Momma use to say!!!

Growing up my mother taught me to be practical when I purchased items to wear. She always would say "don't go for the trendy, but signature pieces that will stand the test of time". She also taught me that when you are buying a garment, remember what is always in your closet and make sure whatever you purchase will at least go with something you already have.

I always kept that in mind when I purchased a garment. I can't say that I've always done that in picking out my fabrics. If I saw it and liked it, I bought it. Well, 2011 is a new year, and my sewing will hopefully take me down some new roads this year. So far, my year has started out with a bang. First of all, I am putting it out there so that you all can help me if I fall which I haven't so far, but this past weekend was a challenge. I have put myself on a fabric diet until PR Chicago. That's right I can't buy any fabric until May 13th.

I have enough fabric in my house to open up a small store, and I plan on shopping in it. I had a weak moment over the weekend. Fabric Warehouse was having a 50% off sale, and they always have the best knits. I prevailed by shopping through my patterns and picked out a jacket pattern for the pants I made last week(post coming soon on that). I also picked out emerald green velour stretch knit fabric that I've had in my stash for like 3 or 4 years. It's going to be a sweat suit as this month PR is doing the activewear contest. I don't know if I'll get it done in time, but at least I'll have something new to wear for just lounging or working out in.

Last week I worked on a new outfit to wear to Karen's wedding last Saturday. During the summer she came to work wearing BurdaStyle 1/2008 #106. Since I didn't have that issue, Karen was gracious to lend me her's. What better way to show my appreciation than to make it and wear it to her wedding. To complete the outfit, I had enough fabric left over to make a fitted knit skirt. It completed my outfit and although the pieces were separate, the outfit gave the illusion of a dress. This outfit also plays into my theme for this year wherein I shall be making garments that can interchange with one another. This first collection I am working on is called Shades of Gray. Please stay tuned for more. Next up BWOF 10/2008 #132 again in a charcoal gabardine.

On a last note, for those of you that think I've given up knitting or crochet, I've got new for you, here's a crochet tunic that I'm presently working on. It's actually a lot further along than this, but I'm trying to keep track of my progress. I have one more cap sleeve to work on and the cleanup work and it should be finished. I'll have more details on this soon.