Skill Building Projects for a Bright December

2020 feels like a guest who has overstayed their welcome!

I for one can't wait until December 31st, when I can usher this crazy year to the door. While it has been challenging to navigate this year, there is always some good that comes with the bad and I am choosing to concentrate on that, so I am keeping hope alive for a much better 2021.

Since 2020 is sticking around for a few more weeks and our Holiday time is likely going to look different than previous years, I thought I would highlight some of the projects you might like to work on to make these last few weeks go as quickly as possible.

Pick Up a Pattern

The Chelsea top has always been one of my favourites and if you want something a little dressier than a t-shirt, make it in lace like I did. The Chelsea pattern is a PDF sewing pattern available in sizes 0-16.

With all patterns on sale, this is a great opportunity to try the Lila top. 

Lila is a Fitting Essentials pattern (available in sizes 2-14 and 12-24) that features the horizontal and vertical balance lines printed directly on the pattern and also includes access to an In-House Patterns Studio account where you'll get access to additional resources that will show you how to take this pattern even further. 

Learn More Here.

This is Jill's version which turned out beautifully in rayon batik fabric. She tells me she cut a size 8 and made no fit alterations.

Practice Your Pattern Making and Fitting Skills

There are plenty of free tutorials on the website that will take your skills to new heights. You'll find that I have the website organized into sections, just click on the images below for inspiration in your area of interest. There is more than enough here to keep you busy.

Take an Online Course

If you find you have a lot of time on your hands this December, take a deep dive into a pattern drafting course and create your own personal bodice blocks. I cover drafting, refining and fitting in detail like no other.

Learn more here The Custom Stretch Knit Bodice Block and here Designed to Fit: The Bodice Block

This is Terri, she followed the Ava Design Project after completing her basic bodice block from the Designed to Fit: The Bodice Block online course then took her skills even further and designed her own classic denim shirt! The comfort of a custom fit is undeniable!

I'll leave you here to investigate all the resources I've shared with the hopes that it helps you to bring your 2020 to a productive close. While 2021 will bring on it's own challenges, I wish for you a reprieve from the struggles you've faced and hope that happiness and light shines for you throughout the Holiday season. 

All My Best,
Alexandra