by Paula DeGrand | Jan 15, 2019 | Process, Sewing Projects, The Big Picture
Readers, There is something Jack and I say to each other at dinnertime some nights, when we’ve cooked something that’s filled the kitchen with a delicious smell most of the afternoon, like a potato, leek and cabbage soup that feels perfect for a snowy...
by Paula DeGrand | Nov 1, 2018 | fit, Process, Sewing Projects
Readers, Almost five months after my first report about my pants pattern-fitting journey I’m back with an update. In my previous report I said that despite my concerted efforts to understand fitting principles and fit myself I needed in-person, expert help. ...
by Paula DeGrand | Aug 23, 2018 | Sewing Projects
Readers, The summery striped linen I snatched up in 2014 at The World’s Largest Textile Garage Sale has been turned into not one, but two garments. I had long eyed this piece for a blouse for myself, using Vogue 8772, which I’ve now sewn half a dozen times...
by Paula DeGrand | Jul 5, 2018 | Design, Process, Sewing Projects
Readers, If you sew, you’ll know just what I mean. I’ll pop into a clothing store and, after checking out the shoes and accessories, browse the racks, admittedly without enthusiasm. The usual comments run through my mind like a news crawl: Too big. Wrong...
by Paula DeGrand | Jun 17, 2018 | Interior design, Sewing Projects, Sewing techniques
Readers, After months of pants pattern-fitting and muslin-making without much to show for my efforts (yet), what do you suppose perked up my sewing spirits again recently? An easy project using existing skills, with virtually guaranteed success, requiring no fitting:...
by Paula DeGrand | Nov 15, 2017 | Design, Interior design, Sewing Projects
Readers, What did it take to go from this: To this: To this? Got a minute? I’ll tell you. I’m a fabric person, so I wasn’t thrilled to conclude that the best window treatment for our kitchen was a blind. Not floor-length draperies (obviously), or...
