January 11, 2011

HOUSTON, I THINK I'VE GOT A WORKABLE VINTAGE MUSLIN...

...I've concluded that there are 4 stages of "Sewing Paralysis":

  •  Stage 1 - Serious Over Thought (I think this is the way, but maybe there's a better way);
  • Stage 2 - You be come indecisiveness; (should I do it this way, or should I do it that way);
  • Stage 3 - You lose whatever confidence you started out with (but what if...); and lastly
  • Stage 4 - You enter into "Total Sewing Paralysis" (where you can't even move or start the project, and might even start to cry)....
Been there, done that???, you know I have, and it almost happened to me yesterday when I was trying to "Grade" my vintage skirt pattern up about 3 sizes.

 
When I chose this pattern I was so sure that I could do this, but when it came down to starting the project I began to doubt myself.  I started to take a picture of the pattern pieces and email it to my secret sewing mentors to beg for advice.  But I was able to talk myself out of calling in the allies, and pulled up my big girl panties and worked it out myself.  Oh, it wasn't because I didn't think they'd help me out, because they always come to my rescue!  I just decided not to remove my crutches, and stand on my own with this project.

In grading the two pattern pieces up 3 sizes, I need to add 10 1/2" to the waist and 5" to the hip area of the pattern.  My problem was in trying to decide whether to divide by four and add the results to the side seam allowance; or to divide by two and add the results to the center front and back of the pattern.  I thought about Nancy Zieman's "PIVOT AND SLIDE" method or her "SLASH AND SPREAD" method.  With all of my reference books still packed up, I decided to wing it and go with the slash and spread option.
My muslin is a little large in the waist and hip areas, but I've made notes and adjustments on my traced pattern to help me remember what changes to make.  I think I've got a workable muslin, my fabric has been pre-treated, and now I'm ready to pin and start cutting.  TOTAL SEWING PARALYSIS averted...

19 comments:

  1. This skirt is going to be so cute! I love the design! Can't wait to see the finished product.

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  2. What fabulous, independent problem solving! I know exactly what you're talking about. I tend to keep moving - paralysis can't happen when you're jumping around (lalala) :-)

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  3. Yep, I've done all of the above, LOL. You did it! The muslin looks fantastic.

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  4. I love this style of skirt. I really need to get my muslin done!

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  5. There's something about perseverance, isn't there? Way to go.

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  6. Oh yes! I've experienced that. Often though, just walking away, and "sleeping on" a problem will bump me out of the paralysis.

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  7. Faye, nice job. Sewing paralysis, huh? Now I know that too well.

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  8. As Victoria stated a while back, Paralysis of Analysis! I do understand! Great job resolving it yourself and good luck! Doesn't look like you'll need it though...you're off to a great start!!

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  9. Anonymous1/11/2011

    I am with you on the overthinking! Your muslin looks great and flattering!

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  10. Anonymous1/11/2011

    Oh, nice job! Congrats! This will be just great when completed. What a fun pattern.

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  11. Horray for you!! The muslin looks great.

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  12. OH NO, is it possible to suffer from all 4 stages of sewing paralysis at the same time??? 'Cause I think I am! LOL.

    Faye, I love the pattern you chose and especially those side pleats! When you work it out, I am sure it will be smashing!

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  13. Good for you in persevering! It's going to be a really cute skirt.

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  14. It will be a beautiful skirt!

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  15. You did a terrific job. I have this same pattern in my stash of old patterns and would never attempt to upsize it to fit me now. Keep up the great efforts.

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  16. Oh my that skirt is delicious. I loves me some pleat action. Can't wait to see it.

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  17. Faye, love the way you talked yourself through getting the job done. The muslin looks really good and I know by now you must be sewing away of the final product. Can't wait to see another great item ready to add to your growing wardrobe. Keep up the good work.

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  18. I hadn't realized it until your diagnosis, but I sewed two shirts and a clutch while in Sewing Paralysis over the bodice of the Crepe sewalong.

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