Shirts for meeeeeeeee

Sewing for me is really difficult.  I have a hard time finding patterns that fit me, and since I sew adult sizes, if things don’t work out that’s a LOT of fabric and time and effort wasted.  Plus it crushes my hopes and dreams and makes me want to punch butterflies.

So when I sew for myself I tend to stick to things that are simple and/or that I’ve researched really well and think have a 95% (or better!) chance of success.  Namely, I’m boring and stick to the basics.  Whatevs.

I had seen this Renfrew pattern floating around the internet and decided that it looked cute enough on every person that’s made it that it would be safe for me to give it a try.  Based on my measurements, the pattern called for me to make a size 10, 12, or 14.

Yikes.

I originally made the size 12, and graded it out to a 14 at the waist.  (Bearing 4 children and getting old has not been kind to my mid-section).  Also, while I wouldn’t go so far as to say I have BDD, I do have issues with my perceived size.  So I figured better safe (and large) than sorry.

The top turned out very well, but way too big.  Like, wayyyyy too big.  So I took a RTW shirt I had, and matched it up to the pattern pieces.  Based on a shirt I already had, the size 6 was almost exact.  Oh jesus.

I made the size 6 instead, holding my breath the whole time.  Annnnnnd, it fits.  I don’t have a waist, so while the pattern comes in at the waist a little it makes me uncomfortable.  I’ll be making another one in some cheap blue knit I got in LA, and drawing the waist out so it’s simply straight.  But, I’m glad it fits and looks cute.

Next up I saw the Wiksten tank pattern for download, and had to have it.  There’s something about the loose-fitting tank that can be worn under a cardigan that I love love love.  I made it one evening when I came home from work and it was easy and fun.

I sewed up the size Medium based on my bust measurement, but I think I can go to a small.  I know it’s supposed to be loose, but the armholes are too big and the front dips down too low for my taste.  OMG you guys, I had no idea I was such a prude.

I feel good that I was able to make a few things for myself that turned out reasonably well, that I really really like, with some simple patterns that I know I’ll make over and over.  

YAY ME.

Comments

[Jennifer]

You are a sewing wizard!