26 Oct Save the Silk!
Shame, Shame, Shame!
The only thing that saved my latest from being a wadder is the beautiful crepe de chine from Mood Fabrics.
It’s all I can do to smile.
The search for the perfect tunic pattern is taking a hiatus. I outsmarted myself by combining pattern pieces from my favorite tunic patterns, including Butterick 4856 Simplicity 4149 and Simplicity 1461.
I liked the bodice of Butterick 4856, the two-piece back of Simplicity 1461 and the placket of Simplicity 4149. After coordinating the measurements from the different patterns I assumed all was safe but I met near disaster at almost every juncture 🙁
Saving the silk was the only reason to keep going.
The navy trim is an ivory silk twill ordered from Mood over 18 months ago, which I dyed with Navy Rit Dye.
I won’t dwell on what went wrong since it was everything, but I managed to struggle though the issues until I completed a tunic.
I share my near disastrous project with readers because when I started sewing again, I vowed to always complete my garments.
I’m glad I did for the top will serve as a reminder not to do this again, but I hope I can wear it without focusing on the shortcomings.
Searching for the perfect tunic in fit and design has led me to the conclusion that I need to learn to design patterns. I can envision what I’m looking for but have been unable to make it happen. To prevent further disasters I’ve enrolled in a Craftsy Course, Patternmaking Basics: The Bodice Sloper with Suzy Furrer. I look forward to sharing what I learn with you.
More soon 🙂
Mimi Berg
Posted at 20:50h, 26 OctoberTake a look at Simplicity 0556. I’m not sure it’s still available, but I just made a lovely cotton lawn tunic from it with great results. It has princess seaming front and back which is always nice as alterations for fit are a breeze. There are several neckline options.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:21h, 27 OctoberThank you, Mimi! I can’t seem to find it anywhere. Simplicity 0556, right?
Mimi Berg
Posted at 22:27h, 17 NovemberWhoopsie… No, it’s Simplicity 4528.
treva
Posted at 20:54h, 26 OctoberWell only you will ever know the difficulties you experienced. It looks. Lovely. I can’t wait to hear about your experience with the sloper class as I’ve thought about enrolling several times.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:23h, 27 OctoberThat’s very nice of you Treva, but this top has visible issues…… ugh 😉 At any rate, I too can’t wait to take the Craftsy course and will keep you posted !
Eileen
Posted at 21:14h, 26 OctoberSarah, Perhaps you could view your tunic as the inspiration piece that spurred you onto your next phase of sewing. The pattern making basics class will help you take your sewing to the next level. At least you can wear your wadder……mine is hanging in my sewing closet. It looks lovely on the hanger! Congratulations on your new blogging site. You continue to inspire us sewists.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 21:47h, 26 OctoberHi Eileen! The same thought has crept into my mind 🙂 Many thanks for the comment!
Suzanne Lavoie
Posted at 21:41h, 26 OctoberSarah,
I think all of your tunics have looked phenomenal on you but…(and please forgive me for saying this)…but (IMHO) you always look great with a more fitted garment. I think your endless search is because you really don’t like yourself in this unfitted style and so don’t think you look good! Sometimes we like the “idea” of a style much more than the realization of that style.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 21:47h, 26 OctoberLOL! You could be right Suzanne 🙂 I am hoping to make a more fitted tunic similar to some of the Tory Burch tunics I have seen. Maybe I’ll buy one and copy it on January 1!
Many thanks for your comment.
Annie Trish
Posted at 06:59h, 27 OctoberI agree with Suzanne’s comments. I think the tunic looks lovely on you but you don’t seem to feel comfortable in this style.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:24h, 27 OctoberIt very well could be…….. I hope to make a more fitted tunic at some point 🙂
Patricia Clements
Posted at 22:23h, 26 OctoberYou might consider one of Peggy Sayers patterns. Peggy enthusiastically encourages personalizations of her patterns. I have several Silhouette Patterns and have my eye on this one. http://www.silhouettepatterns.com/html/patterns/p_450.htm
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:26h, 27 OctoberThank you for the link, Patricia! I’ll check it out very carefully 🙂
B
Posted at 22:26h, 26 OctoberI love your blog and its new home! One observation — take another look @ your pics of this tunic. The shoulders are a little big — I suggest, in your quest, that you narrow them, and take the side seams in just a bit just below the bust. I’m sure you will succeed in your search for a good tunic…..remember — you have to kiss a lot of frogs! 🙂
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:27h, 27 OctoberMany thanks for the comment, B! E v e r y t h i n g is wrong with the tunic and I will not be combining pattern pieces again 😉 It just didn’t work.
