Tutorial: How to make a visible knee patch and fix a hole

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Comecemos este post com algo ao qual as mães estamos bem habituadas: buracos nos joelhos das calças dos nossos filhos. Quem está comigo? 👋👋👋 O meu miúdo de quatro anos não é exceção À regra e aqui ando eu a tentar arranjar as dele. Quando dei conta da existência deste buraco, tentei arranjá-lo costurando à mão um pedacinho de tecido no interior do mesmo. Claro que os pontos depressa cederam, logo na primeira vez que as usou. 

Let's start this post with something mom's are pretty used to see: knee holes in our boys pants. Who's with me?! 👋👋👋 My four your old active little one is no exception and here I am trying to fix them. The first time I noticed this hole was getting too big I tried to fix it by hand stitching a patch to the knee hole area. Of course my stitches gave in after the first tiem he used them. 

Se forem como eu, fogem de arranjos como o diabo da cruz. Na verdade, são na maioria coisas rápidas de se fazer, mas só de pensar em descoser, não é? Bem, acompanhem-me lá, e com o vosso melhor sorriso vamos lá arranjar essas peças adoradas que precisam de um carinho extra. 💪

If you are anything like me, you'll avoid fixing clothes as much as you can. They are quick fixes most of the time, but just the thought of unpicking seams and all that. Right? Well, bare with me, put on your best smile and get to your machine to fix all those loved clothes that need just a little extra care. 💪

Para trabalhar melhor nessa zona, o mais sensato é começar por descoser a lateral da perna (a que não está pespontada) o suficiente para se conseguir costurar depois na máquina (1). Depois, usa-se um retalho de um tecido semelhante ou então algum que contraste se assim desejarmos. Eu usei um retalho do mesmo tecido que usei para o arranjo da calça da minha filha (último post), e como o tecido é fino, usei também um retalho de ganga para dar mais corpo (2). Coloquei o direito do tecido com motivos no avesso das calças (onde estava o buraco), e coloquei o retalho de ganga por cima desse. Alinhavei ambos às calças (3) e costurei à volta com um ponto em zigue zague (4). 

To better work on the knee area, you should unpick the side seam (the one that is not topstitched) just as much as you need to comfortable sew on your machine (1). Then use a scrap of a similar fabric and optionally a contrasting one if you want it to show in your patch. I did use a scrap of the same fabric my daughter chose for me to fix her's too (last post), and because it is a lighter fabric, I used to denim to give it a bit more weight (2). I've put the printed fabric right side to the wrong side of jeans (covering the hole), and the denim on top of it. Then basted both scraps to the leg (3) and sewed it with a zigzag stitch all around (4).  

Para terminar, trabalhasse pelo direito da peça. Usei um ponto a direito e passei pelo retalho várias vezes de uma ponta à outra. Normalmente coso uma linha a direito, e depois com a agulha em baixo mudo para o ponto de coser atrás e vou indo intercalando, só tendo que segurar o tecido para dar aquele efeito de zigue zague profundo. Virem as calças para o avesso novamente, fechem a lateral e é só chulear as costuras. 

To finish, work from the right side of the leg. Use a straight stitch and top stitch the patch from one side to the corner. I usually sew a straight line, then with my needle down switch to back stitch and sew another carefully guiding the fabric to make the deep zigzag effect. Turn pants wrong side again, close the side seam and finish it. 

Tutorial: How to add extra lenght to your kids pants

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Todos sabemos que num dia os nossos filhos vestem as suas calças preferidas, e no dia a seguir ficam-lhe demasiado curtas, certo? Eu, pelo menos, acho que já passámos todos por ai. E isso é o que aconteceu recentemente com todas as calças de ganga da minha filha. Continuam a servir-lhe, excepto no comprimento. Para resolver esse probleminha, e evitar ter de comprar calças novas tão cedo, optei por alongá-las um pouco. 

We all know that one day your child is wearing his fave pants and the next they are too short, right? Well, I think we've all been there. That's what recently happen to most of my girl's jeans. They still fit her except for lenght. To fix this little issue and avoid buying new ones so soon, I decided to add in some extra lenght.

Fica aqui um breve passo a passo de como o fazer, caso também precisem.

Here's a quick tutorial on how to do it, in case you need to as well. 

1. 

Começa por descoser a bainha e apenas um pouco das laterais das pernas das calças. 

Start by unpicking the hems and a bit of the legs side seams. 

2. 

Mede a largura da perna da frente e de trás. 

Measure the width of front and back leg piece. 

3. 

Corta duas peças (uma para a frente e uma para trás) para cada perna. Cada peça deverá medir de largura o mesmo que as vossas pernas e de comprimento o extra que querem acrescentar às calças x2 + 2cm para as costuras. Imagina que queres deixar as calças 5cm mais compridas, então cortas 12cm de comprimento. Dobra essas peças ao meio no comprimento, com o avesso com avesso, e vinca com o ferro. 

Cut two pieces (one front and one back) for each leg. Each piece should be width the same as your leg's, and lenght the one you need to add to your kid's pants x2 +2cm for seams. Image you need to add 5 cm more, you should cut a 12 cm piece. Fold them lenght wise, wrong sides together and press.

 4. 

Prende cada uma das peças às calças, e cose-as, chulei-a as costuras (se o tecido tiver algum padrão, certifica-te que ao virar para o direito este fica na posição correta). 

