Pattern Testers Wanted -- Ladies Yoga Pants -- CLOSED

this testing is now CLOSED ... thank you so much ladies !!!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Ladies Yoga Pants" (#13012) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by May 31th!!

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Description: Slim trough the waist and thighs and then flares out below the knee.  Features a fold-over a simple straight yoga waistband.  Wear the yoga waistand up for more coverage and support (high rise), or folded down for a low-rise look.  Pattern includes short length, capri length and full length (petite, regular or tall) options.  These are not *just* for yoga ... you can wear these ANYWHERE !!!  (This is a pattern for *knit* fabrics, not wovens.)

Here's how it works (please do this all in ONE comment!!)

~ You leave your email in a comment and what size you would like to test.

~ In the SAME comment, please link to a picture (on a blog or on fb) where I can see samples or your sewing/photography. MUST be pictures of aduts, not children.  Photography plays a BIG part on who tests for me.

I need testers for the following sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

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Already claimed: NONE

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

**I reserve the right to choose whomever I wish to test.  It will not be based on a first-come first-serve basis.  If you've tested before and did not return the results you are NOT eligible.... and you must have purchased pattern from Jocole before (yes I do check).

Yoga Waistband Modification

Do you have any of my knit pants patterns: Basic Knit Leggings, Ruffle Leggings or Everyday Ruffle Pants??  How about the Essential Pants, the Mega Ruffle Pants, the Flounce Ruffle Pants or even the Skinny Minnie Pants ??  They all feature an elastic waist ... have you ever wished you could do a yoga waist instead?!

pssst ... the instructions for adding the Extreme Ruffles (shown above) to the leggings patterns can be found HERE.

Well ... you ladies have twisted me arm ... but instead of creating and selling new patterns I've decided to write up a quick tutorial on modifying the existing patterns ... and passing along the savings to you !!  You're welcome.

For the Everyday Ruffle Pants or the Leggings::  Draw a new line (shown in RED) 1" below the original cutting line for whatever size you are planning on sewing.

For the Essential Pants, Mega Ruffle Pants, Flounce Ruffle Pants or Skinny Minnie Pants::  Draw a new line (shown in RED) 1 1/2" below the original cutting line for whatever size you are planning on sewing.

Cut a strip that is 4 1/2" wide for a regular knit yoga waistband ... or 8 1/2" for a knit fold-over yoga waistband ... and then cut the length of the yoga band use the cutting measurements included in the patterns for the elastic.

Skip the instructions for applying the elastic waist ... and instead follow THESE instructions ...

(above) FOLD the yoga waistband in half lengthwise.  Align the short sides, RIGHT sides together.  STITCH waistband into a loop using a 3/8" seam allowance.

 (above)  FOLD yoga waistband in half, aligning the raw edges, WRONG sides together.

 (above)  MARK yoga waistband and the waist of your Leggings or Everyday Ruffle Pants into quarters.

With the pants RIGHT side out, slip the pants inside the yoga waistband, RIGHT sides together, aligning the top edges and matching quarter marks and pin into place.

(above) STITCH yoga waistband into place along the waist of the pants using a 3/8" seam allowance.  You'll need to stretch the waistband so it matches the length of the waist opening, but don't over stretch !!  Backstitch to reinforce seam.  Start stitching at center back seam of the waistband.  A serger's overlock stitch or a zigzag stitch is recommended for optimal stretchiness. 

Done and Done ... super easy ... and SUPER comfy ...

Boatneck Tee -- Mix&Match Modification

Boatneck Tees are all the rage, do you want to sew one?

Here is a quick tutorial on how to adjust the Mix&Match Basic Empire Bodice so you can make one.

Left: Basic Empire Bodice (adjusted following the tutorial), Classic Sleeve (long), and Radiant A-Lone Bottom (tunic length) for a looser fit

Right: Basic Empire Bodice (adjusted following the tutorial), Classic Sleeve (3/4 length), Basic Tee Bottom for a more classic tee fit.

The pictures were drawn with the ladies size pattern pieces .... but you can definitely use it for the girls sizing options as well.

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Basic Empire Bodice pdf sewing pattern

Radiant A-Line Bottom or Basic Tee Bottom pdf sewing pattern

Classic Sleeves pdf sewing pattern

pencil or pen

scissors

paper and tape

[BELOW]  To start, you'll need the BACK pattern pieces from the Basic Empire Bodice pdf sewing pattern [shown with blue lines] available in the Mix & Match Series.

Draw a line starting at the middle of the shoulder seam and gently curve it to the middle of the center back neckline (where it meets the center back vertical line).

NOTE: you will use this new modified back pattern piece for both the front AND the back when you sew up your Boatneck Tee.

D-O-N-E .... now you can pair your new modified back piece from your Basic Empire Bodice with any of the pieces from the Mix&Match series from Jocole.

