Like many good things, Sew Fancy Pants 2020 has come to an end. Thank you all for joining Katie, Rumana, Sierra, Brad, and I in sewing Fancy Pants this January. We’ve hope you’ve felt supported, inspired, and especially fancy. Now, let’s get right to the reason you’re all here and announce some winners!!!!
Random Drawing Winners
These winners were randomly chosen from all participants using the hashtag #sewfancypants2020 during January.
In order to be entered into the grand prize drawing, participants danced their new pants off (figuratively, not literally) and shared their dances using the hashtag #sewfancypantsdance. Choosing a winner was a difficult task and we truly wish that everyone who entered could win. These fancy pants dances brought creativity and vibrance to the sewing community. Winner selection for this prize was half judge’s choice and half random drawing. Each judge chose up to 5 favorites. Then, those names were put into a random drawing to determine the final winner.
In addition to the prize packages above, we were lucky enough to have weekly sponsors all the way through Sew Fancy Pants 2020. We are extremely grateful for their generosity. Without them, Sew Fancy Pants would not be possible. If you have the chance please send some love and support to these fabulous sponsors!
Week one of Sew Fancy Pants 2020 is off to a rousing start! Yesterday I shared my first project, a pair of Joan Trousers (see post here), tomorrow I’ll be sharing my personal sewing plans for the month, and today, I’ve got a round up of new (within the last year) pant/trouser patterns. Since last year’s posts included a lot of patterns, I thought that I’d focus on new patterns for this year. Before we get going, here are some links to last years posts including more pattern and fabric inspiration.
Chalk and Notch Crew Shorts and Trousers: The Crew Trousers include a pleated front, tapered legs, side zip, and tie belt. With thorough instructions, they’re a great place for an advanced beginner to start. Size Range waist: 25-43″ (63.5-109 cm) hip: 35-53″ (89-135 cm)
By Hand London Jackie Trousers: The pleated front, fly zip, and slightly tapered leg are a nod to menswear that I can get behind. Size Range (note: the measurements for this pattern are the finished measurements)- waist: 29-47.75″ (73.5-121 cm) hip: 45.25-63.5″ (115.5-161.5 cm)
Opian Vaulion Trousers: These beauties feature center leg seams on front and back with diagonal pockets that add interest. Size Range waist: 22- 37.75″ (56-96 cm) hip: 32.25-48″ (82-122 cm)
Casual Elastic Waist Trousers/Pants
Muna and Broad Glebe Pants: With a fantastic plus-size size range, the Glebe Pants are a welcome new addition to the sewing community. They include wide legs and options for a flat front or fully elasticated waist. Size Range waist: 40-60″ (101.5-152cm) hip: 46.5-71.5″ (118-181.5 cm)
Sew House Seven Free Range Slacks: These slacks include options for a straight, cropped leg or a tapered leg. The side panels are my favorite detail and add great opportunity for color blocking or playing with stripes. Size Range waist: 23.5-39.5″ (60-100 cm) hip: 34-50″ (86-127 cm)
Made by Rae Rose: This much anticipated pattern includes a high rise, wide leg, flat, pleated front, and three lengths: shorts, crop, and long. Size Range waist: 26.5-51″ (67-130 cm) hip: 34.5-59″ (88-150 cm)
Paper Theory Miller Trouser: These trousers include the option for either an elasticated or tie waist. Other features are back darts and tapered legs. Size Range waist: 24-47.5″ (61-121 cm) hip: 34-57.5″ (86-146 cm)
Closet Case Patterns Pietra Shorts and Pants: With paneled fronts, angled pockets, and options for a wide or tapered leg, it’s easy to see why this pattern has been seen all over the sewing community. Size Range waist: 24-39″ (61-99 cm) hip: 33-48″ (84-122 cm)
Pants with Extra Fancy Details
Digital Pattern Library Empire Trousers: These trousers feature a wide leg, pleated front, and unique stepped waistband. Ties around the legs are an optional feature. Size Range waist: 24-44.75″ (61-114 cm) hip: 33-54″ (84-137 cm)