Pin it to your pants and sew, finish seams (if there is a pattern on the fabric, make sure it won't be upside down once you sew). 

5. 

Cose à máquina o lado que tem o pesponto na costura primeiro. Passa a ferro. 

Sew the side with the topstitching first. Press seam. 

6. 

Pesponta por onde já estava antes. Fecha o outro lado das calças e vinca a ferro a costura para cima. Podes pespontar a faixa que adicionaste ou deixar assim. 

Topstitch in the same place it was before. Close the other side of legs and press seams towards the top. You can either topstitch the band or just leave as it. 

Parabéns! Acabaste de arranjar as calças da tua criança e evitaste uma visita à loja mais próxima. No próximo post trago-vos outra forma de remendar umas calças e prolongar a sua vida. 

Congratulations! You have finished fixing your kid's pants and avoided a trip to the nearest store. I will bring you another quick fixing tip, that will allow you to extend pants life, in my next post. 

Thread Faction #123 Pattern Tour

I am joining Liz from Thread Faction for her Sewing Knit Basics pattern tour. Today I am sharing my take on her new pattern #123 Girls Tank and Pants. 

The Tank n Pants Set was a winner in our house. I asked my daughter if I could try it on hr when I finished and she immediately asked me if she could sleep in it (it was about bed time) and of course I said yes. She loves these sets and I love to sew them for her. I see a few more in a near future coming out of my sewing machine. 

So. My kiddo's measurements put her on a straight 7 and I am happy with it although I think the bottom piece was a bit baggy on her. It allows to grow though which is something I always appreciate on a me made anyway. And, it is still comfortable she says, so all good here. 

The set is made of two pieces, top and knickers, it comes in sizes 2-10, has an optional gusset - which I did by the way - and it is a begginer's friendly pattern, just, so you know. It is another quick and easy sew, just what I need to get back into sewing. 

The main fabric from the top was given to me by my friend Patrícia, when she downsized her stash. The green one I used from the bottom of some launge pants my sister bought for me. They were new but she got it for me, not to wear as she knows I wouldn't wear anything with this lettuce colour on, but because it was a lot of knit for a little amount of money and I could refashion them. I love my sister (she got me two of these).

Apparently this is perfect to sleep in... except she was pretending to do so in my bed, instead of going to her own. Anyway, if you liked it and you got the pattern or are planning on it, make sure to follow Liz's Thread Faction Sewn Series on youtube, here's her first episode for you. 

The Dress Up Hoodie |Mouse House Creations|

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Minha gente, acaba de sair um novo molde pelo qual fiquei encantada. É o Dress Up Hoodie da Mouse House Creations é é qualquer coisa de especial. Além de que é perfeito para esta altura do ano, para quem gosta de festejar o Halloween. Mesmo que ainda não tenham costurado um fato para os miúdos, não se preocupem, este molde pode-vos salvar. 

People, there's a new pattern out there that got me amazed. It is the Dress Up Hoodie from Mouse House Creations and it really is something special. Just perfect for this Halloween season. Even if you're running behind with a costume, don't panic, this pattern might save you. 

O meu piolho tem de se mascarar dia 31 na escolinha e eu não tinha nada para ele até há dois dias, quando acabei este novo hoodie. Escolhi fazer a versão "morcego" para ele e ficou bem melhor do que eu esperava. Como não me dava tempo de encomendar uma malha à medida para este projeto, e preta como um pequeno morcego pede, acabei por usar o que tinha à mão. O que uma vez terminado, veio reforçar a minha ideia de que a nossa criatividade se apura sempre que temos de improvisar. Modéstia à parte, tornei-me muito boa nisso. 

I live in Portugal and we don't celebrate Halloween as people do in the USA, for example, but kids get to wear spooky costumes at school, and teens are actually doing trick or treat too for these past few years, first they were very shy, just a few, but now we hear them out all the time. The bad thing is that they do a lot of nasty stuff with the "halloween" excuse. Anyway... my boy needed a costume to wear at school next tuesday, and I had zero until two days ago when I finished this hoodie. I chose to make the "bat" for him and it got even better than I hoped for. I knew I didn't have the time to order the right knit for this project, in color and type, as a bat deserves, I just worked with what I had. Once finished, it just reinforced my belief that creativity improves every time you're forced to improvise. And modesty to the paret, I became pretty good at that. 

Mas continuando, usei uma malha mais fina, que em tempos foi uma fronha de almofada XXL, e que já tinha usado parte anteriormente. Não é completamente branca embora assim parece nas fotos, tiradas ao fim da tarde, numa luta contra o pôr do sol, e quase em desespero porque 1º não se queria virar para a máquina, depois não queria o capucho na cabeça, e só para irritar depois já não queria nada, até pediu para tirar o hoodie e tudo. Sempre foi do contra, fazer o quê? E olhem que ele delirou quando viu a peça... até gritou BATMANNNNN. Ainda conseguimos algumas que d´´a para vos mostrar os detalhes da peça, por isso já me dou por satisfeita. 

And on we go, I used a light knit, that was a XXL pillow cover, and which I had used a piece of a while ago. It is not totally white as it seems to be in these pictures, taking late in the afternoon, in a duel with the sunset, and almost in despair because this kid didn't want to stare at the camera first, then he didn't want to have the hood on his head and to finish, he just didn't want to wear it at all asking us to take it off. He's always been this way, what can I do? Believe me when I say he actually liked it a lot when he saw it... he even screamed BATMANNNNN. We did get a few shots though, which I think are just enough to show you the details. 

