A Little Bit of Info...

As mentioned, it's been a super acquisitive time in the K-Line household. Never mind paying off vacation and back-to-school expenses - I'm talking about the 4 new patterns, new Panache lingerie set, 4 new books, new bra-making supplies (over and above the Bra Components ones) and the freakin' Babylock Imagine serger (previously mentioned)!

Somehow my subconscious thought this top-of-the-line piece of machinery would actually know how to sew my preferred garments by osmosis. Alas, I'm on a whole new learning curve. Thank goodness I like learning. And curves.

I can't talk about everything in this post. My mind is going in so many circles I have whiplash. I'm also insanely busy at work. So I'm still on blog break... But somehow I am compelled to write, just a little.

One of the patterns I bought is this one:


The reason? I'm about to embark upon this sew along, hosted by Gertie:


(I know, am I high on drugs?! Like I don't have enough to do and learn without adding tailoring to the equation - and an advanced pattern?)

Look, I figure when 100 plus people are making the same thing, the wavelength is strong, my friends. I'm counting on success because there will be so much information flowing, it would be stupid not to get on the tailoring bandwagon via this experience.

Of course, there will be more on this as the details emerge...

But really I want to tell you about a few new sewing books that are BLOWING my mind:

Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket

This one is going to save my ass, not only in making the coat, but when I make this (another of the new patterns I've bought):

Vogue 8333, Petite Jacket, Claire Shaeffer

Then, continuing on the Claire Shaeffer riff, there's:

Claire Shaeffer's Fabric Sewing Guide

Ounce for ounce, this might be the most useful sewing book I've ever seen, because it explains absolutely everything about every fabric you could ever want to sew with. Don't know what it is on the bolt? Her burn test diagnostics will distinguish between microfibres - that's how detailed this thing is. Want to know how to take care of your garment? No worries. How about best way to sew and treat the fabric? She's got it covered.

My (rather inebriated) husband was SO fascinated by it that we read passages for 3 hours last night. And he doesn't even care about sewing. In his words: this is the book to get you through the next apocalypse.

And finally:

Claire Shaeffer, Couture Sewing Techniques

I know, yet another Shaeffer book. But the woman is amazing! This one is a fun peek in on the beautiful couture techniques developed and utilized by such designers as Dior and Balenciaga. You know, it's a little light reading :-)

Anyone read these? Are you doing the Gertie sew along? Anyone doing the Gertie sew along in Toronto, by any chance?? Thoughts and feelings about any of this? Do share, please.