My Sewing FAIL!

[@KnitzyKitzy]

Buster is adorable. I think it is the pattern and the fabric combined. I have printed out this pattern, both dress and top but stopped myself cutting out the top as I had initially planned. The top has no shaping and is so straight I know it would not look good on me. The dress piece looks more shapely and I think it will look better. So I am going to sew a muslin in a top length but using the dress pieces. Perhaps try the dress pieces instead? If I get it right then I want to make a brushed cotton dress with placket for autumn.

[@onlyyours725]

I watched a lady who said for an apple shape (like myself) that has the flowing style. She said if you make the back of the bodice 2" larger at the hem line (1" on each side) and take it out of the front on the hem line it'll set the top just right for an apple. I've made several modest tank tops this summer, used her tip, and its pretty spot on. I've even taken out as much as 2" depending on the fabric. Wish I could recall her name. I'd definitely add it here. Plus, I'd like to find her again to watch more of her videos, as she just casually mentioned this tip as she was cutting out her fabric.

[@FarrellFocus]

That sounds very interesting! Let me know if you find her, I’d love to watch that. Hugs 🩵🩵🩵

[@michellem3899]

Thanks for taking the kitties in to get fixed❤❤❤

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Michelle, we are so lucky to have a program here. It’s too expensive otherwise. Good bless those people! 🩵🩵🩵

[@cathydillehay8061]

Narrow the sleeves too. They add to the width you see.

[@Melissa-gn3dv]

I love the fabric on you. I think it needs more shape like darts and maybe elastic at the bottom of the sleeves.

[@FarrellFocus]

Good ideas. Thanks you Melissa ❤❤❤

[@noemir8262]

I think sleeves can be shortened about an inch or two and slightly tapered in near the hem. I recently added a piece of elastic on a boxy top at the small of my back. Used clear elastic about 6-8” long, sewed it on with a large zigzag as I slightly pulled on the elastic. Worked great and it gave a nicer figure 😊

[@FarrellFocus]

I actually had this thought too! Might be worth a try. 🤷🏼‍♀️ thanks ❤

[@ZeldaSews]

Hi Stephanie! Yes the weekdays and weekends feel all inclusive. Pretty sad!

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Zelda, lol. Yes, they all run together for me!!😂😂😂

[@TamaryaS]

You might like to try a smaller size with a full bust adjustment. It might look less tent-like. 😅

[@FarrellFocus]

That’s a good point. Thanks Tamarya👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@laurariha6118]

I personally like this pattern and shirt on you. Colors are great on you. Looks great with pants or maybe loose comfy caprice, gouchos maybe.

[@FarrellFocus]

Thanks Laura! 🩵🩵🩵

[@SSBankester]

“What is a week. end?” Is my favorite Lady Violet quote, and she had some real zingers! RIP Maggie Smith!

[@mlynncannon4188]

Strips across the body- I always make the strips diagonal, try the pattern with flowing fabric.

[@FarrellFocus]

Yes. I should have known better!! lol. 🩵🩵🩵

[@shellyscott8275]

Hi Stephanie, as much as you love the fabric, I don’t think it’s doing you any favours. The horizontal zig zag is a width making motif and being a “busy” design I think it emphasises that. Maybe a vertical print or dizzy floral and an inch or two to the length ? Someone also told me that big and/or body patterns are best kept away from the face so maybe use your lovely fabric for a skirt ? Anyway, that’s my two penny worth 😆 You do you, that pattern itself is a lovely easy make and a good wardrobe staple I think. Thank you for the video. I love your videos 😊x

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Shelly, I also think it’s probably the print. I love it, but it’s not flattering. Darn it! Thanks ❤❤❤

[@heathern9051]

I think others gave you great suggestions - FBA with a smaller size, shorter sleeves and maybe a fabric without horizontal stripes.

[@FarrellFocus]

Thank you Heather, I think that’s a great idea! Hugs 🩵🩵🩵

[@brendaludtke-yr2qc]

Tip with your starter - never stir with metal spoons, it turns it green - I ruined one batch and had to start over. I used wooden, silicone or plastic and with regular use and feeding the starter was awesome for a really, really long time. We loved it as pizza crust too.

