Fantastic Guest Post: RTW Faster Cissie

24 Feb Fantastic Guest Post: RTW Faster Cissie

 

Dear Readers,

Last week I had a disastrous experience padding my new dress form…….. then I got sick.

The good news is an awe-inspiring post awaits your reading pleasure from three-time RTW Faster Cissie Wellons. Would you believe this remarkable woman made 15 skirts, 27 tops, 11 pants, 29 dresses, 7 jackets in 2014? That’s 89 garments!!  Read on 🙂

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I would rather sew than eat! And that’s no exaggeration, although my husband wishes that weren’t the case!

Like so many people who sew, I began my journey as a child, learning from my mother. Also, I am from that generation when home economics was required in high school.. I still remember with horror a few of the garments that came from those years. But I guess the seed was planted, and I continued to sew throughout my college years and early years of marriage. It was the birth of my first daughter that really inspired me, and I made clothes for her and her younger sister until they screamed in protest! They wanted clothes from Gap, not smocked dresses with big sashes and bows in the back.

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My real love then was heirloom sewing and embroidery, a passion I pursued fervently when my granddaughters were born.

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From elablorate christening gowns to everyday play clothes, I made nearly everything they wore.

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Then one day about 8 years ago, I realized that I could not cram one more outfit into their bulging closets. At the same time, I noticed that even though I was spending a goodly amount of money on my own clothes, I never seemed to have anything to wear.

So I headed off into the world of adult sewing. A whole new world of internet sites, online shopping, teachers and classes. I still wear the first cocktail dress I attempted — and although it is far from perfect, I am emotionally very attached to it!

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The most life-changing event for me was gathering the courage to attend one of Susan Khalje’s classes. I needn’t have been nervous. Susan is the kindest, most patient teacher imaginable with that rare gift of assuring you that anything is possible and that nothing is hopeless. I made my first French jacket and became totally addicted to the world of courture sewing. There was enough handwork involved to satisfy that urge to hold a needle in my hand and loads of new techniques to master (still working on that “mastery” part!). I only wish that I could wear them inside-out!

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I make several couture garments a year, often in class with Susan, but sometimes on my own, finding that Susan has a way of sneaking into my sewing room and pestering me to do it correctly. My latest and current favorite garment is the black brocade evening coat I made earlier this year which I’m wearing over a lace dress I made a couple of years ago, under Susan’s watchful eye!

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Usually, after finishing a lengthy process such as a couture dress or jacket, I am in the mood for some down and dirty sewing. A little instant gratification!  This almost always involves knit fabrics and my serger! I enjoy making simple knit dresses which are probably more suited to my life style than lace dresses and brocades!

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I lead a beer and jeans life but have constant visions of champagne and state dinners! The most worn dresses in my closet are what I call my CCC clothes — church, cocktails, cemetery. Dresses that can go almost anywhere. Here are a some of my favorites.

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 Four years ago, I made a New Year’s resolution to not buy any RTW garments. To make everything I wore. My friends here thought I was nuts. And although I was tempted in the beginning, after a few months I was spoiled by being able to have what I wanted, in the color I wanted, and in my style. Also, I was horrified by the workmanship in most RTW.

The next year, when Sarah announced her first RTW fast, I quickly jumped in. This is my third official year, and it makes me so happy when I look in my closet and see it filled to the brim with my own creations! I’m not sure how much money I have actually saved because I doubt I would have bought 29 dresses last year, but it sure has saved my sanity more times than I can count. Does not having to visit the shrink on a weekly basis count?

When I think about my sewing journey, one of the greatest benefits has been the the friendships that have evolved along the way and the people I have met — some face-to-face and others merely on the internet. I believe the sewing community to be incredibly generous and supportive, and I have made many dear, dear friends in that world who have enriched my life! I am excited to continue my journey, adding new friends and experiences daily.

Having a passion is one of the true blessings of life. Whether it be bridge, cooking, reading, painting, Nascar, golf. Whatever it is, if it makes one excited about getting up in the morning, it is something to be thankful for!

