Don’t you think one of the great things about sewing friends is that they really love receiving handmade gifts?
When I made my two zippy tops recently (here and here) my gorgeous friend Nicole commented on Facebook that her birthday was coming up soon – hint, hint! The comment was in jest but I knew she would appreciate a lovely gift made just for her, so I thought why not?!
Nicole and I have been friends since uni days and she is a talented sewist and business woman. With her two successful online handmade shops, Sugar Plum Tree and ThermoJacket and a mum of two adorable girls, this girl never stops!!
My third sew of this See Kate Sew pattern was super quick! I decided to use a rolled hem on the arm and waist hems to avoid some fraying that I’ve experienced with the other zippy I made with a similar Japanese lawn. I was planning to then press and hem it normally but was so impressed by how the rolled hem looked I realised I didn’t need to!
I also decided to add a little patch pocket to the front which I think helps to break up the busy pattern. I really love how this looks and will definitely do this on the next one I make for myself.
I couldn’t help but take a pic of another beautifully understitched neckline (the same as I did in Zippy #2). It’s seriously worth doing, trust me!
Another little trick I learned recently that I used (using this tutorial) was how to finish serged (overlocked) seams so the thread tails don’t hang out the end of the seam. I forgot to take a photo of the inside to show you (dammit!) but it definitely neatened it off nicely.
I’m thrilled Nicole loved her gift and I feel like I’m really getting my money’s worth out of this pattern!
I’d love to know… what’s the best sewing gift you’ve ever made or received?
Nat.