Listen to the Experts

Not only are sewing bloggers knowledgeable, but they also happen to be very generous with their knowledge. Whether or not they sew professionally, they have a wealth of valuable expertise.  So when they say that quilting cotton isn't the best for garments, I should listen. Here's another Skinny Bitch/Curvy Chick top.



It's a quilting cotton purchased at Peapod, an adorable fabric shop a couple of blocks from my apartment. I had read that this type of cotton is not great for garments, but c'mon, just look at the cuteness. Bunnies cavorting against a traditional Japanese pattern. I just fell in love. In hindsight, maybe it would have worked better as a skirt since skirts can look good even if the fabric's a bit on the stiff side. That's the main problem with this fabric; it doesn't really move with my body.

But it's adorable, and I learned my lesson...so moving on.

I've been reading so many sewing blogs lately. So much inspiration. I love how sewists are always striving towards excellence - the perfect fit, meticulous finishing, garments that look pretty inside and out. These are worthwhile endeavors. I'm still amazed when I don't completely screw up a pattern or bit of pretty fabric, so, while I notice my mistakes, I try not to obsess too much. But I do want to learn from these experts and spend more time on each garment, making the best version I can. This top isn't really an example of that. It's cute, but besides being an inappropriate fabric choice, I rushed to have something new to wear. I could have learned how to use my blind hem foot instead of trampling over those little bunnies with dark blue thread. It's not super obvious, but I notice it and it bugs me.

Fit, fabric, and finishing - so many things to think about and so many variables in the process, but I guess that's why I'm finding it so interesting. Onwards and upwards.