[@pattimateo7654]

Truthfully I don't think anything is wrong with it besides being a boxy pattern, very much like New Look 6708 which I made recently. Curve it in at the waist for a bit of shape. I think the design and colors are pretty.

[@FarrellFocus]

Thanks Patti! 🩵🩵🩵

[@nancynewman6592]

You have made many items that are super flattering for you. This top has no definition, so I don't know how to add it. Maybe others will have solutions, but so far I have not seen one that I like. I will wait to see what next week brings :)

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Nancy, I think “as is” I will not wear it. So I might try if few of these ideas. Hugs 🩵🩵

[@lynngates1662]

Hi Stephanie 😊 I'm not crazy about that fabric print in a garment - but that's me. You are fabulous, of course! 😁 The sourdough adventure sounds like fun, the bread I make the most often is dinner rolls and pizza dough. I think one of the up-sides to sourdough is that gluten-sensitive people can eat it with fewer problems. Happy sewing this week! p.s. I do like bundling up to go outside when it's chilly! 😉

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Lynn, I’m looking forward to the sour dough journey. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 And I too enjoy winter clothes!! Cozy. 🩵🩵🩵

[@juliebeech4344]

Hi Stephanie. I’m loving the fabric on you too! It has a boho vibe and looks great on you. Id be tempted to add a couple of ties with tassels. Have you tried wearing it with cropped pants or something more fitted on the bottom half? Perhaps this would show it up a little bit better. Maybe something high waisted and do a half tuck?

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Julie, awesome ideas! I love anything with ties! And tassels too!!! That excites me!! Time to play!! 🩵🩵🩵

[@milenagallone8807]

Hi Stephanie! I think the blouse is great on you. Maybe I would add a stripe of a solid color in the bottom part because the drawing is not perfectly matched and it would also give a thinner look I think. Have you think to shorten the sleeves a little?

[@FarrellFocus]

That’s certainly worth a try! Thanks 🩵🩵🩵

[@scclif]

I love the colors in the fabric I think it needs darts to give it shape . Or try the draper fabric.

[@FarrellFocus]

Thank you! Good tips! 🩵🩵🩵

[@sandyheller5438]

The colors are great the body needs shaping like darts and the sleeves need to be less fabric. Maybe make the sleeves shorter pin them up and see what it looks like. 💕

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Sandy, thanks! Great ideas! 🩵🩵🩵

[@marylusk8287]

Stephanie, you are spot on you know what looks good on you. the top looks a little short it could be the fabric print it does not flatter you. Happy sewing girlfriend.

[@FarrellFocus]

Thanks Mary! 🩵🩵🩵

[@pinkysfarm461]

I would like to see this top with the sleeves shorter and the print on an angle. I am large on the too also and dont like sleeves that come right to the bust line. It seems to make me feel wider. I think the fabric is cute. I looked into polish pops. I think I will go for them for fall. My nails always have donkey dirt under them LOL, but I get excited when I can have pretty nails. Have a great weekend!❤

[@jeanieboudreaux6493]

I love the print with that style. Maybe nip the sides in just a bit at the waist to give it shape. Instead of a straight hem a slightly rounded shirttail hem would pull the eye up at the sides giving the illusion of longer legs while still covering the tummy.

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Jeanie, I wouldn’t have thought of that! Great ideas! Hugs 🩵🩵🩵

[@jankerslake5813]

The fabric is lovely and it does suit you but it’s the elasticated neck I think. It’s too high necked in my view. A v neck or a scoop would be a better style on you and more flattering for bigger busts (like me!). Buster is such a lovely dog. Sourdough starter takes over your life - good luck! 🤣🤣

[@sandrasaunders3416]

Hi , pretty fabric but I think the top is too boxy . Here are some things you could try- Shorten the sleeves a little or add elastic to them to draw attention away from your midriff. - Add some ties to just below the bust in the side seam so you can tie it at the back to make it more empire line.- Add a ruffle to the bottom to change the shape of it.-Try styling it with slimmer fit trousers. Hope this gives you some ideas. Good luck. xx

