Cue the Beach Boys: Coverups

It might just be me, but I think it's kind of awkward to just walk around in a bikini, when you aren't in the water or sprawled on the sand. My favorite is the ol' tshirt and shorts combo- but this spring I decided to get creative and from my own pattern, make a romper. Needless to say, it didn't work out so well, as I haven't posted anything on it. It was basically due to my ditziness; I sewed the wrong pieces together. So I don't know if I may continue, but if I don't, here's a few of my other pics.

Romper: This style is my ideal beach cover up- it's so easy to slip on and off for impromptu dips after a bit of tanning (not that I tan, us redheads BURN).
My favorite pattern has probably been already posted, but I'll post it again!
LINK: Click here to access the free pattern!
This particular pattern as cute details that make this cover up stellar- such as the subtle ruching on the bodice! Check out some past projects made with this pattern!

Sorry it's so tiny! The full picture included the maker's head, and I didn't want to violate privacy. Don't worry, you can find it on the sewer's BurdaStyle page: Heleen de Haan.

Romper #2: This pattern is slightly classier, with belt loops and a V Neck, but it is still perfectly awesome for the beach. My advice? Buy a cute Hawiann Floral for a perfect swimsuit match!
Link: Access this free pattern here!
Some Finished Products:

But Romping aside, there's plenty of other ways to cover yourself up. Take sarongs, for example. Though slightly tinier then my past two options, they are a great way to go from the beach to your next destination!

Sarong #1: This sarong is more of a dress option- basically just a rectangle that you can tie- but that leaves lots of room for variation in length! Try making one in a cute print!

Link: To access the tutorial, click here.

Sarong B: This is the skirt variation, with a tutorial from a different site.



Link: To access the tutorial, click here.

What the end result looks like:

Sorry that this isn't the best post ever- but it still has lots of good information and places to find great sewing patterns without spending a dime.

So Happy Sewing!

Lilly :)

Cue the Beach Boys: Beach Bag Edition

With only a week or so of school left, I bet you already probably know what's on my Floridian mind: The beach. After a fruitless spring of sewing, I've decided that during this vacation, nothing's gonna stop me from creating the stuff of my dreams. This post is a compiliation of all the components for a day of fun in the sun, along with tutorials and fabric suggestions. Have fun!

I bet that most all of you have a trusty beach bag (probably not just one) tucked away in some corner of your house. But if mine's anything like yours, its drab. After all, just because there's a little sand involved doesn't mean that we have to throw style to the wind, right? Here's a few patterns that caught my eye when looking for this essential piece.

Refresh With Mesh: This Beach Bag is made mostly with mesh and just a bit of grosgrain ribbon- cute and functional!
The End Result:

My picks: Try using an ocean blue toned mesh with tangerine ribbon for a fun summer look!

Find the Instructions at this URL: http://www.marthastewart.com/273704/mesh-bag

Upcycled Towel Bag: This project is great for achieving a patchwork look and it uses up scraps of towels, too. If you don't want to part with any of yours, just go to a dollar store- they will have cheap finds there that will serve the purpose quite nicely!

The End Result:

My Picks: If you don't want to use scraps from an array of towels, try just making it out of one- you can either use the squares and follow the tutorial, or you can cut off two two inch strips from the short ends of the towel and then sew up the long sides. Try using a zebra print towel and neon green straps for a "totally teenage" (that term was "crazily cheesy") look.

Find the Instructions Here: http://alisaburke.blogspot.com/2010/05/beach-towel-tote-tutorial.html

Stay tuned over the next few weeks as I reveal cute patterns/ tutorials for SWIMSUITS, sunhats, COVERUPS, and more!
Happy Sewing,
Lilly!

Patterns Perusal

I haven't been on Burdastyle much lately, which has really been bothering me. So today I decided to see what was new. Turns out, there's a bunch! But I just picked a few favorites for my post.
     First, I have this boxy top pattern. This simple style is perfect in an array of knits and is loose enough to provide a classic shape. Not only can this pattern be made into adorable dresses, but it can also be used as a basic sloper for your future alterations or patterns from scratch.
Try this: Try setting the hem a little higher for a perfect spring crop top!
URL: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/short-wide-top

Isn't this cute? This top, and the pattern, is made by Burdastyle member Janav.

I am "sew" in love (that was 'sew' cheesy, I know) with this outfit and the whole look in general! I might have to try this!

Wouldn't it look cute in a bright lime knit with a hot pink belt? Ooo! or maybe tangerine and aqua!

This look was created by  mandicoulter

On a different note, spring also brings an array of dances and formals! My own school is holding a masquerade, and though I didn't pick up tickets, I do have my eyes set on the eighth grade graduation dance. I'm thinking of something casual yet dressy. An oxymoron, huh?

