Its in the Bag

If you reside in New Zealand you would be forgiven if you thought this was about some 80's Tv show, when in fact its a pattern review.


For some time now I have been meaning to make some more bags for myself and others, but there never seems to be enough time in the day. So when Jenny from Seamingly Smitten Patterns sent out the call for pattern reviewers for her Fall 2014 pattern tour and giveaway and one of the items happened to include a bag, how could I resist.


The Slouch bag as it is aptly called is suitable for the  beginner sewer, all instructions and fabric requirements are all laid out in an easy to read manner, with lots of images to show you exactly what is required.

Inside the bag

The bag has a magnetic clasp and an external and an internal pocket, lots of room for all those bits and pieces. I made my bag with the extra long strap for across body wearing but it can also be worn on the shoulder. It was quite hard choosing fabrics, only because I had so many to choose from but love this combination of colours. 



This bag could easily be made reversible, just omit the clasp and another option for the strap would be to add a slider so that the strap  can be adjusted. If you like tassels and fringes this option is also included in the instructions. I can see many of these bags in my near future, one for each season perhaps.

If you would like to purchase the pattern follow this link 

If you would like to get 50% of this and other patterns please use the Code: Patterntour50

That offer might have been enough on its own, but there is more. If you are interested in winning some fabric and patterns then enter away below

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Check out the other bloggers in the pattern tour, and dont be slow in entering as the giveaway and discount code ends soon.

Pattern Review - Lesley Flutter Top for Women

I am so excited to be reviewing a pattern as part of the Seamingly Smitten Summer 2014 pattern tour. 

As you may know, most of the sewing I do is for children or items around the home and I have only made one thing for myself recently which was a skirt. 

So I chose to review the  Lesley Flutter Top for Women which would give me a new item for my wardrobe and a different style to what I normally wear.


The pattern instructions where very easy to follow, well laid out and is aimed towards the beginner sewer. 

The pattern caters for a wide range of sizes 0-26 (XS-XXXL) - USA sizes, but does come with a comprehensive sizing chart so you can select which size suits you. 

Petite, Regular and tall hem lengths are included and there is also an option for a contrasting band.

Well written instructions, a heap of photos, a table of fabric requirements, and suggestions for suitable fabrics  - I chose a silky satin,  this pattern is a must have for any pattern collection.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                            I am quite pleased with how the top  turned out and could actually see a number of these in my wardrobe. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

This top is so versatile and roomy that it could be 

teamed with a long-sleeve top to wear in the cooler months.

I must admit to feeling apprehensive about posting photos of myself but thanks to some wonderful feedback here we are.

Pop over to the Seamingly Smitten Etsy page and get 50% off your purchase see coupon for details

You can also enter to win 5 patterns - 3 winners will receive 

their choice of 5 FREE sewing patterns

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Off to the Beach

Following on from my previous post I joined in a sew along with Little Kiwis Closet, to sew the Beachcomber Pinny pattern. 

It appeared to be an easy task  - the pinny was a quick sew but when you are busy with other sewing tasks your time management skills need to be pretty good. 

I did manage to get the pinny made in the required time and its such a cute and easy sew I think that there will be lots more coming out of the sewing room in the near future. 

Little girls who love to collect things will appreciate the big pockets to put all their little treasures in.

The fabric I chose was from the Riley Blake range - Twice as nice and as I love covered buttons or any buttons for that matter, the pinny wouldn't be complete without a couple.

Beachcomber Pinny

BeachComber Pinny

As you can see its been awhile since I have blogged, always too busy and I thought what better way to get back into by doing a sew along - my first one.

 Little Kiwis Closet has released a new pattern called the Beachcomber Pinny, which is different than most normal pinnies, it has a huge pocket in the front to hold all those treasures.

So I have purchased my pattern and have done days 1 through 3

Day 1. Choosing your fabric, size and options. Printing your pattern and cutting

Fabric Choices - Riley Blake Twice as Nice

Day 2. Assemble the pocket overlay
Day 3. Sew linings, side seams and assemble band

I will post more pictures in a day or two -but so far have enjoyed sewing this cute little pinny. If you want to know more check out the link below

Little Kiwis Closet