UmaMakeupHDTV: Sewing projects

Showing posts with label Sewing projects. Show all posts

Monday, October 24, 2011

DIY: Fall/Autumn head band

If you have a bad hair day and need a quick fix, just put on a head band. It's as easy as that. Even better, make one yourself! That's what I did. Here is a quick tutorial showing you how to make the head band. This tutorial is available on my craft Youtube channel, DIYFashionista.

Video Tutorial

Thanks for coming by!

Have a great week!

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Bead embroidery.... My new hobby!

I have started another hobby, bead embroidery. I love it. So therapeutic.

Don't mind my glossy face... I was too absorbed beading!

It all started when I was browsing for handmade jewelry on Etsy. OMG, there are so many talented beings on there. I was absolutely mesmerized by the lovely work some have done with bead embroidery. Started doing some research about it and that's how it started. I had most on the material in my stash that I have been collecting for the past ten years. So it made it even easier to start a project.

I have made a few earrings (pics not included sorry)... Now I am working on this. Hopefully It should be done soon and I promise to show off to you guys! hehehehe!

That's it for now!

I hope you are having a pleasant start of the weekend!

Sunday, July 3, 2011

MIA?.... Fabric & Notion shopping in Singapore

Hi Everyone,

I know it's been a while since I posted anything herebl. To be honest, I was so busy and when I had the time, blogging was the last thing on my mind (sadly). Also, I am revamping my site and Youtube channel. As you know, things like these can take up much of ones time. Soon, you will see a new layout. It's been a year since I last changed the layout anyways....

I have been productive today. I made a video sharing my experience shopping for fabric and notions in Singapore. If you guys didn't know, I was in Singapore for 3 weeks. I am a very happy camper now with my loot.

What have you guys been up to these days?

Hope you enjoy the video.

Thanks for dropping by darlings...

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Sewing Channel and Singapore trip!

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to come by and let you guys know about a few things that is happening in my life right now.

I will soon be going to Singapore for about three weeks. I am sewing a lot these days because of my trip back home. It's very hot and humid in Singapore. Sweden is like the opposite in terms of weather however it is sunny and cool this time of the year. I need clothes that are very summery and that's why I am sewing a lot! A wardrobe revamp in the making.... As I am getting older, my taste in clothes have changed and I am much more particular with fittings and such. I guess sewing them yourself does solve most of the fussy issues. Sewing is time consuming but it is very rewarding and therapeutic (at least for me!). Also, I am practicing and polishing up my skills.

I really am looking forward to recording many videos while in Singapore. I really want to show you guys what Singapore looks like and my makeup routine in a humid climate. Have been asked so many times by viewers on this topic. I think the best is to show my techniques while in Singapore.

As some of you know, I have started a second Youtube channel (DIYFashionista). This channel is solely sewing, crafts and fashion. If you are interested in the mentioned, please feel free to follow the channel.

I know I have not been updating my blog that very often. I am not feeling it these days. I am working on it. Just that am not sure what you guys would like to see on my site. Since this site is for both makeup and sewing, I would love to know what you would like to hear from me. I am open to suggestions.

This is all for now. I hope to back very soon with some fun updates! Till next time... have a great weekend!

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Sewing project : Mccall 6078

Pattern Sizing:

Sizes X-Small to X-Large. I chose size X-Small. However, pattern was still quite big.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes, very easy!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I am not a huge fan of cowl neck blouses. However, I thought this pattern would change my mind on that but sadly it didn't!

Fabric Used:

I really am not sure what fabric. It feels like polyester and it is a knit. I dislike it when fabric stores don't have any description on the materials they carry. The worst is when the staff is also not able to tell what fabric it is (disappointing)!

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

Not done!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Well, maybe! When I find a better knit which has a heavier drape.

Conclusion:

I am amazed at how other fellow sewing enthusiasts made beautiful blouses using this pattern. I really hope I can make this pattern work someday. Overall it was a very easy pattern and it's great for beginners.

However, you need to know how to handle knit fabrics.

Happy sewing!