Lydia Weathersby
Posted at 22:35h, 26 OctoberHi, Sarah
I enjoy your site a swell as your eye for design. As for “the ideal tunic”, I seem to see more dropped shoulder seams on tunics and i don’t know why. I look better structured and the drop shoulder makes me feel sloppy. There is no reason for the dropped shoulder is there? I feel like it makes one look “slumped”.
Along that line, I am thinking of making butterick 4812 with the shoulders of Vogue7447. Will keep you informed!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:29h, 27 OctoberMany thanks for the comment, Lydia! I agree with you about the dropped shoulder seams and good luck with your pattern combination!
Anelise Newman
Posted at 23:00h, 26 OctoberI admire your perseverance in finishing the tunic. It’s really tempting to just set aside a problematic piece and move on to the next gorgeous garment! But I really like the geometric neckline. Good luck finding the perfect pattern 🙂
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:32h, 27 OctoberThank you, Anelise! Years ago I had no problem walking away from a project, but I’ve found it to be beneficial to work through to completion even if it is a disappointment. I’ll eventually come up with something just right 🙂
Lauren
Posted at 23:03h, 26 OctoberI love this tunic. Hate the navy blue – but as a rule I don’t like navy blue so don’t listen to me! This is the best tunic yet.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:32h, 27 OctoberThank you, Lauren.
Leigh
Posted at 23:11h, 26 OctoberHave a great time in your class! I took a pattern-drafting class, and learned a ton about sewing. It was truly eye-opening and I had been sewing for years.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:33h, 27 OctoberMany thanks, Leigh. This is so good to hear 🙂 !
CarolinasCallin
Posted at 23:33h, 26 OctoberSarah, I actually like the proportions on this tunic very much – especially the length! To me, most tunics are almost ALWAYS too darn short, and kind of hit at a bad spot on people. This one seems to hit at just the right length, and the silk is gorgeous!! AND you dyed your own trim fabric…sigh. Why don’t I think of those things??? LOL
A little more fitted would make this look fabulous…but I personally think it’s lovely! Was your trim fabric heavier than your silk? It looks like maybe keeping the neck nice and crisp was an issue – although my Lillys do that around the neck a bit (they’re beaded).
Tunics are one of my favorite pieces. Once you figure out your perfect pattern, I’ll be first in line to buy it! 🙂
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:37h, 27 OctoberHi Cheryl! Thank you so much for your comment. What can I say other than I was clueless about how this would work out. I thought combining my favorite pattern pieces would give me the perfect fit. I used French seams and am not sure about altering at this time other than make the seam bigger.
I too like the length Cheryl and I’m sure I’ll eventually find what I’m looking for.:)
Karen de Vries
Posted at 01:51h, 27 OctoberI use Wild Ginger pattern drafting software. I love the face that I can create my own styles and that they will be a perfect fit! It is relatively easy to use and the learning curve is not long, especially if you have some technical skills. Their website is http://www.wildginger.com
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:37h, 27 OctoberThank you, Karen! I’ve been in contact with Beth from Wild Ginger and will give her a try 🙂
Kennis
Posted at 03:52h, 27 OctoberI took/am taking all Suzy Furrer’s Craftsy classes. They are beyond awesome. I think you will enjoy your class!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:38h, 27 OctoberMany thanks for your comment, Kennis. This is so good to know!
Sew, Jean Margaret
Posted at 05:56h, 27 OctoberThanks for sharing all your sewing ventures. Even the ones you are not so happy with. The fabric is beautiful and you have certainly created a wearable garment. Hope you find what you are looking for in a tunic soon.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:39h, 27 OctoberMany thanks, Jean! Surely I’m not too far away 😉
Sarah Liz
Posted at 06:20h, 27 OctoberOh dear, this was me years and years ago! That’s why I now always make muslins, even for simple garments- very tedious, but does sort out these issues. You will need to do that when you draft your own as well. Please don’t focus on the shortcomings, just the lessons learnt 🙂
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:40h, 27 OctoberAs someone who makes muslins for almost everything I thought I was safe, but it was not so!