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Sandra, I love love your ideas!! Thank you! 🩵🩵🩵

[@Cambrilsbirds]

I made this top last week lol. I loved the top part bust allowance but felt the bottom was a bit wide. I think I need to grade down from the bust area. I used the large full bust. I tried again and did large standard bust and it worked. Just a suggestion.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

I think the top problem is just the peasant style. I love the gathered/elastic neckline, even easy sleeves but they never look good on me. It might be that all the gathered fabric coming down from the neckline just has nowhere to go, so it endls up being slightly shapeless. Or like a box. With yours, I think a shorter or longer sleeve might help, and also more of a tunic length. Especially if you wore it with leggings, since it's more of a loose, flowing shape. You could also try pulling it in from the back with a tie or some elastic so it will have more shape. You'll figure out something - you always do and it ends up looking fantastic! Good luck with the sourdough! I have 2 slices of sourdough toast most mornings. I don't know what it is about that flavor - yum! ❤🤗

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Jen, all good ideas! Thank you! I will play around with it and see if it can work for me. And yes! There is something so GOOD about sour dough. 🍞 🩵🩵🩵

[@kris99596]

I think it's probably the fabric, it looks like maybe it doesn't drape enough. It's really hard to tell. It might be the pattern, though. It needs to cut in just a little more under the bust. I know you like a little shorter top than I like (I really like tunic length) but I think maybe you need just a little more length, maybe just an inch or so. I love the pattern. And I agree, it should be super cute, and it comes SO close. I like the sleeves and the neckline, so it's really close. Maybe just a little tweaking. I'm looking forward to hearing about your sourdough adventures!

[@FarrellFocus]

Thank you Kris. I think I’ll try a few of these ideas and see what happens. And, I’m looking forward to the sour dough journey! 🍞 Hugs 🩵🩵🩵

[@pamelamann7933]

I feel like it needs to be cut in on the sides with darts maybe, or loose elastic in the bottom to give it a flow.💕 the fabric looks great on you!

[@FarrellFocus]

Thanks Pamela, good ideas! 🩵🩵🩵

[@MaryCunningham-u5j]

Several days last week I really had to stop and figure out what day of the week it was! I usually have volunteer activities on certain days but last week there was only church on Sunday and I was losing track of time - and now it's a new month...I don't want summer to be over, either, as I love my garden so very much - but I don't know what I can do about this problem of the season changing whether I want it to or not 😆! As to the top, maybe it's the print that's not working combined with the undefined shape? Something about it just isn't clicking. Trying to change it, since you have nothing to lose, will help figure it out, I think.

[@robynhansen8775]

If it where me with that type fabric would look great as a skirt with plain coloured (matching) top , or a tunic type with that fabric with plain coloured leggings but to me as it is it looks great .

[@aribella6913]

I agree that horizontal patterns can fool the eye into looking wider. I also think a sleeve length should not stop at a wide body part such as a bust, a bit higher or lower maybe. I myself being a pear shape must not let the hem end on the fullest part of my hips. I would also make a v neck or a deeper neckline.

[@KrisBob2007]

Here's my theory - The built-in FBA on Love Notions patterns might not be the awesome thing we hope it can be. I'm tempted to make it with the standard bust front, but do an FBA for my measurements. Some of their FBA patterns seem to hang from my bust and seem too short, but billowy around my middle.

[@FarrellFocus]

Hi Kris, I think I did the standard. I can’t remember now. 🤷🏼‍♀️ I’m gonna play around with it. We’ll see. 🩵🩵🩵

[@kathleenrueter3142]

I think, Stephanie, the strips should be length ways, not width way which would slenderize you. So, make it in something else or if you have more of that material, try the stripes go length way. My two cents. Oh and, also you may need a couple of darts in the front, also. AND, I, too ordered the Polish Pops, but I’ve not used them yet. They look fabulous!

[@barbarawarner4645]

You called it. I haven’t loved that pattern on anyone but also the fabric isn’t great for the reasons you suggested.

[@cathykieser53]

Maybe try 3/4 sleeves with elastic at the bottom

[@CarolynMarinaccio]

Hello The material is fine. I think perhaps you could shorten the sleeve and/or add elastic or shirring to a shortened sleeve. Alternatively decrease the width of the sleeve. I would also suggest shortening the length.