Monday, May 23, 2011

Sewing project : Mccall 6118

Pattern Sizing:

Size 4-12. I chose a size 4.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

I chose view A. Yes but my fabric choice was not the best.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes. However, I sewed the garment my way.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I did not like this pattern that much. I think It was slightly on the larger side even though I chose the smallest size.

Fabric Used:

Polyester fabric that was in my fabric collection for years. Trying to use up all the fabric in my collection.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

No alteration done. I did not include the interfacing on the neck band.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Maybe.... Not anytime soon!

Conclusion:

This pattern was ok but it did not work out well for me because of the choice of fabric.

Thanks for coming by!

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Sewing project : Mccall 6332

Hi Everyone,

This is one of my recent sewing projects from the Mccall patterns. I love this dress so much that I think I am going to make more dresses soon.

I have made a video review instead thus I am going to skip the written review. Hope you like it.

Thanks for coming by!

Monday, May 9, 2011

Sewing project : Burdastyle magazine 02/2011 Pattern 107 View B

Pattern Description:

High waist fitted pencil skirt

Pattern Sizing:

34 to 42, I choose size 34 for my waist and added about 8cm for my hips.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Well, it was not the same as the illustration because of the fabric choice but it was similar.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

I did not use the instructions from the magazine as I felt that it was really confusing and written badly.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

There was nothing I didn't like about this pattern.

Fabric Used:

Stretch denim.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did not add a hem allowance. Just folding up 4 cm and stitched so that shortened the pattern. I didn't add lining to the skirt as recommended.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, for sure. I like skirts like this. Pencil skirts are classic pieces to have.

****

I have made a video talking about this pattern and my thoughts about Burda style magazine patterns on my new sewing channel on Youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/DIYfashionista

Happy sewing!

Sewing project : Mccall M5855

Pattern Sizing:

I choice a size small.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes, it did.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Very easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

There was nothing I didn't like...

Fabric Used:

My mother's silk chiffon sari. It's like 10 years old. I can still smell my mum's old perfume scent on it.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I shorten the length by 5cm. I think It would have really mattered.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, I would if I find a lovely orange or coral shade chiffon that is not too expensive.

Conclusion:

Overall, I love kaftans. I think they are very hot and humid climate friendly. Great for my trip back to Singapore in June.

Thanks for coming by!

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Sewing project : Simplicity B5613

Pattern Description:

Slightly flared, above mid-knee length skirts A,B,C,D have back zipper and waistline variations. A,B: front and back gathers, side seam pockets, waistband and self-sash. B: border prints. C,D: front and back pleats and self-faced yoke, upper edge of yoke falls at waistline. D: lined lower section with gathered bubble hem.
Pattern Sizing:

Sz 6-22. I chose sz 6.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it did but with the sash.
Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes, very easy.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

There is nothing I do not like about the pattern. Just that I think this skirt does not flatter my body shape.
Fabric Used:

Slippery fabric. I think it is silk satin.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I chose view B. Sewed in an invisible zipper and didn't sew the sash.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

No, I don't think so!
Conclusion:

This is a lovely pattern and it's great for a beginner. If you have a pear shaped body, I don't think this pattern is for you. It will make you look bigger in the hips and usual.

Thanks for coming by.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Sewing project : Mccall M5425

Pattern Description:

Pullover dress has front and back casings; dress A has contrasting tie that extends from left front and left back opening edges of casing, canter back slit at upper edge; dresses B, C have shoulder straps extending from casing, upper and lower center back slits; dress B has contrasting shoulder strap and belt.
Pattern Sizing:

Size 6 - 20. I chose size 6.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes, it does!
Were the instructions easy to follow?

Very easy!
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

The only thing I do not like with this pattern is that the back is shapeless! No darts!
Fabric Used:

Japanese made floral polyester fabric.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did not sew the slit and skipped the tie belt.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Maybe.
Conclusion:

This is a super easy pattern for anyone who wants to start sewing. However, it is a shapeless pattern. Other then that I still think this pattern can be workable with a fancier fabric!

