Made One
My sewing plan for 2019 is to double the amount of sewing projects that I completed in 2018. Since I only made one of the projects in my #makenine list, this should be a relatively feasible goal. 😉
Sadly, yes, I ended up completing only one of the projects on my 2018 sewing list, so my #makenine unfortunately ended up becoming “#madeone”. Well, it isn’t completely true that I finished only one project in 2018, because I did also sew a tote bag, my Tanith Rowan Designs beret, and a few other quick mending/restyling projects that weren’t on the list.
But, of the nine projects, only one actually managed to make it’s way out of the sewing pile, and into my closet. However, considering that the project I completed was one that has taken me 10 years to finish, that’s actually a fairly decent accomplishment!
The project that I sewed in 2018, which might also be my greatest sewing achievement to date, was Simplicity 4403, my plum wool coat. I have talked about this project in the past, (see my 2018 sewing list here), and I will have a blog post in the future, featuring the coat, so I won’t bother talking about that specific project much right now.
But, today talking about my sewing goals for 2019. . . I plan to keep on with the same list I created last year. I have all of the supplies for each of these projects, so the only thing they require is actually sewing them! I am also planning to, before I start sewing, create a custom bodice sloper. I started making a bodice sloper a couple of years ago, but never completed it- but I think that if I actually do finish it, then my sewing projects will go a lot easier!
This year I have also decided to dedicate one day a week to be a “sewing day”, which I will spend with my mom. She has all the sewing stuff at her place, so it just makes it easier to go there to sew. (She also has all the fitting and sewing knowledge, so I like to sew with her!) We might not be able to do one full day, but even a few hours each week should give time to get some of these projects completed!
So, I guess the sloper is project #1 and here is the rest of the list, including what progress I have made so far:
- McCall’s 6696 shirtwaist
I still love this shirtwaist and had planned to make it out of some blue eyelet I have in my stash. So I’m keeping this one on the list!
2. Wool coat refashion
After looking at this coat, my mom realized that I can probably get away with shaving the pills off of the fabric, and won’t have to “turn” it! She has kindly started on it for me, so I need to just to fit it better! (it kind of looked like I was a child wearing my mom’s coat when I wore it. . . )
3. Simplicity 2154 blouse
This would still be a good addition to the wardrobe, as I am seriously lacking in blouses in any colour other than black.
4. Turban
Still in love with all the turbans, so yes.
5. Circle or half circle skirt
Instead of making a circle or half skirt, I may instead refashion a couple of wool skirts that I got from the thrift store recently. I know that I am not supposed to buy “projects”, but 100% wool plaid kilts, for $2.50 are the exception. 🙂 I am not sure if I can just tweak the waistbands (they are all a bit too big in the waist or too small in the hip) or whether I will unpick them and then use the fabric to make new pleated skirts. Either way will result in some sorely needed mix and match separates for my winter wardrobe!
6. Simplicity 3673 dress and jacket combination
I still do want to make this, but I think it is going to be the last project I attempt this year, simply because it is the one I need the least. I would still like to add it eventually, but after all the other projects are finished.
7. Background dress
Yes, a “background” dress is still sorely needed. I have very few dresses in my wardrobe currently, and I miss having them ready to throw on. Dresses are so easy, as you don’t have to try and find matching tops and bottoms!
8. Butterick 5748 sundress
I love the fabric (a calico) that I plan to make this out of- and sundresses are so versatile, so this one is still definitely on the list.
I think that if I manage to finish 8 projects, it will be a herculean accomplishment!
What are your sewing plans for 2019? Did you do a #makenine and how did it go for you if you did?
January 8, 2019 @ 10:50 pm
My sewing plans are to make pyjama shorts, as I am sorely in need, haha. Very exciting project, I know 😉
January 12, 2019 @ 2:20 pm
Have fun sewing them 🙂
January 9, 2019 @ 7:41 am
Kudos to you for challenging yourself like this.
I’m not a sewer. That was decided in grade 8 in Home Ec. That was WAY back when they still taught sewing. That wrap skirt was the end of my sewing days. I do try to fumble my way through mending items for my store and often take up hems but that is where my sewing prowess ends.
Suzanne
http://www.suzannecarillo.com
January 12, 2019 @ 2:21 pm
Sewing is definitely one of those things that if you don’t enjoy it, is not worth it. 🙂 That’s good that you mend though, as that is a really good skill to have, especially where vintage is concerned!
January 9, 2019 @ 2:15 pm
Good luck with your sewing projects. I am determined to learn how to sew. I have a lot of books to study. Have fun and enjoy. Looking forward to seeing your finished projects.
Marilyn
January 12, 2019 @ 2:22 pm
I hope you have fun learning to sew! Congrats on learning a new skill and good luck with your projects too!
January 9, 2019 @ 6:05 pm
Oh these all look and sound fabulous!!!
I applaud anyone who goes to the lengths to sew their own clothes. I wish I had the patience for it, but honestly, sometimes I get frustrated just working on repairs!
In terms of my own sewing plans for 2019, currently it’s just stay on top of repairs!
xoxo
-Janey
January 12, 2019 @ 2:24 pm
Yes, I definitely get frustrated too, but have such a hard time finding ready-to-wear that fits, so it’s kind of necessary 🙂
Mending is very worth it though- I have spent today doing just that, and it’s always so satisfying isn’t it? I wish you good luck with your mending this year!
January 10, 2019 @ 9:38 pm
Those look like great project goals, and outfits/items that will suit you really well. I’m thinking about whether to try out the make nine format to plan some of my sewing projects, too, but I wonder if making a set for warm weather and another set for cold weather might suit me better than just having one set for the whole year. It will be interesting to see what beautiful projects you post on your blog this year. So long as they are things that you are proud of and like to wear, it doesn’t matter how many (or seemingly few—truly a matter of perspective) items you make—each success is worth the wait.
January 12, 2019 @ 2:26 pm
Thank-you so much for your encouraging comment! I was a bit discouraged at the very few items I finished this year, but you’ve put a good spin on it 🙂
Living in a place with distinct seasons does require different kinds of garments for different times of the year, so your idea of a summer set and winter set of plans is a great idea! I hope you have a fun time picking out what projects to sew this year, and I can’t wait to see your finished items too!
January 10, 2019 @ 11:19 pm
Hey, Nicole! Glad to see you’re back to inspire us. Your planned projects look like fun. I didn’t do a “makenine” list. I finished a quilt last year and another one 2 yrs. ago. This year, I don’t have any deadlines so I’m starting the year off with quick and simple projects. Three are done as of today. I hope to do a quilt top or two. As for vintage repros, I definitely plan to sew a few Gertie patterns and participate in your vintage cover activity. Looks like it’d be a lot of fun.
January 12, 2019 @ 2:30 pm
Thanks Annabelle! I’m glad to be back too 🙂
Congrats on your quilt! I don’t quilt myself, as they are much too intricate and precise for me 😉 Also congrats on your quick sewing projects. I’ve been doing a bit of mending/alterations today, and it’s so satisfying to finish those quick projects, isn’t it?
I hope your sewing projects this year go well!