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The Emporia => Official Sewalong Voting! => Sewalongs and Competitions => Previous sewalong entries => Topic started by: SewRuthieSews on December 27, 2020, 17:24:14 PM

Title: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on December 27, 2020, 17:24:14 PM
Welcome to the "Fit for Purpose" contest.

Rules: Sew absolutely anything to do with keeping fit / sport / staying active / dance… clothes, bags, accessories.
Ideas include
- a yoga mat bag
- leggings
- cycling top
- dance practice clothes

Timeframe: Construction starts on 1st January and the item must be completed by 31st January.
All entries need to be uploaded with the template and at least one photo by 6th February.

Template: Please submit your entries in this thread using this template

Details to include:
Your User Name and Entry Number (if entering have more than once )
What is it and for whom (if applicable)
Fabric and Pattern/instructions used (commercial or self-drafted, anything goes)
A short description on how you made it, any problems overcome etc.
Up to 4 photos (for example the starting point, fabric pattern, a progress shot and maybe 2 views of the finished article)
PLEASE INSERT PICTURES WITHIN YOUR TEXT!


Please post your entries on the thread by 6th February
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on December 27, 2020, 17:25:16 PM
This post will be updated to include questions and answers.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on December 27, 2020, 17:27:58 PM
I will endeavour to join in on all the contests if I can, but of course as the temporary sew along moderator can't be part of the voting. So please join in and share your ideas.

I will probably either make a top to go with my yoga trousers (for pilates) or a hoodie/sweatshirt to wear when I go walking.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SingingSinger on December 28, 2020, 09:35:01 AM
I'm not sure of the protocol. Is it OK to post plans and progress in this thread - or just completed entries?

I'm going to make a bag for my swimming kit. I've not had much success with bags before but have my eye on this pattern Super deluxe drawstring bag (http://www.thedailysew.com/2017/07/free-pattern-sew-a-super-deluxe-drawstring-backpack/) which should be fairly simple but nice and useful too.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Puzzler on December 28, 2020, 09:47:12 AM
The fabric used for the bag is so cute.

I’ve been looking at leggings/yoga pants patterns and fabric. Just looking at this stage. No promises. I want something slim fitting but slightly looser than leggings with negative ease.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on December 29, 2020, 07:55:45 AM
Great challenge, just in time for my upcoming goal! Promised myself to start jogging again in January.

I’ve been looking at leggings/yoga pants patterns and fabric. Just looking at this stage. No promises. I want something slim fitting but slightly looser than leggings with negative ease.

That is just what I am thinking about. I tried a leggings pattern once, but I don't think I want to wear them outside the house. Got a yoga pants pattern which I like and which is okay for running (I jogged in them before). But would like something in between. Maybe just slimming down my yoga pant? Not sure yet, but will enter with something. Got time on my hands in January.

Thank you for this challenge!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Iminei on December 29, 2020, 08:27:06 AM
@SingingSinger ... Im sure Plans, Start pics and Progress pics are encouraged withing Sewalong threads .... Then, when you've finished, submit an entry using and adapting the Sewalong Template with your favourite pics inserted within the text.

but I would ask @ Miss   just to make sure !!!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Puzzler on December 29, 2020, 09:19:52 AM
@Morzel, I bought the Style Arc Becky yoga pants pattern and am having the pdf printed as there was a sale on both pattern and printing. I was also considering https://greenstylecreations.com/products/women-s-everyday-yoga-pants-in-sizes-xl-to-xxl
but didn’t think the fold down band would do me any favours, just add bulk to where I don’t need it. These are not for jogging. Walking is as fast as I go. It will be great if I can return to reformer Pilates when these things are allowed again.

Now to find a suitable fabric...
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on December 29, 2020, 09:59:02 AM
I'm not sure of the protocol. Is it OK to post plans and progress in this thread - or just completed entries?

@SingingSinger yes please post plans and progress on the thread as we go along. Then make sure you follow the template for the final format as I'll copy those across into the voting thread.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on December 29, 2020, 10:03:09 AM
I'm planning to make a flamenco practice skirt  - I bet that's surprised you all  - not that I need another one but I like variety and the fabric's been hanging about waiting for over a year.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on December 29, 2020, 11:21:12 AM
@Catllar  that sounds promising! Fabric/pattern choice?

