Sew and Tell with the Roxanne Top

Who's ready for another Sew and Tell Review?!?  Today we have the Roxanne from Victory Patterns sewn up by our friend, Bec.  Victory Patterns has a stunning collection of fresh designs for women available on our site.  The Roxanne is a gorgeous blouse featuring a trendy high-low hemline and a comfortable, loose fit.  High-low hemlines are all the rage right now, and we know you'll love getting to sew this one up yourself!  You can opt to make this top sleeveless or with a 3/4 length sleeve.  Two neckline options are provided so you can create a look that uses either a tie closure or a fashionable triple pleated collar.  You can mix and match these options to create several different looks!  Gotta love a pattern that gives you more bang for your buck! 

Speaking from experience, Victory Patterns has very professional patterns that will produce a finished product you can be proud of.  This line of patterns reads more like a traditional paper pattern than a PDF because the directions are concise, and it is assumed you have knowledge of some basic sewing terms and techniques.  Be sure to pay attention to the "Beginner" or "Intermediate" labels provided on the pattern covers to choose the ones most appropriate for your skill level.  The Roxanne is suitable for beginners, so feel free to dive in!  Once you read through the review below, make sure you get your copy of this pattern for 25% off!

A few other highlights in regards to this pattern include:

*  Fits sizes 2- 16.  Be sure to measure yourself and refer to the size chart provided.

*  Measurements are given in both inches and centimeters.

*  Fabric requirements are between 2 1/4 and 2 3/4 yards depending on size and the version chosen. 

*  There are 36 pattern pages to print out.  The pattern pieces are digitized and all sizes are nested together.  An optional copy shop version of the pattern is provided if you'd like to have the pieces printed out on one large sheet. 

*  A 4-in square is provided to check the printing scale.  Also, the grainlines are clearly marked, notches for matching are provided, and other marking are clearly labeled by referencing the helpful symbol legend. 

*  The Piece Inventory, Cutting Instructions, Cutting Layout, and Glossary all ensure you'll have no problems getting started.

*  The entire tutorial is 12 pages long and jammed pack with helpful diagrams and expert directions.

*  There are no zippers or buttonholes, but you do have to attach a hook and eye on Version 2. 

 

Let's take a look at the smashing version Bec has sewn up and read what she has to say about the pattern!

 

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I have been sewing since I was 12.  I would classify myself as an intermediate, perhaps a little more to the advanced direction as there was a large period of time in the middle of then and now when I did not sew.  The pattern, for me, was not that difficult to put together.  It took me about 3 hours total from the time I started cutting the fabric to finishing the top completely.  I was going slower than I usually would and taking time to read all the steps carefully so next time I would hope it to take a bit less time.  For a beginner, there may be a few challenging moments if doing the option with sleeves and attaching the binding. 

 

 

The actual pattern was excellent.  The pages and pieces were all clearly marked, the paper was easy to put together after printing, and I was clearly aware of what piece was what.  The directions were easy to follow.  I had to read the pocket instructions a couple of times to see what they wanted me to do, as I had never done this type of pocket before.  Also the way the binding was put on was a little different than how I had done it before, but it was good to learn a new way of doing it.

 

 

The only thing I did do differently was press my neck binding/tie piece before attaching it.  I found it easier to have everything pressed and folded in before starting to attach it instead of trying to fold it under once half sewn, as the directions suggested.   Plus, I top-stitched all my seams so that the very light cotton lawn doesn't get pulled at the seams, and I made the sleeves longer.

 

 

This is a lovely top when finished.  We are having a really hot summer here in Australia and I wanted some long sleeve shirts for when I am out helping my husband on our farm, this one is so cool to wear and just perfect.  I used a very light cotton lawn fabric so it has a lovely light drape to it.  I cut my fabric out in a size 12 according to my bust measurement, which fell just between size 10 & 12.  I have found now that I should have used the next size up.  The only reason for this is that I have quite strong straight shoulders, and I do often have to go up a size when purchasing shirts and dresses that are fitted across my top half, or I feel it pull across my back.  This is the case for this top when I try it on now.  Next time I will be measuring across my upper back/shoulder area and comparing that to the back yoke before cutting out.   I will still be wearing it though as it is a flattering top and feels lovely to wear.

 

 

I really love this pattern!  I have never made a shirt before and thought it would be much harder than it actually was.  I will definitely be making this pattern again, as said above, but next time I will take more care with the back yoke size for myself.  I would also like to try mixing it up a little more on the back piece, using gathers instead of pleats or even downsizing the lower back piece so that it has a straight back. I would also like to have a go at making a short sleeve version, too.  I would recommend this pattern to others as I enjoyed making it and will certainly enjoy wearing it.  I will have to go shopping and buy some more light summer fabric.  I can see many varieties of this being a staple in my wardrobe.  

