Best and Worst of 2011, show ponies and to the knackers

I threatened mentioned that I planned a second wrap up post, being very bad at condensing, so here is the fun and frivolity part of my sewing
Best outcomes (wearability and sewing success), in reverse order
3.Beach dress Burda World of Fashion 07-2009-105

This is an incredibly practical garment. I wear it at home a lot, but feel quite respectable wearing it to get the groceries (and to the beach).It was out of my comfort zone in both fabric and pattern shape, but turned out very well.

2.Collette Parfait (1003),with 4 gored flared skirt added

This required minimal fitting, I made 3 at the end of last summer, and I wear them constantly.
1.Vogue 8728 reproduction 1946 dress

This is a terrific pattern,flattering,easy, well drafted and using less fabric than one would expect. I have made two so far, and version 3 is in the pipeline.

All dresses. You might think from the last post that most of what I make are t shirts, but dresses are my first sewing love.

Most fun sewing
No dresses.Here is impractically and sewing self indulgence. This counters the workhorse sewing nicely.

Collette Lady Grey Coat-lengthened, and buttoned, brown cotton velvet with washed silk lining.



I made this coat during the QLD floods early this year. As MaryNanna pointed out in the leather jacket post, it is rather a warm climate here for this sort of garment. However, I did wear this several times during winter, which lasts at least 8 weeks, and during which I always seem to have to attend evening events at outdoor or unheated venues.

In fact, it saved me from a serious wardrobe malfunction, which brings me to the Worst outcomes of 2011
1.The disappearing skirt. This was a straight skirt I whipped up to attend a conference dinner, no fault of the pattern, but an interesting crinkly bronze/brown synthetic fabric from Kerryn's Fabric world. The fabric split in several places during the evening, and the skirt was not tight. I was only saved by my knee length coat.Whew! I will be tugging all synthetic fabrics prior to purchase in future.
2.

An internet surprise fabric, this print was too large and loud for me.
3.Burda Style 06-2011-102


I tried really hard to fix this dress,but it is now sitting on the mending pile waiting to be turned into a blouse. Win some, lose some.


This year, I want to make a leather jacket and use more silk. I think I can manage that level of planning.