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Sewing project : Mccall 5880 & a self drafted top!

Finally, I managed to sew a pattern (M5880) from Mccall. Unfortunately, it was not a garment I would wear. Looks nice on the dress form but not on me. This pattern runs on the large side, even when it's a size 4. The armhole was too big for me. I had to take it about 1 1/2 inches on each side. Also when I put it on, it looked more like a maternity dress. I think this was because of the fabric and the fact that I had to line it as well. It definitely added on more bulk then needed. Maybe it might have worked if I had used a fabric which had more flow to it.

For this project, I used a cotton fabric which was given to me by my mum. Lovely fabric which has nice embroidery. Sadly, I will have to put this away at the back of my wardrobe. Use it when the time comes (Wink)!

On the bright side, I started sewing. I have been self drafting a lot too. Right below you will see my V neck, loosely fitted extended sleeved top/blouse. Sometimes I feel that I over analyze my drafting and end up not doing what I learnt in pattern drafting class years ago. After almost six months of no sewing, I think I am able to start a fresh and make some clothes for my coming trip to Singapore. Yes, in June, I will be in Singapore with Mr Hubby. Looking forward to it.

I shall not bore you with my ranting and show you what I made.

Front view

Side view

Back view

I didn't sew in the zipper as the pattern indicated to. I sewed it up and left a 3 inch gap so that I can get put on the dress.

My self drafted top using a cheap polyester floral fabric. I bought it in Singapore for SGD$2.00 a yard many years ago.

Extended sleeve

Back view

On me!

Thanks for coming by lovelies!

Have a great Saturday!

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

MIA.... Guess what I have started sewing again!

Hi Everyone,

OMG, I miss sewing so much. I have been pattern drafting a lot recently. It's been close to 6 months since I touched my sewing machine. Was never in the mood to touch the sewing machine during winter even though I was really wanting to sew a coat. It never happened! I was in hibernation mode.

Now I am back and working on a Mccall sewing pattern as well. I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good pattern drafting book other then Helen Armstrong's pattern making for fashion design. I had a headache when I went thru this book/manual/textbook LOL!

I desperately want to draft my own patterns so any help from my fellow sewing enthusiasts would help tremendously. Anyway, I will be back with my completed dress soon.

Glad to be back in sewing! Yay!

Have a pleasant week everyone!

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Handmade fabric flowers

Now that my Fashion Illustration course is over, I can finally do some handicraft and some sewing. For a start I made some fabric flowers. Maybe these might be given away as part of my blog giveaway for my sewing/handicraft loving ladies.

Here are some pictures of my handiwork. I think I will be making more this weekend. When I get inspired to so something, I can get so engrossed in it.

These can be worn as a hair accessory or as a broach.

Do you guys know of any online tutorials on handmade fabric flowers? Please feel free to share!

Anyway on a side note, it is snowing and cold here in Sweden.

Here is a picture of Uppsala and the snow!

Thanks for coming by my lovelies!

Have a pleasant weekend.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Sewing pattern organisation tip

I was reading a blog post by, Ten Thousand Hours of Sewing - Victoria (If you are not following her blog, please do. She is one talented lady). She was sharing about her pattern stash and if anyone had any ideas to share on how to organize them in a cost effective way. That post prompted me to write about my sewing pattern organization. I hope someone will find my organization tip helpful and maybe even improvise and come up with a better idea.

I store all my fabric and sewing patterns in a plastic storage container. I bought it in Singapore about two years ago from a big supermarket called 'Giant'. This sits right under my drafting table.

I store my sewing patterns in one of the drawers. I do not own as many sewing patterns as my other fellow sewing enthusiasts! LOL!

As you can see, I put my patterns in a see through envelope. This way I can see the picture on the envelope and the pattern number.

When I ran out of the nicer looking envelopes, I resort to using zip lock bags.....

At the end of the day, all that matters is that I can see the pattern number & it's neat and tidy.

Thanks for coming by!

Love Love

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Burda style & what I've been up to!