Anywho, this is the Sonja pattern by Burdastyle member  ElisaSalme.

Unfortunatley, I don't have much pics except this technical one posted by Elisa (sorry!).

URL: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/sonja-dress

But doesn't it have loads of potential?

Happy Sewing, Lilly :)

Sewing in the new year! (January Week 2 Pattern Post)

My New Year's Resolutions:
1. Sew
2. Update Blog
3. Sew
4.Update Blog
5. Etc. :)
Well, after getting a new laptop for christmas, I am back on the world wide web. Yesterday, in a flurry of crafting, I made myself some yoga pants- they fit perfectly! As for now, however, how about getting a couple of new garments sewn to welcome in the new year? I don't know about you, but spring means dances. Proms, Graduation, Spring Flings.(Okay, fine, we don't have proms in junior high and they don't exactly call our spring socials "flings") My mind is bubbling with ideas to sew and wear! This pattern is not on the topic of dances, however- but it's cute none the less!

This pattern free blouse by RunwaySewing can be found at http://www.burdastyle.com/projects/pattern-free-blouse-3/instructions/1

Twists and Turns: The Twister Top Pattern by "apfelbluete"

I don't know what it is about this pattern- but sewing it is strangley addicting. First of all, it only takes an hour. Second of all, the end result is awesome looking! The tight arm, and the opposing batwing one looks so cool- it's kind of a optical illusion but made with a needle and thread! Try altering this mini into a top, pair with aviators and jean shorts, and top it all off with a slouchy beret for a look that's totally unique!
Click here for the pattern! As usual, check out these member project to help you decide whether this look is for you!

By irmchen

By Philomenia

By apfelbluete

vivelyonline

Happy Sewing!
Lilly :)

Burn Notice and New Patterns

Blogging wise, I have gotten quite side-tracked. I blame it on my obsessive watching of my favorite show, Burn Notice, but I know that that's not the case. But it's pretty much irresistable- I love spies shows! Plus, they film in Miami, a place I have always wanted to visit. Blue, Blue water, Golden Beaches, what's not to love!?
Anywho, this fall season is all about slim sillohuetes and colors like black and gray. This skirt can be just that! The Kasia skirt is a super-cute pencil skirt with decorative buttons and contrast (well, it doesn't have to be :D) pockets. Try it in a sensible ash gray wool and line the pockets with a slick black cotton and cloth buttons for a look that's perfect for the work place or just strolling around town! Check out these member projects:

by laugherssong

by mandan

by juleken

Happy Sewing!
Lilly :)

Talea Coat

Autumn is a knocking on our door steps and chilly days will soon be ahead! So what better than to sew yourself up a cute winter coat? I love this pattern with its purposeful pockets and military style epaulets. But this style is versatile- make it a khaki ripstop for that classic grunge look or a playful plaid for a look that's totally modern! This delightful pattern was drafted by Burdastyle, and as usual is free! Here are some pictures of the completed projects-

I absoutley love junespoon's rendition of this jacket! The buttons and military style detailing make it the perfect pick for a cold winter day!

This plaid Talea is my idea of a cozy fall day- I absolutley love the fabric!

Yay! Photo Shoot Tommorow! I just finished up sewing my "hooded vest." It turned out soooo cute!
Happy Sewing,
Lily :)

These cute and sensible pattern pair works well with any figure or fabric! Pair this flutter sleeve cardi and vintage bias trimmed mini dress with a broad leather belt around the waist to add a subtle sillohuette.
Here's some pictures of the finished products :)

by parze

by tricksy

by mikabak

Happy Sewing!
Lilly :)

School Starts!

School is in full swing, and I regret to say that I haven't been doing much sewing. However,  I have managed to finish the crop tops, and you can expect to see a photo shoot by Monday at the latest! Yay! So, anyway, here's the latest pattern I found- the T-shirt Mini! Throw it on over some leggings and pair with boots for a total urban chic look!
Here's the URL! http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/t-shirt-mini-dress
And, as customary, the pics

giunta

Now, the original pattern has so so cute 3/4 length sleeves. Check it out!
by dixieledy
Happy Sewing,
Lilly!
PS. I have found a goldmine of new patterns, and will be sharing them daily! Check back every evening for new stuff!

Malissa Pattern

This cute, bubbly pattern can be made in any fabric for completely different looks. Try it in a orange and brown plaid for a autumn favorite or a blue or red silk for a winter favorite. Check out the pattern here: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/malissa and the instructions for the variations here: http://www.burdastyle.com/projects/navyred-malissas-malissa-variation/instructions/1
Here's some finished work of the variations by mlssfshn

Happy Sewing!
Lilly :)

Layering Extra-ordainare!

