Wrap Dress Solution, Project Dress a Girl and What's Next?

This week I'm sharing the typical Friday Sews content - what I've made, what's next and a little bit about life! Come join me 😊
VIDEOS MENTIONED:
Seamwork Reggie Pattern Review - • Are Wrap Dresses REALL...
CHANNELS MENTIONED:
‪@TodayinJensSewingRoom‬
‪@MariSews‬
PATTERNS MENTIONED:
Reggie Wrap Dress - Seamwork - www.seamwork.c...
Popover Sundress - Olive & S - oliverands.com...
Elodie Wrap Dress - Closet Core - closetcorepatt...
WAIWT (what am I wearing today?):
Bellbird Top - The Sewing Revival - thesewingreviv...
My current measurements for reference:
B: 48.5”
W: 43”
H: 50”
Height: 5’1”
Sewing Machine: Brother CS5055PRW amzn.to/3D41NLf (affiliate link)
Serger: Husqvarna Viking Amber Air S400 & Janome MOD-8933
This video contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, I'll receive a commission. I only promote those products that I have investigated and truly feel deliver value to you.
Amazon Favorites (affiliate link): amzn.to/3BhH4CT
Follow me on Instagram! This is my NEW un-hacked account! / therealmichellesewsagain
Follow me on Pinterest! / _saved
Take a peek at my stashes in Trello -
PATTERNS: trello.com/b/S...
FABRIC: trello.com/b/N...
DYE: trello.com/b/F...
Reach out to me via email: [e-mail]

[@stillstitchin]

I never really believed in one pattern flattering everyone, but I may have, inadvertently, tested the theory. I work in a community theatre and I directed a play with a man playing a woman. He is an adorable, large, round man and we were looking for a dress to fit him. My stage manager brought in her 2X wrap dress. When he tried it on, we were shocked by the hour-glass illusion. All the women laughed that we had heard wrap dresses flattered EVERY figure and it seemed to be true. 😅🤣😂 Just had to add that to the discussion because I think about it, every time you mention it. -Deborah

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

That's a great story Deborah! Thanks so much for sharing it 🤣

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

I quite honestly could not believe how quick you got that Popover dress done. I grabbed the pattern and printed it straightaway. And that day was so fun! You know how much I love that room, the shutters and the cork boards are perfect for those windows. So you - minimal, bright pop of color, fabulous. At least we got a photo at dinner the other night! 😂 Glad you finally got the Reggie wrangled and under control, contentious dress! That sure was an easy fix. If only they all were! xoxoxoxox

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

That Popover dress comes together SO quickly! It will continue to be my "go to" for this project every year!! I'm so glad we got the photo at dinner! And thanks again for helping me with the Reggie dress! xo

[@antoniaburlingame5921]

Hi Michelle. I love your covered cork boards. You're right, that fabric is an amazing coord to your beautiful wall floral explosion of color. I have arthritis in my index finger (site of a previous break). It flares up when I do too much. Although one of my instincts was to immobilize it, apparently that can make it worse. So the drill is to move it as much as possible without flaring it up. I have tried it both ways and concluded that for me it is indeed better to keep moving as much as possible and then dial back the movement as soon as it just begins to hurt. Another mindfulness exercise -- difficult to find that sweet spot, and guaranteed to be more or less than is required at times. On my home sewing front, I discovered this morning that apparently I need to drop everything and figure out if I can make something that will help our cats feel safe enough to get them in the carriers without lots of drama and fear. Maybe something with velcro closures? I have to research it. My husband and I spent a chunk of our morning trying to get our previously feral cats into carriers for their vet check-ups and shots. We got Misty and wrapped her in a thick terry towel, but it wasn't tight enough and she got her claws out to connect with our arms and jumped out like a springbok as we were getting close to the carrier. Same story with Sunny. We are now covered in bloody scratches and both kitties are hiding safely in the hardest-to-get-to safe spots (behind the heavy couch in the corner and in the way back under the big heavy bed). All four of us are traumatized. We had to cancel the vet appointments. I can't imagine Hercules doing any such antics (besides being able to just clip a leash to his collar and having him be happy to go for a walk (until he smells the vet office). Your Dress A Girl dress is adorable, Antonia

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks for sharing your experience dealing with arthritis pain! Sorry you had such a rough morning with the kitties 😞 We have a car seat for Hercules that he rides in so I don’t have a need for a crate. He actually doesn’t mind the vet. He’s a good boy when we go. 🤷‍♀️. I hope your kitties calm down soon!!

