The Mabel Challenge

Hi everyone, So it seems Rachel decided she would challenge her gorgeous fellow Northern Sewl Sisters Tamlyn and Ruan, watch to find out what she has up- her sleeve.....
We're Ruan, Rachel and Tamlyn aka Northern Sewl Sisters
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[@joannesaliani2258]

Rachel this is a fabulous challenge for the sisters 😊. Ruan, I think the Lady Macleroy print would be stunning and I think very you. Tamlyn, I have been watching Daisy and the Six and I know this is off the wall but with the musical base in your family I see this as a 70s sort of blouse and I’d go with Option 1 the colourful print and maybe hack it just a bit so you could wear it off the shoulder. I really think it will suit you. I have been watching many vloggers doing the Mabel and have been tempted to buy the pattern and try it…This just might be the ticket to join you in trying this challenge too. Can’t wait to see the results. 😊😊❤

[@alicecameron7176]

Ruan - Love the idea of mixing your florals. Tamlyn - tough choice. The black and white print would be fantastic But,I also think the floral suits the pattern. Can’t wait to see your final makes!

[@debradollisson9551]

Ruan love the last floral think it will be great. The Lady McElroy will also make a great Mable if you decide you like the pattern. Looking forward to all the makes.💜💜💜from a Queenslander

[@jackiturner9228]

Ruan I think the Lady Macelroy, Tamlyn the black with white hearts because I love hearts😂. What a fun challenge.

[@salliecook7528]

That sounds like fun!!!! Now, each of you should issue a challenge some time during the year.

[@melaniefrank7413]

I definitely think the black & white for Tamlyn.

[@sandrasaunders3416]

Ruann do no. 3 the jigsaw puzzle !! Great way to use up 2 fabrics. Tamlyn I like the 1st fabric, I can see it with jeans on you. Good luck ladies.x

[@susandean4689]

Definitely an interesting challenge, I had thought the Mabel to girly and not sure about tackling shirring 😂

[@cindywinkler4172]

Tamlyn the black and white is the one that suits both you and the pattern

[@KTquiltsandsews]

Definitely a fun format. Looking forward to your reveal :)

[@lizlisle7361]

I can't get past the look on the Mabel pattern envelope. It looks so frumpy. Even the name is frumpy! 😂

[@soandiesews]

Ok I’m in. I wasn’t going to but you’ve managed to persuade me to give it a go. 🤣🤣🤣 at Ruan… being more in the ample chest department, I though this one was not for me and would make me look like a ‘milk maid’ but I’ve look daft plenty of times so what the hell… 😊😘😊

[@henriettejosephine]

Although I don‘t like these frilly peasant garments the challenge is great. I look forward to seeing the reveal. I think Ruan should choose the second fabric and Tamlyn the first one to break the milkmaid look.

[@karenrafferty8364]

Great idea ladies. I’m on the fence about this pattern too so this might change my mind lol Ruan option one of three and Tamlyn the black and white one. Can’t wait to see the results ladies

[@sweetpeagreen68]

Tamlyn - definitely the black and white - I think it would “dampen down” the milkmaid girlyness unlike the other choices, which would hopefully make it more you 🤔

[@melaniefrank7413]

Ruan, I vote for fabric #3 (the grayish one with red). The top to wear with black jeans.

[@lindajepson7230]

Ruan definitely the double gauze

[@pamelarivera5058]

Tamlyn the blouse will fit you well. Black & White or blue fabric

[@patternpouchnest9529]

Haya. I have made 6 Mabels so far 🪡I omitted the front seam as I prefer that look & because there is no need for elastic on the front bodice as the ties are not functionable, I opted to make them functionable by swapping the elastic out for the ties & it saves on elastic & you can change the amount of gathering that way as well. I am not sure about the peplum part on me, so I thought I would just add the shirring & not the peplum part when I make the top ✂Ruan & Tamlyn, you will both rock the top version 🙂Thanku 'sew' much for sharing 🧵

[@cindywinkler4172]

Ruanne your hair is stunning 😍

[@northernsewlsisters394]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@Whateverkatiesews]

Love this! I'm in the Tamlyn and Ruan camp. Love it on other people but not for me. Can't wait to see what you guys end up with! Xx

[@sweetpeagreen68]

Ruan I’d go with the couple of crepes - think that 2 fabrics would be a great variation.

[@missruthguest]

love this idea of challenges and cant wait to see your versions especially since you all have different styles. yayyyyyy

[@clarethompson1934]

Rachel, what a great challenge. Ruanne , love the double gauze. Tamlyn I love all of your choices. My favourite pick is the third, floral one x

[@barbfilion5646]

Awesome challenge,, Ruan, I think the mix of the 2 black prints, and Tamlyn, I love the black and white for you. Are you making another one Rachel?

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

Ooh, done in black or red with a black corset on top would be quite goth. Very Victorian undergarments vibe.

