tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35796230889352659142024-03-13T19:55:59.361-07:00Sewing Soothes the SoulFollow my foray into DIY dressmakingBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.comBlogger151125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-79895708312102054372018-01-21T02:45:00.000-08:002018-01-21T02:45:32.398-08:00Breaking a Year-Long SilenceHello!<br />
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I know it has been absolutely ages since I last blogged. Most of you have probably given up on me, so I would just like to apologise - to myself as well as you - for such a long period of silence. When I wrote my last blog post, I had no idea it would take me a year to write another one. The final few months of my undergraduate degree were very full-on and blogging fell by the wayside, but I'm happy to announce that I graduated in July with a 2:1! Since then, I've started back at uni to get my Masters in Medieval Studies, something which I'm really enjoying. However, adjusting to the workload that accompanies a degree of this type is something that I've struggled with. I've been left with little time for creative pursuits like sewing, and I've noticed that my mental health has really suffered as a result.<br />
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The last time I sewed anything was over summer, but even then I had little time at home. I stayed at my university house until graduation in late July (without my sewing machine), spent a lot of time in Liverpool with my boyfriend and his family, then returned to university to start my Masters in early September. I did have a lovely summer, but I was only left with about three weeks of sewing time during August, where I did make a few new things including some <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/cleo" target="_blank">Cleo</a> dresses, a <a href="https://sewoverit.co.uk/product/penny-dress-pdf-sewing-pattern/" target="_blank">Penny</a> shirt and a <a href="https://grainlinestudio.com/shop/women/linden-sweatshirt-paper/" target="_blank">Linden</a> sweatshirt, but after putting so much effort into writing my dissertation, I just felt I didn't have many words left for blogging.<br />
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Just recently, in an attempt to satisfy the part of me that needs to be doing something creative, I've started knitting. I've only knit a handful of things before, as sewing is really more my thing, but in the absence of my sewing machine, knitting has become an important part of my free time, allowing me to feel like I'm actually achieving something. I've started to feel guilty whenever I'm not doing uni work, but knitting a few rows every evening helps to alleviate this. So far, I've finished a jumper (<a href="https://www.artofyarn.uk.com/james-c-brett-knitting-pattern-jb180-8901-p.asp" target="_blank">JB180</a>) and started a cardigan using the same pattern.<br />
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Of course, my heart still belongs to sewing, and my head is buzzing with patterns and fabric choices and things I could make. I try to keep track of all my plans using the 'Saved' feature on Instagram - I know I won't have much time to sew until October when my Masters finishes, but until then, I can still dream of all the lovely things I could be making!<br />
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I won't promise you'll hear from me again soon, because I have no idea when I'll next get round to sewing something. However, this year I have vowed to try and manage my time better, to try and fit more fun things into my free time and spend less time worrying and feeling guilty whilst doing them. I work hard for my Masters - I deserve some time to spend knitting, reading, maybe even sewing once summer rolls round!<br />
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Until next time, you can always take a peek at what I'm up to on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beththegulfmini/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> (@beththegulfmini), where I post far more regularly than on the blog!<br />
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Thank you for being so patient with me, and I will do my absolute best to not leave it a year this time! I hope you all have a wonderful 2018,<br />
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Beth xxBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-59143500276320083132017-01-28T16:29:00.000-08:002017-01-28T16:29:52.223-08:00So many plans, so little timeHey everyone,<br />
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Today I thought I'd just check in and let you know that I am still around, I'm just going to be very quiet on the sewing front for a while. Whilst I have a few projects I completed over Christmas still waiting to be blogged, I won't be making anything new until Easter, having chosen to leave my sewing machine at home when I returned to uni.<br />
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I chose to do this for a number of reasons. Firstly, my house at uni doesn't really have a sensible space to cut out patterns and fabric, or a good place to set up my sewing machine. Secondly, this is a really important year of uni for me and I didn't want to get distracted from work by sewing. However, it is one thing to have these good intentions, another thing to follow through with them!<br />
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Whilst I may not be able to sew with no machine, my head is still buzzing with sewing plans, inspiration I've seen on blogs and lovely photos I've seen on Instagram. I have a picture in my head of how I want my perfect wardrobe to look, but achieving that goal is a slow progress and I sometimes get frustrated at the gaps I can see still exist.<br />
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Just recently I've also found myself wanting to try new crafts (particularly crochet) and I have a constant longing to read more. I think this is partly a consequence of the realisation that I'm going to have to work hard this semester, so my brain is looking for a creative outlet. I've made myself a timetable detailing how many hours of uni work I should be getting through every week, but I think I need to also consider ways I can continue to enjoy leisure time without just resorting to sitting in front of my laptop binge-watching episodes of The Big Bang Theory on Netflix for the millionth time.<br />
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Funds are low at the moment (typical student living) but when I can, I'm going to invest in some new books. I spend so much of my time at the moment reading academic works, I want to spend more time losing myself in fiction instead. If anyone has any book suggestions then do please leave them below! Same goes for Netflix (UK) suggestions - I'm going to be realistic and admit that a lot of my free time will still be spent watching TV shows.<br />
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I guess this post was just a way for me to let off a bit of steam about the worries I'm having about how much is resting on these next few months. I am really hoping I have the motivation to power through the amount of work I have to do and still enjoy my time here. I love uni, and I want to stay loving it.<br />
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So, thank you for staying with me through my ramblings, and hopefully I will be able to document a few sewing projects soon!<br /><br />Have a lovely week everyone,<br />
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Beth xBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-63821763790454519312016-12-31T06:40:00.001-08:002016-12-31T06:40:06.760-08:00A Year in SewingHey everyone!<br />
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With 2016 rapidly drawing to a close, I just wanted to take a moment and look back at my sewing output for this year. You might remember that in December last year, I set myself some sewing resolutions to complete throughout 2016 - you can find them <a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/search?updated-max=2016-01-27T08:53:00-08:00&max-results=7" target="_blank">here</a>. Well, thanks to a combination of university and the appeal of other sewing projects, I haven't completed any of them! That's alright though, I'll get round to them at my own pace. For now, I'm just glad that I still enjoy stitching fabric into clothes I love to wear.<br />
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I've decided not to set myself any sewing resolutions at all for 2017. I'm in my third year of university, it's a busy time and I want to put my effort into studying. I will still try to make time for sewing whenever I can, I just want to be able to choose projects based on how I'm feeling at the time, not on what resolutions I made at the start of the year. Hopefully this will mean I continue to create a wardrobe which works for my everyday style, rather than one off pieces which don't fit in with the rest of my garments!<br />
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So, now for a look back on my sewing in 2016, what worked and what didn't. I've blogged 13 items of clothing this year, and completed 5 more whilst I've been back home for Christmas. This is definitely down on previous years - in 2015 I made 28 garments and 34 in 2014! However, I put the decrease down to an increased workload at university.<br />
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My top three favourite makes of this year are as follows:<br />
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IeO_2A8IUio/VrzRiOsEvpI/AAAAAAAABVs/UjrDzSZJnVA/s320/blogger-image--1740162805.jpg" /><br />
<a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2016/02/geneva-raglan.html" target="_blank">Geneva Raglan Top</a><br />
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<img height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R9rXGIG_n2o/V4aII1PWCpI/AAAAAAAABag/qr_5svuq4NMyj7lyT6Br8mcVcRmwpgOigCEw/s400/IMG_0034.PNG" width="225" /><br />
<a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/floral-megan.html" target="_blank">Megan Dress</a><br />
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<img height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JcmJpkrvJE/V7wcsidUlBI/AAAAAAAABdg/eJZTb3fDFLwWCIt70_VQFaZwMjdJEO-LwCLcB/s400/IMG_0313.PNG" width="225" /><br />
<a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/backless-emery-dress_16.html" target="_blank">Backless Emery Dress</a><br />
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All three are worn regularly and the dresses in particular fit into my signature navy floral style. However, not everything I've made this year have made it into my regular wardrobe rotation. Here are a couple of garments that haven't seen any wear this year and why:<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vedepg14Jow/WGe99xybZEI/AAAAAAAABg4/vZzp0nIf71cOIz93dtuBcO3cRmIx76_VgCLcB/s400/IMG_0323.PNG" width="225" /><br />
<a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2016/11/flora.html" target="_blank">Flora Dress</a><br />
The By Hand Flora Dress is a gorgeous pattern and I really want to make it up in a different fabric - the (rather ugly!) fabric I used to make this dress was some cheap cotton I found in the bottom of a box at my university's craft club. Perfect for practising sewing a pattern I'd never used before, not perfect for day to day wear. <br />
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<img height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qmrKEkr863A/WGe96YSXhNI/AAAAAAAABg0/I2eDugFeBrg0c4XiRIM5GVDOgRnFB3ceACLcB/s400/IMG_0275.PNG" width="225" /><br />