Okay, I know I spelled that wrong, and that I say okay alot. But that's besides the point. The point is, I've got a great new pattern to share with you. Remember my ramblings on layering? Well, here is another great project. At my school, we follow a sort-of-not-really-strict dress code, in which it is prohibited to wear tanks. But, when the highs reach the upper 90's year round, that's kind of hard. So I slip by the rule by wearing short, cropped, light-weight shrugs along with it. Is it the perfect shrug pattern? You can decide by downloading at this URL: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/the-perfect-shrug
Here's pictures of completed projects:
Check out this LRS (Little Red Shrug) by Brittany Davis

 This cute, floral shrug reminds me of something AE would create- but for a fraction of the price! (by nettevivante)

Got the Shrug Bug yet? Shrug fever? (This is getting ridiculous!) Check out this Shrug by suechtique

Staples!

This week, I have been quite busy (surprisingly). I still have to finish my third crop top (just some hemming) but I am still looking around for patterns. For my back to school wardrobe, I love layering. I mean seriously, who doesn't? So when I found this pattern for a tank/camisole, I was like, yes! This one even features the option of having lace trim or piping around the edges. You can make it out of old clothes (upcycling) or use new fabric- the options are endless! Check out the pattern here: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/t-shirt-cami
Happy Sewing,
Lilly!

New Pattern,- just in time for fall!

Okay, first of all, let me just say that I am sorry that I haven't been posting lately. With all this back to school, I have been swamped! I have to read Great Expectations (so not a fun read when aren't even 15) and complete an entire report. But enough of that- let me fill you in on my sewing projects!

Well, I have 2/3 crop tops done- and I hope to have pics up soon! But for now, let me post a new free pattern I found while browsing- The Fall Hoodie! It's perfect for autumn and can be made in any color to compliment almost any outfit!Try making it with a contrasting zipper for added embellishment!

by flosshea

by giunta

Enjoy!

Newe Pattern+ Soon to be new top!

Let me just say first off that I am in fact quite fickle. Here's an example- I totally abandoned my dress for a crop top. It's turning out quite nicely, and I am thinking about making one for my sis, and one for my BFF, Lei. I want to get all 3 done by tommorow, but i don't know :).
I also finally drafted myself a pattern. I posted it here: http://www.burdastyle.com/projects/key-largo-tank-dress
It's a supr cute tank dress, that can be made in Juniors and Womens sizes 0-6. Check it out!
~Lilly :)

Romper Pattern

 Rompers have been a great summer staple this season. That's why I've been looking all over for a good one! Well, here it is, the coveted (just kidding) URL:  http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/the-bandeau-romper-and-beach-coverall
Try pairing this romper under a cute button down with a complimenting fedora or straw hat,and a large purse for a look that is totally cool!

Photo c/o of www.polyvore.com

Ruby Re-do's

I know I posted this pattern a while back, but I the link was "linked" so here it is again, in a brand new post!
Here's the URL: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/ruby-sailor-shorts
Here's BurdaStyle Member "nattyjane 's" interpretation of these cute maritime shorts!

Here's BurdaStyle Member "ustreetmoves"

Back to School Essentials: Tote Tutorial

Hi everybody- Lilly here! I've recently been scouring the store shelves for a bag to put my school books in. Last year I had purchased a quilted tote bag. It was roomy, cute, and fashionable. That's when the idea came to me. Why not sew my own tote this year?
   This tote, as posted on Sew Gloried, is a great tote for any use or occasion. And the best part is, when you go back to school, you'll be going back in something you made. Talk about bragging rights! :)
   The tutorial is very easy to follow and the end result is as cute as can be. Click here to go to Sew Gloried's Tote Tutorial. The tutorial is coming out in three parts- so make sure to check back often!
Here is a picture of the end result as made by Sew Gloried's author, Lisa Ranae:

The tote also features a cute button clasp!

Happy Sewing,
 Lilly!

Crop Top Pattern

I've been searching all over for a cute crop top pattern, much like this one from American Eagle:

c/o American Eagle.com

                And I finally found one! Here it is, readers! The Port Elizabeth Crop Top!
URL: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/port-elizabeth-cap-sleeve-summer-top

By Burdastyle member seagle

By Burdastyle member misscontreras

This piece is totally wearable, and totally summer too! As some of you may know, I made my own variation and made a post about it. Check it out here to see what I did.

Happy Sewing, Lilly :)

Alterations: A world of Possibilites

Very similar to the batwing pattern, this "kimono tee" is a possibility waiting to happen. Look at the way these sewers altered this pattern:

                                            Here are some of BurdaStyle's Interpretations of the Pattern

bluebetty

bluebetty

candyjoyce

New Skirt: The Helen

Here's a cute new pattern. It can be made of a cute floral, or a light weight denim for your next ultimate fav skirt!
URL: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/helena-skirt-a-new-pattern-download

By Littleash of BurdaStyle