Saturday, July 1, 2017

Twig + Tale - Driftwood


I was fortunate to be a pattern tester for Twig + Tale recently, testing this versatile pattern - Driftwood Blouse and Dress.  





I made a dress version, with long gathered sleeves. I forgot to add a little more length when I cut it out, the perfect excuse to use some cotton lace that I have saved for such a long time. The pattern calls for elastic through the waist, but I chose to leave it out. It makes for a nice loose, relaxed fit. 

There are so many options on this pattern, short and long sleeves,ruffle neckline, dress and blouse! It was amazing to see all the tester pictures coming through, each with such a different look. 

The pattern is currently on a launch special, check out this bundle it's the best way to buy it!


Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Upcycle - Twig and tale tours


I'm not going to lie, I find much more pleasure browsing racks of clothes at an op shop (Thrift store) than rolls of new fabric at a store. There seems to be so much more of a challenge in taking something and changing it into something else, than taking a big sheet of fabric and cutting it up. What started as a way of crafting while on a single income has become "my way"of crafting!


I found these fabulous flannel pants that I thought perhaps my husband would wear, but alas a bit too adventurous for him. Perhaps too adventurous for the original owner too as they were in perfect condition. They seemed perfect for upcycling. 


I set about deconstructing them, they are a quality piece of clothing and had beautiful details and trims that I carefully unpicked.

Then the exciting part, what to make?

It seems like after such a dry spell of friends having babies that there is a new wave of life coming into the world. I used to crochet most of my baby gifts, small booties and hats, I used that as a starting point when choosing something to make.

I chose two patterns from the Twig and tale website, two patterns I've never sewn before. The Wayfarer Shoes and the versatile Evergreen Bonnet (So many options!)



I forgot to take a photo of the lining fabric, but it was a soft wool vest. I added a few extra snaps on the bonnet to give it maximum wear.



I used some of the trim from the pants as little pulls for the back of the shoes, making it easier to get them off and on. I was so surprised how quickly they worked up! Such a fabulous pattern that I can see will be my "go to"pattern now to make for gifts. I'm about to make up a stash of them!

I used the wool vest for the soles and lining of the Wayfarer shoes too. I had thought I'd cut into a leather jacket for the soles, but the wool has more stretch to it and perhaps will be worn just that little bit longer. But if I was making them for older kids ie walkers I think leather would be a much better option.


I'm about to wrap up this little "Welcome to the world!", knowing my gift will be as original as the wee babe that will wear it!

My post is just a small part of a fabulous tour of bloggers and their upcycled Twig and Tale creations. You can read more about it here.

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