O molde é composto por vários animais, uns com capas, asas, unicórnios, caudas, orelhinhas, enfim... é muita fofura junta, e a mais velha também já fez o seu pedido. Para este usei o molde base do hoodie, dispensei o bolso da frente e em vez disso, desenhei (a olho mesmo) um morcego num papel, cortei-o em flanela (o que se revelou uma óptima opção, já que a flanela aderiu bem à malha, dando-lhe estabilidade e facilitando a sua aplicação - feita com um ponto zigue-zague muito pequenino). Usei as orelhas e asas de morcego, estas últimas são costuradas nas mangas, para as quais usei também a flanela. Era o único tecido preto na minha coleção que me pareceu indicado. 

The pattern is made out of several different animals, some have capes, wings, horns, tails, hears, as so... it's too much cuteness altogether, and my oldest has requested her own as well. For this specific one, I used the basic hoodie, skipped the front pocked and instead I free hand drafted a bat in a papel, then cut it on flannel (which was a great option, since it adhered to the knit nicely, give it some stability and making the sewing task much easier - applied with a very small zig zag stitch). I used the bat ears and wings, this last one is sewed to the sleeves, and I used flannel for them too. This was the only fabric in my stash that seemed appropriate for the project. 

Adoro ver as asas a abrir e a fechar conforme ele mexe os braços. Ainda pensei que se poderia tornar desconfortável quando ele os estica mais para a frente, mas aparentemente isso não acontece, pelo menos não se queixou. As nossas orelhinhas não se aguentam de pé, muito possivelmente porque o tecido não tem corpo suficiente para se manter, ainda assim não deixar de ser super fofas. Agora, penso que devia ter usado preto para os dois lados, frente e trás. Ah, e os punhos são reciclados de hoodies de adulto. 

I love to see the wings moving as he opens or closes his arms. I thought it'd be uncomfortable for him when he pulls his arms forward, but aparently that doesn't happen, or at least he did not complain yet. Our ears don't stand up, possible because our knit hasn't got enough structure to stand, nonetheless they are still pretty cute. Staring at it now, I think I should have used the black fabric for front and back. Oh, and our bands were recycled from adult hoodies. 

Se ele gostou? Claro que sim! A foto acima confirma-o. Só queria que este calor passasse duma para que terça feira o miúdo não assasse dentro do hoodie. E para quem desse lado gostou da ideia, ainda vão a tempo de espreitar todas as outras opções disponíveis e comprar o molde em desconto (link lá acima, logo no início deste post). Têm o fim de semana para pôr mãos à obra. Depois juntam umas calças pretas (que é o que eu vou fazer) e em duas horas têm um disfarce pronto. 

Did he like it? Oh yes! The above photo seals that. I just wanted this hot weather to be finally gone for good, so tuesday the boy wouldn't bake inside the hoodie. And if you liked the idea you're still in time to check all the other options and get the pattern on sale (link above in this post). You have the weekend to sew. Then you just throw in a pair of black pants (which is surely what I'll do) and, in about two hours, you have yourself a new costume. 

Refashion Month 2016

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Sentiram saudades minhas? Sei que demorei mais tempo do que o normal, e do que aquele que realmente teria gostado, para voltar, mas as coisas complicaram-se por aqui. Por vezes é necessário afastarmos-nos até das pequenas coisas que nos fazem felizes - como costurar - para podermos voltar à vida novamente, e respirar como devido. Com isso, queria dizer que voltei, embora a passos pequenos, tentando manter o ritmo, por isso, tenham paciência comigo. Agora, podem (ou não) ter-se apercebido que estamos em Julho, e que normalmente isso significa um mês cheio de convidados e muitas reciclagens por aqui. No entanto, já vamos a meio do mês e até aqui nada, não é?! Comecei a organizar o evento há umas semanas, mas depois a vida aconteceu. Porém, e com a ajuda de algumas bloggers fantásticas, o mês de Refashion aqui no blog começa hoje, e até ao fim do mês, serão partilhados os seus talentos connosco. Este ano, e porque fui uma terrível anfitriã, as coisas acontecem ainda mais descontraidamente do que o normal. Não há sorteios - desculpem, sei que são giros, mas faço isto pela diversão de realmente gostar de reciclagem de roupa, simples como isso. Espero que todos aproveitem, quem lê e quem faz. Obrigado a todos por estarem desse lado!!!

Did you miss me? I know it has been taking me longer than usual and what I would have liked to, but things just went a little out of control over here. Sometimes you just need to step aside from everything, even the little things that give you joy - like sewing - to be able to come back to life again, and breath as it should. That said, I am back, and trying to get the groove going. I am taking baby steps here though, so bear with me, please. Now, you might (or might not) have realised that it is July, and usually that means a full month of guests and refashions over here. And yet, we're half way through it and nothing yet, right?! I did start organizing it, but then life really got in the way. However, and with the help of the amazing bloggers that will be sharing their talents with us, Refashion Month quicks off today, and we will have guests over for the next days of the month. This year though, and because I was a terrible hostess, things are going even smoother than it usually goes. There are no giveaways - sorry, I know they are fun, but I am making this for the fun of loving it, plain as that. I hope everyone enjoys it, readers, and makers. Thank you all for being on that side!!!

