I agree with you with regards quality over quantity, for me its always pattern first and fabric second, I don't like having too much stash it overwhelms me, xx
This is the second of your vlogs I’ve watched and I really think you need to rename it - Ruth & Frank, Sewing and Snoring! Would love to see what he looks like, please!
I love that idea! He does make an appearance sometimes 🥰 Check out my Knitting & Stitching Show vlog and the Sewing Room Tour, he says hello in those ones I think x
Glad you found Tessuti i love their Eva dress have made 4 in linen and absolutely love them many more to come great for hot climate where i live but took them on holiday and great for cool weather too love how linen works like that! Thanks for your vlog enjoying your point of view 😊. Regards from Darwin Australia ❤
Oh I adore their patterns, I think I could happily fill my wardrobe with Tessuit and Merchant & Mills patterns 🥰 Thank you so much for watching from Australia x
Hi Ruth, I just found your channel so don't know you too well. Just remember, we are all perfectly imperfect. When you feel uncertain about projects, do a toilet or 2. Think of the pattern as a piece of paper to be manipulated. I've made loads of faux pas and still do after 35 odd years of sewing. ❤❤❤
Lovely vlog Ruth 🥰. I like your approach to your sewing goals this year. I agree with some of the other comments, trying things on in the stores will be a great help in deciding new shapes to make. @alexjudge did a brilliant vlog about doing that. We will all help at the Sewcial if you get stuck with any of the patterns 👍🏼👍🏼😃. Go for it!!xxxx
Thank you darling 🥰 I'll have to check out Alex's vlog, I enjoy her style so that will be super helpful. I think i'm going to start with the Ilford but I have some pj's on the go first so maybe i'll bring it to Feb's sewcial xx
Ruth you should try on a jump suit in a store. That way you'll know if it suits you. I'm sure it will, good luck with the sewing of it if you go ahead making it .
Just found your channel and like it very much. Do you think you could post a picture of the patterns you’re talking about? It’s hard to visual what you’re saying without seeing a picture. I realize that takes extra work though, but it sure makes watching a lot more enjoyable. Just like seeing the fabric and all of that various kinds of viewing. Lol.
Thanks for the feedback, I will try to show more pictures next time. In the mean time, if you would like to see any of my makes in more detail they are usually on my Instagram🥰
Ok Ruth. I am now subscribing because I loved your snoring dog Frank throughout your video. So much like my house! Great list of Indie patterns. I completely understand that hesitation because something is so loved - is it over-hyped, is it just made because others are making it....
I also have grown boys and little grandchildren that I like to sew for. I made the Jackson Pullover for my youngest son who is 6’. I made a size 14 and I think I lengthened the sleeves. I really should have done a broad back adjustment. He wears it and loves it. Next one will have more room for his shoulders/upper back. I love, love, love the Southbank dress. One of my favorite things to wear in winter. The Ilford is a lovely sew. It is a pretty easy sew and if you enjoy a neat finish it is perfect for you. You can finish the seams with bias.
Hi Christine 🥰 I think the Jackson will might work well for Max too, he's 6'3 so I'll probably need to lengthen the body and sleeves too. Glad to know it worked for your son, that will spur me on. I have grown to love the Southbank so much this last few months, I could happily wear one everyday in the winter x
Really fun plans. I live trying new styles. It’s so much fun. I did however find it helpful to try them on in the stores before I make a new style to make sure that I like it on me. It’s always a bit of a bummer when you make something beautiful then don’t wear it. Can’t wait t see your makes this year
I really enjoyed listening to your plans and Frank snoring 😂 I’m also afraid of tailored trousers but over the jumpsuit fear. I would have loved to see a couple of your 2023 makes to break up the first half of the video a bit. Happy Birthday to your son.
I just found your site when I searched for the Lyra. It’s funny I sound so like you. I don’t make things or even wear things I’ve made because I might look ‘silly’ in them although I love them and also I’m a neat freak with my sewing. I have two grown up boys and my son brought me fabric back from Uganda where he had been working and asked me if I’d make him some shorts. I was flabbergasted. He loved them and wears them a lot. The Ilford is also on my list this year which I am intimidated about making and still haven’t got over the invisible zip fear. I really appreciated and could relate to your honesty. 😊
Hi Amanda, thank you so much for commenting 🥰 How nice of your son to bring fabric back and ask you to make him something, that must have been so lovely. If zips are still scaring you I can highly recommend the Sew Over It Ava skirt, even if you don't fancy the skirt you could use the instructions just to sew a zip into a couple of squares of fabric. It really helped me to conquer my fear of zips x
Happy Birthday Max, 😂, lovely to meet you! Beautiful vlog, I feel that we’re chatting quietly in the corner of a lovely tea shop, and you just have my absolute full attention about what you are sharing, and I can really relate to what you’re saying, so no volume issues here Ruth, it’s such a pleasure just to lean in to listen more intently to you. The Quality over Quantity thing - I feel similarly, and I get what you mean, and yet, as you yourself found, you could make 52 items and none of them were of low quality just cos you made so many. Aren’t we funny 😂😮😊!!! Regarding your lack of confidence about how you may look in something - as you’re already vocalising here - you, and only you, yourself - is in charge of whether any other person sees it or not, and I send you a ‘Trust Yourself’ Hug, that you can use to help you to trust yourself about doing that or not! Love the freedom you’re giving yourself here - You’ve got me really thinking about how I will usefully use the Make Nine Challenge! Thanks so much, Susan x
Now that would be lovely wouldn't it Susan, perhaps we will get the chance one day 🤞 Thank you for the 'Trust Hug' that is very kind and I will use to get me going. Can't wait to hear about your plans too x
Don’t be scared of the Zadie! It’s fairly easy to make and seams to suit everyone. I have made a couple and intend to make more (I have just turned 60). I didn’t make any alterations to the fit except I sized down a couple of sizes. The Mitchell trousers are also on my list of projects. I am going to try the “top down, centre out” method of fitting.
