The Crafty Beaver(s)

I am nearly done with Danielle ... I started with a deep purple crushed panne velvet, which I thought would be oh-so-elegant, but as it's velvet, and synthetic, and knit, I was barely able to cup the pattern pieces out, much less mark it and sew it. So I hid the pieces in a bag and hid the bag somewhere else. At least I can clean up the purple fuzz that's everywhere.

This pattern has challenged my sewing knowledge ... the instructions seem badly translated, and I hardly know what they're talking about in many regards. Thankfully I pretty much know what I'm doing by now and was able to put the dress together without too much stress. I opted for a slate grey/blue cotton. I was a little worried it wouldn't fit, but lo and behold, it does! I just had to adjust the bust darts to avoid fake-nipple syndrome. I don't know if I'd do the skirt the same the second time around; I think that particular style is not so flattering on me, but that was just at the basting stage. I haven't properly seamed it yet, and so I can still make a change. Pictures tonight when it's done!

And then I'll start on my trench coat, for real. I've only had the pieces cut for six months now.