[@anessaharris9947]

🇨🇦😃 exciting

[@maureencapobianco3596]

I think Ruan should use the combo of the 2 fabrics. That would look amazing. Tamlyn should use the black & white fabric. I think it would look fabulous on you! 😊

[@minebeam4353]

Black and white

[@jackiegreen8412]

Great challenge! Ruan the Contrast/complimentary fabric and Tamlyn the Black & white, good luck to both of you! Will be anxious to see your makes!

[@Lorij83]

I love this challenge! I am anxious to see what you make.

[@janicecoulson5388]

My mum was called Mabel so it's a no brainer, although might end up as a house dress

[@sarahodonnell6957]

The Stitch n ink fabric would be divine, Tamlyn. ❤️💙💚

[@ChristineSewsALot]

Tamlyn I love the blue floral. They all would work. What held me back from the Mabel is afraid of bra showing.

[@jennetthamilton971]

Momm, ladies, I don't know what fabrics to pick because I'm still not a fan of the Mabel. I am very interested to see how this goes. It might just change my mind. Good luck!

[@SewMyTime]

What a great idea for a challenge. Ruan- Lady McElroy and Tamlyn the black and white would be my choices. Cannot wait to see end results as I too had written off the Mabel but am beginning to thaw!!

[@lstockil]

Tamlyn the B&W would look good and Ruan I reckon the double gauze would be gorgeous. All the best ladies 😊 Lisa 🇦🇺

[@karenlowes7802]

The blk/white for Tamlyn. The cotton gauze for Ruan. Good luck ladies. You're good sports!❤

[@InAgatasCottage]

Can't wait to see your makes ladies :)

[@sallydingle321]

Hi ladies, can't wait to see your versions 👌... I think the double gauze for Ruan 💗 and and the black and white heart fabric for you Tamlyn🖤🤍 🙏...but feel they would all be lovely 👍. I've not really warmed to this pattern myself but you all might just change my mind 😜🥰😘

[@lindajepson7230]

Tamlyn option number 3

[@annettecanonica5220]

Would love to see the b & w for Tamlyn. The double gauze will be interesting to see

[@helenhamilton9473]

I love the idea - its great fun to see what you will make! Maybe the black and white for Tamlyn and the 2 crepe fabrics for Ryan? Can't wait to see your makes and whether you have changed your minds about the pattern.

[@dianemontavon5670]

I'm loving the challenge. Like the Double Guaze for Ruan and for Tamlyn I'm torn between the tye/dye what looks like cotton candy and the flower print. Can't wait to see the reveal.

[@ElaineR66]

Love the challenge! I’m sure by now Ruan and Tamlyn will have decided on their fabrics but I like Ruan’s Lady McElroy choice and Tamlyn’s black viscose. Good luck girls. I hope you both end up loving your tops!

[@northernsewlsisters394]

Good guesses!

[@suethomas402]

Thank you for this challenge. I'm not a fan of the Mabel as I prefer more shirt style necklines. Ruan, I prefer option 3, then option 2. Tamlyn, same again. Option 3 first, then option 2 as second choice. I would feel really self conscious/uncomfortable in the Mabel! All the best for the challenge, interested to see how you feel in your new blouses.

[@emilymoss89]

I had totally written it off. Then I saw Hayley J and Sew Amelias and loved them. Bought the pattern. Now I think I better send it to the printer! Ruan - Hayley did it in double gauze and it was lush🎉 Tamyln I think fabric no 3 is gorgeous ❤

[@rebeccawalker5295]

Great idea! I think Ruan should go with the double gauze (of course 🤣) and Tamlyn with the black and white viscose. Look forward to seeing the makes 😊 xxx

[@amierikke6225]

Rachel, what a great idea! This is very engaging for the viewers!❤️ Ruan, I think your 3rd choice of fabrics, the 2 different flowered prints would be lovely and very cute in a Mabel. Tamlyn I think your 3rd option also. I think you’re going to be surprised how well you like it, whichever fabric you choose. I’ve got the pattern and I want to sew one up soon. I think a Mable party would be great! I can’t wait to see what you all come up with. Take care all!❤

[@clothedit]

Looking forward to seeing your Mabels 😃. You're going to look fabulous in them😍😍

[@mnoeliarc]

I think it’s a fab challenge and look forward to seeing how Ruan and Tamlyn interpret it. As for fabric choices, Tamlyn I’d go for the black one. I think it will give the girly design and extra edge plus you can have extra for something else. As for Ruan, I think the 2 fabrics that you suggested sound really interesting. 😊

[@lizsheridan5357]

Rachel just wait till they come up with one for you.......😃

[@sewsisteranna]

love this - cant wait to see the finished garments!!

[@lolawall3561]

Great idea to switch it up on the sewing challenge. I think Ruan should make her Mabel with the contrasting/complimenting fabrics and Tamlyn should make it with the black and white and cut it to a crop length (the curated curvy also does crop tops well). Thanks for continuing to challenge yourselves and thinking outside your sewing comfort zones. Can’t wait to see ‘em!

