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#wildbelletember When I retired I felt as if I was…

#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.

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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

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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 ❤️ those pockets. 46 c cup, 48 waist, 58 hips. Top inspired by Jenny and shorts inspired by Beverly! #pfsuperfan

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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

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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