 

 

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Doesn't that blue look fabulous on her?  Pair this top with a great pair of skinny jeans, an oversized bag, and some cute boots... insta-amazing outfit!  I always wear my long-sleeve button up shirts with my sleeves slightly rolled up, so I thought it was a nice touch that she made the sleeves a bit longer so she could roll them up.  I think this would look so awesome in a polka-dotted voile.  

 

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Pair it Up

These feminine finds are sure to turn heads when paired with the Roxanne!

 

 

This over-sized bag is just as useful as it is fashion-forward!  The Market Bag from Artsy-Crafty Babe can be used for everyday wear or more utilitarian purposes such as a beach bag, laundry bag, or overnight bag.  The dimensions are 23" wide x 17" tall x 6" deep.  Sew it up in your favorite bold print and make a statement!

 

 

The Spring Blooms Sun Hat from Angel Lea Designs is so sophisticated and charming, we can't get enough!  This darling sun hat is completely reversible and can be made in sizes XS- XXL.  Protect your skin from the sun while rockin' this great look!

 

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Make sure you head to the website to download your copy of the Roxanne top for 25% off during the month of February!  If you've got some photos of this top sewn up, we'd love to see them!  Send us an email and share them with us! 

 

Plus, we have a really fun new feature on the blog where we get to know some interesting things about the designers at Fairytale Frocks & Lollipops!  Be on the look out for a new one soon!

 

 

Go sew something magical!!!

 

Sew and Tell with the Ruby Bag

 

It's time for another Sew and Tell Review!  I always get so giddy whenever someone sends in their review!  I love reading them and looking at everyone's great work.  Our customers have some serious talent!  Plus, it's a wonderful way for me to decide what I want to sew next, haha!  With so many options on the website, I get overwhelmed!  So many patterns and so little time!  (Not a bad problem to have in all actuality!) 

 

Our review today is on the Ruby Bag from Artsy-Crafty Babe.  (And I think I'm going crazy, because every time I say Ruby Bag, I think "Ruby Jean," and then I start to sing Michael Jackson's Billy Jean.  Because that makes sense?!?)  But anyways, if you enjoy making bags or would like to try your hand at one, Artsy-Crafty Babe has a lovely collection of bag patterns.  Since the Ruby Bag is being reviewed today, it will be on sale for 25% off for the next few days, which would make it a great one to start with ;) 

 

This is a really nice sized bag.  The finished dimensions are 15” wide x 13” tall x 4” deep.  It would be perfect as a diaper bag (as we'll soon see!), roomy purse, or overnight bag for a quick trip where you don't need much.  Options are provided for both a front pocket or a center panel so you can change up the look if you make it multiple times.   

 

I'm going to hand it over to Melissa of The Cutest Thing You've Ever Seen!

 

Hi, my name is Melissa Jones.  I have been married to a Marine for 15 years, and we have 3 children ages 13, 12, and 10.  I was born and raised in Oklahoma and will always call Oklahoma home.  We move about every 3 years and have lived in Hawaii, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Oklahoma, and now, Illinois.  I love to redo old furniture, paint, make jewelry, scrapbook and sew... I would say I'm an intermediate sewer.  I love making bags and children's clothing!

 

This pattern is so easy and fun to make!  I think a beginner could definitely tackle this one!  The instructions are very easy to follow and well written.  The pattern pieces are included and have to be cut out and taped together... which took me no time at all.  They are labeled perfectly for easy assembly.  It took me about 2 hours to complete the entire bag... I could whip out several of these in a day!

The pattern includes instructions for 3 different styles.  I went with the Front Pocket style and decided to make it a diaper bag/child's bag because I found this adorable fabric at Hobby Lobby and HAD to have it!  It really turned out cute.  

I did tweak it a little and added the cute ruffle on the front pocket.  It is a simple alteration and so easy.  When you get to the step in the instructions for the front pocket, that is the time to add the ruffle.  I did this by cutting a piece of fabric 40” x 6 ½” to make a 3 inch wide ruffle. Fold the fabric in half length-wise, right sides facing each other, and sew up the long side (1/4 inch seam allowance).  Turn right side out and iron seam in center back of strip.  Sew a basting stitch up the middle of strip and gather to make your ruffle.  I attached the ruffle to the front of the pocket piece by pinning in place and stitching up the middle of ruffle, and then continued with regular instructions.  I also added a snap to the inside of the bag since I didn't do a flap.  I added a magnetic snap to the lining pieces after I cut them out.  Other than that, I went right along with the directions, and it was super easy and fun to make!!

I am donating this bag to an online auction on Facebook to help with the tornado relief efforts in Oklahoma.  Check it out at www.facebook.com/hopeforok.  Have fun and make one for yourself! :)

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Thanks so much Melissa!!  The ruffle down the front was a fun addition!  One of my favorite things to do with a new pattern is think up all the different ways I could embellish it to make it all my own.  Pockets, buttons, ruffles, maybe some piping... lots of ways to play up this pattern!

 

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Now let's play Pair it Up! 