Começo eu, com uma alteração tão comum, tão simples e fácil, mas que continua a ser das minhas preferidas. Já toda a gente deve ter feito isto pelo menos uma vez na vida: transformar calças em calções. Eu tenho uma colecção considerável de calças de ganga, são o meu uniforme a maior parte do ano, mas percebi que me faltavam alguns calções para o tempo mais quente. Assim que escolhi algumas das que menos usava, transformei-as em calções, e escolhi estes para vos mostrar hoje. 

I start, with a  very common, simple and so easy refashion, that's still one of my faves, though. I bet everyone has done this at least once in their lives: turning a pair of pants into a pair of shorts. I own a pretty large collection of jeans, they're like my daily uniform most of the year, but I noticed I missed some shorts on my wardrobe for the warmer days. So I went through the jeans I used the least, picked a couple and turned them into shorts, I chose these to share today. 

Tudo o que precisei para esta reciclagem foi: um par de calças, rendas que aproveitei de uma túnica (foi a única coisa capaz que restou da peça além de um retalhinho que usei aqui) e linha a condizer.

All I needed for this refashion was: a pair of jeans, lace I saved from a tunic (it was the only thing worth saving from this tunic, besides the scrap I used here), and matching thread. 

Foi assim que fiz.
1. segurei os bolsos de dentro com um alfinete para evitar de os cortar acidentalmente. Marquei por onde queria cortar. 2. Cortei ambas as pernas. 3. Medi a largura necessária para cortar a renda, que não mostro na foto mas que costurei, de forma a formar um aro. 4. Alfinetei a renda às pernas, direito com direito. 5. Cosi e chuleei. 6. Marquei com o ferro os valores de costura para cima.

Here's how I made it.
1. I pinned the pocket bags to the top to avoid cutting them accidentally. Market the lenght where I wanted it to be. 2. I've cut both legs. 3. I measured the lenght of the legs so I could cut the lace in the same lenght, not pictures, I sewed the lace into a loop. 4. I've pinned the lace to the legs, right sides together. 5. Sewn and finish the seams. 6. Pressed seams allowances towards the top. 

Feito e prontinho para este clima de verão.

Done and ready for this summer weather. 

Voltem nos próximos dias se quiserem ver o que as minhas convidadas têm preparado para partilhar connosco. 

Come back the next few days to check out what my guests have prepared for us. 

The dress that didn't go that well

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Em Outubro fará dois anos que a minha sobrinha casou. Na altura, mostrei-vos tanto o fato à homenzinho que fiz para o S., como o vestido da G. e deixei no ar a promessa de vos mostrar o meu vestido também. A família toda a combinar uns com os outros. No entanto porém, os dias, meses, foram passando e nunca cheguei a partilhar aqui convosco o dito vestido que fiz para mim. É tão mais fácil fotografar as peças dos miúdos. As minhas ficam muitas vezes para trás. Há uns dias tirei-o do armário e lá o fotografei como deve de ser.

In October it will be two years from my niece's wedding. Back then I showed you the little man's suit I made for S., as well as the dress I made for G. and the promise of showing you my own dress as soon as possible. All the family was matching. Despite though, the days, motnhs went through and for one or many reasons I never got around to share mine. It is so much easier to photograph the kids clothes. My own clothes are left behind so often. A few days ago I took the dress out of the wardrobe and photographed it at last. 

Para começar, como disse no post em que mostrei o vestido da G. - e uma vez que o tecido usado foi o mesmo - repito-me. O cinzento foi sobras do tecido usado para as minhas calças de grávida (aqui) e o tecido floral, foi-me dado pela minha sogra. O forro branco, que usei tanto para a parte de cima, como a de baixo, veio de uma cortina branca acetinada que me foi dada pela minha irmã.

To start, as I said in the post I made for G.'s dress - since I used the same fabric for both - I repeat myself. The grey fabric was left from the maternity pants I made myself (here), and the floral fabric was given to me by my MIL. The white lining came from an old satin-like curtain my sister gave me, I used it either on the top and bottom of the dress. 

Este vestido não ficou perfeito, apesar de ter sido bastante gabado na cerimónia, para meu espanto. Já não recordo o molde usado, creio que foi um de alguma Burda, ou outra qualquer das minhas revistas. Na altura amamentava e por isso tive que o alterar, de forma a conseguir fazê-lo com comodismo. Optei então por abrir toda a frente, e colocar molas (metálicas e cosidas à mão no caso) para fechar. Na foto abaixo, mostro três delas abertas, mas tinha mais, abria mesmo até à cintura, quase. Foi a primeira vez que costurei várias linhas com o elástico na bobine para franzir o vestido e acho foi isso que não correu tão bem, já que a frente não ficou muito direitinha. Infelizmente já não tive tempo de fazer outro vestido para o casamento, assim que depois de muitas lágrimas tive que improvisar. Andei mesmo desiludida com este vestido e prestes a sair e ir comprar um já feito, ainda fui, mas não encontrei nada (compatível com a amamentação e tal) nos tons e o resto da família já estava tratada. Usei uma fita vermelha de cetim em laço, na cintura, disfarçou o que ficou torto e ainda deu um toque diferente ao vestido.

