Dress to Impress: 5 out of 4's Layla Dress Sewing Pattern Review

Life is too short to wear boring clothes. 

That's why Layla is the perfect party, office, or doing-the-laundry dress!

The Layla Dress has several options and features:
- Fully lined
- Princess seamed bodice
- 4 Sleeve lengths
- Button up back
- A-line box pleated skirt
- Pockets option
- Sash option
- Knit or woven fabric skirt option

The layla was a relatively easy sew - just follow the straight forward instructions, and voila!  

The pleats were a nice sew, and the seam ripper did not come out!  I didn't have quite enough fabric for the entire front skirt with pleats, so I did make them a bit smaller than the pattern itself, ensuring that the front was the same size with less fabric than it would of been as per the original pattern piece. 

I used some Scuba fabric from Water Tower Textiles - and the scuba was light enough that making the sleeves didn't leave me feeling squished in, thus it has a great bicep circumference (mine tend to be large for more form fitted sleeves). 

The skirt is cotton fabric from Fabricland, and of course, I opted for the side pockets!   

Overall, it's a fun dress for work or a party, and I love that I can use woven or knit for the skirt part without needing to alter any of the pattern piece sizes. 

Get your Layla here.

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

One Stitch at a Time - The 5 out of 4 Patterns Sandra Dolman Tunic Sewing Pattern Review

Never underestimate the power of a woman with a sewing machine. 

There's always sew much fabric and sew little time...but there should be time to sew up the new 5 out of 4 Sandra Dolman Tunic (or Dress)!

The new Sandra Dolman Tunic/Dress pattern has several fun options:
- Tunic or Dress length
- Short or long bottom split bands
- Short or long sleeves
- Optional hood
- V Neck or Crew Neck
- Optional Thumbhole Cuffs

I sewed up my Sandra with some random waffle knit from Water Tower Textiles, and beautiful Double Brushed Polyester (DBP) from Libelle Sewing. 

They mesh together so beautifully, and go well with my 5 out of 4 Zen Pants (also Libelle Sewing fabric - Scuba!).

This top was easy to sew up, and I love the options and oversized fit.  It definitely makes me feel better about the lumps and bumps I don't like about myself. 

And I love that it covers my behind - it's always cold!  

I tested this top out as a layer while closing up our trailer, and the hood made it nice, as the back of my neck didn't get cold, and I looked fashionable while sweeping snow off the trailer roof. 

As you can see, it's not a slim fit top, but has a nice drapey feel to it.  With that in mind, I definitely recommend a lightweight fabric such as the Waffle KNit or light Sweater knit to prevent a weird boxy feel. 

Get your pattern here, and sew it up for all seasons!

**Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

Ladies and Gentlemen, this is Mambo Number Five! The Skirt Collection from 5 out of 4 Patterns

A little bit of Monica in my life.

A little bit of Erica by my side. 

A little bit of Rita is all I need.

A little bit of Tina is what I see...

5 out of 4 patterns has blown it out of the sewing park again with this Mambo #5 Line of skirts.  

What's great about them?  You can get the set in a bundle, or just one (or two, or three), and combine the skirts with the different bands and features.  

What options are there?
- Thin Band
- Thick Band
- Scooped Band
- Lace Up Band
- Tie Up Band
- Straps
- Mini, Knee, or Midi length Skirts
- Pockets
- and more!  

 

Monica is a pleated skirt with 3 length options, and several options: pockets, regular band, tie up band, or Encased Elastic band.

I loved sewing her up - and the pleats were SUPER simple to sew up and laid perfectly the first time around. 

I sewed up the mini version with regular band and waist ties.  The fabric was some sort of stretch suiting fabric from Fabricland, so the skirt cost me about $5 to make. Woot!  

I paired Monica up with the Virginia Tank (including a cut file also on the 5 out of 4 site) for a more casual look.

 

 

Erica is possibly my fave out of the four skirts. She was an easy sew, and I LOVE the options included: Suspenders, lace up or regular waistbands, pockets, and all 3 skirt lengths. 

I opted for the Knee length with Lace Up Waistband - made with a maroon pleather from Water Tower Textiles via a mystery bundle I took a chance on.  This fabric called out Erica's name!

Lesson learned with Pleather - put a piece of paper on top of the fabric while sewing, and tear it off once done sewing.  Otherwise, the needle does NOT like to sew through just the pleather.  

The lace up band instructions were super simple to follow, and I just used lace I had on hand for the tie.  

I paired up Erica with my Laura Tankini - what a perfect colour match and va-voom look!

 

Rita is the fitted skirt, with options: one or two piece back (aka with a seam or without), solid or colour blocked front and/or back, back vent, Basic or encased elastic waistbands.

I opted for the knee length back seam plain waistband version.  And va-voom!  It was both an easy sew and flattering for my figure. 

The seam in the back is recommended for those of us with big cabooses, and it definitely helped me with this second version of the skirt I sewed up. 