 

 

Another really fun (and practical!) bag you can sew up is the Love Your Lunch Box pattern from Gingercake Patterns & Design!  A great way to personalize your child's lunchbox for school, daycare, road trips... wherever you need a meal on-the-go!  It has side pockets, a Velcro snap, and a bonus snack bag pattern included! 

 

 

All you photographers out there will appreciate this one!  Sew up your own Padded Camera Bag!  This pattern from Blank Slate Patterns is unique way to combine your two passions- photography and sewing!  Let your personality show with a fun camera bag that you create! 

 

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Alright all you (bag) ladies, don't forget that you can purchase the Ruby Bag for 25% off right now!  Browse through the enormous collection of bag patterns we have on the website- just type "bag" into the search bar and start shopping!

 

Go sew something magical!!

   

Take a look at where we link up our blog posts! 

Sew and Tell with the Ava Knot Dress

 

Knot dresses are one of the most beloved styles for little girls to wear.  They're cute, versatile, and easy to make!  Whether you wear it in the summer with some cute sandals or in the winter layered over a long-sleeved tee, leggings, and boots this is a great design that you'll want to make over and over again! 

 

The Ava Knot Dress from Pink Poodle Bows is a beautiful sewing pattern that is available in sizes 6m- Girls 12.  The optional apron front gives just a hint of vintage charm, while also providing a fun contrast of fabric.  The fabric combination possibilities are endless... Every piece can be a separate print for a really fun and unique dress, or you can mix and match just 2 or 3 prints to keep it clean and understated.  Sometimes simple can be more  :)  The fit tends to be very forgiving on dresses with the knot straps because you decide where on the strap to make the knot.  There isn't any worrying about whether your button placement is a tad off with the possibility of making the dress sit too far down on the chest.  Just make your knot higher on the strap to make the dress sit higher. 

 

Apron dresses allow you to really get creative!  I've been quite surprised at some amazing things women have done with their aprons.  You can showcase a unique panel, add decorative trim, use applique/embroidery, make it patchwork, sew on fabric flowers or other embellishment... just have fun!!  My favorite part of sewing is being able to put my own creative spin on a project, and an apron dress gives you a great blank canvas to work with! 

 

Here's a review sent in to us by Julia T. 

 

 

I decided to make the Ava Knot Dress from Pink Poodle Bows for your review.  I thought it was a super cute pattern and would look adorable on my 18 month old granddaughter!  I've been sewing since I took Home Ec. in junior high, so I've been sewing 45 years.  I can make most anything, but really enjoy sewing for children.  When my son and daughter were small I made most of their clothes.  We would just go to the local store - they would tell me what they liked, and I would duplicate!!!!!!!!!  That was much cheaper, plus they had original designs that no one else would be wearing.

The Ava Knot Dress is so cute and simple!  You would definitely need some sewing experience, but with some help most anyone could make this little dress.  It took about an hour to cut out (including tracing the reusable pattern pieces) and about 2 hours and 15 minutes to sew from start to finish!  I read through the instructions, and they were clear and concise, but I usually batch sew and just used them as a guide.  I used a combination of dancing teapots fabric and Williamsburg blue microcheck gingham.  I chose to interface the bodice to make it a little "crisper" looking!  The gingham is such a lightweight fabric I felt it needed the body!  (Especially for the buttonholes.)  I also chose to topstitch the garment which makes it look less "homemade".  I did not add one, but definitely think a fabric sash or bow would add to the back of the dress.  The apron on the front is a cute accent for that side!  I would definitely recommend this pattern to everyone who sews!  It looks adorable on and sews up quickly.  I believe it will be a cool addition for my granddaughter's summer dress wardrobe!

 

  

I just love blue on a baby girl  :)  So precious!  I adore the first photo where she is waving to us, haha! 

 

If you want to sew up one yourself, grab a few coordinating prints and get the pattern here for 25% off right now!  We'll have it on sale for about a week, so make sure you get your copy while it's at this great price!  We're also pleased to tell you this pattern comes with both pattern pieces and fabric measuring charts, so you can cut out your pieces whichever way you prefer.  This would be a great pattern to use for a patriotic 4th of July outfit! 

 

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For our Pair it Up feature, let's take a look at a few of our other favorite Ava patterns! 

 

 

Every little girl needs a cute little pleated skirt.  This is the Ava Pleated Skirt from Hadley Grace Designs.  It comes in sizes NB- Girls 14.  That's an excellent size range for the price!  These are so cute paired with appliqued t-shirts or embellished tanks.  Another great pattern that you'll find lots of uses for throughout the seasons! 

 

 

You can never have too many tote bags, especially when they are as gorgeous as this one!  The Ava Rose Tote from Artsy-Crafty Babe is as functional as it is pretty!  You can even make it reversible!  Use it as a purse, diaper bag, to carry papers and grade books back and forth from school, carry it to the pool... we know you'll be able to find a use for it! 

 

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Hope you all have a wonderful week!  Go sew something magical!!

 

Take a look at where we link up our blog posts!