I’ve finally gotten a little bit of steam up on the sewing front and have to thank you for putting up with me through the sewing slump that has been going on here lately.
I managed to spend some of the weekend on future projects, no sewing yet, just pattern work and cutting out but that is always a significant part of every job.
I made some alterations to the Fashion Sewing Group 1960 sweater set, not much, a small alteration to the shoulder line, and lengthening the top and short cardigan by 2 inches. I had notes written on the pattern, which I had used, making adjustments on the fly as I cut, but that is always a dangerous path. The day will come when I will read the note to lengthen and cut three pieces correctly and one wrong. New pattern pieces are such a joy.
Of course after I altered the pattern I cut some fabric to sew up, a periwinkle cotton knit, very finely ribbed. This will actually replace the periwinkle sweater set I made in the spring for the cruise. I love the set but it has not held up well, less well than the other garments made from that same batch of fabrics. I am inclined to think this is due to the severe biasing that I found in the piece of periwinkle that I used for the sweater set. I was able to grain it up, but both pieces have to be seriously re-blocked every time they are washed. Somehow the fabric has not worn well, probably due to the harsh treatment it must be given to make it look good. Anyway, I will be happy to have a replacement.
I also finally finished the pattern for George’s vest. Where I had left it off, I had fitted the last muslin and pinned a couple of small alterations, telling myself "this will be easy, I’ll remember what these pins mean". Of course that assumption was based on the thought that I would mark the patterns soon; it has been a month and I looked at that muslin and wondered what the hell I was doing.
I had to have George try the muslin on again when all became quite clear. I then had to cut apart the muslin, transfer the markings to the last pattern draft. Redraft the pattern to include all the new alterations and then alter the lining pieces to match. It doesn’t sound like much but it took me a significant chunk of the day on Sunday.
I am ready to cut again, first George’s vest, and then a skirt I want to just whip out. Now the problem is finding the time. My plans to squeeze in some cutting time today were sadly misguided as It is nearly 10 and I have not gotten nearly as much done as I planned. I could try cutting tonight, but considering that I messed up a couple of rows of Tesla at knitting, burnt the potatoes and forgot to open the wine so I could deglaze the pan for the sauce for the Tournedos until after they were cooked, and then spilled my glass of wine all over the table, I think it is better that I stay away from scissors and all projects that require thought and planning for the rest of the evening.