That is so funny. I had to switch the sound off to work out if it was your dog snoring or mine!!!! Such a fun vlog though. I personally wouldn't dream of doing a 'make 9' as I like to go with the flow and make what I feel like at the time (or what I need!). I am sure you will be fine with the Ilford jacket. Like you I was very, very nervous of sewing a jacket but fell in love with the Ready to Sew Julien chore jacket and had some gorgeous fabric for it too. I just took a deep breath and decided to take it slowly and it worked very well. I even lined it and love it so much, I am just about to make another one. The only bit I wasn't that pleased with was where the sleeve was sewn into the bodice at the armpit. It might have been because I was doing flat felled seams but it was a bit bulky. Like you I am also about to try a jumpsuit for the first time but I am going to do the Deer & Doe Scirocco. I am hoping that because it is jersey that it will be a bit more forgiving! Anyway, I will be very interested to see how your projects turn out!
😂 That's so funny! And thank you so much for watching. I have just looked up the Julien and I see what you mean, it's lovely isn't it. The Sirocco is very nice too, I love the waist shape on that one. Maybe one for later in the year if the Zadie works out x
Hi Ruth, I have just discovered your channel and I really enjoyed this video. I just want to say that the Saltwater Slip and the Zadie jumpsuit would both look fabulous on you ! I look forward to seeing your makes. Sandie x
hi Ruth - i was like you and was scared to make the Zadie as i didnt think it would suit me or it was too hard but i have now made 3 and can say it is fairly simple to make and i am stunned that it looks ok too!
How wonderful to meet you! Lately my sewing has been taken over with sewing functional items for our new to us luxury (but small - 20’) camper van much of which has been intimidating as there are no patterns. So far so good! My garment of intimidation is the Kelly Anorak. I even have the waxed canvas for it. Let’s see if I can build the courage and get it done for the autumn. BTW I made the Ilford jacket for my son a couple of years ago. For some reason I remember the sleeve placket been a struggle (I lined the whole jacket), but found some good RUclips videos to follow. My son is 6’3” and was quite athletic he found the cuffs rather snug and I didn’t think of pre measuring. Have fun stepping out of your box!
Hi Carolyn, thank you so much for tip about the Ilford jacket. I will have a good search on YT to see what I can find. The camper van sounds amazing! And how special to furnish it with your handmade items 🥰 Have you been anywhere in it yet? x
With the saltwater slip, I think it’s possible to make it very slinky or very un-slinky by choosing the appropriate fabric for your style choice …. And it would look good with a little bolero style short sleeve top to pop on and off as your confidence waxes and wains
Hi Ruth - you should definitely make the Saltwater Slip dress. I’m a fairly inexperienced sewist and I’ve made several of these that I wore loads during the summer. The binding is not so bad 😂. Also, I’m 61 and curvy and I think the dress looks lovely and I certainly don’t feel self conscious in it. I’m sure you will love it once you’ve made it 😊
I’ve made the Zadie 2 times and the Ilford 3 times. Make a muslin for both. It will ease the nerves, tho they are easy sews! Even tho I’ve seen many Closet Core bottoms, the Mitchell trousers intimidate me. The pattern is still uncut.
They are quite an intimidating make aren't they. Someone else mentioned they have a sew along on their website. I've not tried it but it might help 'ease the nerves' as you say 🥰 x
Ruth, I think you had a great idea or your 2024 Make Nine.That might give you the gentle nudge you need to tackle them.What a sense of accomplishment when you look back at your Make Nine at the end of the year! Any kind of trouser pattern intimidates me. I always anticipate a million adjustments to get a good fit and I don't really know how to do them.. I've had the fabric and the pattern to make a jumpsuit for at least two years, maybe more. You can imagine how much that intimidates me!. Not only do I have to get some trousers to fit, I have to get a top to fit and the two to fit each other! I let the peer pressure get to me seeing everyone on RUclips in their jumpsuits....what was I thinking?!!!🙄
Hi Diane 😊 I watched a great video by Lifting Pins and Needles where she talked about the different fit adjustments to get a good fitting pair of trousers. She made it seem much more achievable but having said that I still haven't used the techniques lol x
I think we must both think the same because honestly I’ve exactly the same thoughts about both the zadie and the salt water slip dress. Honestly I love seeing all the zadie’s and think that they look absolutely gorgeous on everyone but I’m so nervous about cutting one out for myself, and what is the worst that could happen, it might not fit so what there’s only me going to know but it still holds me back lol 😂 I am going to challenge myself to make one for my holidays in may wish me luck xx
Thank you for sharing your plans for 2024 makes. I'm relatively new to sewing and I totally understand the intimidation of some patterns. And yes, I've done the same thing, pulled out the pattern, read the instructions and then put it back for later...lol. I have made fails, which have been disheartening but have learned so much from them. So this year, like youself, I'm going to give patterns that have been on my radar a go regardless. One of them is the Eva dress by Tessuti. Happy sewing. Oh, by the way, your dog Frank snoring in the background made me laugh. Just too cute ❤
Hi Kim, thank you so much for watching and commenting 🥰 You will love the Eva dress, it's such a nice sew. If I remember, the pattern asks for tear away vilene around the neckline but I just stay stitched and it was fine without it. Please let me know how you get on with it, I'd love to know x
Hi Ruth, this is the first video of yours I have watched. I think you’re great. I too keep going back and forth on the Saltwater Slip dress. I expect it would suit you more than it would me, but I like the idea of how cool and comfortable it would be on a hot summers day 🙂 I’d venture to make a little suggestion for future videos - maybe pop Frank in another room. I love dogs and I have two who snore, but Frank is particularly loud and it was quite distracting 😮 Looking forward to watching more from you 🙂
You should make the Zadie! I drafted my own (not oversized) and am actually wearing one now. Mine are in linen and viscose, super comfy, I love them so much. They're easy to make as well, go together fast and you can use a funky bias binding to elevate them if you wish. Don't be afraid, just do it, what's the worse that can happen? Also I bet your kids would love to wear things you make, I make things for my mom and she is so happy with them.
