Fruits of Sewing Class 101

Yesterday I completed a four session sewing class that was a birthday gift. Although I have sewn some garments in the past, I have been frustrated by a lack of instinct in this art. Even though I did not learn to cook as a child, I find following, altering, and improvising recipes to be very natural and easy. I quickly learned which spices and seasonings will enhance a given meat or vegetable, which directions must be closely observed and which can be tweaked. But, sewing is a different story. I have difficulty visualizing how the pieces will all come together. Once I had sewn a dress bodice, but could not figure out how to turn it right side out!

That said, sewing is a craft that appeals to me and which I would really like to master. I love the fabrics and the control of pairing up a delicious fabric with an irresistable project. More practically, my daughters are growing into sizes in which the styles no longer cater to innocence and girlhood. And, these same girls have an interest in learning the sewing craft as well, so I would like to stay a step ahead of them for the time being.

Now, for show and tell.

The standard project for beginning sewing classes seems to be pyjama bottoms and pillow cases. As I don't lounge around in these type of pants, I asked my neighbor if I could take her measurements and offered them to her. I am not sure if this fabric is really her style, but it certainly will infuse some girliness into her all boy home:

Note the snazzy trim and cuffs we added to pant legs:

And then for my girls, new flowery eyelet pillowcases, with solid trim and a gingham cuff. Guess I was in a pink and purple mood when I visited the fabric store!