Hello there!

Hi! My name is Hanna.

I've been sewing since I was seven and making my own clothes since I was about 15 years old. This is my first foray into blogging, even though I signed up to blogger a long time ago.

There doesn't seem to be an easy way to start, so let's just get into it. I've been wanting to start this blog for awhile, but there never seemed to be a 'right time' first I had children, then I moved house a couple of times, then we started building a house, phew! I'm exhausted just thinking about it. Then there was Sew Caroline who put a call out on Instagram for pattern testers and I thought to myself 'Wow, I'd love to be a part of that'. Normally I wouldn't attempt to throw my hat in the ring, feeling as though I'd never be chosen. Now I am feeling as though I need to at least try! Even if I am not chosen, at least I have started something that I have wanted to do FOREVER.

So, let's start with the sewing part. I've done many more projects than this in the past few months, but I'm going to spread out the posts a bit- this blogging thing takes longer than I first thought!

Firstly is the Lisette 'Portfolio' dress which is sadly now out of print. This is not my first portfolio. I made the first one about two years ago to see Colin Hay of 'Men at work' fame in concert. I loved it so much I was determined to have a wardrobe full of them. Moving house and having kids meant I have just worn my first one to death- literally it is falling apart, but only because I have washed it so many times and I made it out of a cheap poly-cotton that was given to me. It used to be an amazing jungle print.

When Liesl released the updated 'Cappuccino' version of this dress I swooned. Unfortunately my budget does not stretch to buying the pattern quite yet, however I was inspired to pull out the portfolio pattern and make it up again. Now finally some pictures!

I used a slightly stretchy cotton sateen with a citrus print. I adore this print but I'm not sure that this fabric was the best choice for this dress. I really had to press the crap out of it and it's still crumply! 

I omitted the cuff sleeve, mostly because I do not like ironing cuffs. Also because I don't need any extra bulk in the upper arm area.

 I used a white pearly button and the button loops are green, because green.

I also took in the yoke by 1cm to give a more flattering neckline, being the big busted lass that I am. 

I also decided to give the top pattern a try in this lovely medium weight cotton spot. I LOVE this green.

The skirt pattern is Simplicity 2258 made up in a light weight denim. This is my go to skirt for mummy duties. Pockets and an elastic waist? Yes please!

I think in future versions I will lower the hem line a little more- or I could just buy the new Cappuccino version- which is already longer, lol.

 Front detail- I widened the centre panel by 2cm to give me some extra room in the bust, I probably could have used a little more... still, I love it!

Back 

 I also omitted the cuff on this version. I did however use the tab from the included pants pattern to add some interest to the sleeves. I think it turned out well. I love the big buttons.

I hope you enjoyed my versions of the 'Portfolio' pattern. Stay tuned there's more to come, including some great indie pattern reviews. 

Thanks for reading!