schoolhouse tunics

For the past decade I've dreamed of being able to sew up an entire wardrobe season. For the longest time my entire sewing skills consisted of being able to sew a simple cushion or basic curtains. Four years ago I pushed myself to learn to sew simple girl's clothes. The past few years I've sewn quite a bit for the kids. But I've only occasionally dabbled in sewing for myself, and none that I would say I was absolutely happy with, though I do wear them from time to time.

But a few late nights and patience, lot's of patience, has meant that I'm just that little bit closer to a season of homemade outfits. Spurred on, I admit, by the lack of quality in the shops these days, as well as poor fit and exorbitant prices, not to mention the ethical side, or lack of, in the clothing world. Which in turn tends to make it more difficult to find good clothing in the op shops.

So sewing out of necessity I am.

My dress is still awaiting it's zipper (two zippers inserted didn't work properly (frustrating!), so I have on order a better quality zipper), but meanwhile I'd been busy with the Schoolhouse Tunic.

The first, in the beige, was made from a soft voile I found at the op shop. I cut a size 10, but had to do some altering, so with the blue Amy Butler voile I cut an 8, but used a smaller seam allowance in the arm area. I think I got it just right in the end.

I'm enjoying the freedom in being able to match a design that will suit me, paired with a print that I know I will love. I thoroughly enjoy that part of the creative process.

It was a great, easy pattern, with no zippers or buttons to worry about. I would highly recommend it. The blue one was sewn within a day. Which is a good thing when you're going on holidays the very next day. Even if your husband thinks you are a little crazy and should be packing.

They were so comfy and light to wear that I virtually lived in them the entire week I was away. Mostly teamed with a pair of leggings, but I was game to wear them on their own (despite the pale legs!)  down at the beach.

Now all I need is a little tunic friendly weather to make an appearance back home. I'm still waiting on that.



Hoping that your Wednesday is lovely one wherever you are.