[@dotschischloh9767]

Hi Michelle. Happy belated birthday. 🎂My arthritis is in my ankle. I use Voltarin occasionally it does help. Tylenol Arthritis is great. Also look up nightshade vegetables and see what you think. I can tell when I have eaten a lot of them. I use compression gloves when my hands feel achy. It does help. And get a new machine with the needle up on the pedal. So cool. ❤🧵

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks Dotschi! I'll do some research on nightshade veggies - thanks for the tip! A needle up/down button or on the pedal is beginning to look like a necessity!

[@karenschreckengast5908]

I love the dress a girl you made I need to get busy. I have been busy making a Annie Bag and I have done some embroidery. I also took Whitney's class great class. She shows you all fitting issues. Love the fabric you received Happy Birthday. I know what you mean hot I am in Beaufort S.C. take care love your personality and channel.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much - I love hearing about all of you that took Whitney's class and loved it! Stay cool 🪭😎

[@dianemontavon5670]

You will love the class. I love Whitney and she is a great teacher. I took it and it has helped me.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

I keep hearing great things - thanks so much for sharing! I'm getting more and more excited 😆

[@cindy7702]

Good morning Michelle Love your little girl dress.. you are so kind to do that.. The fabric Jen gave you would make a nice dress for the wedding.. Enjoy the company of your sister -in - law this weekend..Good to see Hercules.. You did need you shoe.. he knew Good weather here .. its cooling off yay

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Yay for cooler weather!! I’m still waiting 😂

[@cindy7702]

@@MichelleSewsAgain I'm waiting for snow

[@maryellenoneill9061]

Hi Michelle. So nice to Hercules make a guest appearance…haven’t seen him in awhile. Have fun using up your smaller bits of fabric for the dress a girl dresses, it looks like a fun goal, some of the Jen ribbons may look good on your dresses!?!? I’ve used voltaran a bit but forget to use it regularly. I find the arthritis Tylenol X 2 works to knock back the pain when it flares up…I have it in both my thumbs. 😣. Luckily, it’s not constant. Good luck with your treatment. I took a shirt class with Whitney, in person! It was great. I think you’ll enjoy it and I can’t wait to see the finished products… I’ve been tempted to take it as well. Take care.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

I was thinking the same thing about Jen's ribbons!! I've put alarms on my phone to remind me to use the Voltaren - so far that seems to be working. Oh how fun that you got to take a class with Whitney in person! I bet it was amazing! Have a great weekend MaryEllen!

[@jmanonmakes]

There's so much I want to say about your video but I'll try to restrain myself! The Dress a Girl dress is so fun and pretty! I love it. I can't wait to see the other one. Your wall mural is amazing. Holy cow, that's gorgeous. I haven't really been watching too many videos or sewing at all the last year so I've missed a lot but I notice that you've changed your hair. It looks really good on you! I've finished one Dress a Girl dress so far and I've got another one on the cutting table. I think I'm going to make that one reversible. Have a great time with your sister-in-law. Thanks for a great video!

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

The dress a girl dresses are so fun to make - I love figuring out which fabrics I'm going to combine! I LOVE my wall mural - it makes me so happy every time I walk in my sewing room 😀 There are a LOT of sewing videos on YT - it's difficult to keep up haha! I am also going to make my next one reversible to join in that challenge. Thanks so much for choosing my video to get caught up on!!!

