Built by Wendy #3835 ETA: 2nd on pg. 3!

[skrillaknits]

Okay, this is highly irresponsible--I have a van coming to take me to the airport for a crack of dawn flight in about 4 hours but I couldn't help but post this, I'm too excited about it. I am mostly a knitter but I vowed that this would be the year I kicked my sewing fears to the curb. With the help of the fabulous Wendy Mullins and my adorable Janome Hello Kitty sewing machine I whipped up my very first garment:



The biggest surprise for me what the sizing--I couldn't really believe that I was in the double digits for the first time in my life so I sorta low-balled it and decided to cut a size 10. This was a rookie/knitter's mistake because I was going by ease measurements and with knitting I always like to either match my bust measurement or go negative. I didn't do that (I had studied my copy of Sew U too hard to make that kind of error) but I did quickly realize that the 4+ inches of ease was built in for a reason. I'd heard people remark that these patterns run large, but I think the look requires it. Hey, whatevs, more room for my miniature beer belly!

This photo captures the glee that followed when I put it on and found that it fit and was reasonably cute:



Not very flattering, but it was an honest reaction! I've decided--sewing kicks arse!

The fabric is Denyse Schmidt Flea Market Fancy and it has a ridiculous amount of stretch for a cotton, I was shocked. It did make things easier when I had to cheat a bit sewing in the sleeves. BTW, I call it my Home Ec top because it looks so very basic and retro. I love it!

[fluffybaka]

The fabric is super cute on you!

[LadyInsomnia]

it looks great!  pretty fabric, too 

[CraftyCoug]

So cute!!  You have put me 1 more step closer to buying that book!

[alwaysinmyroom]

I love it when someone finds the Zen of sewing....

may your journey be a long and fulfilling one...nice job!

[angeltreats]

I love it!  The fabric is gorgeous.

But...

I really want to see a picture of the Hello Kitty sewing machine too!

[sam7992]

Great top, Just got this pattern today and was unsure whether I'd be able to make it but you've inspired me! It looks great on you!

[katafi]

Great fabric and great shirt!

I'm also a knitter with sewing fears.  You've totally inspired me to try and conquer those fears (again).

[rubyohsosoho]

I really really like that shirt!  I would sooo buy it if I saw it in a store.  You picked a nice pattern and a great material.  It's wonderful!!!  Looks great on you!

[alwaysinmyroom]

Great fabric and great shirt!

I'm also a knitter with sewing fears.  You've totally inspired me to try and conquer those fears (again).

You can do it!  I was the opposite--a sewer with knitting fears!! and now I love to knit and want to learn more!! branch out--it is fun to add more skills to your repertoire!