This dress is not perfect, althoug people really liked it at the ceremony to my surprise. I can't remember what pattern I used anymore, probably one from Burda or any other of my pattern magazines. Back then I was still breast feeding, so I needed to hack it in order to allow me a comfortable feeding. I chose to open the entire front, and add snaps to close (handsewn metallic ones in this case). In the photo below, you can see three of them, but I actauuly added about 5, almost all the way to the waistline. It was the first time I tried sewing rows of gathering with an elastic bobbin, and believe it was what caused it to not work so well, making the front look a bit askew. Unfortunately I didn't have the time to make another dress in time for the wedding so after many tears I had to improvise. I was really disillusioned with it, and even considered buying a RTW, I actually did search for one, but I couldn't find anything (breast feeding friendly and all) in the shades I wanted and the rest of the family were all set already. I used a red satin ribbon in the waist, it kinda covered the askew in it, and added a little touch too. 

Na altura eu não recebi logo as minhas fotos, a fotografa era uma amiga da noiva, foi o primeiro casamento que fez, e ficámos super desiludidos com as fotos quando as recebemos. Não tirámos fotos no exterior porque choveu nesse dia, e as de interior ficaram muito "caseiras", muitas delas nem centradas estavam. Não tenho nenhuma de corpo inteiro, em que se veja o vestido por completo. Ou tenho o S. ao colo, ou tenho um xaile por cima, a tapar-me toda porque estava fresco... Sobra-me uma foto, em que apareço eu e o V. com os noivos no fim da cerimónia porque fomos padrinhos, se assim não fosse, creio que nem uma decente teria... Nas fotos que tirei em casa, já não tenho a faixa vermelha, já a usei para outra coisa qualquer, nem sei dela, dá para ver perfeitamente o defeito de que falei. E quando as tirei nem reparei que ali no lado esquerdo parece fazer umas pregas estranhas. Não me orgulho deste vestido, mas tão pouco me envergonho dele, por isso partilho-o hoje. Nem sempre as coisas correm tão bem quanto esperado, mas o importante é avançar. Nunca se esqueçam disso, nem tudo tem de ser perfeito na vida.

We didn't get the wedding photos soon after, the photographer who did the job was a friend's of the bride and it was the first wedding she did. We were really disappointed at the photos when we got them. No outside photos were taken because it rained that day, and the ones inside, looked so "homemade", many of them aren't even centered. I don't have a single full body photo. I either am holding S., or am covered in a shawl because it got cold... I have one photo left, with my V. and the bride and groom because we were her godparents, otherwise, I don't think I'd have any at all... In the photos I took at home, the ribbon is not on anymore. I know I used it for something else already, don't even know where it is, so it is plain to see the imperfection of the dress. And only when I took these photos I noticed those weird folds on the left side. I am not proud of this dress, but I am not ashamed of it either, that's why I am sharing it today. Things don't always go as we wished them to, but we keep on, that's what matters. Never forget that not everything has to be perfect in life. 

1st Japanese Sewing Week |Refashioned|

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Há algum tempo que me juntei ao grupo Japanese Sewing Patterns no facebook, um grupo para gente que adora moldes japoneses (e livros e todas as coisas japonesas!). Não posso dizer que sou propriamente uma grande fã, na verdade, há relativamente pouco tempo que conheço os livros japoneses, mas despertou em mim o interesse de os conhecer melhor. Quando a Sara, que organiza esta tour, mencionou a mesma, achei que era a desculpa perfeita para finalmente comprar o meu primeiro livro de moldes japoneses. No entanto, a oferta é tão extensa, que fiquei muito baralhada e fui adiando a compra, na esperança de me decidir. E esperei demais. Quando dei por mim, já não tinha tempo de encomendar um. Felizmente, apesar de não ter nenhum livro de moldes japoneses, tinha um livro de costura japonês, que a minha querida amiga Rita gentilmente me ofereceu. É o livro Stylish Remakes da Violette Room (Tuttle), e que tem t.u.d.o a ver comigo, já que aborda aquilo a que os meus leitores habituais estão bem acostumados a ver por aqui: reciclagem de roupa, claro!

A while ago I joined the facebook group Japanese Sewing Patterns, where japanese patterns (and books, and all things japanese) lovers get together. I can't say I am a huge fan because it's been a relatively short time that I discovered this myself, but it has brought interest in me to know them better, and even try to use these patterns. When I knew about Sara organising this tour, I wanted to be in, this would be the perfect excuse to finally buy one for myself. The thing is, there are so many japanese pattern books out there, that I got overwhelmed and had a really hard time picking one. And I waited too long, when I realised, it had passed way too long, and there was no time to order anymore. Luckily for me, althoug I didn't have a pattern book, I had a Japanese Sewing Book, that my dearest friend Rita gently offered me. And the book, Stylish Remakes da Violette Room (Tuttle), has everything to do with my usual readers are used to in this blog, refashioning, of course!

Depois de muito folhear o livro para trás e para a frente, selecionei os projetos que mais gostei para que, inspirada nos mesmos pudesse criar uma peça minha e pessoal. Depois de os ver juntos, apercebi-me que eram dos mais simples, uma t-shirt + algum tecido para a saia, ou duas t-shirts. Tudo transformado em vestidos. Assim que, foi o que fiz também.

After looking through the book several times, I selected a few of my favorite projects from it, so I could get inspired by them and make my own personal piece. After putting them together, I notices they were some of the easier and simplier projects from the book, a t-shirt + some fabric for skirt portion, or two t-shirts. Everything turned into dresses. So, that's what I made too. 