In the Folds Darlow Pants: The abundance of style lines and curved seams make these pants a blank canvas for all things fancy. Adding details such as piping, color blocking, or contrast topstitching would easily highlight the distinctive design. Size Range waist: 24-45.625″ (61-116 cm) hip: 33-54.75″ (84-139 cm)
Pants with a Vintage Vibe
Anna Allen Philippa Pants: My Philippa Pants (post here) have become my go-to pants. The simple pocket-free front, high waist and tapered legs make me feel like a million bucks. Size Range waist: 24-41″ (61-104 cm) hip: 34-51″ (86-129.5 cm)
Tilly and the Buttons Jessa Trousers: With flared legs, patch pockets, and a high waist, the 1970’s vibes are strong with these ones. Size Range waist: 24-38″ (61-96.5 cm) hip: 33-47″ (84-119.5 cm)
Itch to Stitch Gobi Culottes: Ten years ago, I owned a ready-to-wear pair of pants very similar to the Gobi Culottes. The 1980’s vibes set them apart from many currently available pant patterns. Size Range waist: 24.38-40.5″ (64.5-103 cm) hip: 33.25-48″ (84.5-122 cm)
Pants that are a Little More than Pants
Helen’s Closet Yanta Overalls: A relaxed, modern twist on overalls, I’ve been dreaming of making a pair since their release. Size Range waist: 24-48″ (61-122 cm) hip: 33-58″ (84-147.5 cm)
CocoWawa Raspberry Jumpsuit: Including several strap options, and bodice shirring, the Raspberry jumpsuit is a perfect option for those doing a bit of summer sewing. Size Range waist: 23-41″ (59-104 cm) hip: 31-49″ (80-125 cm)
Assembly Line V-Neck Jumpsuit: This one may be a little harder to acquire as it’s only available in printed form at the moment. However, the uncomplicated minimalist look has me searching for US stockists and pulling out the tracing tools. Size Range waist: 25-44″ (64-112 cm) hip: 35.75-52.75″ (91-134 cm)
There you have it. Just a sampling of this last year’s newly released pant patterns. Do you have a favorite? Is there one you love that I’ve missed?
Hello! The new year is upon us! With a new year often comes new goals, challenges, and hopefully, some fun. In January, Sew Fancy Pants is back for 2020 and bringing a bit of all those things. Returning hosts Katie and Nicole will be joined by Rumana of The Little Pomegranate, Sierra of Sierra Burrell, and Brad of Brad Schultz Design. Ready for all the details? Keep reading for information on participation, giveaways, and more.
What is Sew Fancy Pants?
The mission of Sew Fancy Pants is to get members of the sewing community making pants that are their own definition of “fancy” and have a little fun while we’re at it. Everyone’s definition of fancy pants might be different, and that’s ok, we accept all forms of fancy pants. Perhaps one may want a professional looking pair of pants for work, maybe someone wants to dip their toes into the wide leg pants trend, or maybe you simply want a pair of silk pants or velvet joggers. This challenge is for everyone. Each week of January will have a theme, some weeks will have giveaways, ending the month with a Fancy Pants Dance Off and grand prize giveaway. To participate, just sew some “fancy” pants and use the hashtag #sewfancypants2020 on IG. Read to the bottom of this post for information on how to be entered in the grand prize giveaway.
Week 1 (Dec 30-Jan 5): Pattern Selection
Nicole will kick off Sew Fancy Pants with a week all about patterns. There will be posts detailing personal “fancy pants” sewing plans and resources for picking a pattern right for your personal style and skill level. Don’t miss the almost daily Instagram giveaways starting January 1st!
Katie, fabric designer extraordinaire, will lead us in week two. This week we’ll be focusing on fabric selections and sharing tips on how to source high quality bottom weight fabrics. Look for posts filled with fabric ideas and maybe even some discount codes. We’ve teamed up with several fabric sponsors to give away gift cards and fabrics perfect for your fancy pants sewing needs. Make sure you’re following all five of us on Instagram to stay up to date on these giveaways.
Sierra and Nicole are teaming up to lead in week three. This week we’ll tackle fitting. Hosts will share personal fitting tips and tricks along with favorite resources for achieving your desired fit. Fitting can be scary but, we’ll show you that good fit is an achievable goal.
Week 4 (Jan 20-26): Fancy Finishes/What Makes Your Pants Fancy?