About me:

Married: To the nicest, noblest man I know for 44 years. 3 grown, good children who have always been my favorite people to spend time with! 5 glorious grandchildren, with whom I am totally besotted!

Hometown: Smallville, USA! We lovingly call our little town “SmithVegas”!

When not sewing, I enjoy spending time in my rose garden and being at the beach with my family. I am also a voracious reader and crossword puzzle addict!

Biggest sewing gaffe: The first thing I decided to make for myself was a skirt. Bought the pattern. Paid no attention to the measurements and cut out my RTW size. Ended up with a lovely pencil skirt — that wouldn’t fit a pencil. I learned my lesson — there is no vanity sizing in the pattern world!!

What I hope to accomplish: Too many things to list, but I would like to become a more efficient, organized sewer. I am like a cyclone in the sewing room — pattern pieces blown around all over the room, always losing my scissors, tape measure, pins scattered everywhere, etc, etc. Is there any hope for me?

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Read Cissie’s 194 entertaining pattern reviews HERE !

Until soon 🙂

 

goodbyevalentino
goodbyevalentino@gmail.com
97 Comments
  • Anelise Newman
    Posted at 02:51h, 24 February Reply

    What an inspiring blog post–you are such an industrious sewer! I think it’s sort of sad that Home Ec. is no longer an option in school. I’m in high school right now and I learned how to sew from my mom. Unfortunately I think it’s fallen out of style. I love hearing about avid seamstresses making awesome clothes!

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 12:31h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Anelise. I love it when I hear about young people sewing. Keep it up!

      • Deborah Jalving
        Posted at 18:58h, 24 February Reply

        Cissie! What an amazing sewist you are! I was very inspired by your productivity, and shamed at the same time. I have tons of fabric and an enviable supply of notion and I am feeling dead in the water! My weight gain has been such a discouragement that I just haven’t been sewing. But sewing my own clothes is exactly what I need to be doing! I don’t like being a hostage to RTW! So, with the inspiration and the kick in the pants I received from you I will once again be a prolific sewist! Thank you for the encouragement and the inspiration! I will be looking forward to seeing what other delightful things you have created. Happy sewing karma!

        • Cissie Wellons
          Posted at 00:49h, 25 February Reply

          Right back at you, Deborah! The wonderful thing about sewing is that we can make clothes that fit and flatter us no matter the size. I have met some lovely women who make the most amazing garments that fit them to perfection and are so stylish. We don’t need to be slaves to RTW!

  • CarolinasCallin
    Posted at 02:54h, 24 February Reply

    Oh, my! Your work is beautiful – those gorgeous little girls’ dresses and your French jackets…SO envious! And I agree…I’d totally wear your first cocktail dress. It’s lovely!

    Thanks for sharing your experiences and your projects with us. I’ll have to follow your WTW Fast to see what 2015 adds to your closet!

    Sarah – Feel better soon!

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 12:33h, 24 February Reply

      Thanks, Carolina. I may need a bigger closet!!

  • Andrea Birkan
    Posted at 03:01h, 24 February Reply

    Cissy you are an inspiration to the RTW sewers . I love seeing your new creations. Your clothes are absolutely beautiful. Thank you for continuing to inspire me.

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 13:46h, 24 February Reply

      Thanks, Andrea. You are such an inspiration on RTW fasters!

  • Sherrie Virdell
    Posted at 03:32h, 24 February Reply

    Cissie, I am always excited to see one of your reviews on Pattern Review, because I know it will be something special. Love your engaging personality, and I almost always laugh because you are so honest and it reminds me that we all share a common love of sewing. Thanks for being you and inspiring all of us!

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 13:47h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Sherrie. Isn’t our sewing community the best?!

  • Marjorie Trundle
    Posted at 03:45h, 24 February Reply

    It was such a pleasure to read your invitation post Cissy. I look at your beautiful work on PR and read every word you write as I believe your comments are well founded by an experienced dressmaker. I love your projects and your beautiful attention to detail.

  • Lori
    Posted at 03:56h, 24 February Reply

    Oh this was a wonderful post and Cindy I loved learning so much about you. Your garents are amazing.