Procurei na minha pilha de peças para reciclar. Sabia que queria algo com riscas, como na foto maior, e sabia que queria algo verde. Na pilhas dos verdes, encontrei uma t-shirt que me deram mas que apesar de me servir, nunca cheguei a usar (muito curta, creio), e tinha uma de homem, que também me foi dada e que guardar por ter riscas. Adoro riscas e queria usá-la para os meus filhos, porém achava-as sempre demasiado largas para eles. Afinal, veio para mim mesma.

I searched through my refashioning pile. I knew I wanted stripes, just like in the biggest picture, and I knew I wanted greens. In the green pile, I found a t-shirt that I had been given, but although it fitted I never really wore it before (too short I guess), and I had a men's t-shirt too, also given to me, which I saved because of the stripes. I love stries and I've been wanting to use this for my kids for a while, but somehow they always seemed to wide for them. Afterall, I get this for me. 

Foi um projeto muito simples, cortei a t-shirt maior por baixo das letras que tinha bordadas, e cosi-a à t-shirt. Ultimamente as coisas não me têm corrido nada bem e até neste simples projeto consegui apanhar uma boa parte de tecido que não deveria ter sido cosido, por isso tive que descoser quase metade...arghhhh...

It was a very simple project, I just cut the bigger t-shirt in half, right below the embroidery letters, and I sewed the bottom portion to the smaller t-shirt. Lately things haven't been going great with my sewing and I was sewing some extra fabric that folded under my seam line, and of course, I had to unpick almost half of it... arghhhh... 

Como sobrou toda a parte de cima da t-shirt das riscas, experimentei alfinetar as mangas às já existentes da t-shirt mais pequena. Gostei de ver, e achei até que davam aquele ar "boxy" que tenho visto nos moldes japoneses, por isso, foram adicionadas permanentemente.

Since I had all the top portion left from the stipes t-shirt, I tried pinning the sleeves to the existing sleeves of the other t-shirt. I liked it, and even thought they gave the sleeves a sort of "boxy" style that I usually associate to the japanese style, so, they were permanentely added. 

Só é pena o frio estar ai, e não ser possível vestir o meu novo vestido nos próximos dias. Mas sei que me vai valer bastante nos dias mais descontraídos assim que o calor retorne. E desculpem lá o ar das fotos, decididamente esta não foi a nossa semana, e tenho neste momento dois miúdos cheios de febre para cuidar, e eu própria com uma dor de cabeça daquelas.

Too bad it is cold already, and it won't be possible to wear this (as it at least) the next days. Although I know it'll be handy for the warmer and relaxed days ahead. And, forgive the look on the pictures, it really hasn't been the greatest of weeks, and I had two kids burning in fever right now, and a huge headache myself. 

Agora, vão lá visitar as outras participantes da tour, participam grandes especialista na área e tenho visto coisas fantásticas, e sei que mais virão.

Now, go visit all the other bloggers on the tour, some great experts are part of it, and I have been seeing fantastic creations, and I know more will come. 

In a Manner of Sewing  |  Conversas de Hermanas  |  Pequenos e Verdes  |  Climbing the Willow

Bartracks and Singletrack  |  S is for Sewing  |  Sew Happy  |  Mamacosesola

Fairies, Bubbles & Co.  |  Sewing Like Mad  |  As it Seams  |  Sewing For Mini Me

La Folie Sewing Booth  |  Just Add Fabric  |  Blogless Anna  |  Sweeter Than Cupcakes  |  Needle and Ted

Miss Castelinhos  |  Made by Toya  |  Lil Luxe Collection  |  House of Estrela

Patty Made It  |  Paisley Roots  |  Rita Pirolita  |  Call Ajaire

So-cal Sewing Mom  |  Kiwi Crafty Chemist  |  Sew Shelly Sew  |  Made by Sara

E também há prémios envolvidos na tour, como não podia deixar de ser. Para verem como podem participar, e partilhar também as vossas criações com moldes japoneses, visitem o blog MADE BY SARA, onde encontram toda a informação necessária.

There is a giveaway going on the tour, of course. Check how you can join and win, and also link your japanese patterns creations on the link party, over MADE BY SARA, there you'll find all the info you'll need. 

Top Stitchers Today: Me vs. Call Ajaire

EDITED Feb. 5th 2018: I just went to Becca's blog and brought my entry from there to this post I had over here. For the simple fact that I wanted to add the photos I didn't add in my personal blog back then. And why did I think of that right now? Because auditioning for the next season of PR&P is on and I am going to try it out... why not? I like a little presure when I sew after all, so that challenge should be a good one.
Anyway... I tried to see from my fave entries and I had to pick up this one because it is all I love about sewing: comfortable clothes for my kids, that cool style, adding some details, and above all: refashioned items!!! Oh! I was so happy with this look. So, if you're reading this: wish me luck!

When I signed up for Top Stitchers and then saw the list, I knew exactly what my specialty was: Upcycling of course! Then we got our prompts, and it took me so long to picture what my daughter would grow up to. I pictured a lot of things in my mind, but the answer came from her. She's always singing and dancing, like a true rock star. So, I thought, would I like her to become a rock star? I wouldn't! As long as she was down to earth, a strong woman, a sensitive person, true to herself. All I really want is for her to become whatever she will want/wish to. And I went with the rock star look.

