Crossover Tunic or Dress: Sew Along Day 4

There is *still* time to catch up ... if you already haven't picked up the pattern you can get the Girls Sizes HERE or Ladies Sizes HERE ... both patterns are available from Jocole.  These sew up SUPER fast and you're gonna love them.

Today we're doing Steps 11 through 19.

STITCH skirt pieces together along the side seams, RIGHT sides together.

HEM skirt pieces.

SLIP the bodice inside the skirt, making sure to align all the raw edges and match the side seams.

STITCH bodice and skirt pieces together.

TOMORROW: We'll be posting pictures!!!

Crossover Tunic or Dress: Sew Along Day 3

There is *still* time to catch up ... if you already haven't picked up the pattern you can get the Girls Sizes HERE or Ladies Sizes HERE ... both patterns are available from Jocole.  These sew up SUPER fast and you're gonna love them.

Today we're doing Steps 6 through 10.

STITCH side seams.

Align the bodice front pieces at the center front mark, BASTE in place 1/4" from edge.  Make sure to catch both ends of your binding.

TOMORROW: We'll be doing Steps 11 through 19.  Stay tuned ...

Crossover Tunic or Dress: Sew Along Day 2

There is *still* time to catch up ... if you already haven't picked up the pattern you can get the Girls Sizes HERE or Ladies Sizes HERE ... both patterns are available from Jocole.  These sew up SUPER fast and you're gonna love them.

Today we're doing Steps 1 through 5 ...

STITCH shoulders together.

BIND around the neckline and sleeve edges using the binding strips.  Complete instructions can be found in the sewing instructions included in your pattern.

 TOMORROW: We'll be doing Steps 6 through 10.  Stay tuned ...

Crossover Tunic or Dress: Sew Along Day 1

There is *still* time to catch up ... if you already haven't picked up the pattern you can get the Girls Sizes HERE or Ladies Sizes HERE ... both patterns are available from Jocole.  These sew up SUPER fast and you're gonna love them.

Today we're doing some preparation work.

If you have ANY questions the Jocole Pattern facebook group is a great place to ask them. 

Have you seen the FREE tutorials on modifying this pattern???
Adding Sleeves
Maxi Length Adjustment
Halter Adjustment

(1)     PRINT out pattern pages at 100%.  Make sure that page scaling is set to "None".

(2)     TRIM margins and TAPE pages together.  Matching triangles to create diamonds and lining up the 1" grid lines.

(3)     CUT out desired size along the corresponding line.

(4)     CUT out pattern pieces from FABRIC.  Make sure you cut out 2 opposite bodice front pieces.  You should have a total of 5 pieces: 2 bodice fronts, 1 bodice back, 2 skirt pieces.

 TOMORROW: We'll be doing Steps 1 through 5.  Stay tuned ...

Modification -- Maxi Length Adjustment

http://www.jocole.net/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_29&products_id=129

The Crossover Tunic & Dress is one of my FAVORITE patterns ... it's also my favorite to  adjust and make modifications and alterations to.  It's SO versatile.

This tutorial shows you how to modify the Crossover Tunic & Dress pdf sewing pattern into a maxi length dress.  You can use this tutorial for both the ladies pattern or the girls pattern -- it includes measurements for all sizes.

**This is NOT a finished pattern, just a tutorial on how you can modify the pattern from my shop.

This method and measurements will also work on the Radiant A-Line Bottom patterns from the Mix & Match Series.

Modification -- Adding Sleeves to the Crossover Tunic & Dress

http://www.jocole.net/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_29&products_id=130

The Crossover Tunic & Dress is one of my FAVORITE patterns ... it's also my favorite to  adjust and make modifications and alterations to.  It's SO versatile.

Have you seen this pattern in my shop and thought about purchasing it but decided against it because cap-sleeves aren't your thing?  You are NOT alone.  This has been requested ... a LOT.  I've  decided to write up a tutorial on altering the pattern to adjust for set-in sleeves.

This tutorial shows you how to modify the Crossover Tunic & Dress pdf sewing pattern for different sleeve lengths..  You can use this tutorial for both the ladies pattern or the girls pattern.

**This is NOT a finished pattern, just a tutorial on how you can modify the pattern from my shop.

You can use ANY of the sleeve options that are available in the Mix&Match series. 

This can also be used on the Easy Cap-Sleeve Tee pdf sewing pattern.

Modification - Crossover Halter

http://www.jocole.net/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_29&products_id=128

The Crossover Tunic & Dress is one of my FAVORITE patterns ... it's also my favorite to  adjust and make modifications and alterations to.  It's SO versatile.

This tutorial shows you how to modify the Crossover Tunic & Dress pdf sewing pattern into a halter top or dress.  You can use this tutorial for both the ladies pattern or the girls pattern.

Includes TWO different sewing instructions for completing the halter.

**This is NOT a finished pattern, just a tutorial on how you can modify the pattern from my shop.

Pair with the Ladies Leggings or the girls Ruffle Leggings in the short length to create a super cute tankinis for summer.

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!!

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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

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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).

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

...
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!!

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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

...
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!!

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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