[@craftymystic4868]

Recommend Whitney’s class for sure. Took it in the spring, and just hadn’t even heard of some of the specific adjustments turned out I needed. It was good.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

That’s great to hear! Thanks for sharing 😀

[@KnittyT]

Whitney’s class is amazing! I took the first class in March. I learn about alterations I wasn’t aware of. She answers lots of questions and the community is very helpful. I made a binder of all the print outs. I’m participating in Project Dress A Girl and I’m starting with pattern M5797.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks for the feedback on the class- I'm really enjoying it so far! And YAY - so happy to hear you are participating in PDAG!!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@MegInASheathDress]

You have an amazing sewing room. How do you get your fabrics folded so perfectly? They fit in those cubbies like that shelf was made for them. 🙂🥰 I love how it's all by color. Your stash made me think of using a folding board or some cardboard to fold fabrics. I need mine in a better pile. 😆 Your new flowery fabric is beautiful.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

I don't use a board or anything for folding my fabric. I think I've just been fitting it in the cubes for so long that I know how wide to fold 🤣. A lot of people do use boards though - it could be helpful!

[@dsego1183]

That pocket looks like the pocket from the Thoughtful Creativity dress.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

That could be where I got it from! I’ve been using it since last year 😀

[@MariSews]

We sure did miss taking pics! Your home is beautiful

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Just goes to show how much fun we were having!! 💕. Thank you - I'm so glad you came!!

[@pmclaughlin4111]

I first picked up a compression glove for sewing when I was in my late teens/early twenties. I was haven't problems but it seemed like one of those gimmicky things that made sense. I don't use it regularly but I have found over the years that if I am doing anything fine motor intensive (handwork, crocheting, even calligraphy) it seems to forestall cramping. Could be a placebo effect ...Might also explain why I like to knit fingerless gloves as Christmas presents. Can't wait to find out about Elodie dress. I keep looking at it.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Placebo is ok with me LOL - if I don't feel pain (or as much) I don't really care if it's real or not!! Hopefully it will work as well for me😊.

[@ZeldaSews]

I was thinking about signing up for Whitney's class, but I said I'm going to wait and maybe do it the next go around.😅

[@AndraMakes]

Adorable PDAG dress, Michelle! It’s so you! Fab idea to cover the cork with the curtain fabric! I love that you, Jen, and Mari were able to spend time together! The flower pincushion from Jen is so cute! Have fun with your SiL this weekend! 💗

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much Andra! 💕

[@nanettemoshier2132]

I take turmeric for my aches and it seems to help.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks for the suggestion! I'll look into it 😊

[@cjhines726]

Very cute PDAG! I use that pattern too and it takes no time to put together❤ If I forgot, Happy Birthday!🎉❤

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much!! 💕

[@michellem3899]

Oh my. I have that same pain in my thumbs! It really stinks when I want to knit. Your cork boards are going to be so great.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Oh I haven't knit since it's started bothering me - ugh, didn't even think about that! I'm going to get the cork boards up next week - can't wait to see how it looks! 😊

[@dbdesignsandsewingaustrali5668]

The dress a girl dress is gorgeous, I love the fabric you received as a gift it’s beautiful,so you, have a great weekend, Deb 🪡🧵💕

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much Deb! I'm excited to figure out what pattern to use for that beautiful fabric!! Enjoy your weekend!!

[@ZeldaSews]

I have the same arthrittic pain in my thumb joint. I forgot the name of it, but I wear a brace for it and it helps tremendously. If you see me in some of my videos, I do where that brace. The compression glove is helpful, but you want the one that will mobilize that joint in your hand. Just my 2 cents😊

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks Zelda! I’m going to have both.

[@Arleathia]

Hello, that’s an awesome dress.. for project dress a girl…!

