Crossover Tunic/Dress: Sew a Long Day 1

Are you ready for another Sew a Long??  I know *I* am ... yup I can't stop thinking about it.  The last one for the Leggings was just toooooo much fun.  It's like having a long distance sewing party with your girlfriends ... and then at the end we all share our creations and pictures.

I've decided to do another pattern with a HUGE size range ... I want to make sure everyone can participate. Let's do the Crossover Tunic and Dress this time around.  The girls pattern ranges from sizes 12m through 14 ... and the ladies pattern ranges from sizes xs through xxxl.

Links to purchase are below (the patterns will be HALF OFF tomorrow - Wednesday June 19th)... and I'll be adding more FREE tutorials on modifying the pattern.  Oh I LOVE this one.

Girls Sizes HERE

Ladies Sizes HERE

Below is the schedule we'll be following (so you can plan ahead).  Each day I'll be posting new things on the blog.  Tips and tricks ... new tutorials ... you just never know what might show up.

Schedule:

Wednesday June 19th:

Purchase pattern(s) for HALF OFF

Thursday June 20th - Sunday June 23rd:

Purchase fabric for patter if needed

Monday June 24th:

Print pattern, tape pages together and cut out desired size and length.

Tuesday June 25th:

Steps 1 through 5

Wednesday June 26th:

Steps 6 through 10

Thursday June 27th:

Steps 11 through 19

FREE Tutorials:

Sleeve Modification

Hi-Lo Skirt -- adjustment and modification

Hi-Lo skirts are ALL the rage ... instead of creating and selling a separate pattern I've decided to write up a quick tutorial on modifying the Ladies Yoga A-Line Skirt pattern from Jocole.  (Photo above courtesy from Nikki Luke).

I'm passing along the savings to YOU !!!  You're welcome.

First ... you'll need to purchase and print and tape together TWO copies of the pattern  (one for the front and one for the back). [BELOW]

 

Next you'll need to draw your new cutting line for the front (aka the "high" portion of the skirt) -- shown in RED.  [BELOW].

**These lines are shown on the largest size, of course you'll need to draw them on whichever size you are planning on making.

Then ... you'll need to draw your new cutting line for the back (aka the "low" portion of the skirt) -- shown in BLUE. [BELOW].

**These lines are shown on the largest size, of course you'll need to draw them on whichever size you are planning on making.

BELOW you'll see a close up of the front (RED) and the back (BLUE).

** You could totally use this concept on other patterns as well ... the basic idea needs to stay the same ... the front needs to curve up ... the back needs to curve down ... and the side seams NEEEED to be the same length

Maternity Skirt -- adjustment & modification

Did you know you can EASILY change the Yoga A-Line Skirt pdf sewing pattern from Jocole into a maternity skirt ... yup ... it's easy.  I promise.  Of course you don't HAVE to make the adjustment ... this is if you want to wear the skirt below your belly.  Above photo courtesy of Kirsten from Sugarplum Cuties .... isn't she the CUTEST pregnant momma ever??

Draw a new line for the FRONT of your skirt.  Start 3"-4"below the original waist and curve it up to the side seam (shown on a XXXL ... of course you would end on whatever size you are planning on making).  Use the original line for the back pattern piece.  You also will want to add 3" to 4" more length to the yoga waistband to help accommodate your cute growing belly.

D-O-N-E ... that's all it take ... so go get sewing.  These skirts are SUPER cute and sew up SO fast ... as one tester said ... they are like CLASSY sweatpants --- they are *that* comfortable.  Yup you're going to want to wear your new skirts EVERY day.

Pattern Testers Wanted -- Ladies Yoga A-Line Skirt -- CLOSED !!!

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

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Ladies Yoga A-Line Skirt" (#12010) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by May 31th!!

...

Description: 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 NINE different length options (from above the knee to maxi).  (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

...
Already claimed: NONE

...

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).

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!!

...

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

...
Already claimed: NONE

...

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!!

...

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

...
Already claimed: NONE

...

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!!

...

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.  

...

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

...

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!

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

...

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)

...

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

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

...

Submitted and returned reviews does NOT guarantee reimbursement.

Subject to approval by Jocole.

...

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!!!
...
**Reimbursements are sent via an email with a Gift Certificate redemption code that is valid atJocole.com (not our etsy shop)

...

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.
...
I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

...

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!!

...

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. 

...

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

...
Already claimed: 

...

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