I used 8 existing pieces of clothing to create this look. I first pictured a complete outfit, from head to toe including 8 new pieces. Unfortunately that was over my head and not possible to make. I ended up with 5 item and one unfinished that didn't make into the challenge. The 5 items I finished include a pair of briefs, socks, shorts, t-shirt and one jacket. I used 1 men's leather jacket, 3 women's shirts, 2 women's button shirts, one girl's skirt and a women's jeans. 

I started by making G. a new pair of big girl's briefs, using Serger Pepper's pattern, I did the smaller size, of course (3), and I did them using bits of the striped shirt and the solid red t-shirt. They fit perfectly, and I swear she was wearing them in the photoshot, but I just won't post any pictures of my girl in underwear. You'll just have to take my word as I tell you they fit her perfectly. You can see photos of the briefs (and more) in my blog today. 

Then I did the t-shirt. I adapted an Ottobre's 1/2015 pattern #25. and turned it into a wide neckline top (as was but) sleeveless. I finished the neckline with bias tape and the arms holes with slim bands. It looks pretty as a one off shoulder top. I used the white t-shirt to resize it to her size and patched a lovely girly skull into it. I google for an image like so and then I free hand drew it to paper and cut into fabric. it was the kind of thing I used to do a lot a while ago, and now I don't do that often. That was something this challenge made me realise, and that's why I loved taking part even more. I was able to stretch my imagination, my creativity and make things I really, really wanted, as the jacket, something I did as I was going... but more on that in a second. Because I still had a lot from the striped shirt and I love such prints, I decided that adding a pair of socks to the look would be fun. I used The Sewing Rabbit's tutorial to do so. I tried to make my stripes match, but I couldn't because I was re-using the existing hem and there was no way to make them match. 

The next thing I finished from my list was my favourite one (although I really loved the shorts too). I made my little lady a leather jacket. From all my endless pattern stash, I didn't have a single jacket pattern that I would like for this project. At least not a single one that fit her size range. I didn't worry though and embraced the challenge. I din't do this for so long, start with nothing, no pattern and then make exactly what I had in mind. I actually used Titchy Thread's Rowan tee pattern as a skretch for my jacket. I did all the changes and adjustments, such as shortening the lenght, and making it a two assimetrical front pieces. I changed the collar too. I finished the jacket's sleeves and waistband with ribbon knit bands saved from a refashion from the past. To close the jacket on the front, I used a zipper on the left side of the piece, and underneath, on the center front, I attached 4 kam snaps to make it easier for G. On the shoulder bands I stitched a few lines forming squares in a contrasting thread, red in this case. I finished the inside of the front flap with bias tape. 

The last thing were the shorts, of course. I had just tested Petit a Petit new pattern, the Morocco Pants and Shorts and I just knew I had to use it. The pattern is just about to be launched and I asked Celina permission to use it for the challenge and post even before it's out. But don't worry, it's not long until you can get it, and you will want to. I love all the details, and the professional finishing touches. So, I used jeans to make this pair. In the front pockets and the back welt pockets, I have used the light denim button up shirt, and the other button up shirt as lining. I had plans to make a sleeveless button up shirt for the look too, for layering, but there was no time and it was left unfinished. Back to the shorts, they have a zipper, a snap in the front, and an adjustable elastic waist. I used a lace band from the white skirt to add it to the shorts hems. 

I didn't get all the 8 pieces done, but I am pretty happy that I got these done because they were big hits in our house. And I had fun, really lots of fun for participating in this challenge. I felt free! So thanks Becca, Ajaire, readers and all the rest involved in this. 

Today I get to participate in the Top Stitchers 2 challenge, organised by Becca, over Free Notions. Myself and Ajaire from Call Ajaire are competing for the upcycling theme. Click here to see our posts and vote please. You can vote for both of us, giving more points to one or the other according to what you believe to be fair. I was already pretty wordy in my entry at Free Notions, so here's a few extra photos for you.

I hope you've enjoyed them all because I sure did enjoy making them. 

Do you wanna dance? / Danças?

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Mais um projeto realizado o ano passado e que nunca chegou ao blog. Foi uma encomenda. Geralmente, estes, caem sempre no esquecimento na hora de fotografar, por isso são muito poucas as coisas que tenho para mostrar, no que toca a trabalho para outros. No entanto, alguns ainda são possíveis de partilhar e este é um deles. As fotografias, foram ainda tiradas com a minha antiga máquina, por isso deixam um pouco a desejar. 

Another project from last year that never made it to the blog before. It was an order. I usually fail photographing these, and that's why I never have too many things to show when it comes to things I made for others. Some though, are still possible to share and this project is one of them. Pictures were still taken with my old camera, that's why they aren't that good. 

Pediram-me para fazer um vestido de dança para menina. A mãe sabia bem o que queriam o que facilitou bastante. Ela mesma comprou todos os materiais, e ainda me ofereceu umas coisinhas como bónus. E apresentou-me um desafio: forrar um fato de banho. Felizmente comprou um número acima, pois com a aplicação das lantejoulas nas alças, o fato de banho ficou mesmo justinho à miúda. Basicamente foi isso que tive que fazer, forrar o fato de banho, o que implicou ter de desfazer algumas costuras existentes e voltar a refazer. E também a aplicação das franjas no corpo e tipo saia. As brancas eram mais compridas que as rosa, no corpo ainda as aparei, mas na saia a mãe gostou delas assim mesmo. 