<a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/navy-sewaholic-renfrew-dress.html" target="_blank">Renfrew Dress</a><br />
Yes, navy is my colour, but without a pattern like flowers or polka dots, I will very rarely reach for a dress. This is a really comfy garment, but it's seen virtually no wear because it's just too plain for my usual style, and as a general rule I wear woven dresses far more often than knits. Lesson learnt!<br />
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Overall, I've grown really comfortable with my style. I know what I love to wear and sew, so even with the decreased sewing output I suspect coming up in 2017, hopefully I'll have a greater chance of sewing garments I wear on a regular basis. Navy floral fabric is more or less a must for me to reach for a dress in the morning, as is a heavily gathered skirt. I'm going to keep this is mind when planning future makes, and am looking forward to getting started on adding to my wardrobe in 2017!<br /><br />To all of you out there, I wish you a wonderful, happy, healthy and creative year, and thank you as always for reading,<br />
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Beth xBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-2302788473556861132016-12-28T14:37:00.000-08:002016-12-28T14:37:42.172-08:002016: A ReflectionHey everyone!<br />
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With the year coming to a close, I thought that today I'd take a look back on 2016 and reflect on both the good and the bad. For me personally, 2016 has been a wonderful year. I feel like I really hit my stride at university; I love living independently, studying what interests me and learning how to manage by myself in the wider world. I also took part in two national demonstrations (<a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2016/02/anti-trident-rally-with-campaign-for.html" target="_blank">one against Trident</a> and one against austerity), spent my first full year as a vegetarian (as opposed to the eight years I spent as a pescetarian - someone who eats fish but not meat) and celebrated me and my boyfriend's first year anniversary.<br />
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However, in many parts of the wider world, 2016 has not been a good year. Britain chose to leave the European Union, Donald Trump was elected President of the United States, there have been dozens of terrorist attacks all over the world, mass shootings and a 41% increase in hate crime throughout Britain following the Brexit vote. It's at times like these when we should be standing together, supporting each other, not demonstrating divide and hate.<br />
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2016 has also become known as the year of celebrity deaths and this, too, is devastating. So much talent has been lost this year, so many inspirational people. But whilst you spare a thought for those whose passing is big enough to make the headlines, please remember all the people whose deaths have gone unnoticed by the media, but who are just as important and just as worthy of mourning and remembering.<br />
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I watched <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pride_(2014_film)" target="_blank">Pride</a> earlier on this evening, which in part was what motivated me to sit down and get this blog post written. A funny, moving and completely inspirational account of how the LGBT community came together in a show of solidarity with striking miners, it has really reinvigorated my love of activism, socialism and the fight for peace. I don't identify as LGBT, but I do identify as a socialist and a feminist - and when you stop to think about it, they're all interlinked. The fight for peace and equality is something we should all be invested in, no matter who you are or where you come from. That is why in 2017, I want to get more involved than ever in trying to make our world a better place. In March, I'll be attending the '<a href="https://keepournhspublicgmcr.com/2016/11/14/national-nhs-demonstration-4th-march-2017/" target="_blank">It's our NHS: National Demonstration</a>', and I really do hope that you will consider coming along too. I also want learn as much as I can about the feminist movement, so am aiming to join the feminist book club Our Shared Shelf, which was founded this year by Emma Watson.<br />
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I know I'm just one small person in a sea of voices and I know that at 21 years old, I'm still young and inexperienced. But I don't want my life to be harmful in any way - I want to reduce my impact on the planet, I want to care for animals rather than contributing to their deaths through the meat industry, and I want to help people who need it. I want to use my life to fight for equality and peace, and I want to help inspire others to do the same. If we all work towards the same goal, we stand a far greater chance of achieving it than if we work alone.<br />
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I will aim to be back at some point before the New Year to share my sewing achievements of 2016 and my plans for next year!<br />
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Thank you so much for reading, I hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas and have a lovely week,<br />
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Beth xBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-67513755182298514892016-12-11T12:29:00.001-08:002016-12-11T12:29:12.550-08:00Christmas Sewing ListHey guys!<br />
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With the exception of my dissertation oral presentation tomorrow (I am absolutely terrified, keeping my fingers crossed it goes ok!), I have finished my work for the semester and am free to start planning all the lovely things I'm going to sew over the Christmas break.<br />
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With that in mind, I thought I'd put together a list so you can see what I'm hoping to make. I've not sewn since August so I'm planning on getting a <i>lot </i>done over the three weeks I have off, so if you have any more suggestions please do comment them below!<br />
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<img alt="Cleo pinafore & dungaree dress - sewing pattern by Tilly and the Buttons" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0364/2693/products/Cleo-dungaree-dress-sewing-pattern-12_medium.jpg?v=1478516996" /><br />
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First up is the <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/cleo" target="_blank">Cleo pinafore dress</a> from Tilly and the Buttons. I am absolutely in love with this pattern and have got some absolutely gorgeous aubergine needlecord ready and waiting (I got the fabric as part of the kits Tilly has made to accompany this pattern, they're awesome and make the process so much easier).<br />
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I can definitely see a dress like this becoming a wardrobe staple for me, I've always been a huge fan of both dungarees and dresses, so to combine the two seems like a genius idea!<br />
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<img alt="Evelyn Wrap Front Romper Teddy Sewing Pattern Ballet Style Lingerie PDF Instant Download Tutorial" height="320" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/131/1/9010557/il_570xN.986637260_rsc9.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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Next up is the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/398699049/evelyn-wrap-front-romper-teddy-sewing?ref=shop_home_feat_4" target="_blank">Evelyn Romper</a> from Ohhh Lulu. I've had my eye on this pattern for ages, so I've finally taken the plunge and ordered some black satin from <a href="http://www.abakhan.co.uk/" target="_blank">Abakhan</a> to have a go. It's different to the kind of garments I usually sew, but I'm looking forward to trying something new. Plus my pyjamas usually consist of old t-shirts that I've had since I was 10 and some bottoms that don't match, so it'll be nice to have something a bit posher!<br />
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<img alt="Image of OGDEN CAMI" height="320" src="https://images.bigcartel.com/product_images/182140406/OGDEN_CAMI_hero.jpg?auto=format&fit=max&h=1000&w=1000" width="256" /><br />
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I was inspired to sew the <a href="http://shop.truebias.com/product/ogden-cami" target="_blank">Ogden Cami</a> from True Bias Patterns when I saw Erin's <a href="http://emeralderin.com/2016/10/style-search-week-7-ogden-cami.html" target="_blank">gorgeous versions</a>. I've ordered some teal crepe from <a href="https://www.minervacrafts.com/shop/fabric" target="_blank">Minerva Fabrics</a> to make my own. Although my heart lies with dresses, I've been trying to get into the habit of wearing jeans a bit more often in the cold winter weather, so adding a few more tops into my wardrobe to wear with them is definitely a necessity.<br />
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<img alt="Astoria" height="320" src="https://www.seamwork.com/assets/catalog/3009/sw3009-astoria-01-large-588f643f65f3bf3edbdc316c8b346bb26b145e7138ae89e96c95e48a07c6c43b.jpg" width="213" /><br />
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Finally, the <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/catalog/astoria" target="_blank">Astoria Sweatshirt</a> from Seamwork Magazine. I've already got three of these in my wardrobe (navy, cream, then a colour blocked one with a cream body and navy sleeves). However, I've been wanting a burgundy one for ages! So I picked up some burgundy sweatshirt fabric from Ebay and am looking forward to adding another Astoria to my wardrobe.<br />
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I'm also planning on doing some selfless sewing and making a sweatshirt for my boyfriend with some grey sweatshirting fabric I have (I've never been much into grey, but he swears it goes with everything).<br />
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So, that's my sewing list for the Christmas holidays so far! I'm 99.9% certain it will grow, especially as I'll be able to visit my home town's fabric shop for the first time in almost four months!<br />
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Do you have any sewing plans for the holidays? I'd love to hear about them!<br /><br />I hope you've all had a fabulous weekend and, as always, thank you for reading,<br />
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Beth x<br />
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-19718345257444554422016-11-17T12:14:00.000-08:002016-11-17T12:14:23.680-08:00FloraHey everyone!<br /><br />It's been a while, I know, and still no sewing going on around these parts. I miss my machine so much! It's sitting neglected and a little dusty in the corner of my room. Third year of university is leaving pretty much no time to indulge in sewing, so I'm finding myself semi-stalking Instagram, Pinterest and sewing blogs for some much needed inspiration. I have a long list of garments to make over the Christmas break, I can't wait to get started!<br />
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In the meantime, I thought I'd share my final make from over summer with you. I was running out of suitable stash fabric by this point, so the fabric I used is reasonably awful, but it worked well as a means of testing a new style...the faux wrap of the By Hand London Flora!<br />