Brad and Rumana will talk all about those details in week four. This week our focus will be adding those special details that make our fancy pants special. Whether its unique buttons, interesting trim, custom tags, or stylish top stitching, this week will be about the stuff that makes handmade items truly one of a kind.
Week 5 (Jan 27-31): Wrap Up and Fancy Pants Dance Off
This week we’re challenging participants to let loose and dance in your newly made fancy pants. When participants dance in their fancy pants and post it to their Instagram using #sewfancypantsdance and #sewfancypants2020, they’ll be entered to win a grand prize. Have fun, get creative, and dance those pants off (just not literally off)! The grand prize winner will be chosen by all judges, as well as two prize packages with winners chosen randomly from all participants. To be eligible for the other two prize packages, simply post your fancy pants with the #sewfancypants2020 during the month of January. While we’d LOVE to see a ton of finished fancy pants, progress counts too. Please don’t feel like you can’t participate if there’s not enough sewing time throughout the month to entirely finish your pants. (Note: prizes may be added to and updated throughout the month)
Well, there you have it! We hope you’ll join with us in sewing fancy pants during the month of January. Just tag us in your IG captions and use #sewfancypants to participate. Stay tuned for more information and make sure to follow us on Instagram (Nicole, Katie, Rumana, Sierra, Brad) to stay up to date on all things “fancy pants.”
Hello! Today, as part of #sewbows with Vienna of @thelatesew and Rachel of @hello.littlefish, I’m sharing a quick and easy tutorial for a 10 minute twisted headband. I’ve been making these headbands since 2014 when I needed a way to keep my chin length hair out of my eyes and away from my baby’s hands. Last spring I made one as a gift for Rachel’s baby girl (she’s modeling it in these darling photos taken by Rachel). Want to make a simple gift for yourself or the babies in your life? Let’s get down to it.
Tutorial
Supplies
1/4 yard knit fabric (jersey works well)
Coordinating thread
Sizing
0-6 months: 6″ x 14″
6-12 months: 6″ x 15″
Toddler: 7″ x 16″
Child: 8″ x 18″
Adult: 9″ x 19-21″
Cutting
1. Cut a rectangle to the dimensions of desired size (listed above). Some knits have more stretch in one direction. When cutting, make sure direction of most stretch is along the length of your rectangle.
Assembly
2. Fold rectangle, right sides together, across the length (hotdog style).
3. Stitch a zig-zag stitch 1/2 inch from raw edges along the length. Leave short sides open.
4. You should now have a tube. Turn the tube so that the right sides of the fabric are now on the outside.
5. Lay the tube on a table or flat surface so that the seam is centered and facing the flat surface.
6. Pick up tube with one end in each hand. The side with the seam should still be facing down. We will now refer to the end in your left hand as the left tube end and the end in your right hand as the right tube end.
Here is where it gets a little tricky. Don’t worry. Just follow the pictures and you should do great!
7. Rotate your left tube end 90 degrees. The seam line should be facing away from you. The ends of your tube should now be forming a T-shape.
8. Fold the top half of your right tube end over the left tube end until it meets the center seam line.
9. Now fold the bottom half of your right tube end under the left tube end. It should now look like a backwards “c” around the left tube end.
10. Fold the remaining side of your left tube end under the folded right tube end. Now your ends should form a shape that looks like a squished letter “s.”
11. The tricky part is now over. Take your folded tube over to your sewing machine and sew those folds in place with a straight stitch 1/4″ from the raw edges. Backstitch at each end.
12. Trim threads and excess bulk from raw edges. Turn your head wrap so that the seam is facing inside. You’re finished!
Thanks for reading! Let me know if you give it a try.
Hello! It’s officially spring here in Utah which usually means t-shirt weather one day and snow the next. I’m someone who is perpetually cold and pretty much wear long sleeves or jackets 9 months of the year. As such, I spent the first week of March sewing a crop of brightly colored sweaters. Ready to talk spring sweaters? Let’s do this.
