Tuesday, 19 November 2024

The Pianoforte Jumper: A Versatile Wardrobe Staple




If you're searching for a sewing project that’s both stylish and practical, the Pianoforte Jumper from Love Notions is the perfect pattern for you! Recently, I made this jumper, and I can’t wait to share all the details with you—from fabric recommendations to styling tips and sewing suggestions.

Who Is It For?

The Pianoforte Jumper is perfect for anyone who loves comfortable, stylish, and versatile clothing. Its relaxed fit suits a range of body types, and the pattern’s simplicity makes it a great project for beginner sewists or those looking for a quick, satisfying make.





Two Timeless Styles

The Pianoforte Jumper pattern offers two distinct styles to suit your mood or wardrobe needs.

  1. Classic Jumper with V-Neck and  Pockets:
    This version has a flattering V-neckline and practical big  pockets, making it ideal for layering over turtlenecks, long-sleeve tops, or lightweight sweaters. It’s perfect for a casual, everyday look while offering functionality and comfort.

  2. Classic Jumper with V-Neck , Pockets and Zipper:
    This variation allows you to slip in and out even easier and show case a great zipper and your awesome zipper insertion techniques!!



Fabric Recommendations

Fabric choice is essential for achieving the desired look and feel of your Pianoforte Jumper. Here are some great fabric options:

  • Cotton Twill: This medium-weight fabric works wonderfully for structure and durability. The floral version you see in the photos is made using cotton twill from Minerva Fabrics—a stunning choice that adds a playful touch to the design.
  • Corduroy: Perfect for cooler weather, corduroy offers warmth and a lovely texture.
  • Linen Blends: These provide a softer, more drapey effect, ideal for warmer months or a relaxed, casual aesthetic.
  • Denim: Lightweight or medium-weight denim gives the jumper a timeless, classic look.
  • Canvas: For a sturdy, utility-style jumper, canvas works beautifully.



Styling Tips

The Pianoforte Jumper is incredibly versatile, and you can style it for different occasions:

  • For Work: Layer it over a crisp button-down shirt and add a belt for a structured look. Pair with tights and loafers for office-friendly attire.
  • Casual Outings: Throw it on over a striped turtleneck with sneakers or ankle boots for a laid-back, chic outfit.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: In colder weather, layer it with thick knitwear or thermal tops underneath, and add cozy tights or leggings. For spring and summer, - definitely up my street is to go sleeveless with a tank top or lightweight blouse underneath 


Sewing Suggestions

The Pianoforte Jumper is a beginner-friendly pattern, and here are some tips for sewing it:

  • Facings: Ensure the facings are neatly understitched to prevent them from flipping out. Press them thoroughly for a professional finish.
  • Fabric Preparation: Pre-wash your fabric to prevent shrinkage, especially with cotton or linen.
  • Notches :  Do not skip them! They will make your work look even better with  symmetry and great sewing lines.

Adjustments for Fit

The pattern is designed to fit a variety of body shapes, but you might need adjustments if:

  •  Fuller Bust:  This pattern already comes with a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) 
  • You Carry Weight in Your Midsection: Grade the pattern out at the waist and hips to accommodate a larger belly or create a looser fit.
  • Length Adjustments: The Pianoforte fits above the knee, so shorten or lengthen the hem depending on your height and preferred look.

Remember to make a muslin first to check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.


 Sale and Discount

Ready to sew your own Pianoforte Jumper? Now is the perfect time! The pattern is currently on sale, and with my exclusive code:  AUTUMN you’ll get an extra 10% off. Don’t miss this opportunity to create your own unique jumper!

Here is the link to the pattern : https://www.lovenotions.com/product/pianoforte-jumper?affiliates=493 


The Pianoforte Jumper is a delightful project that offers endless possibilities for personalization and styling. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift, it’s sure to become a wardrobe favorite. Happy sewing!

Thursday, 30 May 2024

Green Glam: Three Stunning Garments to Sew in Gorgeous Green Fabric!

 Hey everyone!

