I love Colette Patterns I have just finished my second one:

this is a Violet in pale yellow polka dot cotton.  I struggled a bit and had to unpick the collar and facing twice but I am  happy with the end result.  So happy I bought myself 3 more patterns (bit over the top I know):

Sencha blouse - I fancy making it in a vintage floral fabric or red polka dot - not sure.  I'm hoping to make a couple for friend's birthdays as well.

Iris shorts - really not sure what fabric or colour for these

and for when I am feeling more confident the Rooibos dress - a bright red version and maybe a navy one for work.  So that's my summer wardrobe planned but I need to get sewing ...

My first skirt - using Colette Patterns 'Ginger'. 

I was suprised at how easy it was to make - I can't wait to make another in dark, indigo denim with red and white polka dot trim.  I love the Colette patterns - I am trying to make a 'Violet' blouse but the collar has gone a bit awry.  I may have to unpick it all and start again - oh dear.

It is this rickety, old dress form which I spotted in my local Oxfam and bought for £10 that has completely revived my interest in sewing.  I had always wanted a dress form and there it was. I love vintage clothes and inspired by Tilly and the Buttons - I have decided it is time I started to make my own.  I am competent at sewing, always in a rush and not good at details but I am hoping to develop those skills and become a proper seamstress. 

I love, love, love vintage patterns - my very sensible teenage daughter Kitty told me off for buying too many and not making enough clothes - she is right of course, but they are so hard to resist, the glamour and the promise they offer - that perfect jacket, skirt etc that I'm just about to make....

This is a top I made from an old skirt a friend gave me - she always brings her Oxfam bags for a rummage before taking them to the charity shop.

I'm working on another renovation - taking an old skirt from my stylish friend Lucy (see her gorgeous knitwear at http://www.lucymillerlondon.com/).  I have decided that her black lace M & S skirt is going to be miraculously transformed into a 'Breakfast at Tiffanys'/Audrey Hepburn style little black dress - not sure how but a girl can dream.



thriftyniftycraftykitschy.typepad.com/ has a new home.

thriftyniftycraftykitschy.typepad.com/ has a new home.  Inspired by Tilly and the Buttons blog I have unpacked my sewing machine and begun making things.  What a joy!  I've also decided to revive my on-off blog to follow my journey into sewing and making beautiful clothes for myself and my loved ones so here I go one stitch at a time ...