[@estherb1294]

The print and colors look good on you. I think styling it with black pants may be the problem. Bottoms that tone with the print might work better.

[@aahart9651]

While you are sitting the fabric looks cute on you. It’s when you are standing that it looks too big. It looks a little short (maybe). I would try making the back piece scoop down just a little longer than the front.

[@adriennefranklin5986]

I think it's the fabric for the reasons you said and maybe a size down? I just bought this pattern too. I think it needs a very drapey fabric.

[@kes44p]

I think it’s the effect of the zigzag stripe. Maybe the front needs another inch or 2 to hang a little lower. I have a similar (now retired) pattern - Rebecca Page Olivia top, it’s a T&T for me and I have several, my favourite is in Jersey Broderie Anglaise (eyelet) and also love it in double gauze. Purchased the Timbre but have yet to stick it together.

[@sherrysullivan4680]

Make it again...maybe vertical stripes but love all the color.

[@barbaramallon4755]

Hi Stephanie - it's all three of the fabric issues - horizontal stripes, not drapey enough, a bit too poofy - does need to be more fitted - maybe it's a little too big?. You have lots of top that are more flattering. I do like the loose sleeves.

[@maureenleclair8773]

When I was working, we shared the starter and all the women in the office was making the bread. We named it Herman. Why we did that, I don''t remember Maybe you can share your daughter's recipe. . Have a safe weekend. ❤🙏❤

[@robynlaszlo6128]

I'm agreeing with you and others the fabric is not the best I cannot wear boxie top they cut me off so I always change the hemline a fba might be needed but try it again I'm sure it will work for you 😊😊😊😊

[@patwinkeller9254]

I think the fabric does not really drape well. And being an apple myself, i don’t do horizontal stripes. But I do love the colors and can see why you purchased it.

[@marylusk8287]

Stephanie, making sourdough bread is an addition, and then you branch to sourdough cinnamon rolls. It is yummy in the tummy, but it is a lot of work.

[@mickiturk9120]

I personally think it's the fabric. Try the pattern in a drapier more toned down fabric.

[@rode-o5206]

I think it’s the horizontal stripes. I can’t wear them. It might need some shaping on the sides but mostly the fabric.

[@Chericherry4]

I think the problem with the style is that it’s a “one size fits all”. You maybe need to have it tapered in slightly under the bust . Just an idea.

[@peterivkovich2314]

from Gerry- I like the pattern, but not the fabric. Horizontal stripes, in my opinion, are not flattering to a fuller figure. I would try it again in a small floral or solid. Blessings.

[@janicecalouro9497]

Elastic casing under the bust would change style. Make you look taller. fabric is fine. Or if you like a belt could do that

[@lisart2488]

I actually really like the top on you but it's all about how you feel. I have a similar body shape and find that a little French tuck into the waistband helps a lot. A drapey fabric might work better to give you the shape you're after. PS Buster is cute

[@DianeBianchi_MnWx]

First, I think it should be styled with a slimmer bottom instead of the flowing pants. When you have a flowing top, the bottoms should be slimmer, and reverse if a bottom is flowing, then have a slimmer top. Maybe try that first. Also I think the shoulder and under arm looked a little big, I thought it looked like excess fabric, though not sure. Maybe you needed a smaller size and an fba?

[@gigracer]

Try wearing it with a belt. I think it’s the pattern of the fabric which is throwing you off. It’s beautiful fabric, but maybe the horizontal stripes are affecting how it looks? I think it’s might be good to try in a really soft, drapey knit fabric if you decide to try making it again.

[@lindaryan3302]

Maybe fisheye darts or just make some sleeping shorts or capris and now you have pj's.

[@lindadrew5047]

I love the fabric but the direction of the stripes maybe the problem. Maybe try another fabric with that pattern. 🙏🙏

[@loribarton7480]

I think it’s the fabric and you could go down a size. I am an Apple shape too

[@jeanettemadden6614]

I would suggest wearing a lighter color pant with this top instead of black. Try white or off-white or beige or whatever the background color is in the top. I think black is too strong a color to coordinate with the top. Another suggestion would be to narrow the width of the pants. You could pin them narrower and see how they look. I wish you best.