  • Jacqui Hooper
    Posted at 04:00h, 24 February Reply

    Thank you for spotlighting Cissie – I had seen her wonderful coat and dress awhile ago and it is so good to be able to read more about this amazing dressmaker. I am in awe of your productivity Cissie and God bless for 2015 and sewing.
    Jacqui

  • Mary Lynn
    Posted at 04:46h, 24 February Reply

    Loved your post, Cissie! I always marvel at how many beautiful and beautifully made clothes you make. I’m still not convinced that you sleep! I love your wonderful sense of humor – CCC is so truly southern……. and probably a ham and many casseroles
    are somehow involved. Is Smallvegas near Raleigh – and more importantly – Mulberry Silk? What a wonderful store with super
    people! Thank you for a great post.

    Sarah, I hope you don’t have the flu that ignored the flu shots. Ed and I both got it and wound up in “his” and “her” ambulances
    and (I hate to admit it) Senior Home Health Care when we went home )-: What kind of dress form did you get? I’m on a quest. Speedy recovery.

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 12:35h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Mary Lynn. SmithVegas is indeed near Raleigh. And isn’t Mulberry Silk wonderful?! I don’t get there as often as I’d like — which is probably a good thing.

  • Heather Myers
    Posted at 04:49h, 24 February Reply

    Thank you Cissie! Your posts are an inspiration to me, as well as entertaining !

  • Art Attack
    Posted at 05:31h, 24 February Reply

    Oh, Cissie what a wonderful post! I felt as though we were in the same room visiting. What an elegant sense of style you have and you wear clothes so well. Thank you for giving us a glimpse of your world. I so look forward to the day we finally meet in person!

    Sarah, thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to know Cissie better!

    Hugs to you both,
    Dorcas

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 12:36h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Dorcas! And we will meet face-to-face one day soon!

  • Jan Moore
    Posted at 05:43h, 24 February Reply

    It is wonderful to see your lovely and inspiring sewing again, Cissie!

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 12:36h, 24 February Reply

      Hi Jan! From baby-sewing to big girl sewing! It’s all fun, isn’t it?

  • Lisa Eldridge
    Posted at 05:55h, 24 February Reply

    Both of you have such a wonderful sense of style. I am so inspired. I find sewing therapeutic as well. 🙂

  • Accordion
    Posted at 07:58h, 24 February Reply

    Loving the CCC descriptor. I’m definitely using that!

  • Sally frick
    Posted at 08:03h, 24 February Reply

    Cissie sews beautifully and clearly understands the joy of having a passion that engages you everyday.

  • Barbara Hewitt
    Posted at 09:59h, 24 February Reply

    Wow, what a treasure you are. My life is much like yours. I was a dressmaker though high school and college, made every I wore. Now, sew for adult daughters and 4 granddaughters. Although I have not been a” faster”, I love the idea and will wait for the right time. Loved, loved your story.

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 13:50h, 24 February Reply

      With 4 granddaughters to sew for, you probably don’t have any time for fasting. But hope you’ll join us soon!

  • Maureen Cooksley
    Posted at 10:13h, 24 February Reply

    Now I know why I am always drawn to the patterns that you choose. You have such elegant style and a beautiful approach to sewing. It elevate something we all love but can’t quite express it as beautifully as you have just done. Thankyou for being my inspiration so many times.

  • Marysia Paling
    Posted at 10:32h, 24 February Reply

    Thank you so much for sharing with us. I began my heirloom journey whilst living abroad, and made many sewing friends in USA, France, Canada and back home in England too. It is this that got me introduced by my American Friends to Threads magazine and the joys of Susan Khalje, Kenneth D King etc. Together with blogs like yours Sarah I have been able to raise the bar with my sewing.

    You are all such an inspiration and I too now love making couture clothes for myself and daughter.
    Cissie, I just adore all the beautiful clothes you have made and want to rush out and find the patterns!!
    I would love to hear more about your pattern choices, or do you self draft??

    Thank you again to you gracious ladies for sharing with us all.

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 12:39h, 24 February Reply

      Oh no, Marysia. I don’t draft! That’s a skill set I just don’t have. I might mix up a few elements on occasion but usually I just rely on pattern companies. There are some very good independent companies these days which intrique me!

