Designer days
I’m becoming very discerning in my sewing pattern choices. Not that I really know anything yet, but looking at the patterns available from Vogue, I’m learning that Ann Klein’s designs are very classic, Donna Karan is grown-up sexy with added style and Calvin Klein is laid back cool. I’m looking for good staples in the all-in-one patterns too. More samples from my wish list (can you tell, I’m almost as excited as when I first started knitting): DKNY, Bill Blass, Guy Laroche. Of course I would never be able to afford these cloths from the store, but someday I hope to be able to sew well enough to make them myself.
Does anyone have any advice on sewing designers/companies they like best and why? Also, I’m wondering as I feel like I’m sending this question out into the abyss, how many people out there are knitters as well as seamstresses? (oops, besides Barbara - just saw your comment - thank you! 
April 22nd, 2003 at 11:20 pm
A word of (totally unsolicited) advice on the linen pants- double stitch the crotch seam, about 1/16" apart- and finish your seams on the inside. Linen/rayon blends, while lovely to wear, can ravel like crazy. Even something as simple as zig-zagging the raw edges can help. Have fun!
April 23rd, 2003 at 1:49 pm
Barbara, thank you, I so appreciate it. I’m hungry for any advice I can get. There are two things that I wish my sewing machine had - a finishing stitch that’s better than zig zag and automatic button holes. I’m going to attempt manual button holes on a linen shirt this weekend…:$
April 23rd, 2003 at 2:41 pm
I’m a knitter who also *just* started to sew - got a machine for christmas. Unfortunately, I have no advice to offer, but just wanted to let you know I love your blog and enjoy reading about your knitting AND sewing projects.
April 23rd, 2003 at 3:45 pm
Hey there! I’m a fellow knitblogger who just took up sewing a few months ago. I’ve got a little sewing blog going at: http://alison.hansels.net/sewblue. I hope you keep blogging abour your sewing, but I know what you mean about posting into the abyss. That’s why I separated my sewing posts from my knitting posts. I wasn’t sure if anyone out there was really interested!
So far, I’ve started a few projects from Simplicity, New Look, and KwikSew patterns. I like the Burda magazines for their style and was happy to see that you found somewhere online to purchase their individual patterns. Thanks for sharing the links you’ve found. Any good online fabric finds to share??
April 23rd, 2003 at 3:57 pm
I’ve been interested in learning how to sew too. Have you checked out Melissa’s "Action Hero blog". She’s a local Portland girl. You should check out some of the sewing projects she’s completed. She has fabulous taste.
April 23rd, 2003 at 5:02 pm
I also do both — for me it’s kinda seasonal. Warmer weather makes me want to sew! I’m working on a linen dress (butterick 3514), and trying to tackle the world of fitting. I would also recommend Burda and Vogue — also KwikSew. Have fun! I’m looking forward to seeing your progress!
April 23rd, 2003 at 5:09 pm
Greetings from NYC,
April 23rd, 2003 at 5:19 pm
Oops,
Computer malfunction (operator error) I am a knitter who used to sew. Haven’t pulled my machine out in 3 years. Keep saying I will when work calms down (which won’t happen till I get a new job, but that’s another story) My advice regarding patterns is stick with Vogue and Butterick. They are consistently better patterns in terms of fit, yardage requirements, clarity of instructions and style. The others are OK only for the most basic designs. But wherever possible you should spring for the Vogue patterns. I recall Joann crafts having 75% off sales on Vogue patterns every time the season changed. I got some beautiful patterns that way. Some that I made over and over in various fabrics. I would also advise you to buy the best quality fabrics as they sew up better than cheap stuff. try and stick to natural fibers, this one place where your knitting experience is transferable.
Good luck and enjoy! Maybe I’ll pull my machine out too, after watching your progress.
April 23rd, 2003 at 7:17 pm
I am a sewer / knitter as well. Sewing is my first love since I was 17. I wouldn’t say I am an expert, but I find the process very satisfying. Knitting is my new found love of 6 months. (is it wrong to love two crafts at the same time?)
As far as pattern companies are concerned, Vogue is by far the best when it comes to design and fit. Also take a look at Burda, preferably the magazine. Their patterns are very fashionable and well trended. Plus, I find they are drafted to fit the curves of the body better than most american companies.
Good luck with your projects. I’ve been reading your blog for a while and your work is great. I hope to be that accomplished of a knitter one day.
April 24th, 2003 at 12:31 pm
glad to see you’ve discovered Evil Stephen (fabric.com)- but watch out! He can be a very bad influence!
He seems to have the best silk prices around. Do sign up for his newsletter-it’s a great way to spot the specials.
He also has added patterns recently. And there’s Patternshowcase, and Pawprints, and Purrfection- all great artsy stuff. Oh, and I almost forgot Folkwear- tremendous ethnic patterns.
April 24th, 2003 at 7:43 pm
A big thanks to everyone for the fantastic advice and words of encouragement!
April 30th, 2003 at 4:40 pm
I am a sewer that just started knitting 2 1/2 years ago. as a sewer I would suggest diligence in sewing Vogue. In the past their instructoins have been less than easy to understand. Haven’t sewn more than draperies in the last few years so that may have changed.