My first BWOF!!!

Earlier this year, after realizing how many sewists exist in cyberspace, I was introduced to the Burda World of Fashion. I couldn't understand what was so great about patterns that required extra work (tracing the pattern, adding seam allowances) and added expense (hello, ebay!). But, after seeing so many wonderful garments posted at Pattern Review and other personal blogs, I decided that there had to be something to the craze. Within minutes of receiving the June 2008 issue, I understood. I was looking at a hip, trendy fashion magazine that contained at least 25 garments for all sizes and ages. I was hooked. Within days, I called Haberman Fabrics (about 45 minutes away), and requested the July issue. So, here is my first shot at BWOF.

July 2008, Skirt 113

Fabric from Joann's: Blue/Green woven, like a tweed, loves to unravel! I saw it earlier this summer, and loved it. Knew it would be a skirt, but wasn't sure of the style.

*Use the right tool for the job: I used an invisible zipper foot to put in the invisible zipper on the left side, and it is perfect. Why didn't I buy it before?

The only alteration I made was to line the skirt because the fabric was unraveling and I also want more structure for the fabric. I also used the lining fabric for the pocket to reduce bulkiness. Having never made a Burda before, I was nervous about the sizing, so I made the 44, but added a 1" seam allowance on the sides, just in case. As it turns out, it was actually a smidge big, and I'm considering taking the yoke in a little in the waist.

I've seen a lot of complaints about the BWOF instructions, so I wasn't surprised how confusing they could be. However, I've made enough skirts to know the process, so it wasn't an issue. I'm really, really happy with the final result, and am excited to do something else. As for this particular pattern, it's comfortable, I love pockets, and I will probably make it again.

New Look 6808

Basic blouse pattern, with sleeve and neckline variations. All have a left side zipper closure, with front and back darts for shaping. I chose a turquoise polyester that was paired with the skirting fabric (yes, it was a no-brainer...), with a slight texture to it. I love the color, it's bright and shows off my tan, and more importantly will go with lots of bottoms.

*Another first: drafted my own sleeve pattern! Awhile back, I had seen a blurb in Threads about a petal sleeve, and how to draft one. I dug through the stack, and found the brief instructions, and ... voila! A great short sleeve option to give an otherwise plain garment a little sumthin, sumthin. I was toying with the idea of beading the sleeve edge to add more definition, but I think I'm going to hold off and check out the jewelry options first.

This blouse needs major renovations. Even though I cut the correct size (according to the finished garment measurements), the waist is huge, it's way too long, and the zipper produces a bulge under my arm. My plan is to pull out the zipper altogether, replace it with a center back vent and button, and take it all the darts. Another option I'm considering is to make 2 thin self-fabric ties, anchor them on the front darts, and tie them to pull the fabric tighter and add some decoration. I think I need to sleep on it, and some feedback would help!