Helen’s Closet Elliot Sweater
Last fall I was lucky enough to win a copy of the Elliot Sweater pattern. The PDF file sat on my computer just waiting for the right fabric to come along. Luckily, on Super Bowl Sunday (aka: Super Sew Sunday), Sewing Studio had a sale on several colors of bamboo/cotton french terry. I took it as a sign that my winter attire needed a bit of color and scooped some up in heather and ruby. The fabric is lightweight with just a slight amount of drape. Perfect for tees, lightweight sweaters, and cardigans. It arrived promptly but, due to other obligations, I had to wait to work with it until early March. Worth the wait.
I chose to sew up a size Small graded to a Medium at the hips. In order make long sleeves, I added 8 inches to the sleeve length. It still wasn’t quite enough length but, I didn’t have enough fabric to make the sleeves any longer. Instead, I added cuffs to give it the extra length. My only other deviation from the pattern was to sew the side slits closed two inches lower than instructed. With alterations ready, I got to sewing.
Like most knit tops, sewing the Elliot Sweater was quick and easy. It came together in an afternoon without mishaps. Upon finishing, I tried it on immediately. Despite having a purple prom dress and the fact that it’s my mother’s favorite color, I’ve never actually worn much purple. As such, I decided to give it a chance and am glad I did (My love of this sweater is what inspired me to choose the purple tencel used for myJean Paul Coverall).The color is cheery enough for spring and the fabric is lightweight and just right for those in-between weather days.
Megan Nielsen Jarrah Sweater
I’ve wanted to make a tie front Jarrah Sweater since making my first one (here) in December. In fact, I ordered this grey and pink stripe cotton ribbing with a second Jarrah in mind. I visited Suppose and fell in love with this Pink Avalana Sweatshirt Fleece. It’s a deliciously soft cotton/polyester blend. I tried to resist its siren song but was powerless upon feeling its soft hand.
Like my first Jarrah, I used a size 4 at the bust and graded to a 6 at the hips, adding 1.5″ to the length of the front and back. This time I did add an extra 1″ to the sleeves for a total of 2.25″ of added length. These minor changes have me digging this second Jarrah even more than my first.
Did you notice my one mistake? That’s right. The tie is on the opposite side. I laid the pattern piece on the fabric right side down and didn’t notice until after cutting. Luckily, this pattern is one of those forgiving patterns that makes this mistake no big deal. Perhaps I’ll need to sew a third Jarrah to achieve Jarrah perfection. Now to find another lovely ribbing…
True Bias Nikko Top
Finally, my bamboo/cotton french terry Nikko Top. This is my third Nikko and I’m honestly wondering why I only own three. My other two Nikko tops are worn at least once a week during the winter months. The fabric used is the same ruby bamboo/cotton french terry mentioned earlier in this post.
The Nikko is one pattern to which I don’t need added length. My only fitting adjustment is using a size 4 at the bust and grading to a 10 at the hips. Cutting and sewing the pattern is just as quick and easy as the minimal alterations making this one of my most satisfying sews. It makes a strikingly bold combination when paired with my rainbow striped Persephone Pants, an outfit that feels just right for transitioning seasons.
Final Thoughts
Most of my winter wardrobe is either grey or black; possibly due to the way I usually feel about the winter months. Adding these three brightly colored sweaters to my cool weather wardrobe has made getting dressed much more fun this spring. In fact, I took all three of these tops on our recent trip to the Pacific Northwest because they seamlessly combined both comfort and style. Thanks to them, I plan to add more color to my winter wardrobe once fall rolls back around. Now, bring on all the summer sewing.
Hello! I know that January can feel long to some but, thanks to #sewfancypants, it flew at lightning speed for me. Jennifer, Katie, Loni, and I asked the sewing community to join us in sewing fancy pants and you certainly delivered. All in all, there are over 800 posts using the #sewfancypants tag and over 100 entries under the tag #sewfancypantsdance. Your creativity, excitement, and dancing skills inspired and entertained us all month. Truly, this month exceeded our expectations. Thank you for joining us. Without further ado, let’s announce some prize winners.
Random Drawing Winners
These winners were randomly selected from the IG tag #sewfancypants.
With such an amazing prize on the line, so many of you put yourselves out there and gave it your all for the #sewfancypantsdance. This decision wasn’t made lightly and there were both serious discussions and well-placed gifs in our group chat while we contemplated. Believe me when I say that if we could’ve given every participant a prize, we would have. Thank you for putting yourselves out there and adding a bit of extra joy to this wonderful sewing community. With that note, let’s announce our winner.
