Norah & Shelby Sew Along – Day 1

Welcome to day one of the Norah and Shelby sew-along. Let’s get sewcial during quarantine and make some pretty clothing! For day one we will decide on pattern options, print the pattern pieces, select our fabric, and cut our fabric pieces. Here we go!

Pattern Options

Norah

First let’s take a look at Norah, the woven pattern. This pattern is in regular rotation on my sewing list. It comes together quickly with stunning results every time. The front bodice can be made with a round or square neckline. To guarantee a fitted look you can add optional side ties. The back is my favorite feature and has several customizable options.  You can choose cross straps or one or two horizontal straps. I sometimes like to use fun trims or elastic in place of fabric for the straps. As you can see on this dress I used a 3/4″ metallic trim. I also embellished the bodice with piping.

For the skirt you can choose a gathered circle skirt or gathered rectangular skirt. The skirt can be cut in top or dress lengths. You will need to decide if you will add the angled pockets to your skirt. Also, the romper add-on can add an extra touch of sweetness to your project. For this dress I sized up on the circle skirt for added fullness, but cut a shorter, vintage length. Then I added the romper-on underneath.

Shelby

If you prefer to work with knits, then Shelby is the pattern for you! It has a lot of the same customizable options as Norah. The bodice neckline can be made rounded or square. The back straps options include horizontal or cross versions.

The biggest difference between the two are the pockets. Shelby features the cutest square pockets that are perfect for housing all of your little girl’s treasures.  For the skirt choose top or dress length and whether you’ll use a circle skirt or gathered rectangular skirt.

Before you print your pattern pieces, please measure the child you are sewing for to ensure a proper fit. Do not guess based on ready-to-wear clothing sizes. For example, Chacely wears a 12/18m in RTW clothing but I sew 9/12 months in SLPco patterns based on her measurements.

Fabric

With the state of the world right now I highly recommend you use fabric from your stash. Please be safe and avoid shopping at large stores if possible.  When going through your stash be sure to select a knit fabric with 4-way stretch if you plan to sew Shelby. I prefer to use knits that are 95% cotton and 5% spandex. I have used DBP before with great results.

For Norah pretty much any woven fabric will work. If your fabric is a directional print that requires you to cut on the bias, you may want to use a stabilizer in between your main and lining to prevent your fabric from warping with wear.

No matter what fabric you choose, make sure you wash before hand to account for any shrinkage that may occur during the first wash.

Day 1 Progress

To finish day one, we will cut out our fabric pieces. Be sure to take a picture of your cut pieces and place them in the sew-along album in the SLPco Facebook Fan group. At the end of the sew-along I will choose a daily winner from those that uploaded a daily progress photo. Such a fun and easy way to earn free shop credit! I cannot wait to see what fabrics everyone chooses today! Be sure to invite your friends to join!

 

Happy sewing,

Chauncey