Sarah Liz
Posted at 02:42h, 28 OctoberOh dear – yes, one is always caught out, just to relearn the lesson again. I know, I’ve done that as well 🙂
Valerie
Posted at 08:44h, 27 OctoberYour tunic does not look too bad but I understand your frustration in the result not being what you had in mind. Maybe you could show us a sketch? There may still be a pattern out there that matches your vision!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:41h, 27 OctoberThank you, Valerie!! I need to share my Pinterest page where I have been collecting tunics. Will do shortly 🙂
Myra
Posted at 09:12h, 27 OctoberGreat determination Sarah! Your beautiful tunic says it all too! Isn’t it such a wonderful feeling when you can pull yourself out of the situation like this and have a beautiful piece of clothing to show for your hard work!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:41h, 27 OctoberMany thanks, Myra! I’m glad I finished it but it is not my favorite 😉
Sandra (Sewist-Stitch)
Posted at 11:04h, 27 OctoberI’m with you Sarah – I have so many ideas in my head but patterns would just require too much work, so I enrolled in the Craftsy Bodice Slopper course – Suzy is a great instructor, but I am still trying to perfect my moulage (up to muslin 3) – it’s a slow process for me so I can assess the fit with fresh eyes each time, but I’m getting there. Love the new mansion and the new logo 🙂
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:42h, 27 OctoberHi Sandra and thank you so much for your comment! I look forward to reading more about your Craftsy experience
Laura Casey
Posted at 12:06h, 27 OctoberWell first of all it’s as cute as can be……but I’m not sure this boxy look is the best for you…can you find a pattern (or make one!) that includes darts from the hi-hip that continues to the bust….creating a silhouette with some idea of a waistline…I think your height is not helping you in this quest for the ‘perfect’ tunic. I think it’s more of what looks best on your type figure and height than the pattern…..but glad you saved the silk!
Thanks for sharing….it’s takes a confident person to share “all” of her sewing projects……but remember you’re among the best of friends….
LAURA
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:23h, 28 OctoberHi Laura!
Thank you for this excellent suggestion! I found it to be incredibly helpful to share the unsuccessful projects due to the wonderful advice I generally receive 🙂
Jet Set Sewing
Posted at 12:08h, 27 OctoberI’m with you about saving silk crepe de chine! It’s one of my favorite fabrics. I agree that tunics are tougher to make than they look, but they’re so useful at this age.
I made up a Pinterest page earlier this year that has a number of modern and vintage tunic patterns pinned to it, if that helps: http://www.pinterest.com/juleseclectic/beach-tunics/
I made a 40s version this summer that I cussed out as well, because right up to the end it looked like Gertrude Stein’s bathrobe!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:21h, 28 OctoberOoh…… love your Pinterest link! Very helpful indeed 🙂
Jenny
Posted at 12:33h, 27 OctoberOh no! Well, you’d never know you had trouble to look at the top now. The fabric is gorgeous and the fit and shape look great.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:19h, 28 OctoberThank you, Jenny! The fabric is gorgeous – PERIOD 🙂
neucarol
Posted at 13:19h, 27 OctoberI share your pain. Have learned to bite my tongue when complimented on a sewing project and not say, “Oh but, let me show you….
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:19h, 28 OctoberThank you Carol! My children had a poster entitled the ABCs of Good Manners. A is Accept a Compliment Gracefully ………. so hard to do sometimes 😉
Sharon kane
Posted at 13:43h, 27 Octobergreat looking garment. I agree with you in taking the pattern making class. Sometimes while blending a lit
Bit of this and a little bit of that from existing patterns can turn into a lot of nothing. I took a pattern making class from a local fabric store. Very intense, but I came out with so much more knowledge and understanding of patterns and the body. The pattern making class will expand your great design vision and I look forward to seeing your creations. Keep us posted!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:17h, 28 OctoberThank you, Sharon. I love your comment which hit the nail on the head – a lot of nothing 🙂
So glad to know the pattern class was worthwhile !