@Puzzler the Style Arc Becky looks similar to my pattern for yoga pants, I used the Silhouette Yoga pant and tweaked it quite a while ago to use for comfy pants around the house. Looking up your greenstyle pattern I found the 'Brassie Joggers' (https://greenstylecreations.com/products/brassie-joggers-pdf-sewing-pattern?variant=964911152)  attractive. I guess I will try to tweak my yoga pants into the shape of those joggers. A bit narrower below the knee and wide cuffs at the ankle.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on December 29, 2020, 17:12:44 PM
@Morzel no pattern - just making it up as I go really. Basically a simple panelled / gored skirt with width from below the bum and a few added godets 2 front, 2 back.  Practice skirts don't need to be fancy. Fabric is a slightly stretchy drapey flamenco fabric called crespon  in bordeaux, very smooth and heavy drape. I haven't got quite enough  so there will be some added design elements with a a bit of grey lace I found in the back of the woodshed! ( I thought I had plenty but on unfolding it I realised I had borrowed a bit for a paying customer!) I'll have to put in a zipper and a waistband finish of some sort rather than the comfy jersey skirts we usually wear that have very deep fold over yoga waistbands.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Lyn-J on December 30, 2020, 15:00:51 PM
Well I do have some black lycra for leggings, so that's a start. I'll use these for yoga.
Does coating count, I'll wear it when I'm going out for a walk   -<
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Starryfish on December 30, 2020, 16:36:37 PM
I've ordered some french terry for a sweatshirt top, I'll wear it for our walking group when we're allowed again.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on December 30, 2020, 17:37:51 PM
Oh I've got some swimsuit fabric but that might be pushing it a bit much - two things in one month, I'll see how I get along with the skirt first.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 03, 2021, 12:04:41 PM
So I started my jogging routine today  :dance: (I need to get into it step by step) and decided that leggings are the better choice over joggers. So I purchased a Jalie pattern. Still need suitable fabric. I also found that I need something to wear over a tshirt on top. I used one of my cotton sweaters, but those are all hoodie style with straps dangling at the front. So there's a sweatshirt/jacket that need to be done also.
Now I just need to get rid of the christmas tree these next few days to get back my sewing space!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 06, 2021, 08:36:33 AM
I finished my skirt apart from the hem which needs time to drop so I'm going in for the swimsuit. needs printing of a PDF first though.  Do I put the finished stuff on at the end when they are both done and photographed ? 
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 06, 2021, 09:29:26 AM
@Catllar Great to hear you've been busy... already the second project in progress! Which swimsuit pattern are you using?

As the machines are not yet back on the table (it´s either them or the christmas tree - but that's going out today) I prepared a pattern for a colourblock sweater I want to put on when running. I got several small cuts of sweater fabric, left overs from projects. I am starting slowly, just two fabrics. Not sure if my assumptions on where seam lines meet up on different pattern pieces are correct... I also ordered fabric for leggings, the pattern I bought last week (Jalie).
As soon as the tree is out I will take out my machines and start sewing. Looking forward to it!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 06, 2021, 10:38:06 AM
@Morzel  I like Jalie patterns for dance wear!

The pattern I've got is First Crush Swimsuit, but in my head I remember another one from somewhere which I like too, but sod's law, can't remember or find it. Should have bookmarked it when I saw it.  More info when I've had another search!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 06, 2021, 11:08:45 AM
I made the Jalie swimsuit about 2 years ago - I was afraid to work with the swimsuit lycra and the special elastic at the legs and neckline, but it worked out just fine and I have used it ever since (not so much since March, though... :laughing:)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 06, 2021, 17:14:30 PM
COuldn't find the pattern I was looking for so printed out and cut and taped this afternoon. RED First Crush.  Was thinking there wouldn't be many sheets but it is a worry when there are 80 tiles  for a swimsuit pattern! :scream:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Puzzler on January 06, 2021, 17:29:33 PM
Was thinking there wouldn't be many sheets but it is a worry when there are 80 tiles  for a swimsuit pattern! :scream:

 :o Why are there 80 tiles?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: sewmuchmore on January 06, 2021, 18:21:24 PM
My main exercise is walking the dogs every day so would a new coat be ok?. I have the Style Arc Casey coat and this   [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  softshell fabric on my pile of stuff to make before spring. This will spur me on the get it done.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Fabric Lover on January 07, 2021, 23:21:02 PM
My main exercise is walking the dogs every day so would a new coat be ok?. I have the Style Arc Casey coat and this   [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  softshell fabric on my pile of stuff to make before spring. This will spur me on the get it done.
I have a similar question- my current exercise is walking with DH, and as I’m always complaining about my legs being cold, I’ve decided to make a pair of corduroy trousers. These are going to be wider legs than I usually go for- DH’s theory is not to have narrow trousers in cold weather so that warmer air is trapped within, these are meant to test his theory!  :D Will these be allowed?  I know next month’s challenge is trousers or jeans but we’re expecting to move from Berkshire to Cheshire then so I doubt that I’ll have time to sew!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on January 08, 2021, 09:13:34 AM
@Fabric Lover , if the primary purpose of the trousers is related to walking then that's fine, go for it.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: dyedinthewool on January 08, 2021, 10:07:19 AM
I'll be making something that fits this category, but as it's a test-sew and I don't know when the final pattern release will be, I'm not sure I'll be able to share progress. It's the thought that counts, right?!  :D
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Puzzler on January 08, 2021, 11:44:32 AM
I received my fabric for the yoga pants yesterday from Frumble Fabrics. Very nice 2-way stretch fabric with good recovery and not too thin/heavy. It's intended for leggings. I ordered too much so might end up making the yoga pants as well as leggings. I'm also fed up with black so bought navy blue. Next step is tracing my pattern and making any necessary adjustments to that. I like the way Style Arc has a notch in the trouser patterns that indicates the knee. I have shorten the pattern at this point for my stubby legs.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on January 08, 2021, 11:47:50 AM
@SewRuthieSews Err, would a suit for walking the dog be ok?  That's a suit for the dog though, not for me...

No worries if it's not appropriate  :)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SingingSinger on January 08, 2021, 13:12:34 PM
I've finished my swimming bag, not that I'll be able to use it for a while with the pools closed! I'll take some photos later. :)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SingingSinger on January 08, 2021, 18:12:56 PM
User Name and Entry Number SingingSinger entry #1

What is it and for whom Drawstring backpack for my swimming kit - for me!

Fabric and Pattern/instructions used

Fabric is from my stash: the outside is a ‘Liberty’ stretch denim sourced from the Birmingham Rag Market ages ago, the main lining is a blue Batik fishes print (also from Birmingham from the Fancy Silk Store), the pocket linings and piping are quilting cottons from my dark siding stash.

Pattern is a free pdf download from the Daily Sew Super Deluxe  Drawstring Backpack (http://www.thedailysew.com/2017/07/free-pattern-sew-a-super-deluxe-drawstring-backpack/)

A short description on how you made it, any problems overcome etc.

The pdf pattern was very simple to assemble, only 6 sheets, which was very easy to line up. The main fabric and lining were cut from this pattern piece. The remaining parts (pockets, straps, piping) were a matter of cutting rectangles to size. Using denim meant that an interfacing was not required, which suited me fine.

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It was actually quite fun to put together and a good opportunity to test out my new machine. Attaching the piping was a new skill to me but I think it looks OK. The hardest bit was working out how the straps cross over inside the bag to create the drawstring. Sorry I didn’t take any progress shots as it was a fairly quick make and I was keen to get onto the next step each time!



Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: mudcat on January 08, 2021, 20:18:39 PM
@SingingSinger how useful and I like the :fish: inside.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 08, 2021, 22:41:50 PM
:o Why are there 80 tiles?

First there are all sizes from XXS to XXL so that add lines. There's also  pieces for a side ruched suit and a plain suit. Then there's a ruched skirt piece that goes over short or brief bottoms. As I hadn't a clear plan I printed it all off!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 12, 2021, 15:23:39 PM
I finished my outfit. The sweatshirt is made from leftovers of other projects. The fabric for the leggings I ordered two weeks ago - never worked with athletic fabric before.