[@chlomo2618]

Ruan, if you find your shirring is a bit slack when you test it, try winding the bobbin with a good bit of tension. I know people always say don't pull the elastic when you're hand winding it into the bobbin, but pulling it just slightly tighter is what works best on my Juki.

[@janetyler1642]

What a great idea! I was thinking the same about the Mabel until I saw Rachel wearing hers and and decided to give it a go! I am making the blouse without the peplum as I didn’t think that style was for me. I am loving the style of the top so far. I chose a drapey rayon. I think Ruan should use the double gauze or the 2 floral fabrics, and Tamlyn should go with the blue floral fabric. Good luck 😃

[@anitawilliams4978]

Really like that you are challenging each other to come out of your comfort zone and encouraging us to do the same. I've just started making my first Mabel 😊

[@pennym2279]

So I blame you Rachel! I have decided to do the challenge too because my reaction to the Mabel was definitely that it was not for me. Pattern ordered and now just need to look in my stash for a suitable fabric for the top. I don’t think the dress is for me at all but you never know I might change my mind when I have made the top… At least I will learn a new skill having never done shirring before.

[@xxmadebymejuliexx]

Ruan …. 2nd fabric shrinks quite a lot,I made a Gilbert top and only wore it twice as shrank & yes I pre washed … be warned 🧡

[@SEWDOITEMMA]

Love the blue floral or black and white for Tamlyn and the double gauze for Ruan! Can’t wait to see what the results look like! Also I’m interested to see what pattern Ruan and Tamlyn pick for Rachel! Love Rachel’s version of the Mabel too, rocking it ❤

[@jacmary6580]

Animal print for Ruan and space print for Tamlyn lol and Rachel you should do a goth version, maybe with a corset for the waist 😊 great challenge can’t wait to see what your girls have in store for you 😅

[@silk_n_vintage_etc2643]

Love it how everyone has a different opinion, Ruan-the Lady McElroy, tamlyn the black and white, I’m on the fence if this pattern would suit me as I have a big waist compared to hip, and elastic waists accentuate my problem part, I’ve have got a similar one with Mccalls 8358 to try first.

[@deborahanderson420]

Great challenge. For Tamlyn option 2 the black and white. Ruan the first one, pink with white triangles. Looking forward to the outcomes.

[@marjoriek3739]

This will be so interesting! I think Tamlyn should go for the tie& dye and Ruan for the Lady McElroy :)

[@sewhanover7276]

Great idea Rachel. I'm a Mabel convert... initially it was a definite no but then the woven pattern choice for my Little Miss Sew n Sew Subscription Box was the Mabel so I gave it a go in the top version and I love it and am currently part way through a second version. Good luck ladies

[@louisecraftyguider]

I made Mabel tops for myself and my teen daughter and neither of us are busty. The peplum seems short for my mum tum and I’m 5’5”. I managed to get each one out of 1m of fabric - I found a bit of pattern Tetris worked as long as I could get both lengths of peplum out of the width. I’m definitely making the dress for me.

[@KarenHowatt]

I think you should challenge each other, make a series out of it 😍

[@janicecoulson5388]

I used to watch a vlog by 3 lasses, I believe they used to work for so over it. They were 3 very different body shapes and sewed the same pattern, was great to see how it worked on the 3 shapes. Sadly one moved away so they disbanded. Can't remember what they were called

[@northernsewlsisters394]

Yes I think it might have been the Pattern Pals? 🤔

[@SoSarahSewed]

What a fun challenge! I've been thinking about sewing up the Mabel but will probably wait until later in the year here if I do. Ruan - I love that Lady McElroy and Tamlyn my vote is with the bright, tie-dye-ish one. ☺

[@Shylala3]

The one that looks like a painting for ruhan and the black and white for tamlyn with plazzo pants with what’s left would make a cute co ord xx

[@silverluna8835]

Tamlyn, for you I would choose the black eyelets fabric and make a crop top version.

[@debsmadethis]

Love thus idea. Ruan I love you FG crepes snd Tamlyn the black and white. I didnt like how shirring felt on my skin when i tried it so thinking of trying narrow elastic channels instead. Look forward to seeing your makes!

[@SueTownson]

Hi all - I think Tamlyn should definitely choose the B&W - then there might be a chance of her wearing the blouse when made up. Ruann I think all the choices might work for you- perhaps you should envisage when you would probably wear it and what with.

[@peetkempenaar6611]

the black viscose

[@dstiffy1]

What Pattern are those shorts that are hanging behind you ?? I love them!!!

[@northernsewlsisters394]

Ooh do you mean Tamlyn’s? I think they may be the Foxey Boxeys 🤔

[@antheahiams6396]

Talking of the Stitch Sisters, does anyone know what's happened to them 🤔

[@northernsewlsisters394]

They’re back now 🥳

[@cathytarapacz]

I personally am 😮NOW liking the pattern because of all the versions i have seen , but if i was going from the front cover i would never of liked it

[@jennyturner6399]

What a brilliant idea, can’t wait to see what it looks like. 🌈🍓🧶💙