It took me a long time to realize that making basics could be fun. Party dresses and novelty prints are my jam ALL. DAY. LONG. But solids and basics… Not so much. I always felt like I wanted to solely spend my sewing time creating beautiful special pieces and I was more than comfortable supplementing my closet with store bought basics. The longer I’ve been making my own clothes, though, the less inclined I feel to buy anything at a store. I feel proud to wear things I’ve made, and I find that no matter what, I reach almost exclusively for the me-made items rather than anything I’ve purchased.
It’s also been a year that has really lent itself to the comfier, cozier pieces in my closet. While I do try to wear all of the beautiful things that I’ve sewn, even if it is only for a couple of hours when I get home after work, it’s always nice to just grab something comfy and settle down for the day. Tees, leggings, sweats or joggers, and comfy sweaters have really been the glue holding all of us together in 2020!
Even when I want something comfy and cozy, I like things that still speak to my own style and don’t just turn me into a comfy lump of stretchy cotton. Little details make me happy! I had originally purchased the Elliot pattern with chunky, cozy sweaters in mind, but thanks to the Love to Sew podcast, I recently remembered that there are also some tee-appropriate options! I combined different views of the pattern to end up with a cute tee with some fun details – I love these ¾ length sleeves and the split hem! It can be dressed up a little for a cute, casual outfit, but is also deliciously comfortable with a pair of thick sweats while watching Netflix under a blanket (balance, ya know?).
I don’t quite remember what made me choose this fabric, to be entirely honest. I don’t even remember if I had a clear plan of what I wanted it to be. When it arrived, though, I was VERY happy with my choice – this stuff is SOFT. This is a thinner knit with a good amount of drape. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for something meant to be fitted, because I fear it would bag out with wear, but it works really well as a tee. I also made my daughter a pair of leggings with my leftover fabric, and they work great for her!
If you want to get your hands on some of this good stuff, I’ve linked it below! This is one of 7 different colorways, all of which are really nice shades that would transition well between seasons. Don’t forget that you can use code ELIZABETH15 for 15% off sitewide, anytime!
Top: handmade by me
Pattern: Helen’s Closet – Elliot Sweater & Tee
Fabric: Stylish Fabric – Denim Steel Variegated Stripe Crepe Viscose Jersey Knit
Key Ingredients:
Brother XR9500PRW Sewing Machine
Brother 1034D Overlocker
Schmetz Jersey Ballpoint Needles
Dahle 36×48 Self-healing Cutting Mat
Heat & Bond Soft Stretch (Lite)
Thanks for reading my thoughts on this make! The fabric used for this post was generously provided to me by the team at Stylish Fabric in exchange for a blog post about my experience working with this fabric; the pattern used here was purchased by me. The words and opinions expressed throughout this post are my own, as always. Links provided throughout this post may be affiliate links – if you choose to purchase any products through these links, I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. This simply helps me justify the costs of my sewing habit and the time it takes to share it with you!! Happy Sewing!
- XX Elizabeth