Hi🎉Ruth, I had to tweak my Lyra pattern a LOT,but when I got the fit right I’ve made seven of them 😵💫 yup, when I love the pattern I repeat,talking about new silhouette what about Asta dress from Wardrobe by Me ?I’ve made three of them so far with the turtleneck view , I changed the sleeves to little bit more like bell sleeves,and I absolutely love to wear them ,and pattern is super fast to sew up.Love the snoring dog so sweet ❤Great plans ❤️
Hi Paula, I hadn't heard of that pattern but I have just looked it up and it's stunning! I adore the shoulders which is rare for me lol Thank you so much for sharing that idea, I would really like to try that out x
Hi Amelia, they are probably the one's I am most afraid of but also the one's I want to wear the most so I am going to have to go for it. We can do this! 🥰
In terms of make nine I instead set myself an objective, like I decided I needed to do my more buttonholes. You won't improve if you don't even try... So I made quite a few blouses last year, including the Lyra.
Ooh Ruth Frank really was in his zone today 😊 I know you are more than capable of making the garments you’ve listed, I have made the saltwater slip the only thing I found with are the straps are so long and I probably wouldn’t bother with the bra slip clips just make normal straps, I need to revisit mine and try and sort the straps out. I want to make the Zadie perhaps we can have a go together with help from Adele and Bec’s I’m sure we would nail it. Anyway see you Saturday and we can discuss in more detail 🥰💕💕xx
He was wasn't he, I think he needs his own channel where he can snore away all he likes 😂 And yes lets definitely work on the Zadie together, we can get some tips from the girls. See you Saturday xx
Hiya! Loved the video! When you mentioned about your body shape changing so your style changed is exactly what happened to me! I explain on my upcoming video on Sunday. I do slimming world too and my shape has changed massively so I now don't like to wear the buffet style dress anymore. You gave me lots of inspiration for new patterns. ❤ Xx
Hi Gen, how are you? I will definitely be tuning into your video on Sunday 🥰 It will be interesting to see how you approach that too. It's a nice problem to have I suppose, getting in shape and feeling like you can wear more fitted and tailored garments but we do get used to hiding behind our clothes don't we, well I did x
@@SeamStressedRuth yes Its deffinatly a better problem to have! 😂 I tried on a buffet style in a shop recently and it drowned me, even though it was my size - I hated how it looked. I am loving sewing some new silhouettes this year now I'm happy with my body. You look fab! I think the saltwater slip would look gorgeous on you xx
😂 love that you and I have patterns to make in 2024 which we’ve been scared of! Great plans, you will look fab in them! I am also scared of the Mitchell trousers, perhaps we should both do them and hold each other’s hands! 😂
The Sinclair patterns walker hoodie is a great pattern and does height options so I made that in regular for my brother and then in tall for my husband, fits straight out of the packet.
I was terrified of both the Ilford and the Mitchells. I think they both have amazing instructions. I hadn't made trousers exceot for elasticated pj bottoms before the Mitchells but every step has great detail. And the finish is lovely. I love your approach to make 9 😊
I have the Ilford and Zadie patterns, I’ve never worn jumpsuits before but made the Zadie last year as a short version which I wore on holiday and loved it. Hoping to make the Ilford this year. Why do we do this to ourselves doubt all the time. Look forward to seeing all your makes throughout the year x
I really don't know but I wish we could ban self doubt and just get on with enjoying ourselves more. I'm so glad to hear you loved your Zadie, I am really hoping I get the same result 🤞🥰
I hope you overcome your fears. I always wanted to make jeans, but I thought I would never have the confidence. I've made 4 pairs now and really enjoyed sewing every pair. I keep a journal of all my makes as its good to look back and see if I'm still wearing those pieces.
