Continuing Education

I purchased the Craftsy class "Sew faster, Sew better :shirt making" with Janet Pray.  This class gives some tips, like how to sew without pins, sewing a tower placket, and others, plus it includes a printable man's shirt pattern. I have used some of these tips to make my Simplicity 1493. My next project will be with the Islander shirt included with this class.

I made a size small Simplicity 1493 with two inches added to the sleeves, thinking it would be sized the same as the Simplicity 2741 I made in my last blog.  However, it is a slimmer fit.  This works nicely with the lightweight cotton I used, I would make a medium if I used a heavier material next time.

Admiring my CE 150

Aqua Cotton

Sewing the pocket with a 1/4" seam allowance was one of the class tips, and it worked great.  I also liked using interfacing in the pocket fold.

Another tip is to take one diagonal stitch when sewing the collar points.  This does make a nice point. Don't ask me why.

I made the tower sleeve plackets from the Islander shirt pattern.  They are made in one piece, and one of the simplest methods  I have seen.  A little more practice and I will be able to make nice ones.

I am still using my Singer CE150, I enjoy it a lot. One of the tips is to use a machine with the needle-down stop position to keep your stitches lined up after stopping.

I enjoyed this class a lot.  I took it for the "Sew Better" part, but thoroughly enjoyed it all.  Some previous shirt making skills are needed for this class.

My next blog will be the Islander #228 shirt which was included with this class.

Thanks for stopping