest collection includes all of this and more! Which pattern is your favorite? Which one do you want to sew up first? Let me know in the comments- I'd love to hear from you! :)

  ***Disclosure: "I did receive free patterns from Jalie Sewing Patterns. The opinions expressed here are my own."***

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Featuring Audrey

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Audrey Workout Top (4128)

Continuing with the release of Jalie Sewing Patterns' newest collection of PDF sewing patterns-  today is the release of the Audrey Workout Top (4128)! This pattern features a cropped racerback tank with integrated bra and optional pocket for removable bra cups. Jalie Sewing Patterns- Audrey Workout Top (4128) includes sizes "F" (20 1/2" bust) all the way through to size "GG" (51 1/8" bust). I love that all Jalie Sewing Patterns include a whole size range with the purchase of a single pattern- perfect for growing children and sewing for multiple models.

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Audrey Workout Top (4128)

Based on the pattern recommendation of selecting the size by full bust, I sewed up a size "S" for Missy. I did not sew up the optional pocket for removable bra cups. I sewed up the Audrey Workout Top (4128) using Lululemon Dark Charcoal Athletic Knit from KnitFabric.com for the back and a cut up too-small T-shirt from Missy's wardrobe for the main. This pattern uses the "burrito method" of enclosing seams- something I typically dislike, but really appreciated in this pattern because it made for such a clean interior. The construction of the lining/shelf bra came together and fit so well! I love when the inside of a garment is just as pretty and clean as the outside! 

Some things to note: a) The shoulder seams of the lining and main do NOT match up and this is done on purpose to reduce bulk. I say this because I got a little confused when I cut and sewed.) b) I used a very thin athletic knit for the lining. This was perfect for not creating visible lines underneath the main fabric. However, if you are wanting a little more support, you may want to use a mesh or netting.

And, if you give a Sewing Mama a top pattern, such as the Jalie Sewing Patterns- Audrey Workout Top (4128), she's going to want to whip up some coordinating bottoms! Here, I paired the Jalie Sewing Patterns- Audrey Workout Top (4128) with one of our favorite Jalie Sewing Patterns, the Clara High Waisted Leggings (3887) in crop length- perfectly functional and appropriate for my active girl. ;)

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Audrey Workout Top (4128) paired with the Jalie Sewing Patterns-Clara High Waisted Leggings (3887)

 ***Disclosure: "I did receive free patterns from Jalie Sewing Patterns. The opinions expressed here are my own."***

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Featuring Jessica

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Jessica Leggings with Pockets (4127)

Jalie Sewing Patterns' newest collection is HERE (yay!) and today is release day for the Jessica Leggings with Pockets (4127). While the Jalie Sewing Patterns Clara Leggings will always have a special place in my sewing heart, I *think* the Jessica Leggings with Pockets may be my new favorite sew! 

Let's dive right in and see why!

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Jessica Leggings with Pockets (4127)

Based on the suggested hip measurement, I sewed up a size "R" Jessica Leggings with Pockets. With the help of Miss Tween, I came up with the finished fabric placement. Main magenta and patterned fabric are swim fabrics from the summer 2021 Raspberry Creek Fabrics and Custom Printing collection. Aqua pockets are leftover scraps of athletic from Hobby Lobby. The seamless front is flattering and the high waistband helps keep everything in place. Missy LOVES the cell phone pocket- big enough to fit an Iphone, snug enough to keep it secure. Missy wears a lot of leggings and I can see many more Jessica Leggings with Pockets (4127) sewn up in her near future!

Jalie Sewing Patterns- Jessica Leggings with Pockets (4127)

 ***Disclosure: "I did receive free patterns from Jalie Sewing Patterns. The opinions expressed here are my own."***

RCF Swimsuit Tour 2021- Sponsored Post

Jalie Diane Tank Swimsui in Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim

Swimmer Girl practically LIVES in swimsuits...! She swims competitively year-round, practices four times a week and backstroke IS.HER.JAM!! (She made a state cut time in 100y backstroke, earlier this year- woohoo!) While she must wear regulation suits to sanctioned meets, she always favors mama-made suits for practice and the Jalie Diane Tank Swimsuit is one of her favorites! Pair it with beautiful Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim and Missy's already swimming faster! ;)

Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim- Back

This was our first swim make of the season and the weather was a touch on the cool side for modeled pictures. However, that didn't stop Missy from throwing out peace signs and showing off this gorgeous suit in newly released Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim! The fabric washed well and the colors were steadfast. So vibrant! And, since I can't just make a solid color/fabric suit, I was able to pair the Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim with Raspberry Creek Fabrics Solid Magenta Swim fabric- it's the perfect compliment! I fully lined the suit with Raspberry Creek Fabrics Beige Flesh Tone Lining and it bears mentioning that the lining was lightweight but not see-through- exactly what you want in swim lining! ;)

Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim- PEACE!

Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim

While I sewed up the newly released Raspberry Creek Fabrics Aqua Blue Orange and Magenta Tie Dye Print Swim, there is a whole new summer collection of swim fabrics and they are all so fun (to sew AND wear!)! Check out the entire summer collection of Raspberry Creek Fabrics swim fabrics, here (PSSSST.... in case you need a little more encouragement, there will be a discount on swim fabric during the tour... check out my FB post for a code;).

Sew Mary Mac  Merritts Makes  Wild + Wanderful  Call Ajaire

Made by Kates  Violet and Jewels  Desert Blooms  All Things Katy!

Replicate Then Deviate  Pins & Pinot  My Heart Will Sew On  The Petite Sewist

All My Spare Time  Kara Metta  Handcrafted by RED  Sincerely, Shantelle

Intensely Distracted  That's Sew Kari  Sweet Mama Life  Boo + Lu

Titchy Threads  Sew A Little Seam  Simple Life Pattern Co.  Pattern for Pirates  Ellie and Mac  

Lowland Kids  Gingham Hive  Striped Swallow Designs  Honeydew Kisses  Little Lizard King  

Jennuine Designs  Greenstyle Creations  Made for Mermaids  Call Ajaire  Hey June  Boo Designs! 

  Sofiona Designs  Love Notions  Lil Luxe Collection  Jalie  Sweet Red Poppy