[@erickloss7324]

Hi Stephanie, this is Laura, sharing my husband’s KZbin account (I don’t call it a channel, because I don’t post videos, I watch other people’s videos). I’m also apple shaped, and I love a peasant top. I think your problem is the horizontal print. How funny, about accidentally catching a fox! Would have been interesting to see, if he’d gotten a picture; but still I hope it doesn’t happen again

[@deannarego2283]

I’m going to say it’s the fabric and print.

[@Cat-dw3wi]

It's super cute when you are seated, but standing, yes it is too much. I hate to say it, but I think it is both the fabric and the pattern. The blouse style is long and boxy. The length might be part of the problem, but I think it is more the boxiness. It doesn't show off your shape at all. Maybe some darts? Or a big wide belt? Or shortening it? Since it doesn't curve in at the waist at all, the horizontal bands are making it feel wider. I'm wondering what it would look like if the front were two pieces cut on bias so it came in diagonal. Easiest experiment would be to pin it up 4 or 6 inches and see if that changes the feel. Good luck!

[@Jude-riveroak]

Could you shorten / shape the sleeves? Also add an extra piece front and back to the hem with side splits to turn it into a tunic and add a tie belt? X

[@thecursingseamstress5412]

It's not ugly, but it needs more shape. I like patterns that have an obvious curve in at the waist.

[@laurariha6118]

I do not see the link for your Polish Pops. Can you share that?

[@FarrellFocus]

@@laurariha6118 Hi Laura, oh my gosh! I forgot to put that. Here you go: collabs.shop/ya1pjd Hugs 🩵🩵🩵

[@laurariha6118]

Thanks!

[@pamelaliebelt9967]

My days all run together except Sundays.

[@nancypollard4531]

I think it's the fabric. I think you should try it again. It may be a solid color or a more vertical stripe. Not to say that everyone can't wear horizontal stripes. I think it's just the zigzag horizontal stripes that you're not liking. Thank you to you and your husband for what you are doing for the cats.

[@sandyheller5438]

I was really thinking about your shirt. Why don’t you use it as a pajama shirt and maybe make some bottoms that will match. I do that sometimes, if the fabric is comfortable for sleeping. 💕 Just a thought.

[@QuiltGeek]

I think it’s the fabric. The horizontal stripes aren’t flattering in that fabric…too wide. I think a different fabric would make you happy. Love the pattern.

[@debcobb9739]

Even though it is a cute fabric the stripes are not good for bodies like ours...I think if the top was a few inches longer??? or take in the sides at the waistline to slim it a little. I used to watch the show "What not to Wear" and they said an apple shape needs to even out the look by wearing a wider leg in pants. I don't wear any slim fit pants...they make me look like an ice cream cone. Maybe you should try the top again with a different fabric. I don't like to cook either but we do like to eat...but my oven is broken and that is so sad....not!!!

[@FarrellFocus]

@@debcobb9739 Hi Deb, lol, I used to say that my perfect house would not have a kitchen, just room service! Lol. I used to love what not to wear!!! So fun!! Hugs 🩵🩵🩵

[@janefranklin8679]

My opinion is that your choice of fabric is the problem. The eye is compelled to view it horizontally and so it emphasizes width which now of us like. I would suggest a solid color. A soft blue would look sensational on you.

[@carolynreed2688]

I think it would look better with jeans.

[@glorialafollette61]

Maybe size down using a drapery fabric and wear it with a slimmer bottom.

[@amierikke6225]

I think it’s both the style of the pattern and the fabric zig zag print. Maybe with this style the neckline is too high on you, we need to see more skin. I know Love Notions said they developed this because we customers wanted a higher neck peasant blouse but a lower neckline is flattering to most women. Of course I don’t mean an immodest low or low enough to see cleavage. I homeschooled my boys who are now in their mid 30’s and we loved it. I’m so happy you assist the kitties! ❤ great job! Love me some blabber. Yes I make sourdough bread. I love it and it’s so exciting! I don’t know why but I love making it. I’m strange.