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In a nicer fabric (this is some really cheap cotton stuff I was given from the Craft Club at my university; I really dislike the print, far too much pale pink for my taste), I think this could easily become a pattern I use over and over again. I made up a size 6, which is usual for me. When finished, there was a little gaping at the neckline, but I remedied this by adding a line of stitching down where the wrap pieces cross over, a quick and easy solution. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rXLgYNz2ekI/WC4MdQItUII/AAAAAAAABgI/g5SYM5xBaWgQ336NiSqBDeoiKe-E8xQCwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0325.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rXLgYNz2ekI/WC4MdQItUII/AAAAAAAABgI/g5SYM5xBaWgQ336NiSqBDeoiKe-E8xQCwCLcB/s640/IMG_0325.PNG" width="360" /></a></div>
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Like normal, I swapped out the drafted skirt pieces for a simple gathered rectangle, my favourite style and the one I've used with almost all of my handmade dresses. </div>
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Overall, I really like this dress. The bodice neckline is a little different to what I'm used to, but I have so many dresses similar to each other that it's good to try something a little out of the ordinary (note the navy floral fabric though...that's not going anywhere any time soon ;) )</div>
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As usual, thank you for reading, and for bearing with me through all the long silences. I'll try and write again in the next few days with a sewing plan for all the garments I want to make over Christmas!<br /></div>
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Have a wonderful week everyone,</div>
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Beth x</div>
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-79207541975593330262016-10-02T11:18:00.002-07:002016-10-02T11:18:46.196-07:00Navy Sewaholic Renfrew DressHey guys!<br />
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No sewing has been going on around these parts as of late, as I foolishly decided not to bring my sewing machine to uni this year (never fear; this should hopefully be rectified next weekend!). However, I do have another make completed over summer to share with you. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hPMZ1ZNJaA4/V_FNBLXc5AI/AAAAAAAABe8/1IZ-noWSPfgRECSoGeaQeX7F-1JYTp6dgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0275.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hPMZ1ZNJaA4/V_FNBLXc5AI/AAAAAAAABe8/1IZ-noWSPfgRECSoGeaQeX7F-1JYTp6dgCLcB/s400/IMG_0275.PNG" width="225" /></a></div>
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This is another Sewaholic Renfrew hack - like with my other versions, I just cropped the bodice pieces and added a gathered skirt to make a dress. This is so comfy to wear, especially in the snuggly navy jersey I picked up at the flagship John Lewis store on Oxford Street in London. </div>
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As per usual I sewed up the smallest size (0) and didn't have to make any fitting alterations. I'm really pleased with the finished result, it'll be great to wear once the colder winter weather arrives. I adore winter clothing and am thrilled the cooler autumn weather has at last meant I can switch back to wearing tights and cardigans.</div>
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Here's a closer look at the bodice. I've never really managed to get on board with the 'secret pyjamas' trend which seems to have been sweeping the blogosphere as of late, but this dress does fit the requirements! </div>
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That's about it from me today. Hopefully I'll be back soon to share another finished make once I have my sewing machine back!</div>
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I hope you all have a lovely week, and thank you so much for reading, </div>
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Beth x</div>
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-3684937509433890912016-09-08T08:53:00.000-07:002016-09-08T08:53:12.072-07:00Typically Me - A Navy Sewaholic CambieHey guys! How are you?<br />
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I am fiiiiinally back at uni and it is awesome to be here. Lectures don't start for another two weeks, so I'm just enjoying spending time with my friends, working on a book review for my dissertation and watching Stranger Things on Netflix (which is seriously good, though creepy - would definitely recommend). <br />
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At the moment though, it is super warm and sunny outside, so I'm inside staying out of the heat with a bunch of double chocolate chip cookies to get through, so I thought I'd share another one of my recently finished makes with you! <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-If7-yvobgs4/V9GFimg_qeI/AAAAAAAABeM/KNMET7TgbAQBv0WfO-rYJnh63KNOtnzxwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0283.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-If7-yvobgs4/V9GFimg_qeI/AAAAAAAABeM/KNMET7TgbAQBv0WfO-rYJnh63KNOtnzxwCLcB/s640/IMG_0283.PNG" width="360" /></a></div>
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Yes, it is yet another Sewaholic Cambie. To be honest, this being my eighth (!!!) version of this dress, I haven't got a lot of new stuff to say, but I like it and it fits my style perfectly, so I figured I'd blog about it anyway. </div>
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As per usual, I made up View B with the gathered skirt in a Size 0 with no fitting issues, and used a gorgeous cotton fabric that I found in my local market. It's navy with tiny white daisies, so from afar it looks very similar to another one of my Cambies - the first dress in <a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/my-christmas-collection.html" target="_blank">this post</a>, if you're interested. That wasn't an accident though, as I love that version of the Cambie so much (it gets worn alllllll the time) I've been planning on making another one for ages, so this one fits the bill perfectly.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku1qOUddjg4/V9GHvB27hsI/AAAAAAAABeU/ZFudI-i8kYsdqXllYXcInd7USn-bVr6FQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0285.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku1qOUddjg4/V9GHvB27hsI/AAAAAAAABeU/ZFudI-i8kYsdqXllYXcInd7USn-bVr6FQCLcB/s640/IMG_0285.PNG" width="360" /></a></div>
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Here's a close up of the bodice, you can see the print a little better. I can envision myself wearing this dress all the time come winter, with cosy cardigans, tights and boots.... is anyone else dreaming of colder weather at the moment?</div>
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So, that's pretty much all from me for now - the Cambie may be my favourite sewing pattern, but I think even I'll run out of stuff to say about it eventually! Still, I doubt this will be the last time you see it, I can definitely see more Cambies on the horizon! </div>
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I hope you're all having a brilliant week and, as always, thank you for reading,</div>
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Beth x</div>
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-29284221582506670012016-08-23T02:42:00.003-07:002016-08-23T02:42:56.988-07:00Outfit-Along 2016: My Completed OutfitHey guys!<br />
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I am exceptionally late blogging my completed garments for the Outfit-Along, but I only just got around to photographing them. Whilst I did finish both pieces before the deadline, unfortunately I never uploaded a picture on time for it to count in the competition! However, for me the real prize is that it inspired me to create an entirely new outfit, including a knitted jumper! For someone as slow at knitting as I am, I feel really proud of this accomplishment.<br />
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For the first part of my outfit, I (rather unsurprisingly) chose to make a dress. I had an absolutely beautiful length of Liberty Tana Lawn in my fabric stash which I'd been delaying using for fear of something going wrong! I decided the competition was the push I needed to create something from it though, and chose my favourite tried and tested pattern, the <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/cambie-dress/" target="_blank">Sewaholic Cambie.</a> </div>
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I made up the Size 0, which is standard for me, and didn't come across any fitting issues sewing it up. The whole of the dress is fully lined as well, including the fully gathered skirt. </div>
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I absolutely adore this pattern, which can be seen through the amount of times I've sewn it up! I have seven Cambies in my handmade wardrobe, the most times I've used the same pattern. </div>
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Here's a close up of the bodice so you can have a better look at the beautiful fabric! I know that Liberty isn't for everyone, but I've been somewhat of a super-fan since the moment I stepped inside the store in London. Even the building itself is gorgeous, fitting to house such exquisitely designed fabrics. I have been known to spend more than an hour on the fabric floor, doing nothing but walk round and feel the buttery softness of the Tana Lawn. Whilst expensive, I do love the fact that I'm not able to sew with it for every project; the rare times I'm able to get my hands on some Liberty, my project feels that little bit more special.</div>
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Now moving on from my ramblings about my love of Liberty, let me show you my finished jumper! Whilst not perfect, I am really pleased with the fact that I managed to finish it at all, as I am definitely more of a machine sewer than a slow hand knitted project kind of girl. But I am glad I persevered! </div>
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For this garment, I used a pattern I found on Ravelry - the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/coronis" target="_blank">Coronis Jumper</a> by Emily Ringelman. It's knitted in the round from the top down, which for a beginner knitter like me seemed perfect. My only regret is that I didn't follow the yarn weight instructions, using a thick aran instead of the recommended double knitting, so it's come out quite bulky. But, it's all a learning curve! And the finished jumper is still perfectly wearable. </div>
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I do love the yarn I used though, despite the fact it's a little weighty. It's a deep navy colour with little white specks, perfect to match all my dresses! I'm sure it'll see some wear come winter, as it is really warm and cosy.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dxizncvxt1c/V7wZ6cqeRpI/AAAAAAAABdQ/6z11NoWhb1w-2G6R15ji2ftzeKouj-X9ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0301%2B%25281%2529.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dxizncvxt1c/V7wZ6cqeRpI/AAAAAAAABdQ/6z11NoWhb1w-2G6R15ji2ftzeKouj-X9ACLcB/s400/IMG_0301%2B%25281%2529.PNG" width="225" /></a></div>
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Aaaaand here's the completed outfit! A Sewaholic Cambie dress and a Coronis jumper. I'm so pleased with both garments and happy that although I didn't get everything uploaded on time for the deadline, I've furthered my knitting skills and come away with two new items of clothing to wear. </div>