Hi Annette, sorry if you get 2 replies. I was sure I had replied to you but YT is telling me I didn't 🤷♀️ Anyway, making jeans is an amazing achievement! It seems a very long way off for me but hopefully tailored trousers will get me a bit closer x
That was a lovely vlog Ruth, I think you should just go for it and I bet you will surprise yourself and make them beautifully, then wear them with pride. ❤😊
I was going to make the Saltwater Slip for my son's wedding last August but after gaining weight during cancer treatment I was Very self-conscious about my upper body
I’ve made a few Lyras and adjusted the pattern for a narrow shoulder so it sits on my shoulder ok but I still find it’s tight across the chest so not the best fit, I actually prefer the top of the deer and doe bruyere shirt pattern with the Lyra skirt tiers as the bruyere shirt fits really nicely and I prefer the collar on that too! Piping is one of my goals too, I bought the Megan Nielsen Matilda dress pattern and have seen some beautiful examples with piping, the pattern is scaring me a little tho! 😂
What a great idea to match up the two patterns! I don't have the shirt you mentioned but I do have the myosotis which might work. I'll need to go back and check out the shoulders 🥰 Thank you for the tip x
You asked for some advice from people who just wear whatever they want and don't care what other people think. I'm not 100% that kind of person yet, but I've made a lot of progress in the past couple of years and wanted to tell you one tip that helped me. You framed it as either 1) wear whatever you want, who cares what others think or 2) caring about the opinions of others. I try to think of it more on a spectrum instead of a binary. There are some people whose opinions of how i look matter to me, be it my partner (because i enjoy feeling their attraction to me) or my creatively stylish friends (who will get what I'm going for and have interesting feedback). But strangers out in public? I don't know them, what their taste and judgment is like, so their good opinion of me isn't worth anything to me. Obviously I still have to feel good in what i wear and like it. But i have found that what makes me feel best in my own skin is being kind to people, strangers included. I'm still quite young and have a lot to learn, so please bear with me if so if this is obvious to people with more life experience, but it was really helpful to me to shift the way i think so i thought maybe it was worth sharing.
Hi thank you so much for this comment. I think you have a wonderful way of looking at that. I completely agree that perhaps there are some people’s opinions that do matter to me more than others but they are also the people who would love me if I wore a sack because it’s more than my appearance that matters to them. It’s a complex process understanding our brains isn’t it 🥰 x
Frank! You snoring boy!😂 I made the zadie and it does look nice. That has loads of bias binding around the front too. I like the Salt water slip dress but I won't make it as I feel its a style for people in their 20s and 30s and I'm 54 this year. I wouldn't feel confident in wearing it. I have the Ilford jacket pattern, with the fabric, buttons,cotton and interfacing I got as a kit from 1st for fabrics a couple years ago, and its still sitting in my sewing room awaiting to be made. I keep saying to myself I won't make it yet as I want to lose weight. It's just silly really. I should just make it and if I do lose weight and it gets too big I can just make another smaller 1. Odd how we talk ourselves out of things for various reasons isn't it?
We can be our own worst enemy at times can't we, it's so silly why we do that. You should absolutely make up the kit, if you need to make a smaller one later then you will know exactly how it all goes together and can whip one up in no time xx
Hi Linda, it is from Lucy Locket Fabrics, its called warm spice chunky corduroy I think. I only got it just before Christmas so it may still be in stock x
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Hi Ruth Lovely to find your channel. It lovely to discover that you love sewing.
I agree with you with regards quality over quantity, for me its always pattern first and fabric second, I don't like having too much stash it overwhelms me, xx
Happy Birthday to Max! 🥳
Thank you x
This is the second of your vlogs I’ve watched and I really think you need to rename it - Ruth & Frank, Sewing and Snoring! Would love to see what he looks like, please!
I love that idea! He does make an appearance sometimes 🥰 Check out my Knitting & Stitching Show vlog and the Sewing Room Tour, he says hello in those ones I think x
Glad you found Tessuti i love their Eva dress have made 4 in linen and absolutely love them many more to come great for hot climate where i live but took them on holiday and great for cool weather too love how linen works like that! Thanks for your vlog enjoying your point of view 😊. Regards from Darwin Australia ❤
Oh I adore their patterns, I think I could happily fill my wardrobe with Tessuit and Merchant & Mills patterns 🥰 Thank you so much for watching from Australia x
Happy Birthday Max!! 🎉
Thank you 🥰
It makes sense.
Thank you 🥰
Hi Ruth, I just found your channel so don't know you too well. Just remember, we are all perfectly imperfect. When you feel uncertain about projects, do a toilet or 2. Think of the pattern as a piece of paper to be manipulated. I've made loads of faux pas and still do after 35 odd years of sewing. ❤❤❤
Even do a toille 😂
Hello Anne, thank you so much for your kind comment. You are absolutely right, perfectly imperfect, beautiful 🥰
Lovely vlog Ruth 🥰. I like your approach to your sewing goals this year. I agree with some of the other comments, trying things on in the stores will be a great help in deciding new shapes to make. @alexjudge did a brilliant vlog about doing that. We will all help at the Sewcial if you get stuck with any of the patterns 👍🏼👍🏼😃. Go for it!!xxxx
Thank you darling 🥰 I'll have to check out Alex's vlog, I enjoy her style so that will be super helpful. I think i'm going to start with the Ilford but I have some pj's on the go first so maybe i'll bring it to Feb's sewcial xx
Ruth you should try on a jump suit in a store. That way you'll know if it suits you. I'm sure it will, good luck with the sewing of it if you go ahead making it .
That is a very good point Linda, thank you so much 🥰
Happy birthday, Max!
Thank you x
Great vlog. Love the snoring dog. Good plans.