      • Marysia Paling
        Posted at 23:14h, 25 February Reply

        I love the choices you have made, and I think you are a Marfy fan too…………..would you tell us what pattern your first dress was……………it is so stylish and elegant on you, and I am intrigued to learn if it is Vogue or Marfy??

        • Cissie Wellons
          Posted at 01:05h, 26 February Reply

          Marysia, That very first dress, made long ago, was a Vogue pattern.

  • Marysia Paling
    Posted at 10:38h, 24 February Reply

    Oh Sarah, meant to say, Get well really soon and take good care. Hugs from the other side of the pond.xx

  • Diana
    Posted at 10:39h, 24 February Reply

    Thank you Sarah for inviting Cissie, and thank you Cissie for the illuminating post. I aspire to sew like you someday. I feel like I was at the tail-end of the generation that had home ec classes in school. When my younger brothers got to the same school a few years later, those classes were gone. It’s really a shame. That said, at least there’s YouTube, blogs, and classes like never before. Feel better, Sarah, and thanks again.

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 13:52h, 24 February Reply

      The internet has been a life-saver for me more times than I can count. Even if I think I know how to do something, I’m always looking for a better way!

  • Vicki Maiorano
    Posted at 10:39h, 24 February Reply

    Wonderful post, thanks Cissie! You are an inspiration. And Sarah hope you are feeling better.

  • AJW
    Posted at 11:39h, 24 February Reply

    Wow. Not only a wonderfully inspiring blog post, but an amazing archive of sewing projects, spanning all range of style and fabric. What a wealth of wisdom! Thank you for sharing!

  • Sandra (Sewist-Stitch)
    Posted at 11:41h, 24 February Reply

    Your opening line just made me giggle. On the days I get to immerse myself in a sewing project, if I didn’t have to stop to make dinner for the family I would probably sew and not eat either. What a lovely guest post – thanks to you both 🙂

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 13:54h, 24 February Reply

      Thanks so much Sandra. Sometimes I look at my watch and say “darn! Bet somebody is going to want dinner!”

  • Laura Casey
    Posted at 12:05h, 24 February Reply

    What a lovely post….and to see an RTW Fasters was the best….Cissie has always been one of my favorites since I started this journey with the RTW Fasters, excellent sewist, has lots of style and cute to boot! Thank you both, you provide lost off inspiration.

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 13:55h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Laura! I have enjoyed “getting to know you” in our fasters group.

  • Laura Casey
    Posted at 12:06h, 24 February Reply

    I meant…..LOTS OF INSPIRATION……..

  • Sherrill D. Allen
    Posted at 12:10h, 24 February Reply

    What a delightful interview. Cissie the interesting lovely person really shined through. Feel like we really got to know her. Thanks.

  • Bernadette O'Brien
    Posted at 12:26h, 24 February Reply

    Thank you for the inspiring story.

  • Jean W
    Posted at 12:52h, 24 February Reply

    What a fabulous post! She could also be a great writer! Cissie, you are always an inspiration with your beautiful sewing and i would love to be able to find the time to sew half the amount of garments you do. Love your work.

  • Syd Harris
    Posted at 13:08h, 24 February Reply

    I loved ready this post!

  • Syd Harris
    Posted at 13:20h, 24 February Reply

    Oops! I wanted to say that I really loved this story!

  • Sharon
    Posted at 13:25h, 24 February Reply

    Thanks for sharing your awesome work with us, Cissie! It’s so nice to connect with someone who loves couture sewing (and Susan Khalje) as much as I do!

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 16:10h, 27 February Reply

      There is no one like Susan, is there? I am an official Susan khalje groupie!

  • Katalin
    Posted at 13:25h, 24 February Reply

    Thank you, Cissie for your post! I very much enjoyed reading it, you are such an inspiration!

    Get well soon, Sarah! xxx

  • Dagmar O'Hanlon
    Posted at 14:41h, 24 February Reply

    I, too, was at the tail end of home economics being mandatory at high school and it is where I learned to sew and cook (although, truth be told, the cooking part was very poorly done in comparison to the sewing component. We learned how to make Kraft dinner from the box while in sewing we first made a sample book of stitches before graduating to a lined skirt and button down vest combo – very 70’s!). I feel sorry for today’s young people who do not have these same life enriching options while at school.