I would recommend doing the Turned & Stitched method around your new boat neckline.  You can find those instructions HERE.

Crossover Tunic -- sleeve modification

Have you seen the Crossover Tunic or Dress in my shop and thought about it but decided not to purchase it after all since cap-sleeves aren't your thing?  You are NOT alone.  I've decided to write up a quick tutorial on how you can alter the pattern to adjust for set-in sleeves.  You can then use ANY of the sleeve options that are available in the Mix&Match Series at Jocole.com

Pssst  I've written this out for the Ladies sizing ... but you can definitely use it for the girls sizing options as well.  This can also be used on the Easy Cap-Sleeve Tee pattern.

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Crossover Tunic or Dress pdf sewing pattern

Basic Empire Bodice pdf sewing pattern

Classic Sleeves pdf sewing pattern

pencil or pen

scissors

paper and tape

[Below]  To start out, you'll need the Front and Back pattern pieces for the bodice from the Crossover Tunic and Dress Pattern [top with black lines] and the Front and Back pattern pieces for the bodice from the Basic Empire Bodice [bottom with blue lines] (available in the Mix&Match Series).

[Below]  Lay the Basic Empire Bodice pattern pieces on TOP of the Crossover Tunic pattern pieces.  Align the center front/center back, the empire lines and the side seam at the bottom.  NOTE:  The side seam at the armpit on Basic Empire Bodice will be LESS than the side seam at the armpit on the Crossover Tunic.  The shoulder seam on the Basic Empire Bodice will be HIGHER than the shoulder seam on the Crossover Tunic.

[Below]  The RED lines show the NEW lines you'll trace onto your Crossover Tunic pattern using the Basic Empire Bodice as your guide.

 NOTE:  The side seam at the armpit on Basic Empire Bodice will be LESS than the side seam at the armpit on the Crossover Tunic.  The shoulder seam on the Basic Empire Bodice will be HIGHER than the shoulder seam on the Crossover Tunic -- if you already cut out your Crossover patter you might need to tape some paper along the shoulder seams to draw the NEW lines.

D-O-N-E ... now you can pair your Crossover Tunic or Dress pattern with ANY of the sleeve options available in the Mix&Match Series.

[Below]  Drawing of the Crossover Tunic with 3/4 Sleeves [left] and the Crossover Dress with Long Sleeves [right].  I HIGHLY recommend using the Classic Sleeve option.  It includes SIX different lengths: cap, short, elbow, 3/4, wrist and long sleeves.

Pattern Testers Wanted -- Ladies Basic Knit Leggings -- CLOSED

This Testing is now CLOSED ... THANK YOU !!!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Ladies Basic Knit Leggings" (#13002) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by March 31th!!

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Description: Snug-fitting with an easy-on elastic waist, or optional yoga waistband. Optional ruffles along the bottom hem.  This must-have basic design will become a staple in your wardrobe. Perfect layering piece for fall and winter under dresses, tunics and skirts.   THREE length options: pattern includes full length, capri length and short length options.  (This is a pattern for *knit* fabrics, not wovens.)

Here's how it works (please do this all in ONE comment!!)

~ You leave your email in a comment and what size you would like to test.

~ In the SAME comment, please link to a picture (on a blog or on fb) where I can see samples or your sewing/photography. MUST be pictures of adutts, not just children.  Photography plays a BIG part on who tests for me.

I need testers for the following sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

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Already claimed: NONE

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

**I reserve the right to choose whomever I wish to test.  It will not be based on a first-come first-serve basis.  If you've tested before and did not return the results you are NOT eligible.... and you must have purchased pattern from Jocole before (yes I do check).

Little Miss Derby Jacket -- modified & lengthened

Here are complete instructions on modifying the pattern pieces for the Little Miss Derby Jacket to lengthen it so it is not cropped.  

 The red and pink shows where you need to lengthen the pattern pieces, the chart below tells you how much to add to the length.

After adjusting your pattern pieces you will follow all the instructions that are given in the pattern, you can purchase it HERE.

Photos courtesy from Risa West Photography

Pattern Testers Wanted -- No Name Top -- CLOSED

This Testing is now CLOSED ... THANK YOU !!!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "No-Name Top" (#21012) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by March 28th!!

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Description: Hip-length top can be made with the tunic length ruffle (below), or without (above).  It features a fully lined bodice, jewel neckline and short puffy sleeves.  The back features a shirred panel for a beautiful fit and easy on/off.  

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This is a pattern for *woven* fabrics (ex: quilting cottons), not knits.

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Here's how it works (please do this all in ONE comment!!)
~ You leave your email in a comment and what size you would like to test.

~ In the SAME comment, please link to a picture (on a blog or on fb) where I can see samples or your sewing/photography. Photography plays a BIG part on who tests for me.

