Introducing Our First Sew-Along Winner!
That’s right everybody, with a massive 80% of the votes, our first sew-along of the year is the New Look 6648 Easy Top.
Thank you all for taking the time to vote and I hope that those of you who voted for the other sewing pattern will not be too disappointed and will join in this sew-along regardless.
It would be great to see you all!
So, without further hesitation, let me first introduce you to our sewing pattern -
The New Look 6648 Easy Top
I shall be making View B during this sew-along, described as having a V neckline, kimono shaping to the sleeves with gathers at the wrist, (third top down, pink in colour).
NB – You can still participate in this sew-along if you want to make any of the other styles on show, as the techniques I will demonstrate are similar throughout.
So What Do We Need To Take Part In This Sewing Project?
sewing projects sewing patterns sewing for beginners
To start with, and most important, it’s the sewing pattern itself!
You can purchase the New Look 6648 easy top sewing pattern at most good sewing / fabric stockists or purchase it NOW, online by clicking -
Anything Else?
sewing patterns sewing projects sewing for beginner
For this particular sewing project, we will be using stretch knitted fabric, (an ideal fabric choice for any beginner fashion sewer). You can choose to use either two or four way stretch knitted fabric, but do pick a knit which has a crosswise stretch of 10cm – 4inch pull.
If your a little unsure about the exact properties of stretch fabric, try watching the following video by FashionSewingBlogTV.
An Introduction to Knitted Fabrics
Suggested Knitted Fabrics
sewing patterns sewing projects sewing for beginners
There are many knitted fabrics to choose from to complete this great little sew-along and the choice is yours. I personally will be using a wool knit. Here are some other ideas -
Cotton Interlock
Jerseys
Matte Jerseys
Lightweight Double Knit
Stretch Velvet
Stretch Lace
What About Notions?
sewing project sewing patterns sewing for beginners
Because of the style and ease in which this sewing pattern can be made, you will only need two notions. That’s right, JUST TWO! They are -
Polyester All Purpose Thread – I recommend this because of its strength.
Narrow Elastic – Used on the sleeve to give a gathered effect.
Remember, all the notions and fabrics can be bought online at -
Simplicity – Patterns, tools and supplies.
And Finally, Our Tools!
sewing projects sewing for beginners sewing patterns
To be successful in fashion sewing stretch / knitted fabric, you do need the correct tools. This applies to this sew-along so please take heed. For that professional look we are all striving to achieve in this sewing project, you will need -
A Ball Point Needle – Do make sure it is the right size for the weight of fabric you will be using.
A Plastic foot – Please ensure it is compatible with your sewing machine.
And Don’t Forget Your Camera!
sewing projects sewing patterns sewing for beginners
Once this great sew-along has been completed, I’ll be sharing images of my top at my Sewingista Gallery. I’d love to see you there. Upload and share your photo’s with our sewing community!
So get everything together and I’ll see you next week.
If you have any questions then please feel free to contact me via my blog, Twitter (@ColleenGLea) or on Facebook.
Happy fashion sewing,
Colleen G Lea
(Read more about Colleen at linkedin)
and here it is done!
http://irishagold.blogspot.com/2012/02/top.html
thank you, Colleen!
Beautifuly made top, great fabric choice and professionally done. Thanks so much for the link.
Could you explain the sew along a bit more please? Is it a “live” event? A video of step by step istructions we check in with daily? Are there specific times?
Thanks!
Hi Kim
The sew-along consists of a photographic slideshow with audio commentary detailing specific stages of construction. You will also find written instructions along with a video tutorial demonstrating a given technique.
The sew-along itself is not live and those participating can take it at their own pace. Upon completion, I’d like photo’s of everybody’s project posted on my Sewingista Gallery so we can share our creative sides with the sewing comminuty.
Naturally, although not live, if those taking part come up against any problems during the course of sewing together the garment, the they can leave me comments / questions and I’ll do my very best to help.
Hope that explains things a little better and I do hope you take part.
Fabulous!!
Lead here by DC Threads. I’m new to this whole sewing thing. At 37 years old, I’ve never operated a sewing machine. Never ever. But, I confiscated my mom’s ancient machine a few months ago and looking forward to learning. I realize this project is likely a bit advanced for me, but making a purse or simple skirt hasn’t inspired me enough, evidently. Lol!
Here’s to hoping I can remember how mom showed me to thread the machine (and if not, I have your tutorial), and that I can find the pattern locally today!
I’m so excited, I bit the bullet and bought my first stretch fabric, and the pattern, so I’m definitely joining in with this! Can’t wait to get started (even though i’m not exactly sure how a sewalong works, LOL).
Quick question; do you wash stretch fabrics beforehand, in the same way that I do with my cotton stuff? Wasn’t sure if they shrink or not, and so if it’s necessary?
Hi Tina,
Great to know you’ll be joining in with the sew-along. Don’t forget to post pictures of your finished garment to my Sewingista Gallery.
As for your question, YES you should wash stretch fabrics as you do others, especially if the stretch fabric contains natural fibers.
Nice pick for a fairly easy top! Thanks for all of your inspiration and education.
I have had the New Look pattern 6648 for a few years and made the sleeveless version once from red stretch velvet. I have yet to finish the edges ;( but I do like the way it fits.
I may make it again with you if I find a fabric I love.
Also want to refer you to another site “The Sewing DIvas” (long defunct ) but in its archive has a instruction for an optional neckline on the same pattern ( see July 22, 2008) .
It may provide an interesting note for your files.
Hi Lisa,
Thank you so much for the comment.
I’ll certainly have a look at the alternative neckline you suggested and hope to see you at my sew-along. The more the merrier
It would be great to see your original creation (if you still have it of course). Why not upload a photo or two too my Sewingista Gallery and help inspire others.
Thanks again.
Why do you need a plastic foot and not a regular sewing foot?
Thank you so much for all your valuable sewing help. This is so helpful for a new sewist like myself.
Hi Lee
A plastic foot is used to sew stretch and knitted fabric. The main reason that we use a plasic foot instead of a regular metal one, is stretch fabric does just that, STRETCH. The plasic foot allows for the top layer of fabric to glide a little easier under the foot. The more stretch in the fabric, the more need there is for easy movement under the machine.
Thanks for the question.
Wonderful! I’ll be following you, Colleen, on the pattern B. I like V-necks on me.
))
Off to get the stuff.