Steeeeellaaaaaa! The Rebecca Page Patterns Stella Coat Review

As soon as I saw Stella, I know it was over. 

My love affair with flair and coats had meshed together into one - to create the Stella Coat.

Rebecca Page has done it again - and I'm SO glad!

Stella is available in newborn to 12 years old or adult XS to 5XL sizing - or get both sizing in a Bundle. 

 What are her features?
-Funnel neckline
- Hidden button placket
- Princess seams
- High-low full skirt
- close-fitting sleeves with mock buttons
- Optional mock back belt
- Optional welt pockets

I had a few different fabrics to choose from, and opted for this Alice in Wonderland themed quilting cotton from Fabricland, part of some random quilting cotton I had already from some gifted fabric, and ran out to Walmart to find out they sold small bolts of quilting cotton - an chose a grey and turquoise butterfly fabric.  

It was that or sloths. 

I was squeeeeeeeing while sewing up Stella and putting her together piece by piece. 

I chose all the available options, and graded from a Medium bust to XL for the waist and hips.  

I took 3" off the length of the pattern - so this means all the pattern pieces had length taken off.  Definitely worthwhile, and it's the perfect hi-low length for me. 

The belt sits at the perfect area (natural waist), and I only had to take in the seam at the side underneath the armcycle to where the front pockets hit.  This tucked in the front a bit more for me, as I have a caboose, but not so much up front.  Next time I could definitely opt for Large front pieces, and XL back pieces to accommodate for this small adjustment. 

You can see the hi-low here in my side view. Isn't the drape lovely??

The sleeves were the perfect length for me (although to some, they would take length off - I'm in Canada and always have cold hands - longer sleeve = happy Crystal). I also have enough room for a thin sweater underneath without feeling constricted in the armcycle.

The buttons were from a shop on Etsy that I'd had for some time - brushed silver buttons that look like blooming flowers. The sleeve and back buttons are a smaller button from the same Etsy shop. 

I felt like a flasher opening up the coat to reveal the beautiful inside, but c'est la vie of a pattern tester!  

I paired Stella with my Chrissy Top and altered Slim Cargo Pants. 

A few tips I want to pass around:

- Take your time - sewing Stella isn't a race - follow ALL instructions and don't assume, or else the seam ripper will be your frienemie. 

- I sewed a stitch between every front button on the placket in order for the placket to stay flat

- I sewed snaps on the top welt pocket to help it stay shut (the fabric weight definitely played a part in this!)

So get your Ladies pattern here, newborn to 12 years old pattern here, and Bundle it up 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!) 

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!) 

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!)  

Say Yes to New Adventures - the 5 out of 4 Adventure Skort Sewing Pattern Review

What if life is but one grand adventure? 

What if your wardrobe could be the same? 

The 5 out of 4 Adventure Skort is an adventure I didn't know I was missing out on!

The Adventure Skort is PERFECT for those of us who want to wear short shorts underneath skirts in the summer...it's all built into one garment. 

The options included are:
- Workout shorts (with 4 inseam lengths)
- Skort (shorts + skirt in one)
- Low, Regular, or Maternity rise band
- Short and long skirt lengths 

The skirt was perfect for some stretch denim camo print fabric from Water Tower Textiles, and the last of my Tardis Doctor Who Dri Fit fabric from...(brain fog moment) that online store that sells custom print fabrics (it cost an arm and leg and ear, but this is the 3rd item I've used that yardage in, so I feel I got my money's worth!). 

It sits nicely on my waist, and no muffin top!

 


I paired it with my X-Factor tank top - and it seems to work - sci fi geekiness alert!

I love the longer skirt length, and used the 3" inseam for the shorts, so no more thigh rubbing - especially in sweaty muggy weather, which seems to be this summer, and the reason I've avoided wearing skirts and dresses.  

To me, having shorts built in is a game changer. Yes I can wear shorts AND a skirt/dress...but that's so much work when getting dressed at 5:30am. 

With a nice DBP fabric, it can be the perfect office skirt, and the current combo the perfect outfit for working at our camp land. 

My behind looks good, and I didn't need to grad from the waist to hips. It isn't too tight, thus not causing pressure on my hips (I have super tight hips and low back issues). 

Sewing it up was a breeze, and I was honestly surprised when it was done. It was quick!  

The instructions were easy to understand, and no seam rippers were harmed in the making of this skort. 

I'll definitely make more when I get some extra sewing time in!  

Yay!  

Make everyday an adventure with the Adventure Skort sewing pattern today!

***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!) 


The 

Ruching Ties and More! Bella Sunshine Designs Hazel Dolman Top and Dress Sewing Pattern Review

Fact: People with hazel eyes are the most fun and happy.  

Fact: I love the ruching Ties in the new Bella Sunshine Designs Hazel Dolman Top (and Dress) pattern. 

Fact: You will too. 

The options available are:
- Top, Tunic, or Dress length
- Sleeveless, Short sleeves, or 3/4 length sleeves
- High or low neckline
- Simple sleeve or ruched/tied sleeve

The front has a beautiful drape, and I love the way it flows from my graded bust to hips (4 to 14). 

My fabric is from Water Tower Textiles for both tops - the blue a Double Brushed Polyester knit, and the pink a two way stretch lightweight sweater knit (possibly a slub?).  They are both lightweight and flowy - I feel the best types of fabrics for this top. 

The side also has a lovely flow - and it's such an easy sew. 

Honestly, the ruching shoulders is probably the most, "difficult" part of this pattern, and it's really not all that difficult to sew.  

The instructions are straight forward and a handful of pages. Definitely faster than a load of laundry!  

 

The back also accentuates my curves in a good way - in either fabric. 

I made both sleeveless top length with ruched shoulders. 

So really, if you haven't tried Bella Sunshine Designs patterns yet, and want a great introductory pattern, try out Hazel today.  I haven't seen the shoulder ruching in more than a handful of patterns to day, and the fit is great for a plethora of sizes, and super easy to blend if you fit into several size brackets for your bust/waist/hips. 

***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!)