[@Arleathia]

Yes Michelle, I am definitely going to participate in project dress a girl!😊. Wonderful vid, Tx for sharing!😊

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thank you 🤗

[@robynlaszlo6128]

Great video so much to say love the girls dresses can't wait for them all Whitney is amazing have an amazing weekend

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thank you so much Robyn! I'm really looking forward to making the little girl dresses - it's a fun design to mix and match prints on! I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

[@isabelhernandez3601]

Hi Michelle, Related to wrap dresses, maybe you can look for one that doesn't split the body in two. Im also looking for the correct one an I am thinking of one of that type. I am busty and 5’3”. Not know if it makes sense to you. I took the Whitney course and it's fantastic. I learned a lot. You will enjoy!

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks for the feedback on Whitney’s class! Lots of positive so far!

[@cynthialindsley5117]

You will enjoy Whitney's class. I learned so much and Whitney makes herself assessable to ask questions. The lives were great resources to hear everyones issues- plus or minus. I only was disappointed in myself that I was out of town when it started and felt disconnected when I finally began the class. Whitney is a wonderful teacher! Love seeing your little boys antics LOL!

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much for the feedback! I’ll be sure to stay up to date with her video drops 😀

[@ChristineSewsALot]

Can’t wait to hear about the course!

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

I'm so excited about it Christine!

[@marybethpazdernik9672]

My gp recommended the same topical ointment for arthritis. Never heard that the most common first location of arthritis is the base of the thumb. I can never manage the common things, so mine is in my back and SI area. I can sit and lay down easily and a short rest is ok if my back or legs bother me when I'm up and about. I do watch my posture while sewing and take more frequent breaks to move around.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Oh wow - I can't imagine having it in my back. I got it in my knees first - so I didn't join the norm either LOL!

[@stephparkes100]

Hi Michelle, just popping on here to let you know about something that might help with your arthritis pain. It is a supplement called Triphala. My husband has been taking 2 capsules morning and night for the last month or so and the arthritic pain in his hip has almost totally disappeared. It helps with all sorts of othere conditions as well. If you decide to give it a try, make sure you use organic capsules.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much! I'll do a little research about it. I appreciate the suggestion!!

[@ZeldaSews]

Try the brace because it does actually help. I do take Voltaren as well and it does alleviate some pain, but not all.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks for letting me know! 😀

[@ZeldaSews]

@@MichelleSewsAgain You are very welcome!

[@dizzyquiltsandsews]

I went through Whitney’s fitting class in the Spring and I really liked it. She gave us so many resources to use after the class too and I loved that she had a bunch of different people “model” for her so you could see the adjustments on different bodies. I wasn’t able to complete all the projects from the class because of everything else I had going on, but I plan on going back in and completing everything at some point this fall/winter. Have a good weekend! 💞

[@sibyllolson3237]

Dizzy, I took Whitney’s Spring class also and loved it. I’m still struggling with pant fitting but I did end up with a couple wearable pairs. I love having all the tutorials right at my fingertips when needed.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks Izzy! I’m excited to get started 😀

[@sharonhost2469]

I just found your channel and I'm so happy I did! I really related to having T-rex arms and big boobs, LOL! I am built the same way and I also do not think wrap dresses are flattering on me. However, I had a family wedding in June and I made a Cashmerette Upton dress and I LOVE IT. It was actually flattering and cool and swishy, perfect for a summer wedding. Also, I took Whitney's fitting class last year and it was wonderful. I think you'll love it.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks so much for the feedback on the Upton! I keep passing that one by because of the waistline being so high. Maybe I should give it a try - we'll see. I appreciate your comment on Whitney's class! I have heard nothing but good things so I'm really excited about it!!

[@kaywilliams3435]

Another great video Michelle. Thank you! I want to get started on project dress a girl because I am going on holiday in the middle of September until the 26th. I need some labels though, before I start. I’m in the UK, do you know where I can get some from?❤

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Yes! You can order them from Mari. I confirmed with her that she ships to the UK. Here’s the link 😀 inspiredleatherco.com/products/project-dress-a-girl-labels

[@roi-lynnmunsey8317]

I am going to do project dress a girl. I have one similar to the pattern you are using but the directions are not the best and they tell you to do some odd things. I got the link to the one you used in case it does not work out the way I want. I am doing two styles from Violet Fields patterns this year. One is a tiered dress. I hope to do a third that is reversible for the reversible challenge. I love yours and hope mine end up as cute. I am trying some things for the pockets.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Good luck with your dresses! I hope you are able to figure it out 😀

[@lavadajenkins2955]

I love the fabric Jen gave you, it'll make a beautiful dress. I am going to participate in Project dress a girl again this year. I love Whitney's channel. I won't be purchasing the fitting class, though. Have a great weekend!