Hi Lorraine, thank you so much 🥰
Just found your channel and like it very much. Do you think you could post a picture of the patterns you’re talking about? It’s hard to visual what you’re saying without seeing a picture. I realize that takes extra work though, but it sure makes watching a lot more enjoyable. Just like seeing the fabric and all of that various kinds of viewing. Lol.
Thanks for the feedback, I will try to show more pictures next time. In the mean time, if you would like to see any of my makes in more detail they are usually on my Instagram🥰
The Nova coat is a good one to start with... In terms of outer wear...
Yes I have seen quite a few Nova Coats being made this year, I'm not sure it's my style but it does look very cosy 🥰
Ok Ruth. I am now subscribing because I loved your snoring dog Frank throughout your video. So much like my house! Great list of Indie patterns. I completely understand that hesitation because something is so loved - is it over-hyped, is it just made because others are making it....
Thank you so much! That has made me smile 🥰 Who do you have snoring in your house? x
Loved this Ruth - great inspiration! Frank, you are a STAR 😂 xxxx
Thank you darling, Frank says hi 🥰
I also have grown boys and little grandchildren that I like to sew for. I made the Jackson Pullover for my youngest son who is 6’. I made a size 14 and I think I lengthened the sleeves. I really should have done a broad back adjustment. He wears it and loves it. Next one will have more room for his shoulders/upper back. I love, love, love the Southbank dress. One of my favorite things to wear in winter. The Ilford is a lovely sew. It is a pretty easy sew and if you enjoy a neat finish it is perfect for you. You can finish the seams with bias.
Hi Christine 🥰 I think the Jackson will might work well for Max too, he's 6'3 so I'll probably need to lengthen the body and sleeves too. Glad to know it worked for your son, that will spur me on. I have grown to love the Southbank so much this last few months, I could happily wear one everyday in the winter x
Be brave Ruth dive in and go for it x
Thanks Alison, I will or else they will still be on my list next year 🥰
Don’t be frightened of the Zadie jumpsuit. I made one in denim and wear a Breton top underneath. I really like it and l’m 80.
Hi Mary, thanks for the feedback. I am definitely going to try one this spring 🥰
Really fun plans. I live trying new styles. It’s so much fun. I did however find it helpful to try them on in the stores before I make a new style to make sure that I like it on me. It’s always a bit of a bummer when you make something beautiful then don’t wear it. Can’t wait t see your makes this year
Hi Mari, that is a very good idea! I should do this as soon as the spring styles begin to come out in the shops 🥰 Thank you so much for watching x
Loved this. You have a beautiful voice xx
Thank you so much 🥰
I really enjoyed listening to your plans and Frank snoring 😂 I’m also afraid of tailored trousers but over the jumpsuit fear. I would have loved to see a couple of your 2023 makes to break up the first half of the video a bit. Happy Birthday to your son.
Hi Catherine, thanks for the feedback 🥰 So happy you to hear you got over your jumpsuit fear, hopefully I will do the same soon 🤞
I just found your site when I searched for the Lyra. It’s funny I sound so like you. I don’t make things or even wear things I’ve made because I might look ‘silly’ in them although I love them and also I’m a neat freak with my sewing. I have two grown up boys and my son brought me fabric back from Uganda where he had been working and asked me if I’d make him some shorts. I was flabbergasted. He loved them and wears them a lot. The Ilford is also on my list this year which I am intimidated about making and still haven’t got over the invisible zip fear. I really appreciated and could relate to your honesty. 😊
Hi Amanda, thank you so much for commenting 🥰 How nice of your son to bring fabric back and ask you to make him something, that must have been so lovely. If zips are still scaring you I can highly recommend the Sew Over It Ava skirt, even if you don't fancy the skirt you could use the instructions just to sew a zip into a couple of squares of fabric. It really helped me to conquer my fear of zips x
Happy Birthday Max, 😂, lovely to meet you! Beautiful vlog, I feel that we’re chatting quietly in the corner of a lovely tea shop, and you just have my absolute full attention about what you are sharing, and I can really relate to what you’re saying, so no volume issues here Ruth, it’s such a pleasure just to lean in to listen more intently to you. The Quality over Quantity thing - I feel similarly, and I get what you mean, and yet, as you yourself found, you could make 52 items and none of them were of low quality just cos you made so many. Aren’t we funny 😂😮😊!!! Regarding your lack of confidence about how you may look in something - as you’re already vocalising here - you, and only you, yourself - is in charge of whether any other person sees it or not, and I send you a ‘Trust Yourself’ Hug, that you can use to help you to trust yourself about doing that or not! Love the freedom you’re giving yourself here - You’ve got me really thinking about how I will usefully use the Make Nine Challenge! Thanks so much, Susan x
Now that would be lovely wouldn't it Susan, perhaps we will get the chance one day 🤞 Thank you for the 'Trust Hug' that is very kind and I will use to get me going. Can't wait to hear about your plans too x
Don’t be scared of the Zadie! It’s fairly easy to make and seams to suit everyone. I have made a couple and intend to make more (I have just turned 60). I didn’t make any alterations to the fit except I sized down a couple of sizes. The Mitchell trousers are also on my list of projects. I am going to try the “top down, centre out” method of fitting.
