I sewed! I've had a few projects in the queue, it's just a matter of building up the courage and carving out the time to actually execute. But in the mean time, I've been sewing muslins and tailoring clothes to fit me and/or the kids in the cracks.
One of those big projects in the queue is a romper I want to make.
Harts Fabric sent me some
fabric and the
Toaster Pattern from Sew House Seven to try out. I've been so hesitant to cut into the fabric, that I wanted to sew up a "muslin" first out of some cheap fabric I found to make sure it fit right. And oh my I'm pleased with how the "muslin" turned out, I wear it
constantly. I'm excited to work on my romper, but I just haven't had the time or mental space to do it yet. It's more of a fall/winter piece, so I hope to be done with it before the cooler temperatures hit.
The toaster pattern itself is a dream to sew up. It's the perfect beginner top to start, especially if you're just starting to sew knits. The arms and hem can be done in a straight stitch because the pattern is meant to be slouchy, you don't need stretch there. And there's no hemming needed for the neckline! It's a beginner's dream!
One of the things about indie patternists is that you never really know how good it is until you bust into it. This pattern is fantastic. It's easy to piece together (if you're purchasing the PDF version) and the instructions are clear
and logical. It's a great base for manipulating and making all sorts of fun things as well. I'll be using this pattern for years to come, I can already tell. :)
The split hem is a great, contemporary detail. It's a short-er boxy top, but the perfect length for pairing with mid-rise jeans/pants. I'm 5'6" and sewed up a size small. Hopefully that helps you with gauging if pattern alterations are necessary.
To pair with this top, I've been loving lighter, pastels!
This necklace sent to me by
Ash Jewelry Studio has been a staple with this top. Scratch that, it's been a staple with every darn thing in my wardrobe lately. Blush pink is the new nude, amiright?
Earrings are also by Ash, and the perfect lightweight "hoops". Actually, I don't own a pair of hoop earrings, but these make the cut because they're minimalist and light-weight. Seriously, If you're looking to invest in some fantastic accessories that
will go with everything, check out
Ash Jewelry Studio.
Outfit details:
Have you made anything recently? Share your favorite things you've seen/made in the comments below!
Products were donated, no payment was made for this post or product placement. I just love supporting small businesses that are making and providing their customers with great products. All opinions are my own.
I fused a molasses cookie (I wanted to deepen the flavor of the chocolate) and a snickerdoodle. My mom gave me the best recipes for both, so I used those. And these WORK WELL AT ALTITUDE!!!! YAY! We're at 6400 ft. elevation, so cookie recipes can be problematic and the cookies end up a sloppy mess on the cookie sheet. These hold their shape and stay chewy. ON to the recipe, shall we?
Chocolate Ginger Cookies
From the kitchen of MelissaEsplin.com | Yields 6 dozen
1 1/4 c butter, divided
3/4 c cocoa powder
1/3 c molasses
1 c granulated sugar
1 c brown sugar
2 eggs
2 3/4 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cream of tartar
1/3 c. candied ginger, minced
raw turbinado sugar for rolling
In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add molasses and cocoa. Combin e remaining butter (softened) with sugars in a mixing bowl. Cream. Add eggs. Add cocoa mixture. Sift together dry ingredients and slowly combine. Add minced ginger. Scoop into tablespoon-sized balls. Roll into turbinado sugar. Bake at 350º F for 8-10 minutes.
