I belong to a marvelous sewing club. Every month, 100-150 ladies turn out, and occasionally a man thrown in for good balance! We are all ages, shapes, sizes and opinions about everything. There are professionals, amateurs, business people, housewives, artists. We have a furrier, a few tailors and dressmakers. Those who are skilled are very generous of their knowledge to those who are budding dressmakers. No egos here--just a lot of people who get together and love sewing clothes.
Each month, three or four people are responsible for preparing the program. We've had programs about everything imaginable. Those giving the program study their topic for several weeks, make up samples and give hand-outs about the subject. Occasionally, we have a guest speaker. This month, we had
ChristineJonson of CJPatterns. She had a terrific trunk showing of the garments made from her patterns. Her patterns are primarily for knits, although there's a few sized for wovens as well.
Christine's patterns have a lot of instruction, and a sizing chart to calculate size according to different stretch percentages in fabrics. She's a joy to listen to and we learn something every time she's with us.
I have a few of her patterns.
Debbie made the "Shirred Top and Princess Wrap", and posted it on her blog recently. She made the "Princess Wrap" view of the pattern. Because I saw it on her site, I had to buy the pattern. This is a really cute top. I would bring the neckline in closer, and redraw the "v", to make it a bit higher. It's a very flattering top on all sizes.
I tried on Christine's "Inset Jacket" at the meeting. Hers was made from a black pique fabric. The pattern runs very large. The small fits me exactly as it should. It's a loose fitting jacket, with great style lines. I already had this pattern, and now that I know what size to make--it will be in the queue. The "Easy Coat" is a simple coat that is perfect for embellishing.
The meeting was inspiring, as always. Thank you, Christine.
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