    Cissie, I am always eager to read your reviews when I see them as I know that odds are, you have sewn something I would be interested in myself. Now that I know more about your depth of experience, I understand even more why your creations always seem to work! Thanks for sharing your efforts so regularly and inspiring so many people.

    Speedy recovery, Sarah!

  • Linda Reynolds
    Posted at 15:14h, 24 February Reply

    Great post – always inspiring. Love the brocade jacket with the portrait collar. What pattern is it please?

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 15:43h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Linda. The brocade is a Marfy pattern.

  • Kathie Bennett
    Posted at 15:23h, 24 February Reply

    Inspired!

  • Sharon Hughes
    Posted at 16:14h, 24 February Reply

    Hope you are feeling better.
    I always enjoy reading and seeing your latest sewing projects with your honest reviews.
    And, I have always look forward to reading about Cissie’s adventures on pattern review.
    Both of you are very inspiring – thanks to both of you for sharing.
    This was a lovely posting.

  • Beth (SunnyGalStudio)
    Posted at 16:23h, 24 February Reply

    Hi Cissie – so nice to read more about you. I always love to see what you make on Pattern Review. and you choose so many patterns that I would like to make so thank you for that 🙂 Your garments always look great.

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 16:55h, 24 February Reply

      High praise, indeed, Beth, coming from you! Your work is always so incredible and inspiring. I am awaiting my pattern for that adorable coat you recently finished! Now if mine only turns out a fraction as nicely!

  • Meme
    Posted at 16:25h, 24 February Reply

    Cissie, I have admired your pattern reviews for a long time. Your work is always so chic and flattering. Thanks for sharing. Sarah, I hope you are feeling better and are ready to sew.

  • Ally - Design Rewind Fashions
    Posted at 16:36h, 24 February Reply

    What a lovely article post! Cissie, your garments are incredible and they show true artistry. I hope to have skills like you someday!. Take care of yourself, Sarah. And thank you for introducing me to another talented sewer!

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 00:54h, 25 February Reply

      Thanks so much, Ally. They say that it takes 10.000 hours to master something. Well, I’m here to tell you, that ain’t so. I’ve got many more hous in sewing than that and I haven’t mastered it yet! Still working on it!

  • Ellie
    Posted at 18:21h, 24 February Reply

    I have always admired your sewing projects. I’m glad there is a quick link above to your reviews on Pattern Review. My favorite line in this was about needing clothes for “church, cocktails, and cemetery.” What would mine be? Maybe “church, crunches, cemetery., and clubs” Definitely church although at my church it is fine to go very casual. Unfortunately, a dark dress is definitely needed at times. My greatest challenge would be clothes for the gym and sports activities other than spectator. It is so hard to find the same materials as in RTW for those and it would cost a lot more to sew than to grab some off the racks at TJMaxx. Smart casuals for club meetings and various appointments. is the addition. I hope you will guest blog again. Do you have your own blog?

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 00:45h, 25 February Reply

      No blog for me, Ellie. I am a great admirer of those like Sarah who take the time (tremendous) to do one well. I know I could never measure up! But I love reading them! I don’t know about you, but my gym clothes are sad. Like you, I’ve never found the right fabrics or the inclination to make them. Why make gym clothes when I can make cocktail dresses for phantom parties!!!

  • Courtney
    Posted at 19:44h, 24 February Reply

    Cissie, The beauty and quality of the garments you make, along with your awe- inspiring productivity, keeps me motivated when I feel like things are moving so slowly in my sewing room. Thanks for sharing!

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 22:02h, 24 February Reply

      Thank you, Courtney! Things can move slowly in my sewing cave sometimes, too!