The sweater turned out like I hoped it would - as I only had short fabric pieces, I did a colour block one. I traced a full front and back pattern piece to determine the cuts. I had to think about the sleeves, so the lines would match up when standing. The pattern is my self drafted TNT sweater pattern.
The leggings are new to me - I used the Jalie Clara pattern. It is a simple pattern with no design lines, no outer side seam, no CF seam. But it has a gusset and the crotch seam/inner side seam sits a bit to the front, so no chafing at the thigh. Very smart drafting. There are two option: either you cut the leggings up to the waist, or you cut a separate waistband. I used the second option but wouldn't do so again: the inner and outer waistbandseam meets up with the back crotch seam and creates a thick spot at the back which somehow seems to pull at my underpants when in motion...  :scream:  also, I need to take out length above the knee, I hope it will have a snug fit there then.

All in all I am good to go out jogging in this!

(https://up.picr.de/40308956my.jpg)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 14, 2021, 20:17:42 PM
So the swimsuit is fighting back with a vengeance. Have learned that unpicking lightening stitch is hard and that unpicking triple zigzag is impossible. It is getting there though.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 15, 2021, 17:53:02 PM
I should have kept quiet - today I had some sort of infinity suit  and after hours of trying to turn it inside out  or anything come to that realised the best way forward is to go my own way. I spent a happy couple of hours unpicking another seam of lightening stitch  :S  then realised I had sewn a bit of lining to the wrong piece - my fault for having lining in the same colour as one of the main bits.  Have to keep walking away.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on January 15, 2021, 19:29:05 PM
Bodgitandscarper's entry.
A cover for my keep-fit accessory - aka a new suit for Poppy Dog  0_0

I more or less managed to make a pattern from one of her bought suits, it wasn't easy trying to make a dog-body shape thing into flat pieces.
It was almost right, just need a bit of fitting around the tail end - where I decided it was best to use safety pins rather than ordinary pins.

The fabric is snow leopard printed fleece.

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Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Tamnymore on January 15, 2021, 20:01:12 PM
Awww @Bodgeitandscarper great outfit and LOVELY doggo. She looks very patient as in 'Mum likes to dress me up so I suppose I'd better humour her.'   :laughing:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 16, 2021, 14:37:10 PM
@Bodgeitandscarper I bet it was difficult to make a pattern from a RTW suit... it looks soo complicated and I would not dare to fiddle too much with fitting... and the leopard pattern is just great!!  :laughing:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on January 16, 2021, 15:22:07 PM
@Tamnymore I'm not a believer in dressing dogs up really, but it's sooo wet and muddy these suits really keep them clean - and why stick to boring plain colours  :laughing:

@Morzel It was really difficult, cos I couldn't lay it flat so some of it was pure guesswork - one bit I eventually realised couldn't be folded along a curve, it was actually the other edge and where it joined to that had to be curves, and that bit had to be cut on the bias to make it fold and then curve.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on January 19, 2021, 18:32:24 PM
wow @Bodgeitandscarper ! Poppy dog looks fab.

I am planning a hoody/sweatshirt type thing but have not started yet.
who else is meaning to do something but hasn't quite got there yet?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: dyedinthewool on January 19, 2021, 20:32:36 PM
I'm on track (ha!) to finish my item tomorrow, but sadly I can't show it within the month because it's under embargo (it's a test sew). I may have time to whip up a pair of leggings if I'm lucky, so those may have to do!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Mick on January 19, 2021, 21:31:17 PM

who else is meaning to do something but hasn't quite got there yet?


Got the inspiration, got a pattern, got some fabric.
Now all I need is the scarcest commodity of all, some time to get on with it.  :headbang:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: mudcat on January 20, 2021, 10:30:53 AM
I had intended to make SA Joni Knit Track pants and Verity knit top but I haven't yet placed my pattern printing order so by the time I get around to it the month will be gone most likely. 
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Starryfish on January 20, 2021, 11:19:39 AM
I've finished a Style Arc Verity sweatshirt but the light here is appalling. I'll wait for a brighter day to take a photo. I got the PDF of Style Arc Brooklyn bottoms in the post yesterday so I'll get on with those now.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 21, 2021, 13:21:12 PM
Morzel's Entry #1

This is an outfit for myself for this years goal - jogging!