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Did you take part in the Outfit-Along? If so, I'd love to see what you made!</div>
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I hope you all have a fabulous week and, as always, thank you so much for reading,</div>
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Beth x</div>
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-90683451171934539182016-08-16T11:33:00.001-07:002016-08-16T11:35:54.770-07:00Backless Emery DressHey guys!<br />
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It's been a long time coming, but I've finally got round to photographing some of my more recently finished makes! I've got so much to share with you, so I thought I'd start with my absolute favourite, a hacked version of the Emery Dress by Christine Haynes. <br />
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From the front, the dress looks like the Emery Dress as drafted. I cut the smallest size, using View A for the bodice but omitting the bow at the waistline. As is typical for me, I used a simple gathered skirt, which I lined. It's the back of the dress which is a little more interesting!</div>
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I bought a ready-to-wear backless dress from New Look this summer and fell in love with the style of it, so I wanted to experiment and see if I could replicate it. Using the back piece of the Emery bodice as a starting point, I simply got a pencil and drew a line down from the neckline, curving in towards the centre back as I reached the waistline. </div>
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I didn't bother to line the bodice, simply gave every visible raw edge a narrow hem, which worked out fine. I then added a little strap at the back just for some security and inserted the zip like normal. I'm so pleased with the finished result! </div>
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For the fabric, I used a lovely length of something I picked up in Abakhan in Chester, only I don't know what it is! It feels like a soft version of cotton canvas, or something similar? It's quite a heavy weight, but with a beautiful feel to it. I love the print as well! Navy floral? Yes please! It was a dream to work with, as it pressed really well and didn't fray.<br />
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Here's a close up shot of the back. It is quite dramatic! As I was making alterations to the paper pattern, I was just winging it really - I've never hacked anything in this way before. I just drew my new shape directly onto the pattern and cut it out, as it's a PDF file so I can just print off another copy if I ever decide to make another non-backless version. I do want to continue my experiments with backless though, perhaps a slightly less full version next time - have the scoop finish higher up my back and bring the sides round into my shoulder blades a little more. I do love it the way it is though, it's a real statement and I've worn it loads this summer. <br />
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So, that's my new Emery! I have loads more to show you though, so keep your eye out for more posts from me which should be up quite soon.<br />
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I hope you all have a fabulous week and thank you as always for reading,<br />
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Beth x<br />
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P.S. For the very observant amongst you, you may have noticed I've had a new haircut! I got bored of my curls and full fringe, so I've had a side parting and side fringe cut in instead, and have been experimenting with straightening! I'm still a bit undecided as to how to wear it full-time, but for the meantime I like it like this. Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-49018593355992418282016-07-13T12:07:00.001-07:002016-07-13T12:11:14.822-07:00Floral MeganHey guys!<br />
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I have finally got around to photographing some finished makes, with the help of my wonderful new phone. I can't express how pleased I am to have the ability to take photographs back! I love capturing images and surround myself in the ones I take; both my room at university and my room at home have the wall space covered in photos I've taken and printed off. That's not to say I'm a good photographer! I'm certainly not, but I do love the memories that photographs hold.<br />
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So, with my regained ability to photograph my handmade garments, today I thought I would share with you my most recently finished make - the Megan Dress from Tilly and the Buttons' book Love at First Stitch.<br />
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This is my second Megan (you can see the first <a href="http://sewingsoothesthesoul.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/love-at-first-stitch-one-make-month.html" target="_blank">here</a>), which I sewed up in a gorgeous floral cotton from Abakhan in Chester. It's quite a weighty fabric, almost like a softer version of a canvas, which made it a dream to sew with. I fell in love with the print as soon as I saw it and knew immediately it had to become a Megan dress. As you've probably realised by now, floral prints on navy backgrounds are definitely my signature style, even for my purse and phone case! </div>
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I already had the smallest size of the pattern traced off from the first time I'd made it, but I did encounter an odd fitting issue this time around. The finished dress was really gaping around the neckline, but after some thought I just pinched out a dart on either side of the zip, which solved the problem perfectly and got rid of the excess fabric.</div>
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Overall, I'm really pleased with the finished garment and have already given it it's first outing, to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. I had a lovely day and saw the Staffordshire Hoard (the biggest collection of Anglo-Saxon gold to be discovered in Britain, which was found by a metal detectorist), which I have been wanting to see for years! I also saw a lot of Roman, Greek and Egyptian artefacts, including a ring which belonged to Queen Nefertiti. If you're ever in the area I would definitely recommend a visit! </div>
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At last, a finished garment blogged. It feels good to be able to share my makes with you again; I've got a couple more posts planned which should be up soon, so keep your eye out for those!</div>
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I hope you all have a lovely week and, as always, thank you so much for reading,</div>
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Beth x</div>
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-4505598556277208832016-07-10T14:03:00.000-07:002016-07-10T14:03:05.165-07:00Checking In Hey guys!<br />
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Can you believe it's July already? This year is just flying past. I'm having a lovely time so far this summer and, with all the free time I have on my hands, I've already completed my Outfit-Along jumper! I'm usually a fantastically slow knitter, but I was really motivated to finish this project and finished weaving in the ends today. Now I just have to sew up the Sewaholic Cambie in some gorgeous Liberty Tana Lawn I have and my outfit will be complete. <br />
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My phone is being a huge pain at the moment and isn't letting me take photographs, but a new phone is on the way! It's due for delivery on Tuesday so fingers crossed I'll finally be able to photograph and blog some long-finished makes. I know I haven't blogged about any actual sewing for a while, but that doesn't mean I've been completely idle, I promise! I've got two dresses to share with you - and at the end of July I'll be sharing my Outfit-Along with you, so watch this space for those. <br />
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Apart from that, there's not much news from around here; I mostly spend my days watching Netflix in my pyjamas. Last week was lovely though, my boyfriend came to stay for a few days and it was great to spend time with him, especially since I'd not seen him since leaving university for summer nearly a month ago. I've also got a trip to Norway coming up in a couple of weeks, so that should be a fantastic experience and allows me to tick off another place on the list of countries I've visited. <br />
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Have you got any plans for summer? I'd love to hear about them!<br />
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As always, thank you for reading, <br />
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Beth xBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-72779504623807027942016-06-15T15:52:00.001-07:002016-06-16T06:22:53.383-07:00Outfit-Along 2016Hey guys! How are you all?<br />
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I'm back at home, spending my days lounging around in my pyjamas and binge-watching 90210 on Netflix. Three months of freedom is starting to look like rather a long time... if anyone has any suggestions for cheap things to do in my summer holiday, please do comment below! I was planning to spend my time sewing, but a severe lack of fabric funds means I can't spend as much time crafting as I'd like.<br />
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Still, I do have a length of gorgeous Liberty Tana Lawn waiting to be sewn up, so I thought I'd drop by to let you know I'm taking part in this year's Outfit-Along (OAL 2016), which is hosted by the lovely Lauren over at <a href="https://lladybird.com/" target="_blank">Lladybird</a> and Andi at <a href="http://untangling-knots.com/2016/05/15/oal-2016/" target="_blank">Untangling Knots</a>. The aim of the competition is to sew an item of clothing (for example, a dress) and knit another garment (such as a cardigan) between 1st June and 31st July. At the end you should end up with a whole me-made outfit! Though on it's third year running, this is my first time entering the OAL and I'm really excited to be a part of it. I've never worked to make a whole outfit before using both sewing and knitting skills, so I can't wait to see how it goes! <br />
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For my sewing pattern, I've chosen the <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/cambie-dress/" target="_blank">Sewaholic Cambie</a>, an old favourite of mine I've made many times before. For the knitting pattern, I've gone with the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/coronis" target="_blank">Coronis Jumper</a> by Emily Ringelman, which I stumbled across on Ravelry. Hopefully the two garments will go well together! I've not chosen the yarn for my cardigan yet, but I'm heading down to my local market tomorrow to try and find one I like. <br />
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<img alt="Cambie Dress by Sewaholic Patterns, View B" height="400" src="https://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/n-arxsrf/jfhrm/products/81/images/1182/IMG_0278__27847.1434477762.1280.1280.jpg?c=2" width="400" /><br />
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<img class="photo_image" height="400" id="photo_image_41896150" src="http://images4-d.ravelrycache.com/uploads/meghanaf/244890360/Pom_Pom_AW140597_flat_300_medium2.png" width="266" /><br />
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Finishing my dress on time for the deadline on July 31st shouldn't be a problem, I just hope I can finish my jumper! I'm not the world's fastest knitter. I've also promised my boyfriend I'll knit him a jumper too, so we'll have to see how that goes!<br />
