Amber's Mouse-tastic Laurel with Applique Collar Pattern

I'm a big fan of Colette's Laurel pattern. Simple to make and simple to wear, it has an easy, flattering silhouette. I've made a few Laurels, both the shirt and the dress version, and it is a perfect wardrobe staple. You can even whip one up in just a couple hours, so there's really no reason not to make a bunch!

Pattern: Laurel by Colette Sewing Patterns
Fabric: Lizzy House Catnap fabric, 1 7/8 yds + 2 yards of bias tape
Size and style made: Version 4, size 2 at bust & size 4 at waist
Alterations: appliqued collar (downloadable pattern below) & buttons

The Laurel is easy to embellish--I decided to amp up the cuteness of this mouse print from Lizzy House by adding a contrasting appliqued collar to mine, and three peach flower buttons. I was inspired by my dear friend Sara's adorable collared Laurels.

If you want to embellish your own Laurel with this cute collar, just click below for a PDF with easy collar instructions and pattern.

Click here to download the collar pattern

What could be more perfect than a springtime bike ride in my mice-on-bikes Laurel? 

Better Know Two Crafters: Laurel-Along-ing with Becky and Sara!

Two of our favorite ladies have been spending a lot of time in our sewing studio lately during Open Sew Nights! They've been on a Laurel-making adventure, whipping up cute Laurel dresses and tops left and right. You may know these presh ladies from around town--Becky is one of the Fancy Tiger Clothing folks, and the woman behind Becky's Buttons & Things. Sara is one of our favorite local artists (although Denver stole her away from her homeland of Canada). In addition to their love of making Laurels, Becky and Sara also join forces making miniature illustrated worlds with their collaborative Diorama Lockets.

Becky Wareing Steele & Sara Guindon

Tell us about your crafty selves.
Becky: I am a compulsive crafter. I try to create something every day whether it be something for myself, a gift, or for my business (insert shameless promotion here...) I love to crochet, sew and mainly work with miniatures.

Sara: I'm an illustrator and I like to draw and paint people. I'm new to sewing, but I used to do a lot of felt applique, and I have some English paper peicing for on the go.

Tell us about the Laurels you've made.
Becky: This was my first time sewing with a pattern. Sara encouraged me to try the Laurel pattern from Colette and now I'm addicted.

Sara: I made three Laurel dresses. It was fun adding extra details like contrasting bias tape and applique collars.

How did each of you learn to sew? 
Becky: I came from a long line of crafters. My grandfather taught arts and crafts at a prison in Philidelphia and, even though we never met, he's been a huge inspiration of mine. 

Sara: A long time ago I used to hand sew applique bags. Then I started making small alterations on my home sewing machine. Now I want to learn how to follow patterns--I'm addicted to Colette Sewing Patterns.

What is your favorite animal?
Becky: I love all animals, but I live with two cats.

Sara: My boring answer is dogs. Visually I like giraffes because they have big eyes and long eyelashes. 

Thanks Becky and Sara! Happy crafting!

Amber's Roxanne Top in Nani Iro Birds Eye

--amber

I've been dreaming of making the Roxanne by Victory sewing patterns, and when the new Nani Iro arrived it was on!

The Roxanne comes with two versions, a collared sleeveless top and a flowy sleeved version with a skinny neck tie. For me the triple pleated collar was irresistible, but since I wanted sleeves for fall I decided to combine the two versions.

Cute collar town!

The instructions for this pattern were so well-written by Kristiann of Victory Sewing Patterns. I love that she walks you through the basic measurements for your garment and explains how to alter your pieces if needed. 

I finished my Roxanne by adding a tie at the back waist. This gives a little more shape to the voluminous pleated shirttail. I love it! The double gauze Nani Iro fabric is soft and cozy and my new top is so comfortable and easy to wear!

I can't wait to take on more of Kristiann's patterns!

New Anise + Juniper Colette Patterns are Here!

Two new patterns are here from Colette!

Perfect for your fall/winter handmade wardrobe, the Anise pattern is a classic and ladylike double-breasted jacket with a cozy collar.

We think these wools would suit this pattern perfectly!

The Juniper pants have a wide leg and tailored hip--a classic fit for classy ladies!

We think the Essex cotton/linens, the hemp ticking or hemp denims would be lovely for Juniper.

Happy sewing!