Judie Loveday
Posted at 14:32h, 27 OctoberI love that you’re determined to find the right tunic pattern for you. I had a quick look at the Tory Burch ones, and can see 3 differences between yours and hers. Firstly, her placket focal point is much lower than the ones you’ve made. Hers ends up roughly just over half-way between the bust and waist. Second, her shoulder line is slimmer than the patterns you have been using. Lastly, her tunics are quite fitted from the shoulder line to the waist. I wonder if those changes are enough to make you more comfortable with your versions? I know you’ll perfect it!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:15h, 28 OctoberThere is so much standing between my tunics and TB’s tunic…… your list is only the beginning! Your suggestions will certainly help and a TB tunic may be the first garment I buy once the RTW Fast is over – I must figure this out 🙂 Many thanks for your comment, Judie!
Katalin
Posted at 15:10h, 27 OctoberI think it still looks lovely on you. Unlike somebody else who commented here, I love navy blue. 🙂
I have had that class on my wish list for a while.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:13h, 28 OctoberLOL! I love navy too 🙂 Many thanks, Katalin.
Valerie
Posted at 15:34h, 27 OctoberI think someone may have hit the nail on the head with the shoulders. I too have a short shoulder and it is amazing what a difference something looks when I forget to take it into account, and as someone has also suggested, you do suit more fitted than baggy.. Trouble is we sewers are so picky when it comes to studying ourselves, we want perfection every time.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:12h, 28 OctoberMany thanks for the comment, Valerie! The shoulders are certainly an issue along with many other detail……… live and learn… just make sure you learn 🙂
Ginger
Posted at 15:37h, 27 OctoberI can’t see anything wrong with this at all! But maybe it’s time to move on and sew something different for a while? I’m glad you finished it because it really does look cute on you!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:11h, 28 OctoberThank you, Ginger! Oh, I’m definitely moving on………… 😉
Gayle
Posted at 21:39h, 27 OctoberThank you for posting everything, whether you are happy with it or not. It is encouragement to all of us who are trying to get the perfect fit. Your figure is amazing but, sorry, this style is not the most flattering on you. Maybe a larger print would be more flattering. Anyway, really enjoy your posts!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:10h, 28 OctoberThank you, Gayle for the comment! A larger print would most definitely be more attractive! ……. and a closer fit…….. the list could go on and on 🙂
Nancy Settle
Posted at 01:56h, 28 OctoberWell Sarah I really don’t know what is wrong with this tunic – it’s impeccably created as are all your creations. However, I agree with Gayle that this is just not a flattering style for you which is probably why you have been unhappy with your tunics. I think you look better in fitted clothes since your figure is so cute. My very favourite tunic pattern is Vogue 1261 which I’ve made a couple of times and will make again. It’s a beautiful fit and actually shows off my figure while hiding that which I would prefer not to highlight :D. It is out of print now but you can still get it … not that you need MY suggestions lol you are MY idol.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:00h, 28 OctoberWell, what a lovely comment and I tend to take all of the help I can get 😉 I checked out the pattern and saw some gorgeous renditions. Many thanks, Nancy for bringing it to my attention!
Mary Helen Crowe
Posted at 02:26h, 28 OctoberYour tunic is lovely. I hope you have better luck with Rit dye than I have. It can wash out fairly quickly since it is a mix of dyes hoping to match with your fiber. I switched to Procion for much better results.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 11:58h, 28 OctoberThank you, Mary Helen! I have always had success with Rit although I know higher end dyes are available. Rit seems to be everywhere including the grocery store 🙂
Anna Chiao
Posted at 02:01h, 29 OctoberBecause of your posts about your search for the perfect tunic, I’ve become obsessed with tunics! I am carefully researching the various patterns and reading through the comments from you and all of these posters, before I actually sew one up. Thanks for sharing your stories!
Valerie Carroll
Posted at 05:28h, 29 OctoberSarah, please look into Sure Fit Designs, and look at the Sure Fit Designs thread at Artisanssquare.com. I used to try to mash patterns together, or alter the big 4 companies’ to fit me. Now, I can draw something similar to the pattern designs from my own measurements, I tried the software design programs (3 of them) and SFD eliminates a couple of steps from that process. No affiliation, just a satisfied customer.
Tina D
Posted at 17:10h, 29 OctoberI love your quest for the perfect tunic. Such an easy garment to wear, if done right! I like the tunic you did that was all one fabric, I think it looks more streamlined and drew the eye to your smiling visage, not the garment. 🙂 I don’t know if it’s too casual for you, but I think you’d look fabulous in a peasant top.