Grainline Archer - My Favorite Save

I made a perfect Grainline Archer.  The sleeve placket and the collar were perfectly executed and topstiched.  I was so proud until I realized it didn't fit right.  This whole mess started when I realized I lost my master copy that I had worked on for over a year.  So, I figured I would just reprint the pattern and adjust for my wide shoulders. Simple right....not so much.  I have a habit of cutting patterns two sizes too big.  I think I know my measurements but clearly I need to get a clue.  Anyway, I tried to fix the perfect archer by taking in the sleeves and side seams like a mad woman.  In about a minute, my shoulder were too tight and the overall silhouette was too boxy.  With a sad heart, I put the shirt on my dressform so I could torture myself for the next couple of weeks.

After many days spent staring at the shirt, I decided to take the sleeves off to try and save it. I really did love the fabric.  Once the sleeves were off, I could see the armholes came down to my waist (okay, maybe the botton of my bra but still).  I figured I could, at least, wear it camping or hiking with the dogs if I could just patch them up.  I pulled one of the sleeves out of the trash and patched the underarms matching plaids.  I added an inch and a half on both sides. It may seem crazy but it kinda worked so I started hoping.

I knew I wanted to try a sweatshirt fabric for the sleeves because they needed to be a stretch fabric since the shoulders were so tight.   My super smart mom suggested a men's XXL sweatshirt from Walmart.....brilliant!  So, I cut the sleeves from the sweatshirt sleeves then I cut a hood (Waffle Tosti Pattern) from the main body fabric.  I hoped the hood (which is just for show and not really usable) would balance the sleeves and it did.  I used the sweatshirt waistband for the sleeve cuffs and it all fit pretty stinkin well!

It is far from perfect but unless you are checking out my armpits super up-close, the patch job is not noticable.  The hood is removeable and I snap it on backwards to limit the bulk but once again not noticeable.  All in all, I think it is a pretty decent save.  I wear it all the time and not just for camping and dog walking.

Right armpit

By the way, I also tore my sewing room apart and found the orginal master archer pattern.  It had fallen behind the drawer in my pattern dresser. I jumped around with happiness and then moved it to a very safe place.

Left armpit

The Jasper Sweater = Winter Perfection!

Pure happiness!  I adore these sweaters.  I made the red one last year and wore it so much that I had to make a second one this winter.  We've had a pretty warm winter in my part of Colorado this year but this weekend we finally had a lovely snow.  I, of course, wore my Jaspers back-to-back and stayed warm and happy!

Pattern: Paprika Patterns Jasper Sweater

The directions for this pattern were top notch.  I had never sewn a welted pocket before. The pattern maker really walked me through the process so well and I love how my pockets turned out!  I also just really like the overall style of this pattern.  The neckline is so versatile and the princess seams are so flattering even in polar fleece!

Fabric - Polar fleece for both sweathers

I made this pattern in a heavier fleece.   The fleece allows you to sculpt the neckline into an ton of different shapes which is just fun.  It also stays up when I need it to and it is super warm and comfortable.

Have a super great day!

I was DELETED!

I woke up a couple of months ago to find my blog deleted! (DUN DUN DUUUUUN!)  I have no idea what happened, but everything was gone.  A sign to quit?  Maybe.  It did feel overwhelming and crazy to start all over again from scratch but I guess I am crazy because here I am.  My style has really changed over the past couple of years so maybe a clean slate is a good thing.

My sewing life definitely changed this year.....all for the good.

I swapped rooms with my son.  He moved to the bigger basement room and I took the smaller room upstairs!  I love the smaller space so much more because it is easy to get around and cozy. 

My husband also upgraded two of my machines (serger and sewing machine) and bought me a coverstitcher for our anniversary (20 years)!  I love that man! I am still learning the coverstitcher but the other two machines have been working away.

Lastly, I have really tried to make sewing a consistent part of my life.  I little bit everyday has just been good for my soul

I will leave you with a couple of pictures of my space because I just love creative space photos!