SWAP 2007: Patterns

Putting a SWAP together is an exercise in thinking outside the box, but I'm enjoying the process so far. It's a combination of creativity and organization. Most of us are used to thinking one way or another, not both at the same time. I've been having a hectic time at the office, so doing this is also a good way for me to let it all go so I don't lose my mind.

On with the patterns! You may have noticed that my fabrics are primarily from my stash and I'm hoping to keep it that way. Although Julie at Timmel has an interesting mustard knit I may need to discuss with her--after all, I have to buy something to enter. That knit may be the ticket (or not). At any rate, I've decided that it's ok to buy patterns for the SWAP. These are a couple that I have in mind:

Thank you Loes Hinse! One of my blouse patterns might be her new Bergman Blouse, while the Kimono Jacket would be perfect to make as a reversible item. While these aren't TNT (tried 'n' true) patterns, they look simple enough that they could be in the future.

Speaking of TNT, I've identified a couple that certainly qualify. The first one is a Kwik Sew T-shirt (2565) that I've made a bunch of times and reviewed on Pattern Review way back in 2003. I'd say it's earned it's keep! Unfortunately, it has apparently been discontinued--good thing I've traced it off so I can keep this pattern in perpetuity.

Another TNT is from the Sewing Workshop Collection, the Sandra Betzina Vest and Skirt pattern. I don't really care for the vest, but the skirt is wonderful. Sandra's recommended fabrics are knits but I sucessfully made it from a silky fabric that's a mainstay of my working wardrobe. I think it would be great made up in the circle print that's the theme fabric of my swap.

My last pattern today is a "vintage" pattern from Vogue. I hesitate to call it that; after all, the copyright is only 1988! That can't be vintage, can it? Another guideline of the SWAP is that a couple of the blouses need to be more than simple T-shirts. I think this one fits the bill. I like the side tab detail on the 3 blouses that aren't tucked in.

Not that I have anything against a tucked in blouse; I even wear them sometimes. But I was thinking it would be nice to have some blouses in the SWAP that could also work as jackets. The style of that orange one would work well, I think. This pattern is likely to take some effort. I haven't made it before and the pattern only goes to a size 10. However, that should be a good fit through my shoulders and neck, then it's FBA (full bust adjustment) time and side seam adjustments for my (ahem) non-size 10 lower body. Maybe I can do some morphing to make this one easier for me.

I still have some additional picks to make. I'm considering adding the Loes Hinse Tango Skirt to the mix. I can see it in the purple fabric with the Vogue blouse as a pseudo dress, then using them separately.