Yes, that's right, 7 long years. This blouse was my very first attempted ever, to sew a garment. That was over 7 years ago. Okay, I am going to admit that I didn't know anything about patterns, fabrics, or sewing. I had only sewn curtains before and with a straight stitch, could garments be that hard? So years ago, I wondered about the fabric store and found this non stretch brocade fabric for a pattern that requires knits/stretch fabrics. I brought it home, guessing my size and cut, yes, cut the whole pattern out without doing any adjustments or fitting. After all, it looked like it would fit. LOL Yes, I now can see how far I have come from that place. It feels good to have a little more understanding and growth. I wish I knew more but for now we are learning everyday and that's a good thing! I am sure, you too have grown in your sewing or whatever you are passionate about. Sometimes, we forget to look at where we've been and how we have grown. This blouse was a great reminder for me. We all have to start somewhere! Okay, back to the story, anyway, after cutting the fabric, the project stalled because I didn't understand the directions and the piping was the last straw. Sadly, the pieces of this blouse sat in a box for seven years, but now, I am happy to say that I was able to pull it out of hiding. After sewing it to life, I found it a little bit tight, due to me not fitting/ making adjustments to it those many years ago, but I finished it. And plan on wearing it out, maybe even on a date with hubby. And yes, my dears, I sewed the piping! I feel like singing and eating Chinese. If you are waiting to sew, what are you waiting for? There's so much to learn, tons of fun and maybe a few tears a long the way, but worth it.
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Where are my chop sticks? They could look festive in my hair. |
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| I like this green color, maybe a red for the next one. |
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| I am not sure I would label this one as easy, but it's not advanced either, I will be making another blouse but adjusting as needed, Hubby loved this one. |
Until next time, have a happy vintage day,
Gina
I really love that colour you chose, and I have never done piping myself. I had a lighbulb moment the other day as I was asking a lady in a fabric shop, where can you get some ready made piping? She said we don't sell any here but all you need is some ready made bias binding. And in my head I said to myself...you can use 'ready made' bias binding ??? (As I would have gone through the drama of cutting material on the bias etc etc).So all of this is a real learning process for me too!
ReplyDeleteWow, Thanks for sharing that. I guess you just buy the cording and sew the bias binding with it sandwiched in between? I am going to try this. I bought about 200 packs of tape binding at a garage sale for 2.00 dollars. I want to use it up. Thanks Marie, Great tip!!
ReplyDeleteDear Gina,
ReplyDeleteThis is a very lovely blouse and the color looks lovely on you! I also like jewel tones...they look good on us, brunettes :-)
Thank you Gina for visiting the cottage...it was such a joy to read your comment. Yes, you may follow if you wish, I will add the feature this morning! :-)
In His Name,
Maria
Hi Gina, That's right, you use cording and fold the bias binding over to make a half (with the cording inside) and then stitch down the length, not 2 lengths one on top of each other and the cord in between. Hope I'm not confusing you here.
ReplyDeleteThanks Maria and Marie! I am looking forward to to making my own piping! Maria, thanks for the comment, I am now following your wonderful blog! Happy sewing!
ReplyDeleteHi Gina, I looove this blouse! I'm also a newby in sewing! Come and visit my blog! Ciao from Sardinia, Italy
ReplyDeleteGreat job Gina!! I like it!
ReplyDeleteI just saw all your post, I became follower, I like your job!
I've just gone through your entire blog, and I am very impressed. You have created some very beautiful dresses. I am putting you on my blog roll and signing up as a follower.
ReplyDeleteHi Patrizia, Lizzy and Trudy, Thank you so much! I am really trying to sew to the best of my ability, thanks for your support! Trudy you are so kind, I went to your blog and I am the one impressed! Love your sewing!
ReplyDeleteI love this asian- inspired look.
ReplyDeleteLove your top, and such a good fit! I have this pattern waiting to be sewn, someday ;)
ReplyDeleteOur Heroine, sew it sooner, I think you will really like it, I was surprised it fit so well, considering I didn't make any adjustments! That rather happens!
ReplyDeleteI really love cheongsams and yours is just beautiful, the colour really suits you and anyone who takes on piping on their first garment demands respect!
ReplyDeleteNicole
www.rubyslippersvintage.blogspot.com