Thank you so much, I am really feeling the love for the Zadie this week 🥰 I just hope I love it as much as everyone else x
Apart from the gilet all of your patterns are ones I want to make this year. I have the Ilford Jacket kit from Guthrie and Ghani.
Sounds like we have similar taste 🥰
À journal of your makes is a great idea as I can't remember what I've made... 54 is a huge amount 😊
I do like to try and get a little sewing time in most weekends but I was still surprised to see how the numbers quickly built up 😊
That is so funny. I had to switch the sound off to work out if it was your dog snoring or mine!!!! Such a fun vlog though. I personally wouldn't dream of doing a 'make 9' as I like to go with the flow and make what I feel like at the time (or what I need!). I am sure you will be fine with the Ilford jacket. Like you I was very, very nervous of sewing a jacket but fell in love with the Ready to Sew Julien chore jacket and had some gorgeous fabric for it too. I just took a deep breath and decided to take it slowly and it worked very well. I even lined it and love it so much, I am just about to make another one. The only bit I wasn't that pleased with was where the sleeve was sewn into the bodice at the armpit. It might have been because I was doing flat felled seams but it was a bit bulky. Like you I am also about to try a jumpsuit for the first time but I am going to do the Deer & Doe Scirocco. I am hoping that because it is jersey that it will be a bit more forgiving! Anyway, I will be very interested to see how your projects turn out!
😂 That's so funny! And thank you so much for watching. I have just looked up the Julien and I see what you mean, it's lovely isn't it. The Sirocco is very nice too, I love the waist shape on that one. Maybe one for later in the year if the Zadie works out x
Hi Ruth, I have just discovered your channel and I really enjoyed this video. I just want to say that the Saltwater Slip and the Zadie jumpsuit would both look fabulous on you ! I look forward to seeing your makes. Sandie x
Hi Sandie, that is so kind of you to say 🥰 Thank you so much for watching x
hi Ruth - i was like you and was scared to make the Zadie as i didnt think it would suit me or it was too hard but i have now made 3 and can say it is fairly simple to make and i am stunned that it looks ok too!
Hi Mary, that's so good to hear! I bet you look fabulous, I hope it works for me too 🤞
How wonderful to meet you! Lately my sewing has been taken over with sewing functional items for our new to us luxury (but small - 20’) camper van much of which has been intimidating as there are no patterns. So far so good! My garment of intimidation is the Kelly Anorak. I even have the waxed canvas for it. Let’s see if I can build the courage and get it done for the autumn. BTW I made the Ilford jacket for my son a couple of years ago. For some reason I remember the sleeve placket been a struggle (I lined the whole jacket), but found some good RUclips videos to follow. My son is 6’3” and was quite athletic he found the cuffs rather snug and I didn’t think of pre measuring. Have fun stepping out of your box!
Hi Carolyn, thank you so much for tip about the Ilford jacket. I will have a good search on YT to see what I can find. The camper van sounds amazing! And how special to furnish it with your handmade items 🥰 Have you been anywhere in it yet? x
With the saltwater slip, I think it’s possible to make it very slinky or very un-slinky by choosing the appropriate fabric for your style choice …. And it would look good with a little bolero style short sleeve top to pop on and off as your confidence waxes and wains
Very good point! Thank you x
Hi Ruth - you should definitely make the Saltwater Slip dress. I’m a fairly inexperienced sewist and I’ve made several of these that I wore loads during the summer. The binding is not so bad 😂. Also, I’m 61 and curvy and I think the dress looks lovely and I certainly don’t feel self conscious in it. I’m sure you will love it once you’ve made it 😊
Hi Alison, that is so good to hear! I bet you look fabulous! Hopefully I will be feeling the same thing soon 🤞
I love the Saltwater Slipdress!! (63yo here😉)
Love your spin on this!! Great to tackle things head on! I’m sure you’ll get on great!!
Fingers crossed, so many people have said the Ilford is easier than I think so I might start with that one 😬 x
I’ve made the Zadie 2 times and the Ilford 3 times. Make a muslin for both. It will ease the nerves, tho they are easy sews!
Even tho I’ve seen many Closet Core bottoms, the Mitchell trousers intimidate me. The pattern is still uncut.
They are quite an intimidating make aren't they. Someone else mentioned they have a sew along on their website. I've not tried it but it might help 'ease the nerves' as you say 🥰 x
Ruth, I think you had a great idea or your 2024 Make Nine.That might give you the gentle nudge you need to tackle them.What a sense of accomplishment when you look back at your Make Nine at the end of the year! Any kind of trouser pattern intimidates me. I always anticipate a million adjustments to get a good fit and I don't really know how to do them.. I've had the fabric and the pattern to make a jumpsuit for at least two years, maybe more. You can imagine how much that intimidates me!. Not only do I have to get some trousers to fit, I have to get a top to fit and the two to fit each other! I let the peer pressure get to me seeing everyone on RUclips in their jumpsuits....what was I thinking?!!!🙄
Hi Diane 😊 I watched a great video by Lifting Pins and Needles where she talked about the different fit adjustments to get a good fitting pair of trousers. She made it seem much more achievable but having said that I still haven't used the techniques lol x
I think we must both think the same because honestly I’ve exactly the same thoughts about both the zadie and the salt water slip dress. Honestly I love seeing all the zadie’s and think that they look absolutely gorgeous on everyone but I’m so nervous about cutting one out for myself, and what is the worst that could happen, it might not fit so what there’s only me going to know but it still holds me back lol 😂 I am going to challenge myself to make one for my holidays in may wish me luck xx
Massive good luck wishes being sent your way, we can do this! 🥰
Thank you for sharing your plans for 2024 makes.