(https://up.picr.de/40368659rr.jpg)


I used non-stretch cotton sweatshirt fabric for the sweater, as I need something over the tshirt in winter. The fabrics are left overs from other projects. The pattern I used is my TNT selfdrafted sweater pattern. I altered the pattern for the colour blocking details. A bit of a challenge was the continous colour blocking line in the left sleeve - but I worked out well enough.
I used functional jersey for the leggings - a new sort of fabric for me. It has about 70-80% Stretch and was much easier to work with than expected. The leggings pattern is The Jalie Clara (#3887), which has a gusset and no CF seam. The pattern is very easy to sew up with good and simple instructions. Its just three pattern pieces... You could do a bit of colourblocking with this as well!

(https://up.picr.de/40308956my.jpg)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 21, 2021, 19:57:50 PM
So I finished my swimsuit thing - I don't think I've ever come across such an illogical construction  - I'll get Mr C to take some pics tomorrow and then start the job of transferring them ( I tried emailing to myself, downloading and that all worked well until I tried to find the downloaded pix and they have disappeared into the ether, so I think the hardwiring transfer is the way to go.

I'll give some more details when and if I get the pix over.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 24, 2021, 16:52:29 PM
So please bear with me, technophobe in the house!  So Catllar's 1st Entry.  Flamenco practice skirt made from self drafted pattern using end of red stretch crepe and a bit of grey balinese lace.  Panelled skirt with 6 in-seam godets. I didn't have enough red crepe so I used a remnant of balinese lace to overlay the short godets on the front. I have a grey lace top which transforms this from a practice skirt ( worn with a black scrappy top) into a performance or feria skirt.  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 24, 2021, 16:57:16 PM
    Excuse rabbit in headlights - Mr C was a bit trigger happy there.


 
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 24, 2021, 17:29:52 PM
Entry No 2 from catllar. RED First Crush swimwear. Plain lycra from  tissus. com and patterned from my fiance in Figueres. Top is a mash of ruched front and plain back - should see no advantage in ruching the back nor the lining segments - just added bulk. Bottoms are boy shorts with high waist banded like the legs. Don't think this look is for me - shortens legs, so I might recut them to a normal line some time. Both lycras are different weights and have different amounts of stretch and neither had the required stretch % for the patterns so I had to go bigger. Construction was interesting as they had me put the elastics round the neck edge while the rest of the seams flow free - backwards to my thinking, I'd have lined up lining and outer and put elastic last - less fighting involved  - still, what do I know.  Both top and bottom are lined and there's a crotch extention but you'll have to take my word for that! I feel very uncomfortable in a swimsuit that's why I never go to a beach but will only swim in the privacy of my own home!    [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on January 24, 2021, 17:33:31 PM
Here's a very relaxed and confident model!  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]   and this one:  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Lachica on January 24, 2021, 18:44:55 PM
That's lovely, you're brave tackling swimwear! Sounds tricky but you've got a good result. I love the flamenco skirt, the lace gadgets work very well.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: mudcat on January 25, 2021, 05:25:55 AM
I think the tankini is great with the way the print is and how it works with the solid color.  I know I couldn't bring myself to make bathing attire last year when I really needed it but now that I have my cover stitch under control I may try in the spring.  Or not.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Puzzler on January 29, 2021, 12:44:01 PM
Your User Name: Puzzler

What is it and for whom: A pair of yoga pants for me. I actually want to wear them to Reformer Pilates sessions if the studios every open again.

Fabric and Pattern/instructions used: Style Arc Becky Yoga Pants. I glanced at the minimal instructions provided. The fabric I used was the perfect weight: https://frumble.co.uk/products/fit-knit-sport-technical-leggings-jersey-navy
 
A short description on how you made it, any problems overcome etc:

Rather than pinning the pattern onto the fabric, I used the weights I was gifted by my Secret Santa @Sonatine.

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I've made some other Style Arc pants patterns previously and know where I need to alter. I shortened the leg at the knee. Forgot to add it back in at the hem but thankfully it wasn't needed. My non-waist is nearly the same size as my hips so I added a total of 2 inches at the waist, tapering down to nothing at the hip. I raised the waistline and add a bit more than this to the back waist seam. I added extra to the separate waistband. I also decided they were bit too flared at the hem. I wanted them straight so I measured in a bit on both the outer and inner leg seams and tapered up to nothing at the knee. This all sounds like a big faff but compared to the alterations I have to make to blouses and tops, it was a doddle.