I need testers for the following sizes: Doll, 3m, 6m, 12m, 2t, 3t, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12

**You MUST know how to shirr!

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Already claimed: 18m, 4t, 7, 14

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

**I reserve the right to choose whomever I wish to test.  It will not be based on a first-come first-serve basis.  If you've tested before and did not return the results you are NOT eligible.... and you must have purchased pattern from Jocole before (yes I do check).

HALF OFF ... Twirl Your Heart Out 6 Panel 6

HALF OFF today only ... Twirl Your Heart Out 6 Panel Skirt

HALF OFF Wednesday ... the Happy Herringbone Dress

Wednesday January 30, 2013 ONLY get the Happy Herringbone Dress for half off.

A super cute halter dress featuring an empire bodice with an elastic back and a pieced herringbone style skirt.  Bodice is fully lined for comfort.

Full instructions on using clear elastic for creating perfect gathers every time.

Two length options: tunic or dress.

It's fun to mix and match prints and colors.  Perfect for coordinating fabrics or even using up scraps and fat quarters.  

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Essential Pants

TODAY only ... get the Essential Pants for half off ... yup ... you're gonna LOVE this pattern.  THREE length options (shorts, capris and full length)

Top picture:  Forty Toes Photography
Bottom picture: Risa West Photography

House & moving progress

We got to do the final walk-through on our new house yesterday.  Still a couple things that need to be finalized ... but it's getting closer.  We're hoping we can close and move in by the beginning of February.

THANK YOU to my beautiful fans and customers for putting up with me through the chaos that is my life right now.

Doll Reimbursement Program

Introducing our "Doll Reimbursement Program" (a.k.a. DRP)

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Now you can review our patterns and be reimbursed for part of the purchase price to do so.

(Currently 75% ... and subject to change).

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Submitted and returned reviews does NOT guarantee reimbursement.

Subject to approval by Jocole.

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HOW IT WORKS ...

~ Purchase a pattern that is eligible for the Doll Reimbursement Program (DRP) and let me know you are interested in participating. [Notice: not all patterns are eligible for the DRP]

~ I'll reply and email you a form that you need to fill out.

~ Download your pattern, print and get sewing!!

~ Return the form and at least THREE (more is better) high resolution fantastic pictures of the item made from the pattern [you MUST include pictures of the item on a 18" doll and made to match on a little girl] and return it to me within THREE days from when I emailed you the review form.

~ Write a small review and post it on Jocole.com for the corresponding pattern. (Instructions on how to do so can be foundHERE)

~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.). The more information you give me, the BETTER!!!
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**Reimbursements are sent via an email with a Gift Certificate redemption code that is valid atJocole.com (not our etsy shop)

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REQUIREMENTS ...

~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)

~ You must have an 18" doll (American Girl, Our Generation, Madame Alexander, etc.)
~ You must have the results back to me within **THREE DAYS**
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me. (The better the pictures, the more likely you'll be approved for the FULL reimbursement)

~ You MUST allow Jocole to use all photos of finished products for promotional purposes.
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I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

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Review Reimbursement Program - FORM (pdf format)

Review Reimbursement Program - FORM (word format)

Clear Elastic Gathers and Ruffles ... EASY tutorial

I think one of the most asked questions is how I gather with clear elastic.  It has changed the way I sew.

NEVER ever ever use basting threads again.  Nope clear elastic is the only way to go.  You'll never have to mess with pulling threads or scratching your head about ruffle ratios to make gathers.

You'll get PERFECT gathers that are exactly the right length ... EVERY time !!!

Here are my complete instructions for making gathers EASILY with clear elastic.

Pattern Testers Wanted -- No-Name Coat -- CLOSED !!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED !!!
thank you!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "No-Name COAT" (#25003) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by January 13th!!

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Description: A super cute cropped coat featuring an empire waist with a button-up front, a ruffle that is longer in the back, topped with a super cute bow. 

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I need testers for the following sizes: Doll, 3m, 6m, 12m, 18m, 2t, 3t, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14

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Already claimed: 

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

**I reserve the right to choose whomever I wish to test.  It will not be based on a first-come first-serve basis.  If you've tested before and did not return the results you are NOT eligible.... and you must have purchased pattern from Jocole before.

Free Tutorials & Patterns

Here is our complete list of FREE tutorials or FREE Jocole patterns

Cinch Sac Backpack
Mix&Match: FREE Gathered Skirting Measurements

FREE Printables

FREE Coloring Pages
Easter Coloring Pages
Peplum & Skater Dress Coloring Page

FREE Holiday Printables
Printable Valentines - Owls "You're a Hoot!!"

