Me Made May 2018

I survived my first Me Made May! 

I thought it would be a breeze because 99% of what I make is for myself. 

I quickly realized, however, that I only had about 15 items that would work. Some of my me-made items only work in the fall and winter due to material or color. I was much more limited than I thought, so first thing I did the night before May 1st was make a new top. 

Here are the photos I got each day of my me-made items, from the 1st to the 31st: 

I had a lot of repeats, and five of the items were made during the month of May. 

My goal for the month was to wear one me-made item each day.

Im really glad I followed through with it because it pushed me to get creative some days and it motivated me to make more.

I've come away from this experience with a new goal (one I've never considered before): I want to have a 100% handmade wardrobe someday soon.

The Plantain Tee

I have recently been introduced to the world of pdf patterns. This is the first pdf pattern I've used, and it was a success! 

I came across it in my search for a free pattern to try out. Deer & Doe has beautiful patterns and their plantain tee pattern is free! They have a few dress patterns I'm excited to try. 

Pattern all printed, taped and cut! A new process for me, but definitely has its benefits

I put this top together the night before May 1st because I knew I wanted to wear me-made items each day of May, but I didn't have enough to get me through the whole month! 

I wore it on May 1st to kick off me made may!

I used a blue knit from Joann Fabrics. 

I love how this top fits. It is fitted but not too tight. I need some more basics in my wardrobe, so this was the perfect addition. 

My vision-impared mom took these photos. Pretty good, right?!

Tie Front Top

One style that I have been eager to try this summer is the tie front top. I have seen so many cute ones around. My sister in law made this one and I love it. 
Recently I came across this picture and I'm obsessed! I love that top! That picture was my inspiration for this top.
After a few failed attempts at finding it, I finally did!

The top from ASOS

I got it for myself (obviously) and I made a pattern from it so I can recreate it for myself over and over again.

The pattern pieces

I used a forrest green jersey knit fabric that I've had for a while. I love it because its super soft fabric and really heavy. Plus, the dark green color is one of my favorites.

Assembly was super simple. There were a few minor adjustments I had to make to the pattern as I was sewing the top together. One thing that needed tweaking was the bodice front. I'm not sure if it was a drafting mistake or if the fabric was weighing it down, but the bodice front was too long, making the tie too low for my liking. I shortened it two inches and it was perfect!






I love the diagonal seam details of this top. It is hardly noticeable (especially in the dark green fabric), but it makes a big difference in the drape of the fabric and the overall appearance of the top. I feel really good in this top! I think it is really flattering and comfortable. I like wearing things that are in style but I am not a risk taker. The tie front top is a popular style lately, but this will serve as a staple item because of its simplicity.
This was one of my planned projects from this post. 

My Favorite Green Top

Like I mentioned in this post, I recently inherited a ton of fabric from my Oma, and I am in fabric heaven!
When I see or feel a piece of fabric, I almost immediately come up with a plan for what to make and how to make it.
In the box of fabric, there was a small cut (less than a yard) of kelly green polyester knit. I have always wanted a top with a straight hem and side slits, but all the ones I find at stores have slits that go as high as the bust line! So I made a pattern for my own.



The pattern is super simple. The back is slightly longer than the front and from the bust dart, the side seams go straight down.

Just after finishing

I was too bashful to get anymore pictures, but her is the side view of the side slit!
I love this top so much. I shamelessly wear it every week! Its stretchy and comfortable, but it looks like a nice blouse. It is easy to dress it up or wear it casually.