/tee time

1.25.2013

Last month I bought a coverstitch machine, so I had been clamoring to work with knits!
First, I made a long comfy skirt that makes me feel like I'm wrapped in a blanket. Very good.

Next, I had to assess my tee shirt collection. This made me come to the realization that I tend to keep tee shirts to a point where it's probably not socially acceptable, complete with holes and other nasty things (I'm talking pit stains, people). So, it was high time I put together a couple of tees. I used Sewaholic's Renfrew pattern, and am super happy to have new staples to wear to death!



This was my first experience with a Sewaholic pattern, and I thought it was really nicely done.
It does fit a bit loose, so for the striped version, I made a size smaller.
 
Just a couple of minor changes to the pattern: 
  • omitted the sleeve & hem bands and used the new coverstitch machine (!) to hem.
  • lengthened the black version a few inches to compensate for taking out the band.
  • added one length of twill tape all along the shoulder seams and back neck before sewing the sleeves on.

 



 





I saw Morgan at Crab & Bee's lined wool version of the Renfrew just after I finished these two, and am inspired to make a sweatshirt version (with more alterations, to be sure). With plenty more knits in my fabric collection, I'm wondering if anyone out there has a fave knit pattern that they wear all the time? In the mean time, I'll be working on some of my own!


10 comments:

  1. These look fantastic! Do you like your coverstitch machine? I've been considering one...

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    1. Thanks! And oh, I LOVE the machine. I had been considering it for years, but didn't know which kind I wanted (two or three needle) before I tested a couple at a local shop. There are a very limited number of models out there, so it was relatively easy after that. I went with the two needle - I think the width will be more useful to me, plus it was less expensive! The only lame thing about it is the size, it's now the largest of my machines.

      It's this one:
      http://www.overstock.com/Crafts-Sewing/Janome-CoverPro-900CPX-Serger-Machine/6128173/product.html

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  2. Oooh so jealous of your coverstitch machine!! These look lovely! So professional.

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    1. Thank you!! I am ashamed to say I feel a little insulted when someone asks me if I made something I'm wearing (and I did). haha. THE PLIGHT OF SEWING!

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  3. These are so great! You always inspire me to get off my lazy behind. Would you believe I bought a serger over a year ago? Poor baby is still in its box. I'm awful!

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    1. Thanks, lady! Awww, let the serger out! You'll be surprised how much faster projects go when you use it, even if just for seam finishing. Really really really. Also, I don't believe for a minute that you're lazy. PSH. :)

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  4. I have an overlocker which I love! I am still confused about the difference between a coverstitch and an overlocker or serger. You have inspired me to look into it:)

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    1. It probably just took you a quick Google search, but a coverstitch is what you usually see at the hem on knits (double or triple stitching on top and concealing overlock-look stitches underneath). The machine only does two stitches: coverstitch & chainstitch (ex: at denim hems). It could be well worth it depending on what you like/need to sew!

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  5. Such sleek looking tops! Very nicely constructed.

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    Replies
    1. Thanks, I've been wearing them a lot and they're holding up nicely! :)

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