Congratulations to Jill of @independentclothingintiative! Her and her husband danced their way to a win in their matching handmade cargo pants.
Just want to say one last “Thank you!!!” to everyone who participated and especially to our insanely generous sponsors. It was YOU who made the Fancy Pants Sewing Party a success. We hope you’ll continue to follow along in the future.
I’m back for one last #sewfancypants fabric selection post. Today’s post is all about those jeans both stretch and non-stretch. I made my first pair of jeans last January and was hooked on the idea of proper fitting jeans in all the best denims. Since then, I’ve made 4 pairs of jeans and hope to make another pair before the month is over. I’ve rounded up my current favorite jeans patterns with an array of options to make your handmade jeans dream come true. Let’s get started!
Whether you want a good pair of boyfriend jeans, some “mom jeans,” or a more traditional take on denim, the above patterns have got you covered. I love the idea of going bold and trying these in a colored denim just as much as sewing a traditional indigo pair. Whether you’re aiming for bold or classic, there’s a good chance you’ll find what you’re looking for in the picks below.
Cotton/Silk Blend Denim from Sewing Studio: The slubby texture of this denim is something special and I think it would make any pants “fancy pants.”
Cone Mills Denim 11.5 oz in Dark Indigo from Imagine Gnats: I actually just finished a pair of jeans (that I can’t show you quite yet) using this denim and I LOVE them.
Lycra: the best thing to happen to pants since their invention. Seriously, who doesn’t like a little stretch to their pants. I’ve made three pairs of Ginger Jeans and wear them almost daily. Each time I’ve made them, I’ve used a different denim and discovered that the pair in Cone Mills denim is my favorite, with my second favorite being a brushed denim pair.
12 oz Cone Mills S-Gene Denim in Indigo from Threadbare Fabrics: I have yet to make a pair of stretch jeans in this weight, but I’d love to have a thicker pair for the winter months.
Black Cone Mills Tencel Stretch Denim from Raspberry Creek Fabrics: I have a pair of Ginger Jeans made from this exact fabric (here) and I wear them at least twice each week.
Whew! Now that I’ve shown you all my favorite fancy pants fabric, I hope you’re ready to get started on those fancy pants! I don’t think I’ve ever spent more time looking at fabric online as I have this week. We’ve got more giveaways, tips, and fun coming your way so make sure you’re following along with #sewfancypants and all the hosts (Loni, Katie, Jennifer, and me) on IG. I’ll be back tomorrow with the reveal of my second Sew Fancy Pants project and a giveaway with StyleMaker Fabrics. Stay tuned for next week when we’ll talk fitting.
I’m back with another round of #sewfancypants fabric picks. Honestly, it’s taking every ounce of self-control to not buy fabric for all the pants right now because the harder I look, the more patterns I want to make and fabric I want to sew. My last post focused on fabric and patterns for the beginner (here) and today we’ll be amping up the difficulty. Today’s round of fabric inspiration is all about stretch and non-stretch trousers for the intermediate to advanced sewist. (just FYI: None of these links are affiliate links, I just genuinely like all of these fabrics and want them to become fancy pants.)
I have a total crush on all of these patterns and wish I could make them all. The ones I have made are the Lander Pant, Persephone Pants and Ronja Dungarees. Hopefully before the month is over I’ll also have a pair of Jenny Overalls to add to the mix. If I had unlimited fabric money and sewing time, I’d make a few of each with the fabrics I’ve selected. I decided to separate my fabric selections into two categories: natural earth tones and bold brights. This way, you have options no matter what vibe you’re looking to create with your fancy pants.
I have yet to make a good pair of stretch trousers, but when I do, the Sasha Trousers and North Point Trousers will be at the top of my list. Below I’ve included just a few favorites. Whether you’re looking for a classic solid trouser or something a little funky, the shops below have got you covered.
That’s all for today. Be sure to check back tomorrow for a post with all my favorite denim sources so you can get to work on those fancy jeans. Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram with Jennifer, Loni, Katie, and me because we’ve got fabric giveaways coming your way all week! Can’t wait to see your fancy pants!