I sewed the seams with my overlocker using regular needles. I'm thinking next time I would put stretch needles in for this type of fabric. I attached the waistband on my sewing machine and did use a stretch needle for this. When it came to the hem, I couldn't be bothered dragging out the coverstitch. I could have put in a stretch twin needle but instead I overlocked the edge, turned it up and stitched with a very narrow open zig-zag.

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Sorry, folks. I have no resident photographer so this photo is awful. I thought photos of me only looked bad when my face was in it.  :scream: I put the entire blame on my iPhone, not all those lockdown indulgences!!! Here they are again modelled by the lovely Esmerelda:

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Okay, not much better, but you get the idea.

These won't win any prizes but I was determined to sew something for a 2021 competition. It's my first competition on TSP. This was also my first foray into athletic wear.  DD1 runs 1/2 marathons, cycles and has hinted at me making her some gear so it was good practice.


P.S. It was also my first post embedding photos within the text rather than at the end. THAT was a faff!  :S
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on January 30, 2021, 12:08:34 PM
@Puzzer, great entry!

I've made a charcoal grey hoody, supposedly for Pilates but has already been in general wear.
It is based on the Style Arc Josie Hoody, but without the turtleneck section at the front of the hood as I thought this would choke me. I folded back the hood edge and included a drawstring, but just hemmed the lower edge on the coverhem.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFmq8Qcd4eM/YBQgPykWN7I/AAAAAAAAOdU/JuTP2gGM_ZY9gUAy9wXWqToh-eE74CswgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1756/StyleArcJosieHoodie.jpg)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k8MCQ2hziLc/YBQgPw3N1tI/AAAAAAAAOdQ/_x2M4GcwiIUVPM8X0Zm6QaBqcYjUkYKtgCLcBGAsYHQ/s730/JOSIE-HOODY.jpg)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Starryfish on January 30, 2021, 13:50:56 PM
@SewRuthieSews , I've made a sweatshirt and track bottoms for walking. Should I enter them as a set or separately?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Morzel on January 30, 2021, 19:45:29 PM
@Catllar Well done on your swimsuit! I really like the combination of the print (nice placement of pattern) and the solid fabric - it calms down the busy print. And this is only for show at home?!

@Puzzler my daughter showed me a feature on my phone last year (no iphone and yes, I am learning from my then 10year old!). It was in my settings: for a selfie, I just have to hold my hand up and it recognizes this. I combined this with a timer in the settings. So I can lean the phone on a table or shelf, step away, hold up my hand and it starts a 2second timer for a selfie!My daughter got my old phone last year and with that one you don't hold up your hand, but say 'click'). Maybe your phone got a setting like that?

@SewRuthieSews great hoodie! I would have felt the same about the neckline in the front -all the weight of the hood pulling at the front... it looks good! Any more of these, as it has proven a good sew?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on January 31, 2021, 18:03:12 PM
Hi everyone, last day of sewing for the "Fit for Purpose" contest, please post your entries on the thread by 6th February and I will set up the voting thread.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Mick on January 31, 2021, 20:07:57 PM
Mine is finished, just need the time to take a few pictures...
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on February 01, 2021, 09:51:47 AM
@SewRuthieSews , I've made a sweatshirt and track bottoms for walking. Should I enter them as a set or separately?

I would suggest a single entry @Starryfish !
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Fabric Lover on February 01, 2021, 15:44:59 PM
@Fabric Lover , if the primary purpose of the trousers is related to walking then that's fine, go for it.
Thanks for this @SewRuthieSews but after making the navy cords, I an more than happy with and so decided that I would be wearing them for far more than just for walking, amd so won’t be entering them in this competition. I may post a photo of them elsewhere though, not for a little while though as I slipped on the ice a week ago and am now nursing a broken wrist!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: fajita on February 01, 2021, 18:26:47 PM
Oh no, @Fabric Lover  :toast: :hug:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Mick on February 02, 2021, 19:33:37 PM
Your User Name and Entry Number
Mick’s one and only entry for the competition.

What is it and for whom.
A sleeveless posing training hoodie for me.