I'm relatively new to sewing and I totally understand the intimidation of some patterns. And yes, I've done the same thing, pulled out the pattern, read the instructions and then put it back for later...lol. I have made fails, which have been disheartening but have learned so much from them.
So this year, like youself, I'm going to give patterns that have been on my radar a go regardless. One of them is the Eva dress by Tessuti.
Happy sewing.
Oh, by the way, your dog Frank snoring in the background made me laugh. Just too cute ❤
Hi Kim, thank you so much for watching and commenting 🥰 You will love the Eva dress, it's such a nice sew. If I remember, the pattern asks for tear away vilene around the neckline but I just stay stitched and it was fine without it. Please let me know how you get on with it, I'd love to know x
@@SeamStressedRuth Thank you Ruth for the advice on the stay stitching. I'll let you know how it goes. Wish me luck....
Hi Ruth, this is the first video of yours I have watched. I think you’re great. I too keep going back and forth on the Saltwater Slip dress. I expect it would suit you more than it would me, but I like the idea of how cool and comfortable it would be on a hot summers day 🙂 I’d venture to make a little suggestion for future videos - maybe pop Frank in another room. I love dogs and I have two who snore, but Frank is particularly loud and it was quite distracting 😮 Looking forward to watching more from you 🙂
Hi Ann, I'm sure it would look lovely on you and thank you so much for watching 🥰
You should make the Zadie! I drafted my own (not oversized) and am actually wearing one now. Mine are in linen and viscose, super comfy, I love them so much. They're easy to make as well, go together fast and you can use a funky bias binding to elevate them if you wish.
Don't be afraid, just do it, what's the worse that can happen? Also I bet your kids would love to wear things you make, I make things for my mom and she is so happy with them.
Thank you so much for the positive motivation, a linen zadie would be just lovely 🥰 You are so talented drafting your own pattern!
Hi🎉Ruth, I had to tweak my Lyra pattern a LOT,but when I got the fit right I’ve made seven of them 😵💫 yup, when I love the pattern I repeat,talking about new silhouette what about Asta dress from Wardrobe by Me ?I’ve made three of them so far with the turtleneck view , I changed the sleeves to little bit more like bell sleeves,and I absolutely love to wear them ,and pattern is super fast to sew up.Love the snoring dog so sweet ❤Great plans ❤️
Hi Paula, I hadn't heard of that pattern but I have just looked it up and it's stunning! I adore the shoulders which is rare for me lol Thank you so much for sharing that idea, I would really like to try that out x
Loved hearing about your new plans for 2024 and tackling these patterns. I have the Mitchell's too but am far too scared to get going on them!
Hi Amelia, they are probably the one's I am most afraid of but also the one's I want to wear the most so I am going to have to go for it. We can do this! 🥰
In terms of make nine I instead set myself an objective, like I decided I needed to do my more buttonholes. You won't improve if you don't even try... So I made quite a few blouses last year, including the Lyra.
I love sewing button up garments now but I was afraid of that too at the beginning. You are right, we definitely won't improve if we don't try x
Your room is glorious!!! X
Oh thank you so much 🥰
Ooh Ruth Frank really was in his zone today 😊 I know you are more than capable of making the garments you’ve listed, I have made the saltwater slip the only thing I found with are the straps are so long and I probably wouldn’t bother with the bra slip clips just make normal straps, I need to revisit mine and try and sort the straps out. I want to make the Zadie perhaps we can have a go together with help from Adele and Bec’s I’m sure we would nail it. Anyway see you Saturday and we can discuss in more detail 🥰💕💕xx
He was wasn't he, I think he needs his own channel where he can snore away all he likes 😂
And yes lets definitely work on the Zadie together, we can get some tips from the girls. See you Saturday xx
Hiya! Loved the video! When you mentioned about your body shape changing so your style changed is exactly what happened to me! I explain on my upcoming video on Sunday. I do slimming world too and my shape has changed massively so I now don't like to wear the buffet style dress anymore. You gave me lots of inspiration for new patterns. ❤ Xx
Hi Gen, how are you? I will definitely be tuning into your video on Sunday 🥰 It will be interesting to see how you approach that too. It's a nice problem to have I suppose, getting in shape and feeling like you can wear more fitted and tailored garments but we do get used to hiding behind our clothes don't we, well I did x
@@SeamStressedRuth yes Its deffinatly a better problem to have! 😂 I tried on a buffet style in a shop recently and it drowned me, even though it was my size - I hated how it looked. I am loving sewing some new silhouettes this year now I'm happy with my body. You look fab! I think the saltwater slip would look gorgeous on you xx
😂 love that you and I have patterns to make in 2024 which we’ve been scared of! Great plans, you will look fab in them! I am also scared of the Mitchell trousers, perhaps we should both do them and hold each other’s hands! 😂
Hey Sarah, that's a great idea. I will have much more chance of actually starting them if I know you are going through the same pain 😊 x
The Sinclair patterns walker hoodie is a great pattern and does height options so I made that in regular for my brother and then in tall for my husband, fits straight out of the packet.