  • Robin
    Posted at 20:42h, 24 February Reply

    What a treat to read about you Cissie! I have seen a lot of your work lately because I am looking at all the Marfy projects I can find. You have sewn so many beautiful things. Maybe I’ll see you at a class with Susan some day. I sure would love to take a week off and sew 🙂

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 22:00h, 24 February Reply

      With a wedding coming up, I know you’re busy scouting for the perfect dress. I read your blog always with great interest! One of these days we’ll meet up!

  • Mary Funt
    Posted at 21:05h, 24 February Reply

    Cissie: Thanks for sharing your fabulous creations with us. You certainly have been busy and none of your outfits looked quick and easy. Great reading how you began sewing.
    Sarah: what was your “disaster” with the dress form? Maybe some of us who have done this can help. I hope you are feeling better.

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 22:03h, 24 February Reply

      I’m with you, Mary. I’m dying to know about Sarah’s dress form adventure! Hope she will tell us more as soon as she is feeling better!

  • Sue Bateman
    Posted at 00:21h, 25 February Reply

    Thanks Cissie it’s wonderful to see your amazing creations you are a constant inspiration I often say to my husband that you are the one that makes me do more as I feel my output is positively slow compared to yours. I too am loving my sewing and have no plans to go back to RTW anytime soon.

  • Cissie Wellons
    Posted at 00:46h, 25 February Reply

    Thank ;you, Sue. Keep on sewing!

  • Mary Jo Rice
    Posted at 00:54h, 25 February Reply

    Yours is an extraordinarily lovely blog. I am impressed and inspired. Well done.

  • justine
    Posted at 02:17h, 25 February Reply

    What an inspiration Cissy is! I’ve always admired her work on Pattern Review and it was fun learning about her. The christening gown is sooo beautiful!

    • justine
      Posted at 02:18h, 25 February Reply

      Sorry, I spelled Cissie wrong!

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 02:54h, 25 February Reply

      Thanks, Justine. There is probably nothing in the world I love more than making a christening gown. I think knowing that they will be passed down is part of the alllure.

  • Wrenaissance Art
    Posted at 02:52h, 25 February Reply

    Thanks for this inspiring post and great clothes!
    I’m also one of the home-ec generation. Hard to believe there’s no longer a basic training for the everyday living skills in our skills.
    I have to admit–the fab patterns and fabrics for fancy party frocks are so inspiring, but my life is all walking dogs and hiking. Like one of the other commenters, finding the high-tech fabrics used in today’s sports garments is a real challenge.

    • Patricia Doherty
      Posted at 15:35h, 10 March Reply

      A great store to find high tech fabric for sports garments is Seattle Fabric located on 8702 Aurora Ave North in Seattle ,WA

  • Julie Starr
    Posted at 03:17h, 25 February Reply

    What a truly wonderful guest post, Cissie. Your sewing is always exquisite, both stylistically and technically and your words about having a passion especially resonate. It’s always a treat to see what you’re sewing and saying! You commented on the very first review I had the courage to post on Pattern Review and I’ll always be grateful for your encouragement.

  • Denise Thompson
    Posted at 03:21h, 25 February Reply

    Thanks for sharing.. Cissie you are truly inspiring! The quality and quantity that you display is awesome!

  • Linda M
    Posted at 03:58h, 25 February Reply

    Wow, 89 garments? I am impressed! And such beautiful things. I love the coat and the lace dress!

  • Bev V.
    Posted at 05:10h, 25 February Reply

    love your style. Very classic and beautiful. I adore the purple dress with the princess seams. What pattern is that please?

  • Bev V.
    Posted at 05:11h, 25 February Reply

    And thank you for the great post.

  • Danielle
    Posted at 07:17h, 25 February Reply

    I can relate to much of what you have said. My journey has been quite similar. I doubt I will ever achieve the amount of garments that you have made but like you, I am now totally smitten with couture garments. I love your choice of lining in your Chanel style jackets. Just make an excuse to wear them all. I feel honoured to have met such lovely talented ladies. Keep up the inspiring work. I’m sure many value your contribution to our journey.

  • june lovell
    Posted at 14:51h, 25 February Reply

    loved the post, love the clothes, my goal is a french jacket. the ccc comment reminded me of my days in Virginia Beach though i’m a born and bred Southern Californian and ccc equals pants and flip flops. i clean up my act when i head down South to visit, however. i’m finishing up my tax prep and am ready to sew again, thanks for the inspiration.