I recently added the gorgeous Chorus Top and Dress to my wardrobe, and I am thrilled with it! Check out the pictures to see how it looks on me – I'm absolutely loving it!

Highlights of the Chorus Top :



The top boasts a stunning draped neckline that brings a touch of elegance to any outfit. I chose to make mine with 3/4 sleeves to give it a slightly more formal look suitable for work. The 3/4 length is not only comfortable but also versatile, making it perfect for layering or wearing solo.


This top has a beautifully flattering fit, contouring gently without being too tight. The original pattern includes a side seam split for extra room around the hips, but I opted to skip this detail. For my fit, I made a sway back adjustment by sewing a center back seam, which isn’t in the original pattern but worked perfectly for me.
I love how versatile the top is , as I can wear it on the outside or inside.
You see how different it looks each way?!

I used the ITY Silky Stretch Knit Fabric for this project in spearmint , and it turned out fantastic. This fabric has the ideal drape for the deep front drape version I chose, along with a regular back with facing. The fabric’s softness and silkiness make it a joy to sew with and wear.

Highlights of the Chorus Dress 1:



I made my dress using double brushed poly .
This dress used the shallow front drape and regular bodice back. 
I also used the split sleeves option for this style.
The double brushed poly had just the right amount of drape to make this dress special.
The fabric is lightweight enough to just float on the body. 
This version is perfect for my casual occasions. 

Highlights of the Chorus Dress 2 :

My third sew is with Stretch crepe, a more stable fabric but still light enough to give some amount of drape to the shallow front neckline. I also used 3/4 sleeves, but this was from an earlier version of the sewing process, the sleeves have been adjusted to be a bit closer before pattern release. None the less, I wore my dress out and got so many compliments.  I love that the dress is unlined making it cooler in this heat and the fact that it is such an easy sew for all sewing levels. 
The elastic band waist is an easy technique and is easily customizable.




I highly recommend the Chorus Top for anyone looking to add a stylish and comfortable piece to their wardrobe. This pattern is a  winner!
You can find the pattern here to see all the other style features included in this pattern https://www.lovenotions.com/product/chorus-top-and-dress?affiliates=493

If you use code BESTSUMMER you can get an an extra 10% discount on this pattern even when it is not on sale.

 

Happy sewing and styling! 🌟

#Fashion #Sewing #ChorusTop #ITYKnit #WardrobeEssentials

Monday, 19 February 2024

LOVE NOTIONS AURORA DRESS : SWAYBACK ADUSTMENT FOR A DRESS WITH DARTS AND NO CENTRE BACK SEAM

 




Today I am sharing with you the newest pattern by Love Notions called the Aurora Dress.

This pattern also comes in a tunic length and it is truly a beautiful pattern.

The pattern is quite easy to sew and you will love the outcome.

But one adjustment I had to make was a swayback adjustment and I thought I would share the process I used with you.

If you love the pattern you can get an additional 10% off even on a sale price using code NEWSTART


The pattern comes with great features : 



 So here are the steps to be done on the paper pattern for the swayback. 


Step 1:

Divide the amount that you  need to adjust by in 2 . My sway back is extreme - like 2 " and so I had to make a 1" adjustment on the bodice and another 1" on the skirt.


Step 1:

Using a fabric marker draw a straight line from your 1" mark to end at the bodice hemline, stopping  at the base of the first dart leg


Step 3:
Cut the paper pattern along the marked line 

Step 4 : Use the paper pattern to cut out your fabric which will look like this. 



Your adjusted paper pattern is now ready, the following steps are on your fabric. 

Step 5 : Sew your darts as per the pattern instructions. Pin the bodice and skirt back pieces  right sides together.


Step 6 : 
Sew the bodice and skirt together. 
Continue making the dress as per the pattern instructions.



The dress is really cute and the the pocket style really elevates the dress. Here is a picture of how to attach the pockets to the dress.

I hope you enjoy making your dress. Happy Sewing!!
You can follow me on Instagram for more sewing
 https://www.instagram.com/sewhoneydesigns/

Debbie