Seamwork Astoria Sweater

Here is my #wardrobebuilder project for January; the Seamwork Astoria. I decided to try to make a sweater that edged more towards formal than full on slouch fest. The Astoria is shorter than most patterns which I think adds to the more formal look, and I've made it in a silky jersey that works well for evening wear. The plan was to make something that I can wear out in the winter, and now that I've made it I'm looking forward to next December as I think it's quite festive!

Favourite tips for sewing knit fabrics for beginners

Hello everyone. I'm right in the middle of my January #wardrobebuilder project...all cut out and getting ready to sew this weekend. I've seen some speedy seamstresses are already adding their makes to the link up, but thought I'd share something for anyone yet to start their first knit project. I've met a few people who are put off by working with knit fabrics as they aren't sure what to do with them or think you have to have an overlocker - the same was true for me. However, help is on hand on the internet. Here is what I have found really useful as a beginner.

Sew Essential have recently posted this handy video on attaching a neckband to a jersey top...this took me ages first time around!

Summer bodies are made in the winter

That's what Gemma at work likes to say.  And she does have a point. Every single year I say to myself that I won't overdo it over the holidays, and every year I give in to temptation and thoroughly enjoy all the foodie treats over Christmas and New Year. What with it being cold and wearing jumpers all the time a little extra 'insulation' is easier to overlook. Which means that from January 2nd, some major restorative work is usually needed to get myself back on track, feeling fit and like myself again.

the #wardrobebuilder project - Jumpers and Sweaters

So, here is the first wardrobe essential for the 2017 handmade wardrobe- Jumpers and Sweaters. What else could we all be looking to make in the middle of winter, after all those mince pies? I know I definitely feel like having something warm and comfortable to wear and snuggle up in. I am torn a bit between the 'smart' option  (the one where you can go out to lunch with friends and still feel stylish) and the full on comfort option (if I had a log fire this is what I would wear sitting in front of it as I cradle a hot chocolate).

This month's Link Up is at the bottom...share your makes, inspiration and ideas with us. Or add them to the group Pinterest board; the #wardrobebuilder project.

The Wardrobe Builder Project

Time to get involved....

One thing I love about sewing is the amazing social networks. Seamstresses are great at sharing and celebrating their own and other's makes. Since I started sewing I've also come across a lot of sewing challenges and tags that are fun to get involved in. I want to take part in them all, and I've linked up to a few so far (always featured in sidebar links if there's an image). Up until now I've been dipping my toe in the water, trying to develop my novice skills and see what's out there. I've made some things that I've worn again and again, along with others that I haven't worn (or finished!) at all. Now, for 2017 I'm trying to achieve something a little different, and gain a little more balance, hence the #wardrobebuilder project.

One garment a month, over the course of one year, building up a handmade collection of wardrobe essentials.