#sewfancypants Week 2 has arrived and this week is all about that glorious fabric. Check out Loni’s post for a highlight of the brands helping us this week and a master list of discount codes just for you! The right fabric can make or break a project so we’re here to guide you through this all important decision. Over on Instagram we’ll be giving away fabric from SIX of our amazing sponsors so make sure you’re following each of us (Jen, Loni, Katie, and me) if you don’t want to miss out. I’m quite literally overflowing with ideas for fabric choices, and, as such, have decided to break down my fabric inspiration into a couple of posts. While today’s post will mainly focus on fabric for beginner level pant patterns, using some of these fabrics can also up the difficulty level so no need to click away if you’re looking for a challenge.
Fancy Pants: Loungewear Edition
Whether you want something cozy for lounging around the house, or something a little more special for going out, the jogger trend is one that seems here to stay (I’m certainly not ready to let it go). If you’re looking at pattern options, check out the Seamly No Sweat Pants, Named Ruri Sweatpants, or the wildly popular True Bias Hudson Pants. I personally own 4 pairs of Hudson Pants and wear them weekly. If you’re planning a special pair for lounging around the house, french terry is a good place to start. Look for something with a little bit of spandex so that your pants won’t be over-stretched after a day of wear. Ready to level up and get a little fancy? Try using stretch velvet for a pair of joggers you can wear at home and on a night out (quick tip: trying a pair of stretch velvet Hudson Pants? Size up at least one size). Below I’ve compiled some options that I’m loving at the moment. I may or may not be trying to stop myself from ordering 12 yards of fabric while writing this post.
Olive Soy Blend French Terry from Merritt Makes. This one is a little on the light side for pants, but I LOVE the feel of it and it would make the perfect pants for lounging around the house. This one seems especially suited for the Seamly No Sweat Pants.
If you want to feel extra cozy and luxurious, you could spring for this Plum Lyocell Sweatshirt Fleece from Raspberry Creek Fabrics.
I made myself a pair of Hudson Pants in this Taupe Stretch Panne Velvet from StyleMaker Fabrics and, over the last year, they’ve become an unexpected wardrobe workhorse.
This is the fabric that I’m desperately trying (and likely failing) to convince myself I don’t need. Seriously though, wouldn’t a pair of joggers in this Romantic Rose Stretch Velvet from StyleMaker Fabrics be a dream?
This Gunmetal Stretch Velvet from Harts Fabric would be a great choice for a slightly more reserved pair of velvet joggers.
Fancy Pants: Knit Trouser Edition
Want the minimal fitting drama of knits, but something more work appropriate? Two options that I’m loving at the moment are the Friday Pattern Company Joan Trousers and the Ensemble Patterns Robinson Trousers. I haven’t made either of these patterns yet and seriously, why haven’t I? I’m thinking of making some of each for my baby sister who will soon be a special education teacher. Professional look with the comfort of pajamas? Just what every teacher needs in their wardrobe. Below I’ve compiled a list of my favorite ponte and scuba knits that I think would work great for either pattern.
Ponte De Roma Solid Spruce from LA Finch Fabrics: Cannot get enough of this deep green/blue and will forever want to buy any fabric in this color.
Ponte Rayon in Blush from IndieSew: Blush is having a moment right now and I really just want to enjoy it by seeing someone make a pair of blush Joan Trousers.
Bold Botanical Scuba Knit from La Mercerie: Fancy knit trouser dreams are made of this fabric, I’m sure of it.
Ponte Dot in Black from Harts Fabric: I love the idea of using this fabric to make a pair of trousers that look simple and chic from far away but, have a polka dot surprise up close.
Fancy Pants: Beginner Woven Edition
Are you looking for something simple, but not wanting to make loungewear? These beginner friendly patterns are a great way to try out pants making without too much fitting hassle and no closures. Try the Named Ninni Culottes, Sew House Seven Burnside Bibs, Sew Liberated Arenite Pants, True Bias Emerson Pants, or French Navy Now Calyer Pants. The fabrics below would work for almost any of these patterns.
Navy Constellation Rayon Crepe from Threadbare Fabrics: This would make a great lightweight pair of pants perfect for spring and summer.
