Playing With Scissors

Ever have a day when you just don't think you're competent enough to handle a pair of scissors?? Today is one of those days. My first project (after being starved for sewing the whole time I was in school) was Katherine Tilton's Vogue jacket pattern. Definitely a 'me' jacket. I like odd shapes, interesting structure, Asian influences.

And, I wanted to have fun with the facings since they would show through at the neckline. Lastly, I wanted to construct the facings the way I was taught in school this past semester -- no folding or serging the unfinished edge. Rather, sew the edges of your facing and interfacing together and turn to the inside for a beautiful finish.

Well, several things. The right side and the left side of the jacket are different pattern pieces, so that's your first clue you have to be careful. Second, they are so oddly shaped that twice (not once, mind you, but twice!) I finished off the edge that is sewn to the jacket, rather than the unfinished edge on the inside. Third, in school we were using non fusible interfacing, in fact silk organza. So, when I made either mistake I could have taken
it apart and started again. But, no-0-0.

So, my first facing was going to be this lovely shade of green.

.

My second was this beautiful turquise.

We are now on silver!

I think I may actually have done it right this time. (By the way, your iron will thank you if you remember that in order to do this technique, the fusible side of the interfacing is facing out when you sew it to the facing so that it will face in after you turn it!) I have sworn off fusible interfacing for the time being. I just ordered many yards of different interfacings from Fashion Sewing Supply -- none of them fusible:)

Pictures to follow if I ever finish though I'm beginning to think I shouldn't be allowed to play with scissors.

On a serious note, in this issue of Threads, there is a lovely article by Patricia Keay titled Slow Sewing. She talks about taking each project as an opportunity to strive for perfection, to learn a new skill, to add an unexpected detail -- to enjoy the process and not rush through for the result. I really enjoyed it and think you will too.