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My Round 1 entry for Pattern Review’s Sewing …

My Round 1 entry for Pattern Review’s Sewing Bee contest. The challenge was to make a knit dress with a twist. This is inspired by Alabama Chanin Design Studio. Cotton jersey knit ropes twisted then couched onto the bodice. I am mere novice. You should check out their creations. The pattern is 5 out of 4 Pattern’s Nancy Raglan, modified to fit me. This was a one week challenge. #5oo4patterns #alabamachanin #patternreview #sewover50plus

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I made a needle minder. Needles are not cheap and …

I made a needle minder. Needles are not cheap and i keep bouncing between so many projects, which requires frequent needle changes. I saw these online but shipping was $$$. So my dh designed and 3D printed the tray. I made an internal bag filled with fine walnut shells from Harbor Freight. Then I designed and machine embroidered the front, and made a zippered cover for the filled bag, just in case, one layer was not enough. My needle abbreviations are Stretch, Topstitch, Overlock, Universal, Jersey, Jean, Embroidery, and Microtex. I added space for hand sewing needles too. Good bye old fashion tomatoes. Can you tell there has been 3 snow storms in 6 days and I am going a little crazy. Willing to share the 3D tray and embroidery designs if there is any interest. #sewover50 #punkfrockers #curvysewingcollective

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I am 60+ years old. Much of my life I endured the …

I am 60+ years old. Much of my life I endured the that makes you look thinner, or have you lost weight comments and they absolutely made me feel bad about myself. When someone says an outfit flatters me, I do not have a negative reaction. But I do acknowledge that some people feel this to be a backhanded compliment. But to me “flattering” represents someone who is choosing to avoid the slimming or thinning or body shaming type of comments. Perhaps this is somewhat generational.
My interpretation of flattering is that many elements have combined to make an outstanding outfit, the colors, the proportions, the accessories, and that I want to acknowledge the creativity and thought that has gone into putting an outfit together. I guess it could be shorthand. I have avoided the word for the most part lately, but I do bristle over people weaponizing words. I think intention is important. I feel I stumble onto weaponized words more and more often and I am made to feel bad when it is pointed out to me. I remember telling my children, if you allow a word to upset, then anyone with the gift of speech is equipped to take you down. Please know, I never mean harm, I do try to keep up, but I also ask that perhaps people stop and take a moment to consider the intention. I am making that extra effort and I think we should all be giving each other the benefit of the doubt. Life is long and language is changing, and it is difficult to keep up with these trends. Frankly, I find myself not saying anything because I cannot confidently identify whether I may do unintended harm and what a sad place this world would be without compliments, because when they do come out of the blue, they really make my day.

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I made the Mitchell Trousers by Closet Core. My me…

I made the Mitchell Trousers by Closet Core. My measurements are 48 waist, 58 hips, and I am 5’4”. I made size 28, with minor extension to crotch curve. I removed 1.5 inches in length. These are so comfortable, standing, sitting, and moving. The pleats in front of pockets add room while seated. The back darts and welt pockets make the back so snazzy. Side straps allow you to snug up or loosen for those time you want some flexibility. Made in medium to heavy weight linen. No gaping at the back while seated. Construction is interesting. #closetcoremitchell #sewover50plus #weedstowildflowers #punkfrockers