The uninterrupted hemline of the Carpe Diem opens up some fun hemline design opportunities. A new linen top, designed and made as spring became summer, is an excellent example of creative energy moving a Carpe Diem hemline to the next level. Plan the Project It started with a stash search…
It’s time to introduce some more options included in the Carpe Diem Dress & Tunic pattern. This week we are looking at the Minty Fresh Carpe Diem Dress to demonstrate the steps for preparing and inserting the optional cap sleeve, back belt, and pleated hem vent. Doesn’t this dress feel…
In the search for creative inspiration, it occasionally happens that a technique or idea propels you in a variety of different productive directions. Such is the case with the quilting technique sashing. I came across it in a quilting book called Maverick Quilts by Alethea Ballard. The subtitle is why…
On our trip to New York in May, I spotted this lovely peach knit with a classic Italian print, only understated. It is a very light cotton jersey and while it is rare that I make a Tabula Rasa Knit top in only one fabric, this one seemed like a…
In the Spring, I shared the beginning of my Summer Pants Journey featuring 2 pairs of elastic waist pants, one in brown linen and one in moss green Tencel, based on the Eureka! Pants that Fit pattern. For the last several weeks I have been busy sewing several tops, which…
Today we are looking at an alternative way to finish the armholes and neckline of a sleeveless Carpe Diem Dress or Tunic. Patterns and instructions for finishing those areas with a traditional facing is included with the Carpe Diem, as seen on this sleeveless double gauze top. A few weeks…
Pockets seem to be required additions for many stitchers making DIY garments. I love pockets myself, but I know how pockets can shift the shape and fit of a garment so I add them carefully. Our Pocket Variations Pattern for the Tabula Rasa Jacket offers a number of interior and…
Carrie made this notched scoop neck top very early in the development of the Carpe Diem Dress & Tunic pattern. The notch opens the neckline up a bit, making it easier to pull a top or dress on over your head without a back closure. While the notch design didn’t…
Sewing cotton lawn fabric into blouses and tops makes for easy summer dressing. My article in the current issue of Classic Sewing Magazine features 3 Tabula Rasa Jackets stitched into effortless Spring to Summer tops. This post is about a 4th top designed and sewn at the same time. Find…
The Tabula Rasa Jacket is so versatile and in unlined rayon it is perfect as the weather transitions from winter to spring. So I recently added a new comfortable and colorful Tabula Rasa Jacket to my working girl wardrobe. The jacket was inspired by some scraps left behind after I…
