Lest y’all think I’m idle, here’s proof I’m not.
This handmade mandala was sent from Peru, and I stitched it onto a generic tee. But the shirt rode up in the arms, and I am not a pit stain fashionista.
So I made new raglan sleeves using this scrap of mesh, and a lower neckline bound in a silk jersey scrap that I use for precious projects. 
And then I went to party with all my handmade bags.
Just a little project I did on a Saturday morning. It’s nice to have a favorite old shirt feel new again.
In any day, my schedule may include sewing at home, meeting with clients, and running errands on bike. What kind of outfit is appropriate and comfortable for all these activities? I’m developing ‘professional pajama’ style, for creative professionals who work from home. It’s going to be a movement!
The first entry into this bold new category of dress code is a camisole. I drafted the pattern and jumped right in with this sample. It was fun to make, and gave me lots of ideas for a second top, in terms of design and process.
The rayon drawstring pants are also part of this comfy fashion lifestyle.
I was so happy with the first top that I immediately made a second. I got more ambitious for the back, but unfortunately sewed the center back panels together along the wrong side. Since the jersey is so stretchy the design still works, but I was going for a neater fit. Next time!
Both versions are made mostly from scrap jerseys I’ve saved from other projects, and a few fabrics I have stashed away in my cabinet. Some of the seaming is structurally motivated, and some of it was designed for the small and odd-shaped scraps available. The cups are lined with a second layer of jersey, and I used 1/4″ elastic at the underbust seam to offer a bit of support.
It’s been tank-top weather in LA since February, and these two tops have been in heavy rotation. They go with everything, are very comfortable, and feel ‘me’. Posting these tops together makes it easy to see the design evolution, and it makes me excited for what else this can become!
As always, thanks go to my husband for the photography.
I’ve recently connected with the Los Angeles band Freedom Fry, and they asked me to make a set of outfits. The leaders of the band are Marie and Bruce, who are also married to each other. Marie used to work as a stylist, and had a very clear idea of the band’s look and vintage influences.
It was great to work with such an informed yet flexible client! They’re both charming, and creative, and funny, and when they come for a fitting it usually lasts for hours.
I based the dress pattern on an old favorite of Marie’s, with modifications. Bruce’s shirt was an exact copy of one from his wardrobe. I really enjoy sewing men’s button shirts; they are crisp and precise and so satisfying!
I really enjoyed the challenge of the print, and having the designs match up. I’m really proud of this attention to detail! Of course it takes forethought and effort, but what’s the point of making anything at all if it’s not going to be perfect? This is not my mantra by any means, but I say it to myself anyway and laugh, and then get back to work.
I’ve created garments for a few musicians lately, and it’s work that I really enjoy. I usually listen to my client’s music as I prepare and cut the fabric. Stage wardrobes are more daring than street clothes, and can actively help tell the songs’ stories. It’s such a pleasure to connect with another creator and to contribute to their art.
They wore these outfits at SXSW, along with another set I will share soon. There’s also a third set of outfits that will be on their upcoming west coast tour! See how busy I’ve been?!