[@maryrames6247]

In my opinion, I truly believe that the SIZE is wrong! It really is too big on you, seriously. I'm a busty girl too so I have had the same issue with a knit top looking too big and "tent like" which is never flattering. Because a knit has negative ease, you CAN size down a bit without it being too clingy. I did notice that when you raised your arms, there was way too much excess fabric on the sides and under the arms. My other suggestion is to lengthen that top maybe about 2 inches. One more tip, anytime our neckline has elastic, that causes a lot of extra fabric around the bust and upper bust areas giving the appearance of the top looking "off." So give it a try with those changes...perhaps using a solid knit as a test to see if this style works for you. If that does, then go back and try taking in your zigzag striped top. Only then will you know if it's the fabric. I really like those colors on you because they are so flattering with your hair and skin coloring. You might want to take another look at Whitney's picture on the Love Notions pattern envelope. Her videos (Tom Kat Stitchery) are helpful because she too is busty, short and apple shaped. She gives some helpful construction tips too. Hoping these suggestions help you Stephanie. Happy Sewing!

[@Marlahanna]

It’s the pattern.

[@thedajune956]

It's the pattern (peasant style)

[@lindauyeno4185]

Maybe making the sleeves a little shorter and taking some of their volume away would give a slimmer profile.

[@jeannecaruso1731]

The top is boxy and not flattering. Try a different pattern that has a waist and longer length.

[@jeannecaruso1731]

And I’m not liking the fabric… sorry

[@maryillian3795]

I thing it's the stiff fabric

[@funniful]

I agree that this type of top is not flattering. It’s shape-less. If you ever make it again, use some Very drapey fabric. But with your body type, I don’t think that you should make this pattern again.

[@houseinnorthcarolina9439]

Stephanie, I'm sorry but I really like the top on you. I thought it looked great. Suzanne.

[@charlottelipe8586]

It’s pretty but I agree it just isn’t you. Looks a little big under the arms. I love watching you each week. You’re a fun one to watch. Have a great day.

[@terriedisch1961]

I think it is the fabric...

[@Veemerica]

You can totally wear this out. But, because you asked: the neckline is not flattering, the sleeves are too boxy, the top has no shape. It's not the fabric design. I think it's not the right pattern for you 🤷

[@betsyhood1548]

I think the horizontal design is working against you, with the boxy shape of blouse.

[@kcastillo0319]

I wasn't a fan of this pattern. I bypassed it and the Rhapsody. No definition. I think it's too big. I also think a softer drape in the fabric.

[@RobertaSharpe]

The fabric does not have enough drape. The pattern is not flattering for your body type.

[@lidabard2121]

I like the top on you. The colors are very complentary to your hair and skin. Maybe you don't like that style on you.

[@barbaragalloway5953]

I think the sleeves are to wide.

[@samdumas8692]

I don’t love the pattern, it is not flattering on you, those loose sleeves don’t work 3:48

[@thomasinagoss5904]

I don’t care for the style on you it looks like a box on your body. The sleeves are too wide take them in and shorting the length. The fabric is gorgeous. Maybe hack the bottle and make it curvy I think it will work with some pants.

[@lynnshepard7485]

I shy away from peasant style tops & dresses. The style doesn’t suit me, and I suspect it’s not your jam either, Stephanie. If it’s a dress with a shirred waist so there’s definition, that’s a better style. 😘

[@cindy7702]

I just don't think its your style.. It looks too big on you to me.. I think the fabric is lovely but If it was drapier it might be better.. I'm sure there are things that could be done to it to change the shape. I wonder if it was longer? I'm thinking as I type.. the wide sleeves look to big too..

[@nanettemoshier2132]

The sleeves are a little too long.

[@joellenaude729]

The sleeves are too long. Wear it with a french tuck and a denim jacket

[@mclements6313]

The fabric is just not showing your beautiful features… both the color and the print are ‘off’. The style is good, but maybe an inch or two longer for a more tunic length? Try it again, for sure!

[@DarHarper-i8o]

It's a cute top, but the fabric is not is not for you.