Selfish Sewing Week and other adventures

Selfish Sewing Week finished a few days ago. I have a feeling I am the last person in the world to finally blog about what I have made!

At the end of last year I decided to focus on two goals: to sew more for myself and practice sewing knits. I think I am right on track with my first goal having spent summer months sewing almost exclusively for myself.

My SSW project was an attempt to get more familiar with sewing knits. I knew I wanted to make the Seafarer top by Sew Much Ado. This pattern is perfect for beginner sewists and for those like myself feeling somewhat intimidated by sewing knits. So While she was sleeping...

I was pleasantly surprised how easy this top was to make! I opted for banded neckline and armbands. I have only attempted a banded neckline on a t-shirt once before, and it was a disaster. So having had that experience I decided it was something I wanted to tackle. When I sewed the neckband on and gave it a press I was so proud of myself! I know it sounds silly, but for me it was huge! I did not topstitch my neckband. I like it as is. If I change my mind later I know where to find my double needle ;)

To accommodate the growing bump I referred to Abby's knocked up Seafarer tutorial. My bust measurement put me in size S, and I gradually widened the pattern to size M around tummy and hips.

Oh my bad. I shared the news on Facebook and Instagram, but not here.

Yep, Little Monkey is going to be a big sister! And trust me, the bump is bigger than it appears in these photos!

So back to the top. It is exceptionally comfortable and super easy to sew. If my fabric was not as thick the top would have draped much nicer. This fabric does not have much stretch either. I was too excited to finally find a print I liked I did not consider these factors. I want to try a couple of different views, so I will be more careful with my fabric choice next time.

After finishing this top I wanted to make another top that would be perfect for second trimester as well as when the new bub arrives... but I did not have enough fabric for it and my budget did not allow for a trip to a fabric shop. I was upset for a day or so, and then decided to make a top for my faithful young companion instead.

Does Little Monkey's new top look similar to mine? Please let me recommend the Skipper top, also designed by talented Abby. The size range for this pattern is 6 months to size 10. This pattern also offers various views and finishes. Quick, simple, easy pattern with options to customise a top - a complete winner in my eyes. Besides, I got to practice sewing knits again.

Little Monkey's top is made out of the same knit as mine, just different print. I was a little concerned the fabric would not drape nicely, but surprisingly it worked really well on a child's tee! Phew!

Little Monkey's measurements put her between sizes 3 and 4, so I cut size 4. I cannot believe how quickly she grows!

Another perfect neckband :)

This girl is excited about becoming a big sister. Here she is picking gum leaves for the baby to eat. I might have to explain to her I am not expecting a baby koala!

The funny thing is that Little Monkey keeps on telling me she has a sister in her tummy and likes to compare the sizes of our tummies. This girl is seriously hilarious!

She is also a lot of fun to be around.

 Alright, we'll be off! See you next time!