I used a waffle suiting fabric from...either Fabricland or Water Tower Textiles - I can't recall. It has just enough stretch, but doesn't put tension on my poor hips - so I can move and not feel suffocated in a traditional fitted skirt. 

This will be fun to wear at the office! 

I paired up Rita with one of my Calypso Tops for a more casual feel.

 

Tina is the final skirt in this collection - and includes: basic, scoop, or cross front waistband; suspenders, hem ruffle, or patch pocket options.

I opted for the cross front waistband, suspenders, knee length skirt. 

I wore this out for my 10th wedding anniversary with Husband a few weeks ago, and he was impressed!  

It was a quick sew to which I loved all the available options, fit, and lasting factor. I paired Tina with my Shiela Top, and it's a match made in heaven.

So get your groove on and collect all 4 skirts (and the FREE Luna skirt pattern) and mix & match Monica, Erica, Rita, and Tina with all the features to your sewing heart's desire.

Share your pictures on the 5 out of 4 Facebook group once done with your favourite Mambo Pose! Why? Why Not!

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

Let the Sew Set You Free - 5 out of 4's Calypso Top & Dress Sewing Pattern Review

Aye Calypso, the places you've been to, the things you have shown us. 

5 out of 4 must be dreaming of either the Pirates of the Caribbean or Ottawa (where Calypso Water Park is).  Either way, the Calypso top reminds me of waves of warm water and the tropics - even though fall is here, frost warnings and all. 

Calypso has several options:
- Top or dress length
- Short, 3/4, or long sleeves with a cute bow detail
- XXS to 5XL sizing

 

The first top I made was my test version. 

I had a, "moment," and didn't realize the sleeve binding should of been doubled, so my short sleeves version lacks the bow feature - but it's still cute and works!  

I also didn't shorten any of the tiers, as this was my fit version to ensure everything worked as it ought to.  

 



I used a DBP from Water Tower Textiles, and it's so soft and flowy - definitely the type of fabric this top desires. 

The gathers were the most time consuming part of making this top, but well worth the end result. 

For my second top, I opted for long sleeves, and used DBP and some sort of really light Sweater knit from a mystery box (also Water Tower Textiles) - and everything came together well. 

I love the flow and look of the top, and the long sleeves are different and feminine. 

 


Originally during testing, we'd used clear elastic in the gathers, but it didn't work well for flowiness, so I originally made this top as the dress version (I'm not normally a dress girl), and had to unpick the seams between all the tiers to get the elastic out, and resewed it back together in a top version for finals.  

I did learn that unpicking clear elastic made it easier than just through the fabric, and none of the fabric was torn during the process. 

The final version has NO clear elastic, so you shant suffer this two Netflix episode unpicking adventure!

I did take 3/4" off each tier, but next time I won't, as I prefer a longer length. 

Overall, it's a fun sew, and these are already in my closet ready to wear. 

If you want a fun sewing adventure, take the ride down the Calypso here!

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

Be Zen with 5 out of 4's Zen Pants Pattern

6 Rules to be Happy in Life:

1. Never hate
2. Live Simple
3. Don't worry
4. Expect a little
5. Give a lot
6. Sew lots of Zen pants

Okay, so I threw that last one in there, but sewing is my zen, and 5 out of 4's Zen pants make me feel bootylicious. 

 


The Zen pants come with a few fun features - ones that make you feel like undercover Yoga pants (even when you're in the office!):
- Shorts, Capris, or Pants length
- 3 rise options
- Faux fly  option
- Rivets or drawstring (options)
- Patch Pockets on the front, back, and cargo pocket on the side (optional...but POCKETS!)
- Maternity options

I sewed this amazing floral pair with Scuba fabric from Libelle sewing.  It has the perfect amount of stretch and stability, and is soooooo comfy.  Perfect for fall throughout spring here in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada!  

I opted for a midrise waistband, front and back pockets, and it was a relatively quick & easy sew.  The instructions are straight forward, and the fit is perfect for me. 

I took 3" off the height - after measuring my inseam and comparing it to the finished length.  I didn't alter anything else. 

The view from the side is just as Epic.  

As you can see, the bottoms aren't too big or small, but just right, and there is no gaping from the waist band.  

I honestly thing a lack of proper fabric on my end has stopped me from making more Zen pants for my office attire and just for fun!  

A less colourful pair of Zens I made last year were made from not as stretchy as I'd like suiting fabric from Fabricland.

I made the same style with pockets and mid rise, and love these ones just as much (they're also easier to match with my usually colourful and colour blocked tops). 

So whether it's for serious work or play, the Zen pants are sooooooo comfy, you can't go wrong. 

Get your Zen on HERE.

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

5 out of 4 Pattern's Plentiful Piper Peplum (and Dress) Sewing Pattern

The 5 out of 4 Piper Pattern is great for beginner or advanced sewists.  

It offers a plethora of options, that make it perfect 365 days of the year!