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Are you taking part in the Outfit-Along this year? If so, what are you planning on making?<br />
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Have a lovely week everyone and, as always, thank you so much for reading.<br />
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Beth xBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-15956355811700536172016-06-04T16:11:00.001-07:002016-06-04T16:12:53.421-07:00Summer At Last!Hey guys!<div><br></div><div>Gosh, it's been over a month since I last posted. Time flies! Thankfully, I have at last got all of my assignments handed in, exams are over and I have officially completed my second year of university - now to enjoy the summer! </div><div><br></div><div>I've already got started on enjoying the freedom of the holidays with a trip to London last weekend with my boyfriend and three of our friends, which was really lovely. I even managed to pick some absolutely gorgeous Liberty Tana Lawn! (Yes, my love of Liberty still knows no bounds...) </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CG-no_sdt40/V1NgAzZRFSI/AAAAAAAABZs/FxewWQu0eo8/s640/blogger-image--1644466034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CG-no_sdt40/V1NgAzZRFSI/AAAAAAAABZs/FxewWQu0eo8/s640/blogger-image--1644466034.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm still deciding what to make with my Liberty fabric, but my sewing output in general has increased dramatically since finishing my exams last Thursday, with two dresses and a blouse completed! I'm slowly getting round to photographing everything so watch this space for their posts soon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You might also have noticed that I've added a new page to my blog's header - My Wardrobe! Photographs of all my handmade garments can be found there with the link to their original post, just to make it a bit easier to find past makes and to see the progression of my sewing (and photography!) skills over the years. In general it has to be said I'm not a fan of people who apologise on blogs, but I really think you're owed one here - my early blog photos (selfie in the mirror) are fairly horrific! Thankfully I've figured out how to self-photograph without the need for a mirror now. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">That's pretty much everything that's been going on with me recently. Just seeing people, sewing and binge watching TV series on Netflix! I'll leave you with a train selfie I took today on a trip to Chester. Hasn't the weather been lovely?! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WlTMzOANl9c/V1Nf_IkyJhI/AAAAAAAABZk/FnannHaAfwE/s640/blogger-image-1691213257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WlTMzOANl9c/V1Nf_IkyJhI/AAAAAAAABZk/FnannHaAfwE/s640/blogger-image-1691213257.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div>As always, thank you for reading - I'll be back soon with some completed project posts, but in the meantime, have a fabulous week! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Beth x</div></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-88839641931570802042016-05-01T05:50:00.001-07:002016-05-01T06:47:54.747-07:00Happy Me-Made-May!Hey guys! <div><br></div><div>Things have been pretty quiet on the sewing front round here recently. My sewing machine is currently at home rather than at uni, so it's been a while since I've made anything new. However, despite my current lack of creativity, I still wanted to check in and say happy Me-Made-May to everyone taking part! </div><div><br></div><div>This year, due to assignments, revision and exams, I've decided not to take part. Vowing to wear a handmade item of clothing everyday just seems like an unnecessary stress to add onto an already pretty busy month, so this year I'm opting out. I still love dressing handmade, I just don't want to sign up to a challenge I know I probably won't be able to keep up with, especially because the weather is warming up significantly but all my self-sewn summer clothes are in my wardrobe back at home rather than here with me at uni. </div><div><br></div><div>However, I'm cheering you all along this month and looking forward to seeing all of your documentation pictures! To everyone who has made a pledge for Me-Made-May this year, a huge good luck to you all - lets learn to love our handmade garments! </div><div><br></div><div>As always, thank you for reading and have a lovely weekend. </div><div><br></div><div>Beth x</div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-70745030541107635002016-04-14T08:42:00.001-07:002016-04-14T08:42:37.428-07:00Plans for Summer SewingHey guys! How are you all? <br />
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The weather is at last starting to pick up here in Wales, it really does feel like spring is here, with summer on the way. I handed in my assignments today, so I have a couple of weeks break before I need to start the next one, which feels awesome. With the warmer weather in mind, I thought I'd put together a list of some sewing projects I want to get finished in the next couple of months to wear this summer. <br />
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1. White Coppelia Cardigan from Papercut Patterns - the cropped, tie waist version will go great with all my shorts<br />
<img alt="Coppélia" height="320" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0170/3286/products/CCfront_afa83c73-07ed-4c41-a9ec-f9cda415bc27_large.png?v=1420640952" style="opacity: 1;" width="203" /><br />
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2. New Look 6457 - I've already made two of these, View A is just the perfect summer dress. If I have time, I'll make more than one in pretty floral prints<br />
<img class="mainImage" data-bm="52" height="320" src="http://www.fagert.se/shop/images/13448/6457.jpg" width="222" /><br />
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3. Megan Nielsen Briar - I love this pattern, it's just so cute! I think the cropped version would be a really good staple in warmer weather<br />
<img alt="" class="fancybox-image" height="320" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0151/5123/products/MN2303_BRIAR_Envelope_F.jpg?v=1442060615" width="246" /><br />
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4. Christine Haynes' Emery Dress - this has been on my To-Sew List for ages, it's about time I got a version sewn up!<br />
<img alt="Emery Dress Sewing Pattern" class="active" height="320" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0247/9521/products/emery-dress-view-A-1_6f251418-45f6-4640-a9f2-13144b222336_grande.jpg?v=1433315821" style="display: inline;" width="240" /><br />
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5. Backless dress - this is going to be a challenge, as I don't actually have a pattern for one. I was planning on hacking either the By Hand London Anna/Flora...wish me luck!<br />
<img class="rsImg rsMainSlideImage" height="320" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0289/4249/products/anna_82731f49-88b6-404b-b51b-a8203c7f154b_1024x1024.png?v=1453718265" style="margin-left: 9px; margin-top: 6px;" width="240" /> <img class="rsImg rsMainSlideImage" height="320" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0289/4249/products/Untitled-1-01_1024x1024.png?v=1453718137" style="margin-left: 9px; margin-top: 6px;" width="240" /><br />
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6. Deer and Doe Melilot Shirt - I'm basically in love with the sample picture, I definitely want a copy in a white viscose <br />
<img alt="Mélilot shirt" height="320" src="http://shop.deer-and-doe.fr/221-large_default/melilot-shirt-pattern.jpg" width="213" /><br />
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That's about it! I'm sure I'll deviate somewhat so whether everything actually gets sewn up remains to be seen, but there's the basic plan!<br />
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Do you have any plans for your summer sewing?<br />
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Thank you for reading,<br />
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Beth xBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-69556676726630905442016-03-30T03:16:00.001-07:002016-03-30T03:19:19.026-07:00Fifi PyjamasHey everyone! How are you all? <div><br></div><div>I'm doing pretty good, I'm at home for the Easter break and finally have a completed sewing project to show you! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rDpvXexWcr0/VvunPwiLF2I/AAAAAAAABX8/RnbozWr5d1g/s640/blogger-image--1412450428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rDpvXexWcr0/VvunPwiLF2I/AAAAAAAABX8/RnbozWr5d1g/s640/blogger-image--1412450428.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Truth be told, I finished this project in January, but I've been putting off blogging it. Ahh well, I've got round to it eventually! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is the Fifi Pyjama set from Tilly and the Buttons, and a classy lady she is. I don't think I've ever felt so posh wearing pyjamas! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GzROasY60yM/VvunZxSQvSI/AAAAAAAABYQ/2fHy4vlfpF8/s640/blogger-image--1838969096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GzROasY60yM/VvunZxSQvSI/AAAAAAAABYQ/2fHy4vlfpF8/s640/blogger-image--1838969096.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The light in these photos is dreadful, you'll have to excuse me - proper daylight in January was a little hard to come by! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">From start to finish, excluding cutting everything out, this project took me about five hours. I stayed up rather late to get it finished, but I am super happy with the end result! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I made the Size 1, which is usual for me and didn't make any adjustments. It fits pretty nicely straight out of the packet, but I do think I'll go back at some point and shorten the straps a tad. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rl17VoO9rAA/VvunTuGOdAI/AAAAAAAABYE/hml6EAYChIQ/s640/blogger-image--1357612270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rl17VoO9rAA/VvunTuGOdAI/AAAAAAAABYE/hml6EAYChIQ/s640/blogger-image--1357612270.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">All the seams are French, which I've never bothered with on a whole garment before. They look sooo neat, I am seriously tempted to use this style of seam more often - the extra effort is definitely worth it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VqTLREIf3Gs/VvunVhqIgFI/AAAAAAAABYI/LH78XrT4Y0s/s640/blogger-image--1464381461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VqTLREIf3Gs/VvunVhqIgFI/AAAAAAAABYI/LH78XrT4Y0s/s640/blogger-image--1464381461.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You can get a bit of a better look at the fabric here, which is an absolutely droolworthy, soft and buttery Liberty Tana Lawn. Yes, my love of all things Liberty is showing no sign of stopping - I visited the store with my mum last weekend when we were in London and to my surprise, realised that I can now name a lot of the fabrics! Definitely becoming a bit of an obsession...but look how pretty! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZgVGgvbqrBk/VvunRwu42YI/AAAAAAAABYA/TCk4B6zbFx8/s640/blogger-image--1328884665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZgVGgvbqrBk/VvunRwu42YI/AAAAAAAABYA/TCk4B6zbFx8/s640/blogger-image--1328884665.