I've set myself two very important goals for this coming summer. Or quests, rather. Yes, they're more like quests - that's a much more important-sounding word, don't you think?
The first is to find the best milkshake in town. (I'll keep you posted!)
The second is to create the perfect-for-me sleeveless shirt pattern. (I told you they were important goals!) I'm looking for - the ultimate 'perfect' for my body shape and size, super comfortable, versatile, and easy to make in dozens so that I never have to think about what to wear on a hot day - kind of tops.
I love sewing for my kids for lots of reasons. But one reason that I cannot underestimate the importance of is that each project is almost always a success. Kids patterns nearly always work for me when the measurements are accurate, and even making up my own seems to generally work quite well. I think I've got the fabrics nailed down that will work for their comfort, and I think they look pretty much adorable in everything they wear (of course, I'm their Mama).
But sewing for myself? It really is another ballgame altogether. Curves, changing body shapes, comfort, taste, the greater amount of fabric, and good ole' vanity all wrap up to make a challenge I'm only sometimes up for. I find that the made-by-me clothes I love best are those that I've made over and over and over until I get it just right. Simple skirts, for example. You know - it's the whole practice thing. And tailoring. Yes, that. And I really would like to do more of that....starting with this simple summer goal of a simple top.
These are two of my first three attempts (by tracing a shirt I currently own and love). The first one? Uh, that one went right back in the fabric pile in tiny pieces. Oh my. The second and third each have improvements and tweaks upon that one. And now I'm ready for the fourth. Or the fifth. Or however many it takes to get this simple (really, it is so simple!) little top just how I love it. Once all is quite right with the pattern, I'll give it a go on some lovely nani iro or some other flowy goodness. That will be nice.
In the end, I will have amassed a lovely collection of 'comfies' ready for garden, campfire and dirt. There's a lot of that in my life...and comfortable really is where it's at. (The crazy-comfortable pants I'm wearing in these photos are the Hemp Artesian's from Sweetgrass, by the way.) While there are still some things I want to change in future versions, these two completely passed that 'comfy' test this weekend at camp. Yes.
This is going to be fun. Here's to summer goals...however 'important' they may be!