I was asked to make a dancing dress for a little girl. Her mom knew well what she wanted which made it so much easier. She bought her own supplies and even some bonus supplies for myself. And then she presented me a challenge: cover up a swimsuit. Luckily she bought a size bigger because when adding the sequins to the straps it made it quite tight on the little girl. Basicaly, all I had to do, was covering the swimsuit, which added unpicking existant seams and redo them again. And also, applying fringes to the main body and as a sort of skirt. The white ones were longer than the pink. I did cut them in the main body but according to the mother, I left it as they were in the skirt.

Kids Clothes Week |day 6|

excuse the wrinkles, please!  

I am so excited today!!! It's day 6 and I have been following the challenge just like I should. The only thing different I've been doing is that I have been sewing for more than one hour most of the days, but that's okay, I guess. One more day to go, but before that, I am also excited because I have finished my third Phresh Blazer and I keep falling further in love with it everytime I make a new one. I am not someone who sews the same pattern over and over, and if I do, it means I really love that pattern. It has happened a few times in the past*, other than that I guess I haven't done more than 2 of others I own. It doesn't mean I don't like the others, it just means those are my top choices. Anyway, I guess you got it, right?! I see a future full of these sweet little blazers since I believe I need to sew one of these for every little girl around me. And there are a few, that's for sure! 

This latest one was made for my daughter's best friend, as I told you yesterday. Mariana is turning 4 tomorrow and she's such a beautiful and sweet little girl. Not to mention how smart she is too, so I am pretty happy that these two are friends. Mariana (this is actually the name we had picked in case S. was a girl), reminds me of the 1900's ladies, she's got a pale skin and very dark (black) hair. She looks sweet, delicate and fragile and that's just beautiful. I wanted to make her a blazer that would match that image and the Phresh Blazer couldn't be more perfect for that. 

I cut the pieces for the blazer, out of a women's suit jacket. For the facings I used left overs from the skirt I cut to make my daughter a Mara Blouse (last project in this KCW edition, I hope), and I used self made bias tape to finish seams. For the back ruffles I used a vintage lace I was offered a long time ago. I love it, it's one of those things you don't want to use because it's so beautiful, but since I decided to destash the trims too, I have to use whatever I think will look better in every project and this was just the right decision. 

This time I did the 3/4 gathered sleeves option, just like I did in that first one I haven't blogged about yet. I skipped the pockets this time but sure included the ruffles. Since I used lace for the ruffles and I had enough left, I thought it'd be a good idea to add it to the sleeves too. I just turned 1/4", and then the same again and pinned the lace on the wrong side, sewed them together and voilá, it was just what I had pictured in my mind. The button is one of my personal favourites too, I took it out of some old clothes before I sent them to the garbage bin. When I finished, I tried it on my daughter just to have an idea of how it'd look like, but of course it was too big for her, although she's only nearly 5 months younger than Mariana, her friend is much taller than her and I made it a size 5, I rather make it too big than too small. Now, I just hope she'll love it as much as I did. G. is really happy that I made it for her friend, my daughter's always so proud of her mommy, and she actually tells me that often. How cute?!

* patterns I use the most (and nope! nobody is paying me to mention them): the Bumblebee Dress and Top; Small Fry Skinny Jeans; The Rowan Tee; Billy Bright Eyes Snappy Tee Shirt and the (free) Izzy Top. 

Kids Clothes Week |day 3|

On the third day, I was able to have something finished. Even with plumbers breaking my walls, working all day around, and everything. Of course I still feel very satisfied. I am facing the truth though, I won't be able to do everything I dreamed of, but that's fine. I am keeping the goal of sewing for at least one hour every day, just to make things right this time (I always sign for KCW, but most often I don't follow the rules). 

Let's move on though. The outfit for my baby boy is now complete. I used a men's XL shirt (dark green) and just a few pieces for details and contrast from a women's XXL shirt, for the two pieces. So... 

The Shirt

I used the Rowan Tee pattern from Titchy Threads, and I did a different version from the previous ones I made (one for the test, one of the tour). I was happy that my baby already fits the smaller size (6-12M) and I got to make a boy version this time, and also try the hooded one since I messed up with it when I did the test. I used the original hem for the front and back pieces, and did a regular hem on the sleeves. I used a zig zag stitch in all my seams because I was too lazy to switch to the twin needle. This version has a kangaroo pocket on front, which is a feature of the Rowan that I hadn't try before. I've added patches in the elbows because I love the look and I thought the contrast fabric should be seen a bit more than just in the hood lining. I thought it would be bigger on him, but apart from the sleeves that are still too long, just like every shirt on him, even rtw, it fits great. 

The Pants

That's not much to say about it... I was able to save the original men's shirt sleeves after cutting all the pieces for the rowan, so I knew I had to make a matching pair of pants. I used a rtw pair to draft the pattern and make this one. After finishing I thought it'd be a bit too large on him, but apparently he's bigger than I think he is and it was the perfect fit. I added patches on the knees too - or so I hoped, they are a little off. Again, because I wanted the lining fabric from the hood to stand out too. I was afraid that by making both pieces with the same fabric it'd turn out too boring, so I patched everything away. The fit was spot on. 

What about you? Have you been sewing along KCW? What are you working on right now?