- Peplum or Hanky Top length
- Dress Length 
- Pockets
- Hood
- Cowl
- Regular Neckline
- Thumbhole Cuffs (banded, or plain options too!)
- Sleeveless, Short, 3/4, or long length sleeves

For my first version, I opted for Peplum length with Thumbhole Cuffs and a Cowl Neck.  

Now, I DID put pockets into the Peplum, but cut a good 3/4-1" off the bottom of the pocket curve, and it worked!  It's enough room for my iPhone, change, and even a snack (because, SNACKS)!

I love the flare of the skirt, and the drape of the cowl. Both were easy to sew up, and fit me perfectly first time around. 

 

I used some sort of lightweight knit fabric and cotton lycra from Water Tower Textiles for this version - all light and airy - but definitely a fall and winter wear with the longer sleeves. 

 

My second version has a hood (of course!), to which I used a soft sweater knit and french terry fabrics - also from Water Tower Textiles. 

It's like a hoodie, but fancy and feminine. I LOVE it. 

Again, the peplum sits at my natural waist, I didn't shorten anything (I'm 5-2", and love length on my tops), and it fits like a nice glove. 

 

No seam rippers or bad words were used in the making of these tops.  And I can't wait to make one (or three) for each season! 

The dress version is so pretty if you're a dress person - and the hanky hem is planned for my next Piper Top. 

Overall, I LOVE the options available, and it's the perfect pattern for any level of sewist. 

Get your Piper Here, and share on the 5 out of 4 Facebook Page once you're done - fan fare from the Pied Piper will ensue!

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

Hey Jessie, You're So Fine, You're So Fine, You Blow My Mind - 5 out of 4's Jessie Top and Dress Sewing Pattern

The 5 out of 4 Jessie Top, Tunic, and Dress Pattern is a beautiful form fitting pattern with some fun options. 

- Shirt, Tunic, or Dress Lengths
- Regular, FBA, or Maternity Bodices
- Regular, Low, Racerback, or Strappy Back Options
- Sleeveless, Short, Elbow, 3/4 length, or Long Sleeves

You really could have a different Jessie every day!

I used Rayon Floral fabric from Water Tower Textiles for my Jessie - definitely a cooler weather top, as I'm not sure if the Rayon would breathe enough in warmer climates with long sleeves. 

I opted for tunic length, and love it!  

It was super easy for me to sew up, and as usual, the instructions were on par. It hugs my curves where they need it, but doesn't show all my bumps and life - just the way I like a slimmer top to feel. The armcycle is perfect without being too tight (or loose) - sometimes an issue with me and tighter sleeves.  No bicep adjustment required = happy Unicorn.

 

I opted for the criss cross back, and everything lays flat and is perfection!  

I also used my new Panasonic Lumix DC TS7 for pictures - minimal editing required (for more of a colour pop), and the edges are just so crisp and clear. Despite not having the ability to use my normal wireless remote, I did find a timer option to take 3 pictures after 10 seconds in 2 second intervals. As long as I centered myself, they turned out fine.   

What do you think??

I paired my Jessie with Rebecca Page's modified Slim Cargo Pants (I added in a Moto pattern to the front thighs - here's my blog post with step-by-step instructions!), and they're the perfect duo. 

Overall, I can't wait to have time to make more Jessies - especially one from sweater knit for the upcoming cold Ottawa winter we're expecting. 

If you're a beginner or Advanced, you'll sew up the right Jessie for you here!

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!) 

Gloria Gloria - The 5 out of 4 Sewing Patterns Gloria Peplum Top Review

I really didn't think Peplums would be great for my body type - hourglass shaped with a caboose, I thought they would make me look bigger. 

The 5 out of 4 Gloria Peplum was my first foray into Peplums last year, and a success!  

She comes with a few options:
- No to long sleeves
- Full or split sleeves
- Finished cuff or gathered cuffs
- Peplum, Regular Skirt, High Lo Skirt options

 


The Gloria was a simple sew with a different arm option - the split sleeve!  

I originally had the elbow length sleeve, however, cut it to short sleeve as my sleeve fabric wasn't drapey enough and looked weird with a longer sleeve. Lesson learned. 

I love the way this Peplum fits and that it wasn't a fabric hog - it's quite flattering, even at a shorter length than I normally would wear. 

I can't remember where This turquoise and unicorn fabric came from - likely Okee Dokee Kids Fabrics. 

 

I paired this Gloria with my Capris length Diane Joggers, and it's the perfect match!

The sleeve opening definitely works better with a softer and drapier fabric, and it sits flat on my arms. 

I used lightweight cotton lycra and rayon fabrics from Water Tower Textiles. 

 

Here's a close up on the sleeve and side - I love this little peek-a-boo effect!  

And the drape of the top - it helps cover up things I'd rather not think about, and makes me feel confidant wearing it. 

You can get your own Gloria Sewing Pattern here! 

***Affiliate Links Above used - I love these patterns, and without the help of those who love their patterns, marketing would be extremely difficult for the pattern makers we love and learn to love. Affiliate links help with the hours, fabric, and tears that go behind testing each pattern in order to provide a real-person view on the patterns for you (and me!)