#wildbelletember When I retired I felt as if I was casting off from shore. Leaving the security I had known as an engineer for some unknown adventures. Hence my name Jo casting off.
My beautiful daughter needed a prom dress that I spent months making to fit her lovely curves. Afterwards it dawned on me I could do the same for myself. It took some time to get to a point I was happy to wear my makes and today, 10 years later I live in an almost entirely me-made wardrobe. It is an essential part of living my best life.
Author: Jo Mancuso
My last summer dress for this year. It was a true …
My last summer dress for this year. It was a true work of love and appreciation. The punk frockers have a super fan in me. I listen while sewing. I listen while doing some pretty uncomfortable daily exercises that keep my poor old joints moving. I listen over and over. I am blessed with wonderful and supportive family and friends, but the journey of a fat person I walk alone, until Jenny and Beverly and the amazing community that has surrounded them. Forever your super fan. #punkfrockers #pfsuperfan
Look what just arrived from #stokx, I love it. The…
Look what just arrived from #stokx, I love it. The fabric is so luscious. I need ideas! I will not let this beauty sit in my stash. Thanks Stokx!
My summer sewing ⦠#collagegatheredtop by #ma…
My summer sewing ⦠#collagegatheredtop by #matchymatchysewingclub graded 2x width with 6x length and 6x sleeves. Very easy sew and super comfy. Shorts are #pietrapants by #closetcorepietra in size 28 with 1/2 inch addition to crotch curve. These have replaced my joggers as they are cool and incredibly comfortable but look good and I Love â¤ï¸ those pockets. 46 c cup, 48 waist, 58 hips. Top inspired by Jenny and shorts inspired by Beverly! #pfsuperfan
No affiliation and no time to sew but thought I wo…
No affiliation and no time to sew but thought I would pass along RockerByeDestash as a pattern company with pdf patterns up to 83â hip and a trendy vibe. Love that their photos are diverse. #pfrepresent
Finished Pat Mancusoâs Fatherâs Day gift…
Finished Pat Mancusoâs Fatherâs Day gift, a custom shirt made to his measurements in a Robert Kaufman linen/cotton blend. It is a bit late. Isnât he a handsome guy? â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸
Turning 60 soon and yet this is what I feel like o…
Turning 60 soon and yet this is what I feel like on the inside. Startling contrast to image in the mirror. Lol
Completed in May, not eligible for drawing, but ma…
Completed in May, not eligible for drawing, but made with 17 lightweight cotton shirtings and underlined with a cotton shirting. Patchwork rules! Mash up of several patterns. #pfscrappy
Finally made my first Cashmerette Vernon shirt. I …
Finally made my first Cashmerette Vernon shirt. I made 18 C/D cup graded to 30 at waist and hips. My measurements are 46.5″ chest, 48″ waist, 59″ hips. For grading, everything above armscye notch was 18, and everything below was graded out to size 30. This included size 30 sleeves to accommodate my generous upper arms.
I compared the pattern pieces to me, and thought I was pretty close with the bust dart, but I was not so lucky. For next version, here is following changes I will be making: Adding .5 inches to shoulder seams, which will also drop sleeves, but still adding another .5 to sleeves.
Dropping the bust dart down vertically 1″. It sits 1 inch higher than my apex. I might make the back pleat a bit deeper. Take in bottom of sleeves by an inch. Also, thinking of adding a couple of inches to the length below the waist line.
Typically I avoid bust dart patterns, preferring princess seams, but I decided to give it a try as I have been seeing so many nice Vernon’s. Instructions are great. Nice finish and overall I would recommend. This is in a printed chambray, purchased several years ago from Fabric Mart. I used snaps instead of buttons. I made view A.
#vernonshirt #sewover50plus #pearshapedbody
My latest makes, made almost entirely of cotton fa…
My latest makes, made almost entirely of cotton fabrics. A few blends may have been used. Hacked version of Itch to Stitch dress with sleeves from Anthea blouse from Anna Allen (not extended sizing). The pants are Chandler pants from Untitled Thoughts. Pleated front, faux fly, elastic back waistband. Highly recommend. Needed minor alterations. My measurements are Chest 46.5 C cup, 48 waist, 59 hips. #sewover50plus #chandlerpants #celestedress #pfnatural