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Oh I'm so glad you're going to participate in PDAG! You'll enjoy it 😊. Have a fab weekend cuz!

[@carmensalome]

Donnie dress looks great on you. I started DAG dresses and pop over dress is my go to pattern. Voltarin never worked for me 😒 The gifts from Jen are great. She is "sew" thoughtful. ❤

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks dear lady 💕. I love how comfy my Donny dress is! So far the Voltaren isn't making a huge difference but it's only been a couple of days. I'm wondering if there is a "consistency" benefit? We'll see. Jen is definitely "sew" thoughtful 😊💕

[@raspeight22]

I have a tip……just give it a try……I had the same pain as you in my thumbs….same place! I read that it is actually low estrogen that causes it. Try eating flax seed and pumpkin seeds and see it that helps….I have no more pain!! 😊

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

It certainly can’t hurt! I’ll give it a try..thanks!

[@dsego1183]

Just a suggestion Michelle Try doing an experiment: If you eat tomatoes or, anything with tomatoes I.e salsa, spaghetti sauce etc. try not eating them for three days, then eat something with tomatoes, then see how you feel the next day. Was you arthritis not as noticeable those three days? Was your arthritis extremity noticeable the morning after you ate the tomato’s If so, you’ll know what triggers it the most and you can start looking for a substitute. 🤷🏻‍♀️just a suggestion 😊

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thanks for the suggestion! I'll definitely give it a try!!

[@ErinSews]

I’m the same as you with candles. The one type that I really can’t do is the super sweet bakery scents. Light and clean are my favorite. The fabric Jen gave you is beautiful! So fun and perfect for you 🤗

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

I'm not a fan of fruit or food scented candles either - I'd rather those smells come from real food LOL!

[@DianeBianchi_MnWx]

I've been following Whitney within a few months after she started her channel. She by far and away has the most impeccable taste and sewing skills. I wish I could take a class by her, but I've learned a lot just by watching her on you tube. Can I make a suggestion? Can you lower your camera? I would like to see more of what you are wearing when you are chatting with us. When you stood up near the end of your video, I was wowed by what you were wearing, it was so pretty, and wished I could have seen more of it during your video. Arthritis...getting old is not for wimps!

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Whitney is great - I have also learned so much from watching her and am really looking forward to the course! Thanks so much for the suggestion - I'll keep it in mind!! And thank you for your kind words 😍

[@Lady9tails]

Great video! As someone that also has TRex arms and big boobs I never thought to just pre tie the wrap dress and pull it on. That's perfect. 💜💜💜

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Brilliant, right? I love this smart group!!!

[@maryllisan]

Does the popover sundress patter includes a seam allowance or do I have to add the seam allowance?

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

So sorry for the delayed response! There is a half inch seam allowance included in the pattern.

[@annewhitney8809]

Some arthritis creams are toxic to pets.If they are on your hands and you touch them it can cause problems.Hope you get some relief.Pain is a terrible boss.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Thank you so much for that info! I went and researched it. I have to leave the cream to absorb fully for an hour then I can wash my hands. I’ll just have to keep him away until then. I appreciate your knowledge!!

[@annewhitney8809]

I’m a certified dog geek. Lol. You could always put on cotton gloves and use a timer to remind you when the hour is up. I know I would forget . I had pain in my hands and realized it was from texting. Stopped and the pain went away. I have arthritis in my knees and got some exercises to do. Amazing how much relief I got from strengthening my leg muscles. You will find relief….