Before old age, arthritis, and general decrepitude got the better of me, I was a keen kickboxer
and sometimes, cage fighter.
Normal gymwear in those days was always a sleeveless hoodie, as they keep your torso and neck muscles warm without restricting your arm movement.
I’m not allowed to fight any more, and got rid of most of my old training gear a while ago, but I still work out occasionally, and thought there was no harm in re-living the glory days a little.

Fabric and Pattern/instructions used.
Fabric is some “Heavy-Duty Sweatshirt Fleece” and matching Stretch Cuffing. Both from Ebay.
Pattern was a free download from this lovely lady’s site.
https://mellysews.com/sewing-projects/
Came as a 15 page A4 print out, which worked perfectly through Adobe software. The calibration scale was spot on, without correction, and all the lines matched up between sheets with no errors or steps. (Huge sigh of relief).
Back and front pieces were very similar, with just differences in the neckline shape, and were overlayed on the print out. So I traced the front onto a separate sheet, just to make laying out on the fabric a bit easier.
The site also includes an idiot’s guide video on sewing the thing. Handy for me, that.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50901747178_5342eb1a18_c.jpg)

A short description on how you made it.
Didn’t need the sleeves, obviously, so didn’t make them. Just did some short cuffs around the arm-holes.

Any problems overcome etc.
Oh my goodness, isn’t stretchy fabric fun stuff to sew on a vintage sewing machine…

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50902422221_8d37658450_c.jpg)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50901361223_5300c5d52c_c.jpg)
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on February 02, 2021, 20:49:10 PM
Very nice @Mick. Kick boxing ? Same as they do in Thailand?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on February 02, 2021, 21:01:14 PM
@SewRuthieSews  Do I need to do anything with my posts or is what I've posted OK where it is?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Mick on February 02, 2021, 21:11:15 PM
Very nice @Mick. Kick boxing ? Same as they do in Thailand?

Much the same.
The sport originated there, and the Thai people are still the masters of it.

Nowadays the Western version has a few more rules, to try to prevent the competitors getting too badly hurt.
It's still pretty brutal though, and a man my age has no place kidding himself he can still compete.
Much safer if I stick to sewing...
 :'(
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on February 03, 2021, 13:34:41 PM
Remember seeing demos of Muay Thai in shopping malls in Chiang Mai and Bangkok as tasters for the "real" matches. @Mick My days, are they supple and fast!!!!
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Mick on February 03, 2021, 20:41:38 PM
@Catllar  Muay Thai fighter are the best there are. Most sign up to a training school around six years old, and then devote the rest of their life to the sport. Very few westerners have ever been able to compete on their terms.

I mostly fought in a style known as K1. The Thai would probably consider it a bit "girly", as we weren't allowed to break each others legs.  :o

Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on February 03, 2021, 23:19:57 PM
Wow! :scream:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Starryfish on February 05, 2021, 12:59:25 PM
Starryfish's entry

I made a Style Arc Verity sweatshirt in burgundy french terry and Style Arc Brooklyn track bottoms in black ponte. No alterations to the patterns apart from the usual changes to the centre back seam of the bottoms to fit my figure.
  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  

I will wear this for my walking group when we are allowed out. The light is the best I can do in the winter, short of standing on the front lawn (not going to happen).
 
 

Took a picture in my sewing room which shows the fabric and details better, not enough room for a photo of me.
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Catllar on February 06, 2021, 13:17:01 PM
I really love that sweatshirt - was the neck easy to do? Drawstring holes and all that?
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: Starryfish on February 06, 2021, 13:32:00 PM
No @Catllar , it wasn't that difficult. You sew up the collar, make the buttonholes, and then sew two parallel lines of stitching either side. Then thread the ribbon through, which I didn't find too hard. Of course it would been easier if I  could locate the thingy for threading that was in my mums button box I inherited. :laughing:
Title: Re: "Fit for Purpose" January 1-31 2021
Post by: SewRuthieSews on February 07, 2021, 17:54:50 PM
@SingingSinger @Morzel @Bodgeitandscarper @Catllar @Puzzler @Mick @Starryfish

Thank You all for your entries!!!!!

The voting thread is now open at FIT FOR PURPOSE voting (https://thesewingplace.org.uk/index.php/topic,12071.0.html)