  • Karen Helm
    Posted at 18:06h, 25 February Reply

    Well, I have decided that I would like to be Cissie when I “grow up”, and If I can’t be her, then I’d like to live next door to her!

    This is such a delightful post, dear lady, and I love seeing your creations! If you ever figure out a way to keep organized and un-messy when sewing, do share your discovery. The cyclone is a regular visitor in my sewing room!

    Thank you, Sarah, for featuring Cissie and her beautiful and inspiring creations!

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 20:34h, 25 February Reply

      I wish you did live next door, Karen. I would love to have a sewing buddy close by.

  • Bridget
    Posted at 00:27h, 26 February Reply

    Thoroughly enjoyed your post Cissie, and absolutely love everything you make!

  • Celeste Yanisch
    Posted at 00:38h, 26 February Reply

    What an inspiring guest Miss Cissie is! Did you ever attend any SAGA conventions for heirloom sewing? I recognize the beautiful Madeira work and shadow embroidery on linen…exquisitely done! I am equally impressed with how prolific you are in sewing garments for yourself. Wow! I am truly in a awe of the gorgeous coat and lace dress; it is worthy of a visit to the queen of England. It is stunning; truly. Thank you so much for sharing your talents on this blog; I am so grateful to have seen this. It is inspiring. I keep trying to gain the determination to sew for myself but my challenging body type (scoliosis) is off-putting.

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 01:09h, 26 February Reply

      Celeste, I did go to a few SAGA conventions several years ago. Still meet up with some of the friend I made there! I was so enthralled with embroidery that I spent a week at the Royal School of Needlework many years ago. But the eyes are not what they once were!

      I know so many people who have “off putting body types but there are ways to deal with most of these. Just makes sewing a bit more challenging but no less possible!

  • Sharon
    Posted at 01:04h, 26 February Reply

    So lovely to meet you Cissie, I have admired your Pattern Reviews many times.

  • poppykettle
    Posted at 06:44h, 26 February Reply

    So lovely to read about you in blog land, Cissie!!! You’re a delight to be around, and your coat – divine. I’m so glad I got the change to ogle your fabric for that in person – and it looks so beautiful over that lace dress! Happy sewing 🙂 xx

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 14:17h, 26 February Reply

      Hi, Mel! I’m hoping that one day we will have another opportunity to sew together with Susan! Of course, you’ll have to wait until renovations on your new house are finished! Your wedding will always be one of my favorite garments ever!

  • Wendy Melnikoff
    Posted at 16:04h, 26 February Reply

    Beautiful garments! I am sooooo wanting to take a class from Susan and am getting close to signing up for one! BTW, sewing is still offered in many schools across the country. I live in Northern VA and it’s called FACS. Short for family and consumer sciences. It’s the new updated version of home economics and does still have a sewing unit. I taught it for over 20 years and just switched to teach Family Life education. In FACS, every 7th grader has to take it and they all sew a project. I then offer and still do a sewing club after school. Our schools have 30 sewing machines, 4 embroidery machines and 2 sergers. I love that it’s still introduced to students in many parts of the country. Wish it was offered everywhere.

    Thanks again for sharing your beautiful garments with us!

    • Cissie wellons
      Posted at 16:15h, 27 February Reply

      So nice to know that sewing is still encouraged in some areas.

      Do take a class from Susan. You won’t be sorry!

  • Sarah Wilson
    Posted at 21:11h, 27 February Reply

    Love your style, You look so elegant in everything you make.

  • mary fore
    Posted at 09:22h, 29 July Reply

    What beautiful work !!! Makes me envious.!

  • Theda Kittrell
    Posted at 21:21h, 15 April Reply

    I am so impressed with your style, I cant ‘t wait to read some of these pattern reviews others have mentioned. I have the Vogue pattern you used in your first cocktail dress. What fabric did you use?

    • Cissie Wellons
      Posted at 11:42h, 16 April Reply

      Thanks so much. I think the fabric was a silk satin but not sure as it was a long time ago!

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