Since I've been taking these sewing classes, gained confidence, and have little fabric envelopes, panties, and amazing tote bags, under my belt, I felt inspired to graduate myself into sewing for big girls by attempting a pattern. Patterns always seemed so complicated and intimidating...like cooking did until recent. So with this fresh inspirational spirit, I stopped in at the closest fabric store.
First hurdle, finding a pattern. It poses a challenge when you want to make everything, and there are thousands of patterns available. After perusing McCalls, Vogue, Simplicity, and some other pattern directory that starts with a "B", I narrowed it down to baby garments or cool pajama pants. Searching for a pattern without a focus is like shopping for clothing. It's the harboring ground for indecision and impulsive behavior. I picked two patterns: a baby dress and cool looking wide leg pants that would make great pjs.
Next challenge, picking your fabric. I felt like those women on "What Not to Wear" when they are let loose to buy new clothes. I was overwhelmed with the selection. Lots of beautiful patterns, but not the right material. The pattern called for "
Lightweight fabric such as crepe de chine..." What the heck is Crepe de Chine...Chinese crepes? Not having my sewing teacher right beside me, I decided to go with a cotton. It's lightweight and I love cotton jammies.
Okay, picking out fabric was HARD! 30 minutes in I had to abandon my sights on sewing a dress for my best friend's newborn baby and focus on the pants; for their sake and mine. Give me a break, I had to pick out 2 fabrics, for the yoke and flange, and leg bands. Don't ask me what those are yet, the pattern just called for them. It takes me another 30 minutes to finally choose fabric.
Even though I'm far from it, I can't help but feel experienced, "Yes, I'd like 2 yards of that and 1/1/2 yards of that" (because I'm making friek'n awesome pjs from this pattern...because I can do patterns!!" I smile and envision my triumph.
I'm ready to tackle this. Sliding the flimsy pieces of paper out on the envelope, confusion quickly sets in...am I sewing pants or building a small home?
