New Challenges

Here in Emma's Sewing Studio we challenge each other to try new things. My challenge this year is to sew for myself and create a “me made” wardrobe. Confession time, making for myself is something I've never done. Over the years I've been asked many times why I don't sew for myself and whilst I usually say “Oh I don't have time” that isn't the real reason. I know I can sew, I know I can follow a pattern and I know others love the things I make…. so what keeps holding me back?

After much thought I have come to the conclusion that there are two reasons, the first is I'm not good at making myself the priority and the second is fear. Having this as my sewing challenge takes care of the first reason, I can now justify time taken sewing for myself as “work”. The second reason is harder, what exactly am I afraid of? The answer to that is I don't know……but, I need to complete the challenge so it's time to find my courage and make myself something.

I decided to pick my fabric from our deadstock range and ended up with a fabric type most would normally avoid as it isn't always the best behaved fabric. There was something about the soft pink lightweight satin from our newest delivery that kept pulling me towards it so I've found my “brave” and decided to really go for it on my first make. Its pale colour, beautiful drape and silk like feel against the skin will make it perfect for a summer blouse. A blouse seems like a good place to start as it is a relatively small project so I should be able to complete it in a short space of time and use it as a building block for an outfit.

I've picked my pattern, taken my measurements and decided on a few adaptations I want to make for this to be a truly unique garment. I'll be altering the sleeves so that I can incorporate some English smocking around the cuffs and widening the shoulder straps to ensure my bra straps are covered.

Now that I've decided what I'm going to do I'm actually pretty excited to get started. I hope you will follow along as I strive to conquer my fear and create a “me made” wardrobe.