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wDpI2Fbp3FY/VvunX7DKnrI/AAAAAAAABYM/doSSMPB6FsY/s640/blogger-image--1785716912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wDpI2Fbp3FY/VvunX7DKnrI/AAAAAAAABYM/doSSMPB6FsY/s640/blogger-image--1785716912.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tWRKELWzRGo/Vvunb4-3uMI/AAAAAAAABYU/X51Bg7neMu8/s640/blogger-image--528906643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tWRKELWzRGo/Vvunb4-3uMI/AAAAAAAABYU/X51Bg7neMu8/s640/blogger-image--528906643.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0V17cy5cwGM/VvunN5VL5nI/AAAAAAAABX4/ZpnBgE2PBe8/s640/blogger-image--975093992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0V17cy5cwGM/VvunN5VL5nI/AAAAAAAABX4/ZpnBgE2PBe8/s640/blogger-image--975093992.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A few close ups. This was my first time making an elasticated waistband, which definitely wasn't as tricky as I'd been imagining. I also added a little blue bow to the top, which I think looks cute! I was also really pleased with myself for how neatly I managed to get the bias binding, as that's another technique I haven't really had much experience with. Overall, these pyjamas were a real learning curve for me, but I had so much fun! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Well, that's about it from me on the pyjama front. This is definitely the project that I feel most luxurious in whilst wearing and I'm really proud of it as a sewing achievement. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In other news...ooh, I did recently manage to turn some 40" waist jeans into a 28". I know, that should be more or less impossible, but long story short my boyfriend wanted some jeans in the sale from River Island, and the only size they had left was 40". I ended up taking 4" out of each side seam (which ate into the front pockets a little, but they're still usable), then 4" out of the back. I also took in the legs a little all over, to balance things out. To my surprise, they actually look ok! I got my mum to check, and she assures me they look like regular jeans (though she's astounded I managed to take out a whole 12"). So, there we go! It's been a post for attempting the sewing extraordinary, at least where I'm concerned. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">How are your sewing projects going? I'd love to hear! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thank you, as always, for reading, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Beth x</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-6674119790041405432016-03-21T03:57:00.000-07:002016-03-21T07:28:53.490-07:00NostalgiaHey everyone! How are you all? <br />
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I've finally broken up for the Easter holidays, so I'm back at home missing my uni friends, but enjoying being able to see my family. I have a couple of essays to write whilst I'm here, but I also have a few nice plans to meet up with people which should be really fun. <br />
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In the absence of any completed sewing projects to show you (but I have brought my sewing machine home with me, I promise!), today I wanted to talk about the favourite things of my childhood. I recently found out about the website <a href="http://www.invaluable.co.uk/" target="_blank">Invaluable</a>, which has all kinds of auctions with nostalgic items. The site can help people reconnect with items they may have loved as children but have forgotten about as they've grown up. As an online auction site, Invaluable also has a lot of collectibles which means it's a good resource for hunting down old books, coins and memorabilia. Mostly though, I just thought writing about nostalgia would be a great way to try and remember the things that were so important to me as a child!<br />
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I'm pretty sure that most of you, like me, all loved Lego. I have so much of it stashed away - a police station, pirate ship, castle and even Harry Potter's Hogwarts, as well as a huge box just filled with random colour pieces. To be honest, I still enjoy playing with Lego; one of my mum's friends has a little girl who we get Lego out for her to play with when she comes to visit, and I'm sure me and my dad have more fun playing with the Lego than she does! <br />
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I was also a huge fan of My Little Pony, spending hours brushing and braiding their hair. As far as I'm concerned, they've absolutely <em>ruined </em>them, they're just not as good as they used to be. I had a collection of about twenty ponies, all with their own brushes, as well as a couple of videos and a computer game (which I would spend absolutely hours playing). <br />
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Here's my absolute favourite from when I was little... I'm fairly sure she was called Strawberry. I used to know the names of all of them, but alas, that information has been nudged out by other things: <br />
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<img border="0" src="http://acimg.auctivacommerce.com/imgdata/0/1/9/3/9/7/webimg/3582803.jpg" height="188" width="200" /><br />
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And here's what they look like now...<br />
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*sigh...they are just not the same. <br />
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My last favourite would probably have to go to Sylvanian Families. Please all tell me you know what they are! I think I had little frogs and dalmations. One Christmas, I remember being brought an absolutely enormous house for them to all live in, and for my next birthday, a canal boat. One of my friends Eleanor, who absolutely adored them, was once bought a Sylvanian wedding set which I remember playing with and thinking was beautiful! <br />
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<img src="http://mightyape.com.au/images/products/21339777/Sylvanian-Families-House-on-the-Hill-15344810-5.jpeg" height="289" width="320" /> <img src="http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/OTM5WDE2MDA=/z/vCsAAOSwv0tVEAX7/$_35.JPG" /><br />
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The canal boat was always secretly my favourite, mostly because I've always wanted to live on one, and it came with loads of cool little accessories I could get the frogs to play with, like a mop and a life ring. <br />
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So, there we have it, the favourite toys of my childhood! Also worthy of note would have to be Barbie...yes, I know, but I'm not going to deny I've always had a very girly streak, and probably Baby Annabelle as well, my toy baby. She was very cute and I had a pram for her and everything. My mum used to take me to Toys R Us to buy her clothes (when she wasn't dressed in my own baby clothes, including my christening outfit! What a well dressed doll she was.) <br />
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Ooh, I also <em>loved </em>Felicity Wishes!<br />
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I had books, toys, pencil cases, advent calendars at Christmas...all adorned with the beautiful Felicity Wishes the fairy and her friends. Gosh, there's so many favourites now I've got onto the topic! Of course, toys aren't the only aspect of my childhood I remember and think of slightly wistfully...<br />
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Jelly tots were completely delicious, particularly the bottom of the pack where you could lick your finger and dip it in all the sugar. Magic Stars, they were good too...I would never eat them without first seeing what facial expression was on each star. I do still occasionally eat both jelly tots and Magic Stars; both give me a sense of nostalgia, but I don't look at all the faces on the Magic Stars before I eat them anymore. Times change I suppose! <br />
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TV was also a good one for me, I remember the first time we got a digital box, coming home from school and being able to watch a channel totally dedicated to children's shows! I was always a CBBC child, CITV had too many adverts! Arthur, The Wild Thornberries, The Rugrats and Tracy Beaker are my top picks, but there were a lot of other good shows too. I'll be here all day if I list them all!<br />
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Finally, books. I've always been a huge reader, with people like Jacqueline Wilson, J. K. Rowling and Lemony Snicket shaping my childhood. Whilst I'm here, my thanks go out to those wonderful authors (and my father), who all helped inspire my love of words. I'm forever grateful.<br />
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Well, that's probably enough from me. Now, over to you! Tell me, what is your favourite memory of childhood - a toy, a game, a food they just don't make the same anymore? The choice is yours! I can't wait to hear all your answers.<br />
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Have a brilliant week everyone, and thank you for reading, <br />
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Beth x<br />
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<em>Disclaimer: I was approached by Invaluable to write a blog post about the nostalgic items of my childhood as part of their community blogging project. I received no payment and agreed to write the post because I genuinely thought it would be nice to help my readers to remember and reconnect with the items they loved as children. All opinions stated here are my own.</em>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-14978558075086275122016-02-27T16:53:00.001-08:002016-02-27T16:53:13.650-08:00Anti-Trident Rally with the Campaign for Nuclear DisarmamentHey everyone! How are you all? <div><br></div><div>A little bit off my usual sewing topic today, but I am so excited about my day I felt I should share it with you. I went down to London to take part in the Anti-Trident rally organised by the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vVXLWt_ZoiI/VtJE6I49onI/AAAAAAAABXQ/sdvSSupBHis/s640/blogger-image-786898452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vVXLWt_ZoiI/VtJE6I49onI/AAAAAAAABXQ/sdvSSupBHis/s640/blogger-image-786898452.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Trident is essentially the British nuclear arms programme, which the government plans to replace at a cost of over £100 billion. This money could be used to pay 150,000 nurses working for the NHS, fund A&E departments for 40 years or build 1.5 million new, affordable houses, but instead it is being wasted on expensive weapons that we don't need. In a time of austerity, the leaders of our country should be focusing on creating jobs in the industries that matter, like the healthcare system, not using a fancy, updated version of Trident to boost our country's ego. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1-iDnTlFwnk/VtJE1ygiMbI/AAAAAAAABXI/oTey-rUPKJ0/s640/blogger-image-92694224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1-iDnTlFwnk/VtJE1ygiMbI/AAAAAAAABXI/oTey-rUPKJ0/s640/blogger-image-92694224.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As a History student, it honestly appalls me that there are still some people out there who seem to have learnt nothing from our past mistakes. The one and only time nuclear weapons have been used in war - Japan 1945 - hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians were killed, and the effects of the radiation can still be seen to this day. The nuclear warheads carried on Trident submarines are <i>eight times more powerful </i>than the bombs dropped on Japan - the devastation firing such a weapon would cause is unimaginable. