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Sadly, Mood’s denim isn’t usually up to snuff. But like I said, I’m a really picky customer. I don’t buy jeans very often, and when I do I expect them to last for a really long time. I wear them until they’re more holes than denim. But I do have trouble finding a good fit, so I’d be willing to sew them if I could find the right denim (and time!).

@Liesl – have you ever looked at Mood’s denims (they have a physical store in NYC, right)? If so, are they not a good source for the quality you’re looking for?

(full disclosure – I have no idea what high-end denim feels like. I buy inexpensive jeans because I’m hard on them. Still want them to fit better, though!)

Yes, @motherof5, yes regarding lining the Secret Agent trench!

I own the pattern and have never made it – and I admit it’s because I prefer a lined jacket. I worry that my version would end up too bathrobe-like and not be worn.

Could you link to your blog post about lining it and I’ll check it out…please!

Good idea! I think I will try the pockets. Either using the woven for the pocket or just for a border/binding on a knit pocket.

See, I knew you guys would have good suggestions! Thanks so much! I think one of these patterns will work well. Now I just have to take the plunge.

I buy mine from Spotlight and they have a range but my daughter especially complains that the denim itches her skin, even after washing. The stretchier stuff is quite thin and I am yet to see any denim that resembles that of well made rtw jeans.

I know Fabric.com have a range and I have bought from them also (way back when the exchange rate was…[Read more]

I’ve heard the Jalie pattern is quite good. I’ve always resisted jeans because it’s nearly impossible to find really good quality denim! Any good sources? I’m picky, but if I’m going to take the take to sew jeans I want to use premium denim like you’d find in a pair of expensive jeans.

If your struggling with pants fit I highly recommend Fitting and Pattern Alteration by Liechty. It has a whole section on how to fit the crotch curve using a flexible ruler, the step by step intructuons gave me amazing results. I had previously made 3 muslins (practice goes) of Colette Iris shorts and couldn’t work out the fitting issues. I then…[Read more]

If your struggling with pants fit I highly recommend Fitting and Pattern Alteration by Liechty. It has a whole section on how to fit the crotch curve using a flexible ruler, the step by step intructuons gave me amazing results. I had previously made 3 muslins (practice goes) of Colette Iris shorts and couldn’t work out the fitting issues. I then…[Read more]

Well I spent the morning going hammer and tongs at the sewing machines and have now completed two pairs of pyjama pants view c from Lisette B6296. I made the 14 as per her measurements in her waist (her hips are virtually non existent as yet.) and thought they looked too big once they were made but after she tried them on, they were pronounced…[Read more]

Well I spent the morning going hammer and tongs at the sewing machines and have now completed two pairs of pyjama pants view c from Lisette B6296. I made the 14 as per her measurements in her waist (her hips are virtually non existent as yet.) and thought they looked too big once they were made but after she tried them on, they were pronounced…[Read more]

@Enbee, I love the Jalie stretch jeans. They have mid and high rise and are a boot cut. Best thing is the many many sizes cater for both kids and adults (which can be a plus). I also have the jeans pattern by Angela Wolf but I haven’t used it as yet. I have done a craftsy class with her teaching how to make them though. They look fantastic and are…[Read more]

I wonder if the Secret Agent was a lined jacket if that would have made a difference.
My blog post re lining it gets a lot of hits.

I like @reeni idea of a multi size system too.

A shirt/blouse and a new shorts pattern would be super appreciated too.

@Enbee I cannot recommend the Ginger jeans enough and they have just released a boot cut version.

The zip fly instructions are the best I have ever used.

I feel your pain… but maybe you could still use the woven, just not at the neck binding? maybe some appliques or a pocket…

I would definitely buy and use a moto jacket pattern, I have used and used the School Days coat pattern — first as a raincoat, then as pirate coats, then as basis for this year’s raglan Descendants jacket. I’ve taken a stab at drafting a princess-seamed one but of course yours would be miles better. Would it be easier if it was XS,S,M,L,XL…[Read more]

It sounds so colourful – it’s a favourite story in our house (even though Chloë prefers Possum Magic right now) – she has a rag book she often “reads”.

I am confident both pairs will be done before Wednesday evening (Friday is departure day) but I am worried there will be other things in dire need at the last minute. Take for instance my request…[Read more]

It sounds so colourful – it’s a favourite story in our house (even though Chloë prefers Possum Magic right now) – she has a rag book she often “reads”.

I am confident both pairs will be done before Wednesday evening (Friday is departure day) but I am worried there will be other things in dire need at the last minute. Take for instance my request…[Read more]