Cedarwood Tencel Twill from Blackbird Fabrics: I cannot get this color out of my head. It’s pretty, sophisticated, and fun all at once.
Teal Green Silk Noil from Sewing Studio: The idea of pants from Silk Noil seems luxurious to me and this color would make a statement.
Posie Blue Viscose Dobby from Imagine Gnats: This Atelier Brunette fabric would be an adorable pair of Ninni Culottes.
Warm Stone Tencel Twill II from Blackbird Fabrics: I love this neutral grey/brown color. I think it would make a versatile pair of pants in any of the above styles.
Brussels Washer Linen in Denim from Imagine Gnats: A rayon/linen blend is a great way to try new styles and techniques. This fabric has a bit of drape, with enough sturdiness to make working with it a breeze. Besides, who doesn’t need a basic pair of light denim colored pants?
Vanilla/Black Grid Plaid Tencel from StyleMaker Fabrics: I have some of this fabric that I’m currently working to turn into a pair of high-waisted Emerson Crop Pants. When I’m nervous to try a style in a print, I always reach for a black and white print.
Checkers Linen/Tencel from D&H Fabrics: This is one that I just discovered while looking for inspiration and I think I might be in love. Wouldn’t this make a lovely pair of Calyer Pants or a striking pair of Burnside Bibs?
Mustard Avery Slub Linen Blend from La Mercerie: There are several colors of this linen blend available from La Mercerie. The variety means it would be easy to find a color that suits your personal style.
That’s all for today! I’ll be back later this week with fabric inspiration for your more advanced pants projects. See you then! Until then, be sure to check out our week 2 sponsors and follow along on Instagram where we’ll be sharing fabric inspiration and giveaways all week. Thanks for reading!
Week one of #sewfancypants is coming to an end and what a week it’s been. Honestly, I’m a bit teary-eyed (in a good way) about it all. (PSA: This post veers a bit from my normal format. If you’re just here for fabric or fitting details, you’ll find them by scrolling to the bottom of this post) Maybe it’s the fact that organizing this whole deal has brought me new friends in Loni, Jen, and Katie, perhaps something to do with so many of you participating and sharing the love, or I’m simply at the tail end of an emotional roller coaster of a month but, right now, I’m feeling triumphant. It’s a moment I want to hold onto as I sit here typing tonight. Looking at the picture below, that’s what I see. Triumph.
There are few times in my life where I can describe feeling truly triumphant, in fact, I could list them all here:
One time in the state middle school mock trial tournament when, as a ‘witness’, I made the opposing team ‘lawyer’ so frustrated he nearly broke into tears.
I was so deliriously tired that I don’t remember the exact timeline, but sometime in the first few weeks of my son’s life when I held my son and just knew we had always belonged to each other.
This last summer, drenched in sweat, laughing, and standing under a swamp cooler with my husband after moving most of our belongings into our first home.
Wearing this outfit today and looking at the woman I see in the above picture.
As a child and teen, I was privileged to grow up in a home filled with love, encouragement, humor, and far too many fart jokes. As a result, I never had to worry about so many of the heavy things that are unfairly thrust upon children at a young age. In truth, much of my childhood was uncomplicated and easy. Sure, I initially found it to be difficult to make friends when we moved, and I had no athletic ability but; I found my dearest friends in my siblings and school work came easily to me. Fast forward to just about six years ago….
At the time, I was a newlywed of about six months, struggling in school, and had found out a couple of months prior that I was pregnant (not in our immediate plan at the time). Despite the love and support of friends and family surrounding me, for the first time in my life, life felt heavy, terrifying, and just really darn hard. I was flailing, sad, and too ashamed to ask for the help that I so desperately needed in school. Instead, I decided to quit. I quit with just three semesters remaining until graduation. Just typing that last sentence made my heart sink. That decision isn’t one that makes me proud, but it is one that has shaped the Nicole I now see.
Over the following months and years, I would find myself worrying about the possibility of running into an old professor or classmate while out and about. What would I say? How would I explain what I felt to be a colossal failure? Would they think less of me because of my decision? Was I somehow unworthy of happiness or success because I hadn’t taken full advantage of the opportunities I was given at the time? Feelings of doubt and shame often clouded the back of my mind.