Guess what was waiting for me in the mail yesterday! Yes, it was my 1st issue of Burda style magazine.

I have heard so many rave about this magazine. Since I am an sewing enthusiast, I had to get my hands on it. I managed to find an online magazine company which offers various crafts magazines for subscription. Here in Sweden it is quite difficult to get English magazines. Only selected newspaper stands have them.

I got my subscription for Burda style from an UK online magazine company (click here for their link). I have just browsed through. Seems very interesting! Lets see if I can use any of the patterns the attached to the magazine.

The other news is that I have started an online/e-learning Fashion illustration course at London College of fashion. It's a once week lesson. I have loads of drawing to catch up on. The tutor suggested at least 5 drawings a day. I love getting back into drawing my fashion ideas. Maybe I might share some of my artwork here. If you guys want to see of course!

Tomorrow, I am starting salsa class with Mr Hubby! It's going to be fun. I remember we took up salsa during out courting days.... Those were the days!! Sigh! So it's going to be an exciting time for me. I am glad it is!

Thanks for coming by my wonderful people! Have a pleasant weekend!

Love Love!

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Sewing project : McCall 8524

Yes, I made a pajama pants for Mr Hubby! The best part is that he loves it! So this project was worth the effort. I really like this pattern because there are many styles options. It took me two hours to cut and sew this pants pattern. I am definitely making another pant if I find good fabric. For this project I used poly cotton plaid fabric. The good thing with this fabric is that there is no need to iron as it doesn't get wrinkly. Also it has a nice drape, much like MC hammers pants, for those who knows who that is!

I would definitely recommend this pattern to ladies/gents who want to sew something for their partners. A very easy project that has clear instructions. I can't seem to find this pattern on McCall's website anymore. So good luck finding this pattern on ebay (maybe).

Front

Side

Back

Next project : I am going to work on a pattern that I have been putting on hold because of my fear of knits! I really hope I can make this work! I will reveal what that is when I sew it up!

Happy sewing!

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Pattern drafting - A line skirt with front panels

Yay! Another skirt drafted from sketch. I am quite happy with how it turned out. It's a A line yoke skirt with front panelling and some stitching detail. I initially visualized buttons on the front as part of the design of the skirt. I thought the embroidery stitch would be better. Had to try out the some of the stitches from my Janome MC 6600! Glad I did! As for the fabric it is poly cotton, it was quite easy to work with. However, I should have used twill tape on the waist facing. Next time I will for sure!

What do you guys think?

I seriously need to improve my drawing skills!

Front

Side

Back

( I couldn't take a picture wearing it from the back! Here's a shot with mini me!)

The embroidery stitch

Here is the part I wish I had unpicked and realigned and then fixed the zipper!

Anyway, I am getting the hang of drafting again after a long time. More to come! Now I am off to work on McCall 8524, a pants for DH!

Till next time...

Love Love!

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Sewing project : Mccall 5703

As many of you might know, I come from sunny land Singapore. We have only two seasons and that is the rainy season and the dry warm season. I am very used to sleeveless tops, shorts, short dresses and jeans. I feel weird having to cover up with clothes. However after moving to Sweden, I realized that wearing proper clothing is crucial to keeping warm. Also since I want to be in the fashion world, it's time I buckle up and try start planning my wardrobe.

So I thought this pattern would make a nice jumper dress for the fall season. I like that you can dress it up with a pair of black boots, turtle-neck top and leggings. However, it can make you look pregnant. So I suggest using a belt for the waist. At least with my creation, I will have to use a belt. I do not want to look pregnant! At least not yet! :) I don't think McCall's carry this pattern anymore!

I didn't take a picture of me in it as I have yet to buy a pair of black boots. I will post the pictures of me dressed in this jumper dress when my outfit is complete.

Front

Back

Till next time, have a great sunday!

More sewing projects to come!

Love Love

Pages

Monday, October 24, 2011

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Monday, May 23, 2011

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Monday, May 9, 2011

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Friday, October 22, 2010

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Sunday, September 5, 2010