I needed to write a "biography" to share my sewing background. I honestly can't remember all of the stuff I've done since it's been awhile. So I googled my name plus Diary of a Sewing Fanatic and EVERYTHING I've done in the last 20 years came up...that was truly a little overwhelming.
However this article I wrote in August 2017 really struck me. It was on The Curvy Sewing Collective blog called, "Does Your Pattern Speak to You? Or why I Pattern Hack!" At that time, my sewing was all about pattern hacking. The article even links to some of my greatest pattern hacks. Then my TNT dress pattern was the gateway to fantastical journeys I made using fabric, scissors, pattern paper & tape to end up with garments that no one thought a plus size woman should wear.
Seven years later, I can say my sewing journey is all about the fabric! I don't create nearly as many garments as I made in 2017-2018. Now I really like challenging fabrics. Fabric that makes me think about how to cut it out so that it speaks effectively to the garment's design. Fabric that's different and unusual - not something you'd find at JoAnns. Now while I own a lot of fabric (understatement of the year!) I'm always on the lookout for an amazing panel print, border print or combo of fabrics that are unusual and unique.
Here are a few of my border print/panel creations from the last two years. Garments I'm particularly proud of since they represent my love of taking a flat piece of fabric and making it into something distinct.
I'm in the midst of making an amazing topper using a TNT pattern and a border print in a fantastic cotton corduroy. More details about it will be shared shortly. I just needed to record here what my sewing focus is now and how I will be moving forward. I love fabric especially the different and the strange.
....as always more later!
I love seeing your creativity with the panels and border prints - so inspirational! Nancy
ReplyDeleteLove this retrospective of your border print highlights. I have been sewing with border prints all my life but my hat is off to you. You are the Queen of border prints. I have always loved plaids and stripes for the same reason because of the challenge and being able to create a one of a kind garment. But again, you have taken it to the next level. I so enjoy your blogs. Jean
ReplyDeleteI love and remember all these fantastic sews, but the Katie Sunflower print has won my heart forever. Your skill with a border print is amazing, and I can't wait to see what you are working on.
ReplyDeleteI have loved your artistic creations for years!
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, you are amazingly talented. I have been reading your blog since 2012 and I remember your article about your TNT dress and some of the beautiful creative results. Your skill is inspiring, and your artistry just blows me away.
ReplyDeleteOops, sorry! The above comment is from me. I accidentally left the anonymous setting on without realizing it.
ReplyDeleteYou do such beautiful work and I appreciate seeing your creativity. It's inspiring! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteAs others have said what you do with border prints and panels is absolutely magical. I especially love the print continuing on the sleeves of the Simplicity tunic but I really, really want to know what's happening to the side of your vision in the Verano dress. Your expression is priceless!
ReplyDeleteA new post from you is as exciting as a new package of fabric from the UPS guy. Terrific garments! THANK YOU for the trouble you take to show us your lovely work! And worn by a gorgeous woman, let me add.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful uses of panels and border prints. Stunning!
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed seeing these stunning garments before, but when you put them together like this, POW!
ReplyDeleteAbove comment from Lindsay in California
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear you stretching your sewing and design skills. What is more inspirational than a beautiful border print? I am always on the hunt as well. Found a great one at my local and wonderful quilt shop. It should transfer well to a classic shirt design. It's so nice to hear from you. I have found over the years my sewing focus has shifted and I have gone thru a bunch of phases. We are lucky to be able to document it all on our blogs.
ReplyDeleteAll hail the Queen of the border prints!
ReplyDeleteYou make beautiful clothes : )
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing
I am always in awe of what you image a piece of fabric can be. I don't see like that. The way you manipulate border prints really brings them to life. I think we have seasons and you're in a very creative one, just different from past sewing seasons. g
ReplyDeleteYour journy is very inspiring
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