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bdjFelioCzU/VtJE-G1jCtI/AAAAAAAABXY/z6cYim09DGA/s640/blogger-image-662183890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bdjFelioCzU/VtJE-G1jCtI/AAAAAAAABXY/z6cYim09DGA/s640/blogger-image-662183890.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today's rally began at Marble Arch, where 60,000 people met to march together to Trafalgar Square in protest of Trident's renewal. In addition to the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, we were joined by the Socialist Workers Party, the Labour Party, the Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru, the Green Party, groups fighting against racism and sexism, refugees, religious organisations, student nurses and doctors whose university funding has just been cut, those fighting against austerity and many others. To see so many people of all different backgrounds coming together with one voice to fight for the same cause made me feel a part of something really important, something worth fighting for. It was such an uplifting, amazing experience. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hHA05PFAn70/VtJE4FWX0dI/AAAAAAAABXM/Ie-qbrFzL1o/s640/blogger-image-653660152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hHA05PFAn70/VtJE4FWX0dI/AAAAAAAABXM/Ie-qbrFzL1o/s640/blogger-image-653660152.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Nuclear weapons are immoral, they are weapons of mass destruction, they are illegal and they are dangerous. They are also not the norm - the vast majority of countries are nuclear weapon free, why should Britain be any different? Nuclear weapons can go wrong - thousands of lives are threatened by them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3kKhkNH-ccE/VtJExl1w73I/AAAAAAAABXA/Plokbi1htV4/s640/blogger-image-621827511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3kKhkNH-ccE/VtJExl1w73I/AAAAAAAABXA/Plokbi1htV4/s640/blogger-image-621827511.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Join the fight. Let us stand together and oppose these weapons. Argue for peace, cutting war not welfare, books not bombs, NHS not Trident. We can only affect change if we work as one, all supporting the same cause - global disarmament. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-49ZhXXead1A/VtJE7xZoJpI/AAAAAAAABXU/msq8gdgyGcw/s640/blogger-image--1020292623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-49ZhXXead1A/VtJE7xZoJpI/AAAAAAAABXU/msq8gdgyGcw/s640/blogger-image--1020292623.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Speakers such as Nicola Sturgeon for the Scottish National Party, Leanne Wood for Plaid Cymru, Caroline Lucas for the Green Party and Jeremy Corbyn of the Labour Party all stood and opposed the renewal of Britain's nuclear weapons programme. I had an amazing day campaigning against these weapons and listening to such inspirational speeches, but our work will not be complete until the government agrees to scrap Trident. Make a stand, get out onto the streets, begin campaigning! It's everyone's fight, and the nuclear weapons of this country will not be renewed in our name. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hHxcVOu_tks/VtJEz-5qC7I/AAAAAAAABXE/QPGfFZ5Cx38/s640/blogger-image-170103174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hHxcVOu_tks/VtJEz-5qC7I/AAAAAAAABXE/QPGfFZ5Cx38/s640/blogger-image-170103174.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Say no to nuclear weapons, say no to Trident! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thank you for reading, and I hope you are all well and have a fabulous weekend. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Beth x</div></div></div></div></div></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-73660606506951780642016-02-23T06:52:00.001-08:002016-02-23T06:52:18.789-08:00Pyjama TopHello everyone! 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I've been having a mixed couple of weeks, but mostly good. I've cut out the pieces to make a velvet By Hand London Kim dress, now I just need to find the time to sew it all together! I don't expect I'll be able to get anywhere with it until next week though, as I am going down to London for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament's <a href="http://cnduk.org/component/k2/item/2309-stop-trident-national-demo" target="_blank">Anti-Trident rally</a> this weekend, which I'm quite excited about! </div>
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So, whilst I'm waiting to sew up a new project, I thought I'd show you one I completed a while back instead. </div>
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This is the Sewaholic Renfrew pattern, which I used to make a pretty quick and easy pyjama top. The fabric I used (which came from Abakhan in Chester) is a really soft, cosy knit which is actually being saved for a Megan Nielsen Briar. However, until I can get round to printing and assembling my PDF copy, I wanted something really simple, so to the Renfrew I turned! <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I ended up squeezing this make out of something ridiculous like a quarter of a metre of fabric, just to ensure I have enough left over for the Briar! I shortened the hem by quite a few inches to save fabric, but it doesn't bother me at all - this is hands down the comfiest pyjama top I've ever worn.</span> </span></div>
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I made my usual Size 0, opted for short sleeves and used some scraps to make a teeny patch pocket, which I think is really cute. I can't claim credit for the shorts, which come from <a href="http://www.fatface.com/" target="_blank">Fat Face</a> (my guilty pleasure), but I do think they go together quite well. </div>
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That's about it really! This was a really quick make, put together in about an hour and a half (including cutting out!) and I am really pleased with the final result. It makes a nice change from the Seaworld t-shirt I usually opt for, which I've had since I was ten! (I also recently watched the documentary <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackfish_(film)" target="_blank">Blackfish</a>, which has on some levels ruined my childhood memories of Seaworld, but I do still love that t-shirt). </div>
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As always, thank you for reading, and what's on your sewing table please? </div>
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Have a great week everyone, </div>
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Beth x</div>
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-68052133664985732812016-02-14T11:52:00.001-08:002016-02-14T11:52:09.131-08:00The Valentine's Day Dress (which didn't get worn on Valentine's Day...)Hey everyone! <div><br></div><div>In my last post I mentioned I was planning on sewing a dress for Valentine's Day. Truth be told, I'm not really a big fan of Valentine's Day, I find all the lovey-dovey celebration a little too much for my slightly socially awkward personality. However, this year my boyfriend talked me into going on a triple date with two of his best friends and their girlfriends, so I felt as though I should make a bit of an effort. </div><div><br></div><div>Having said that, once the dress was finished, I did a complete U-turn on what I wanted to wear! Isn't that always the way? So this dress wasn't actually worn on my date tonight, but I'm still mentally referring to it as the Valentine's Day dress. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HTefJpV0gOM/VsDa3_HYO9I/AAAAAAAABWE/FPYBm_lGwnY/s640/blogger-image--574271384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HTefJpV0gOM/VsDa3_HYO9I/AAAAAAAABWE/FPYBm_lGwnY/s640/blogger-image--574271384.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is the Babydoll Dress from Christine Haynes' book 'Skirts and Dresses for First Time Sewers'. I made it up in a floral patterned needlecord (yes, my current obsession with corduroy shows no sign of stopping yet...) and made the smallest size, as per usual. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KRxrV2L4C6g/VsDa11PjNXI/AAAAAAAABWA/AHPAQlDBt0M/s640/blogger-image-1774949323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KRxrV2L4C6g/VsDa11PjNXI/AAAAAAAABWA/AHPAQlDBt0M/s640/blogger-image-1774949323.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A word of warning: this dress runs large. I know the style is supposed to be somewhat oversized, but when I came to put it on I felt like I was wearing a tent! Luckily, a belt easily fixed the problem. I also shortened the full length sleeves, as I felt keeping them as drafted would be a little too much. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5TwV3tvRSqg/VsDa5yWivaI/AAAAAAAABWI/0ma2wvqp-M4/s640/blogger-image--1405606681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5TwV3tvRSqg/VsDa5yWivaI/AAAAAAAABWI/0ma2wvqp-M4/s640/blogger-image--1405606681.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I was a little unsure about the shoulders at first, they are very 'poofy', but after some consideration I decided I actually quite like them. They're a bit of a change from my usual style. I also asked a friend if he thought it looked nice, and he said 'I like the way the shoulders look' with no prompting from me, so I'll take that as a win. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Overall, I'm really pleased with the way this dress turned out even if I didn't actually wear it for what it was planned for. It's also my first completed sewing project since early January, so a nice simple way to ease me back into making :) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thank you for reading, and I hope that wherever you are, whatever you're doing and whoever you're with, you have a lovely Valentine's Day, whether you're in a relationship or not. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Beth x</div></div></div></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-15720355253748573162016-02-11T10:29:00.000-08:002016-02-11T10:29:20.385-08:00Geneva RaglanHey everyone! How are you all?<br />
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I am completely snowed under with uni work at the minute. I've just worked my way through about five hours of seminar reading and I'm still nowhere near done. I've vowed I'll get a dress finished before Valentine's Day (I'm going out on my first ever Valentine's date - eep! I'm a little nervous!) but I'm not sure I'll get it made up in time. Fingers crossed! </div>
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Still, I thought I'd take a bit of a break from reading up on early English castles and the Civil War to show you another completed project - the <a href="http://www.namedclothing.com/product/geneva-raglan-tee/" target="_blank">Geneva Raglan top</a> from Named Patterns. </div>
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Shamefully taking direct inspiration from <a href="http://houseofpinheiro.com/2015/08/geneva-my-duo-of-tees-discount-code-from-girl-charlee.html" target="_blank">Rachel of House of Pinheiro's beautiful version</a>, I made this up in a triangle print ponte de roma from <a href="https://www.girlcharlee.co.uk/" target="_blank">Girl Charlee</a> and a charcoal grey ponte from <a href="http://www.guthrie-ghani.co.uk/" target="_blank">Guthrie and Ghani</a>. </div>
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This top was a breeze to make, I didn't encounter any problems with sewing it up or fitting - hurrah for quick and easy sewing projects! I made up the smallest size (as is usual for me) and it fits really well. Next time, I think I'd use a fabric with a little more stretch for the sleeves, as the ponte I used is quite thick, but it's definitely wearable. </div>