Months passed, I gave birth to a beautiful boy with a full head of blonde hair. My husband chose a new major and worked evenings to support our family. I worked weekends at an inspiring fabric store called Suppose. There, I fell in love with fabric. Sewing had been part of my life for years prior to this but; it was in those quiet lonely evenings, with the apartment all to myself, that I began rebuilding my confidence through creativity.
It started small. I would find a pretty piece of fabric at work and stitch it into a basic top or a small quilt block. Sometimes I’d get crazy and sew a dress. Eventually, I started setting small sewing goals for myself. One of my first was the #supposeselfie. Over the course of a year or so, I set a goal to make something new each week and wear it to work on the weekend. For the most part, I stuck to it and my skills slowly grew. I look back at those pictures and can almost see the self-assurance growing along with my skill set.
Throughout the last several years, I’ve pieced over a dozen quilts, taught a few sewing classes, sewn countless items of apparel, taken on commissions here and there, and even designed a gender neutral collection of children’s play clothing which was shown at Utah Fashion Week in the spring of 2017. In 2018, I leveled up my sewing by making my first coat and several pairs of jeans. I blogged more than ever before, finally moved my website to its own domain, and started reaching out to collaborators. Every item, every stitch, and every opportunity pushed me. Some of these projects brought me to tears with challenges and deadlines both real and imagined. These projects also did something unexpected. They reconnected me to the fearless Nicole that I once knew.
You see, sewing wasn’t something I had to do. It wasn’t paying the family bills or putting food on the table. I could have quit at any time. That first time I cried over a poorly fitting garment? Could’ve quit then. The night my machine went haywire at 2am while trying to finish one of my first commissions? Could’ve quit then. What about applying to show a small collection in Utah Fashion Week when my husband’s school schedule was so full that I was often solo parenting from dawn to bedtime? Did not have to do that. Yet, it happened. I faced my fears. I tried. I failed. I tried again. I failed again. I kept sewing. I didn’t quit. I am not a quitter.
Yesterday as I sewed these Persephone Pants and later this Roscoe Blouse, I took a moment to appreciate how quickly and beautifully they came together. These pants are one of most well made items I’ve ever sewn; yet they came together almost without a hitch. To everyone else, these are just a nice pair of pants but, to me, they’re a symbol of the hours and years I’ve worked to develop the necessary skills, my own personal triumph.
The year 2018 was one of my most challenging yet, both personally and professionally. It included change, difficulty, heartache, and a decent amount of uncertainty. With the challenges of the year also came immense joy, some lost sleep, a lot of hard work, and triumph. Six years ago, the difficulties of 2018 would have stopped me. Today I realized they didn’t. Sure, there were moments where I wanted to stop moving forward, and sometimes I even let those feelings sit with me for a few days, but I didn’t quit.
Looking back on the me I knew six years ago, my only regret is that I didn’t show her a little more compassion. That I didn’t deem her worthy of self-acceptance. Am I proud that I didn’t finish my degree? No. Did I learn from that decision? Yes. Am I still learning from it? You bet. Will I go back and accomplish that goal one day? I plan on it. Until then, I’ll keep sewing and moving forward. Maybe I’ll even figure out what I want to be when I grow up. I’ve got a lot yet to learn, but I’m here for the long haul.
There you have it, a long-winded personal narrative on how sewing taught me self-love, hard work, persistence, and triumph. I cannot close without noting that while this story is about my personal journey with sewing, it wasn’t a road I traveled alone. My husband, son, parents, siblings, and friends cheered and encouraged my creations. Jo and Kathy of Suppose provided a shop full of inspiration where my dreams ran free. I’ve felt the love and encouragement of countless sewing friends both in person and online. Maybe tomorrow I’ll shed a tear over an incorrectly sewn seam or feel discouragement when a post doesn’t get the engagement I’d hoped but, tonight this feels good.
Fabric and Pattern Details
Top: True Bias Roscoe Blouse in Atelier Brunette viscose from D&H Fabrics. Find my Roscoe Blouse fit info in this post.
Pants: Anna Allen Clothing Persephone Pants in Burnt Sienna Twill from D&H Fabrics. Find my Persephone fit info in this post.