FREE Printables for Your Home
AEIOUY - Vowel Check
Destiny Quote
Light From Within Quote

FREE Iron-On Transfer Designs

100% Boy or 100% Girl

Halloween - Vol. 1

Halloween - Vol. 2

Halloween - Vol. 3

Halloween - Vol. 4

FREE Stencil (Applique) Designs

Damask

Heart Hands

Lotus Flower

How to Shrink or Enlarge Templates

FAQ & Other Important Information

• About PDF Sewing Patterns
• Pattern Testing Guidelines
• Open and Print your PDF Sewing Patterns using Adobe Reader
• Doll Reimbursement Program
• Review Reimbursement Program
• Jocole Reviews
• Labeling Questions Answered
• FB & Etsy Photo Dimensions
• Custom Pattern Services
• Website design ... Anne Quade is the BEST !!!

Sewing Techniques, Tips & Tricks

• Here is our complete list if FREE tutorials for techniques, tips and tricks to help you while sewing Jocole pdf sewing patterns ... ENJOY !!!

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• Binding Directions (SEVEN Ways!)
• Cheer Bow Tutorial

• Clear Elastic Gathers

• Elastic Casing & Ruffle Casing Directions

• Elastic Waist Directions (knit elastic, like leggings)
• Electric Seam Ripper (You NEED one!)

• Fabric Organization (Comic Boards)
• Inset Pocket Tutorial (& printable pattern pieces)

• Knit Binding Tutorial

• Narrow Hem Directions

• Patch Pocket Directions

• Pattern Directions

• Ruffle Bottom Leggings

• Ruffle Directions (4 Ways)
• Sash Belt Tutorial (with cutting measurements)

• Serger Basics

• Snap Fastener Directions

• Stretchy Ruffle Directions
• Thread Storage

• Tips & Tricks for Sewing with Knit Fabric

Tutorials on Modifying & Adjusting Jocole Patterns

Here is our complete list of FREE tutorials on modifying or adjusting Jocole patterns

A-Line Yoga Skirt -- Hi-Lo Adjustment

• A-Line Yoga Skirt -- Maternity Adjustment
• A-Line Yoga Skirt -- woven fabric modification
• Basic Brief Bottoms - Knit Bindings instead of Elastic
• Basic Leggings -- ruffle bottom modification
• Basic Leggings -- extreme ruffle tutorial
• Basic Leggings -- Contrast Insert Modification
• Basic Leggings -- Sequin Leggings (or two-toned) modification
• Basic Leggings -- Pajama Pants Modification
• Boatneck Tee -- mix&match modification
• Classic Knit Tee -- adding a gathered skirt
• Classy Cowlneck & Basic Tee Bottom -- lengthening to a dress
• Crossover Tunic or Dress - Halter Modification
• Crossover Tunic or Dress - Maxi Length Adjustment [also works on the Radiant A-Line from the Mix&Match Series]
• Crossover Tunic or Dress -- sleeve modification
• Crossover Bodice + Peplum (or Skater Skirt) -- modification {+ printable pattern}
• Crossover Wrap Sweater -- pattern mix and modification tutorial
• Crossover + Herringbone Skirting = mashup tutorial
• Cuffed Pajamas -- Classic Tee & Leggings with Cuff Modification
• Endless Dress -- ALL Options, Variations & Add-ons
• Endless Dress -- knit bodice modification
• Essential Pants -- Flat-Front/Elastic Back Tutorial (works for ALL Jocole pants/shorts patterns)
• Essential Pants -- Inset Pocket Tutorial
• Essential Pants -- Sash/Belt Tutorial
• Essential Pants -- Tiered Maxi Pants Modification
• Happy Herringbone -- LAZY (One Panel) Skirting Modification
• Little Miss Derby Jacket -- length modification
• Mega Ruffle Pants to Straight Leg Pants
• Mega Ruffle Pants - Hi-Lo Modification
• Mix&Match: FREE Gathered Skirting Measurements
• Peplum Top -- Nursing Modification
• Peplum Top >> Basic Tee Modification {+ printable pattern}
• Quick Dress & Top -- Boatneck Collar Modification
• Quick Dress & Top -- Cardigan Modification Tutorial
• Quick Dress & top -- Sleeve Cuff Tutorial
• Skater Skirt -- Modification + FREE waistband measurements
• Skinny Pants -- High Waist Modification (Part 1 and Part 2)
• Skinny Pant -- FANTASTIC guide on getting the perfect fit
• Skinny Minnie Riding Pants Modification Tutorial
• Skinny Pants - Flat-Front/Elastic Back Tutorial
• Skinny Pants -- Joggers Tutorial
• Triple Ruffle T-Shirt Dress -- hip length measurements
• Yoga Waistband -- pant modification

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Double Layer Ruffle Skirt

Double Layer Ruffle Skirt is HALF OFF on Wednesday December 26th ONLY !!!