Oh thank you Wendy, I've not heard of that but will certainly check it out now 🥰
Great approach to make 9. Frank snoring is priceless 😂
Thank you Jan 🥰 He is a funny little thing, he never wants to be far from my feet x
I was terrified of both the Ilford and the Mitchells. I think they both have amazing instructions. I hadn't made trousers exceot for elasticated pj bottoms before the Mitchells but every step has great detail. And the finish is lovely.
I love your approach to make 9 😊
Oh thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Mitchell's, I feel a bit more positive about them after reading this 🥰
Make 5 sounds much more acheivable! especially planning in january for a whole year!
I hope so 🥰 x
I have the Ilford and Zadie patterns, I’ve never worn jumpsuits before but made the Zadie last year as a short version which I wore on holiday and loved it. Hoping to make the Ilford this year. Why do we do this to ourselves doubt all the time. Look forward to seeing all your makes throughout the year x
I really don't know but I wish we could ban self doubt and just get on with enjoying ourselves more. I'm so glad to hear you loved your Zadie, I am really hoping I get the same result 🤞🥰
I hope you overcome your fears. I always wanted to make jeans, but I thought I would never have the confidence. I've made 4 pairs now and really enjoyed sewing every pair.
I keep a journal of all my makes as its good to look back and see if I'm still wearing those pieces.
Hi Annette, sorry if you get 2 replies. I was sure I had replied to you but YT is telling me I didn't 🤷♀️ Anyway, making jeans is an amazing achievement! It seems a very long way off for me but hopefully tailored trousers will get me a bit closer x
That was a lovely vlog Ruth, I think you should just go for it and I bet you will surprise yourself and make them beautifully, then wear them with pride. ❤😊
Thank you 🥰
Closet core have a class you can buy with the Mitchell trousers, I have it and it is excellent x
I don't think we should have to pay for a tutorial after purchasing the pattern!😮
Ooo thanks for the tip 🥰
The Zadie is great. Very easy to sew. The fit is another story😅... But just go for it.
Fingers crossed 🤞
I was going to make the Saltwater Slip for my son's wedding last August but after gaining weight during cancer treatment I was Very self-conscious about my upper body
I'm so sorry to hear that, hoping you can make one when you feel ready x
I’ve made a few Lyras and adjusted the pattern for a narrow shoulder so it sits on my shoulder ok but I still find it’s tight across the chest so not the best fit, I actually prefer the top of the deer and doe bruyere shirt pattern with the Lyra skirt tiers as the bruyere shirt fits really nicely and I prefer the collar on that too! Piping is one of my goals too, I bought the Megan Nielsen Matilda dress pattern and have seen some beautiful examples with piping, the pattern is scaring me a little tho! 😂
What a great idea to match up the two patterns! I don't have the shirt you mentioned but I do have the myosotis which might work. I'll need to go back and check out the shoulders 🥰 Thank you for the tip x
You asked for some advice from people who just wear whatever they want and don't care what other people think. I'm not 100% that kind of person yet, but I've made a lot of progress in the past couple of years and wanted to tell you one tip that helped me.
You framed it as either 1) wear whatever you want, who cares what others think or 2) caring about the opinions of others. I try to think of it more on a spectrum instead of a binary. There are some people whose opinions of how i look matter to me, be it my partner (because i enjoy feeling their attraction to me) or my creatively stylish friends (who will get what I'm going for and have interesting feedback). But strangers out in public? I don't know them, what their taste and judgment is like, so their good opinion of me isn't worth anything to me.
Obviously I still have to feel good in what i wear and like it. But i have found that what makes me feel best in my own skin is being kind to people, strangers included.
I'm still quite young and have a lot to learn, so please bear with me if so if this is obvious to people with more life experience, but it was really helpful to me to shift the way i think so i thought maybe it was worth sharing.
Hi thank you so much for this comment. I think you have a wonderful way of looking at that. I completely agree that perhaps there are some people’s opinions that do matter to me more than others but they are also the people who would love me if I wore a sack because it’s more than my appearance that matters to them. It’s a complex process understanding our brains isn’t it 🥰 x
Frank! You snoring boy!😂 I made the zadie and it does look nice. That has loads of bias binding around the front too. I like the Salt water slip dress but I won't make it as I feel its a style for people in their 20s and 30s and I'm 54 this year. I wouldn't feel confident in wearing it. I have the Ilford jacket pattern, with the fabric, buttons,cotton and interfacing I got as a kit from 1st for fabrics a couple years ago, and its still sitting in my sewing room awaiting to be made. I keep saying to myself I won't make it yet as I want to lose weight. It's just silly really. I should just make it and if I do lose weight and it gets too big I can just make another smaller 1. Odd how we talk ourselves out of things for various reasons isn't it?
We can be our own worst enemy at times can't we, it's so silly why we do that. You should absolutely make up the kit, if you need to make a smaller one later then you will know exactly how it all goes together and can whip one up in no time xx
Happy 21st Birthday 🎂🎂🎂
He says thank you 🥰
@@SeamStressedRuth awww most welcome, I hope he had a brilliant day xxx
Where did you buy the fabric for your Whittaker dress please .
Hi Linda, it is from Lucy Locket Fabrics, its called warm spice chunky corduroy I think. I only got it just before Christmas so it may still be in stock x
With garments that you are not sure that they would look right on you try finding them in the shop's and try those on.
That is a great idea! Thank you so much 🥰
Hahahaha your snoring dog in the background 😂?
He's a snoring expert 😊