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I'm not usually one for wearing jeans, but this top is perfect for when I fancy a change from the dresses I'm usually wearing. It's seen quite a bit of wear since I finished it a couple of months ago so, overall, success! </div>
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Thank you for taking the time to read. I hope all your sewing projects are going well :) I've been a little detached from the blogosphere recently - the unread posts on my reader are mounting up, but I catch up when I can. I love seeing everyone's finished projects! </div>
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Have a great week everyone, hope you are all well. </div>
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Beth x</div>
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-81677088440890426022016-01-30T10:07:00.001-08:002016-01-30T10:07:26.575-08:00Not one, but two...Hello all! How is everyone? <div><br></div><div>I'm settling back into university following a long break for Christmas and exams. It's great to be back living independently again and I'm looking forward to getting stuck into my modules this semester (for anyone interested, I'm doing the English Civil War, Henry I and the Age of the Castle). </div><div><br></div><div>Today I wanted to share with you two projects that I finished a while back, but have become real wardrobe staples. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AhWAI5OIFRg/Vqz726g9XbI/AAAAAAAABVU/sObtlx8_nTY/s640/blogger-image-1654781895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AhWAI5OIFRg/Vqz726g9XbI/AAAAAAAABVU/sObtlx8_nTY/s640/blogger-image-1654781895.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OxElHWSKQVw/Vqz7cUakpyI/AAAAAAAABUs/QLtLoHbx9vM/s640/blogger-image--140438499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OxElHWSKQVw/Vqz7cUakpyI/AAAAAAAABUs/QLtLoHbx9vM/s640/blogger-image--140438499.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Both of these skirts are made using the Elisalex pattern from By Hand London - minus the bodice and with the addition of a waistband. I also added pockets to both versions (who doesn't love a good pocket?). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s2iNsn23A04/Vqz7fnmvqEI/AAAAAAAABU0/chIP2_q0ll4/s640/blogger-image-1529429343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s2iNsn23A04/Vqz7fnmvqEI/AAAAAAAABU0/chIP2_q0ll4/s640/blogger-image-1529429343.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vqf9xHzhGSI/Vqz7z70RSaI/AAAAAAAABVM/KO5sTEioREU/s640/blogger-image-657246488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vqf9xHzhGSI/Vqz7z70RSaI/AAAAAAAABVM/KO5sTEioREU/s640/blogger-image-657246488.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I made up my usual size 6 and just cut the waistband to match my measurements, plus another two inches for the seam allowances and ease. It seemed to work pretty well as both skirts fit nicely. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The fabric for both skirts is needlecord - both the navy and the burgundy colourways were sourced from John Lewis on a trip to London. I'm going through a bit of an obsession with corduroy at the moment, having also picked some up in purple, floral and a stunning Liberty print. It's just such lovely fabric to sew with! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9lBpd2Ohe44/Vqz7nBlBfWI/AAAAAAAABU8/pUbjsvjjiqU/s640/blogger-image--962861391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9lBpd2Ohe44/Vqz7nBlBfWI/AAAAAAAABU8/pUbjsvjjiqU/s640/blogger-image--962861391.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mfYgvXN-h1Q/Vqz7vvCfcbI/AAAAAAAABVE/ycLYgyEUI3M/s640/blogger-image--845261721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mfYgvXN-h1Q/Vqz7vvCfcbI/AAAAAAAABVE/ycLYgyEUI3M/s640/blogger-image--845261721.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">These two skirts are such versatile pieces, they have easily made their way into my regular wardrobe rotation. It won't be long before you see a couple more! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hope your sewing is going well - do share below! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As always, thank you for reading, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Beth x</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-55015111667259126552016-01-28T13:31:00.001-08:002016-01-28T13:32:22.008-08:00Christmas Day DressHello everyone, how are you all? <div><br></div><div>After yesterday's rather melancholy post, I finally got round to photographing my latest sewing projects, so today I thought I'd start by sharing my Christmas Day dress - better late than never! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-60Rjq8BtWwg/VqqIgSKFfgI/AAAAAAAABUM/0UxjBAYgyqU/s640/blogger-image--987763366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-60Rjq8BtWwg/VqqIgSKFfgI/AAAAAAAABUM/0UxjBAYgyqU/s640/blogger-image--987763366.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The lighting here is shocking - a combination of poor winter light and living in student halls! However, hopefully you can see that this is the Sewaholic Cambie, sewn up in fabric bought from Cath Kidston. I absolutely love the print, the big flowers are so pretty! I made up my usual size 0 with no adjustments, cutting out the pieces on December 23rd and sewing them up on Christmas Eve. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6baOY0NaU6E/VqqIjB2q8NI/AAAAAAAABUU/yEVr_YyC9xg/s640/blogger-image--2129321838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6baOY0NaU6E/VqqIjB2q8NI/AAAAAAAABUU/yEVr_YyC9xg/s640/blogger-image--2129321838.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I lived in this dress all over the Christmas period, wearing it on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Eve - it's such an awesome party dress! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--ITWsoRMTXQ/VqqIlLU4iDI/AAAAAAAABUc/zUs0GiF4dVw/s640/blogger-image-2088551760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--ITWsoRMTXQ/VqqIlLU4iDI/AAAAAAAABUc/zUs0GiF4dVw/s640/blogger-image-2088551760.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I made sure there was a whole flower in the centre of the bodice, but that's about as far as I went with pattern placement. The fit is really nice, the only complaint I have is that the sleeves are a teeny bit low, meaning the top of my bra occasionally peeks out, but overall I'm really pleased. This is definitely one of my favourite ever makes! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'll be back soon with some photos of my By Hand London Elisalex skirt hacks, so stay tuned :) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thank you for reading,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Beth x</div></div></div></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3579623088935265914.post-7282771137613062422016-01-27T08:53:00.000-08:002016-01-28T07:56:51.801-08:00It's just one of those days.Hey everyone. It's still a little quiet around here on the sewing front, but I thought I'd check in anyway, especially as blogging helps me to think. Do you ever have one of those days where it just feels like everything is a little too much? <br>
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I've recently been reading <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Here-We-Stand-Changing-Voices/dp/1909983020/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453909812&sr=8-1&keywords=here+we+stand" target="_blank"><em>Here We Stand</em></a>, a book in which seventeen completely inspirational female campaigners tell their stories and discuss the nature of their work. Each woman has done something amazing; gone undercover to expose the cruelty animals in laboratories experience, trashed a nuclear weapons testing site, set up a charity to protect young girls from forced marriages, taken medical supplies to Iraq during the war to help innocent civilians. Many of them have spent time in jail for their actions. <br>
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I've stood on the left of the political spectrum for as long as I can remember. Worrying about issues like climate change, the meat industry, slave labour and nuclear weapons have become second nature to me as I've got older, but this book really opened my eyes to the lengths people are willing to go to in order to fight for their cause. The vast majority of the world is so wilfully blind to the problems we face; we're rushing headlong into our own destruction, but not enough people are willing to take a stand. <br>
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There are so many things wrong with the way our world works, so many dangers ahead. Climate change, animal testing, the meat and dairy industry, the destruction of the rainforests, burning fossil fuels, nuclear weapons, discrimination, poverty, slave labour, exploiting marine resources, war, racism, sexism, homophobia, terrorism, arms trading and the enormous, worldwide imbalance of wealth. I read an <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/business/2015/jan/19/global-wealth-oxfam-inequality-davos-economic-summit-switzerland" target="_blank">article</a> last week which stated that 1% of the global population hold as much wealth between them as the other 99%. The whole shape of our economy is just so twisted, designed to make that 1% even richer. <br>
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<em>Here We Stand</em> has, of course, motivated me to try and make a difference. To add my voice to the shouts of campaigners all trying to change the way our world works. However, it was also a little disheartening. These women have achieved so much, yet in return they've been sacked, sued, abused, disowned by their families, jailed and shot at. If this is the punishment for standing up for what is right, what hope do we have of ever solving anything? <br>
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There are so many causes in need of support, one life just isn't enough to help them all. But in a world where I can see so much injustice, immorality, cruelty and hatred, how can I ever choose which battle to fight? I'd be proud to dedicate my life to campaigning for what I believe in, but until there is a mass, <em>global </em>shift towards changing things for the better, we're doomed to continue our downward spiral. <br>
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It's days like this that really get to me. Days when the realisation of everything that is wrong with our planet is just too much. I want to make a change, but no amount of effort could ever be enough to get the world to where it needs to be. Not until <em>everyone</em> is working towards the same thing. <br>
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The one comfort I can draw from the situation is that these women did make a change. They may not have saved the world, but they did their part to improve it. I can do the same; no matter how small the achievement, doing something is far, far greater than doing nothing. The actions of campaigners are not pointless, no matter how useless and futile their arguments can seem when compared against the bigger picture. Because if they don't fight for something, anything, how will anything ever get done? Every tiny step forward they take, we get another step closer to the idyllic world we seek. If enough of us work towards it, we will make it. <br>
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I just hope I live to see that day.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11415520617707239531noreply@blogger.com4