Working on the Basics

Surprise!  I have another t-shirt to share.  Last year I focused my sewing on trying out a lot of different patterns.  This year my goal is to expand and replace my wardrobe with clothes made from the patterns and styles that worked for me last year.  This t-shirt is an example.  I made a similar one back in this post, but the fabric was of poor quality.  I still wear it, but wanted a nicer one to wear too.  This is the result.  It is made from a high quality, medium-weight, bamboo knit that I found at Emma One Sock some time ago.  The colors are black and taupe.  I have maintained the basic design with just a slight change in the sleeve length and width of the contrasting bands.  I used my coverstitch machine to top-stitch around the neckband and to hem.  This is a great video for how to apply binding around the neckline of a knit top.  I didn't exactly use this method for my neckline, but I did use it on my sleeves.  For my neckline, I wrapped my binding around the seam allowance, then top-stitched it in place and trimmed the excess.

A little close-up of the neckline and sleeves:

And the back:

My next project is a pair of black, ponte, knit, pants...and I am using a new pattern, Burda 7371, View A.  I hope to have those completed this week.  Thank you all for your comments on the last post.  I think that t-shirt is going to get worn to death.  I just love the tie-dye print and weight of the fabric.  Aloha! 

Jalie 2804 Tranquil Tie-Dye

I finally found some time to sew today. Yes!  I traced off Jalie 2804 in a size "S" and added 4 inches to the circumference of the hemline, tapering out from the seam line at the narrowest part of the waist to the hemline.  The last time I made this, I cut out size "R", and it was a touch too small.

The watery tie-dye was found at Marcy Tilton's website.   I absolutely adore the colors, and I love the fact that it is a medium to light weight cotton/Lycra, if I remember correctly.  It sure feels good on.  I made view A with the 3/4 length sleeves.  View A has a double layer lower bodice with gathered top layer.  The neckline does not gape with this pattern.  What an awesome feature!

I decided to serge all of my seams and used my coverstitch machine to hem the sleeves and bodice.  This is the first of several grey pieces I have planned.  My DH and I went out for a "day late" Valentine's dinner tonight.  Yesterday was just way too busy to celebrate, what with soccer practice in one town and youth group for my oldest in another town.  I would much rather have a relaxed dinner a day late, than to try to squeeze in a date night just because the calendar says Feb. 14th.  This is what I wore tonight.  Remember, I was going for relaxed! How was your Valentine's Day?

 

Lavender Farm

Aloha Online Ohana! 

Just when I think I'm getting a handle on the busyness, the boat starts a rockin' and well you know the story, sewing gets pushed to the back burners.  So today I thought I would share another little Maui gem.  I've been wanting to show you the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm in upcountry Maui.  It is one of my favorite places to visit on the island.  The gardens are gorgeous, the air is brisk and cool in the early morning, and the sweeping view of the island cannot be beat. 

Driving into the farm.

Would you like to take a tour?

Entrance to the Gift Shop

You will see many different varieties of lavender growing throughout the terraced mountainside.  Not only is this farm distinguished by its lavender, but also by its huge variety of proteas and succulents.

Avocado Tree

There are stairs to climb, porches to pad across, purple chairs to rest your buns upon, and beautiful sculptures gracing the trail all along the way.  If you have children, there is a scavenger hunt just for them.  As they explore the grounds with you, they can collect stamps to fill up their card.  With the last stamp collected, escort them into the gift shop for a delightful lavender treat.  

 Do get your exercise and walk to the top of the farm if you are able. 

You won't be disappointed for this will be your reward!

Have a wonderful weekend Everyone!