You are currently viewing DIY – “CASUAL WOMAN” Collection – Pieces 5, 6 & 7

DIY – “CASUAL WOMAN” Collection – Pieces 5, 6 & 7

Happy Wednesday everyone!

Oh My Goodness! I’m in my happy zone now. It’s starting to flow again. For those of you who read last week’s blog post, you know that I was contemplating jumping ship from another project I was working on to start this New Look 6529 ensemble. Guess what? I didn’t jump ship. I completed the other project first, then immediately started this one, which I was able to complete in a couple of days, (cut one day–sewed the next). You guys, I was so desperate to make this outfit and wear it that I took my last project with me to the hospital to work on it and expedite the finish. YES, you read correctly. This girl took a sewing machine to the hospital!!! Hahahahaaaaa!!! Now you know that’s too much. Well shoot, I spend my days there, so why not? It’s become my second home. His room is nice and spacious and the bedside table is the perfect size for my Baby Lock Soprano. No shame in my game at ALL! Yeah, I know I could have just whipped this one up and then returned to the other project. I guess you can say I’m a real stickler when it comes to completing what I start. I do NOT like having UFO’s hanging around in my studio. It feels like clutter in my brain, because I tend to think about it not being done. I’ve had UFO’s before and I’m not saying I’ll never have another one, but if I can help it they will always be rare.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

I’m so in love with this look. It’s cute, comfortable, and fits in well with the other pieces I’ve created for the Collection. The hooded tunic with kangaroo pocket and fingerless glove sleeve detail is too adorable. This is the first time I’ve tried the fingerless glove deal. I sewed another pattern a couple of years ago that had this detail and I omitted it because I thought it would be more of a nuisance. Well let me tell you, I love it. When I don’t want them on, like for eating, I simply remove my thumbs from the opening and carry on. What’s also great is the extra warmth created when the hands are placed inside the pocket while wearing the fingerless glove.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

If you’re a beginner and into casual wear, you may want to add this pattern to your list. It’s super easy to sew, and with experience in the basics, you should be able to knock this one out in no time. I sewed it right out of the package with no alterations to the pattern, except shortening the length of the leggings. If I had left them at ankle length, I would have definitely  tapered them in that area for a closer fit. This pattern is sized for stretch knits only.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

I had a good amount of leftover fabric, so I decided to add another pencil skirt. I used the Mimi G Style “High Waist Pencil Skirt” Tutorial again, but this time I omitted the side pockets, center back seam (by cutting on the fold) and replaced the zipper with an elastic waistband. So this is a basic pencil skirt worn at the true waist.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

I chose this beautiful Ponte Knit that I picked up from JoAnn Fabrics. It’s perfect for both the leggings and tunic. I didn’t want anything too thick or thin and this is a great mid-weight with just enough drape so that the hood on the tunic isn’t stiff when hanging down, or too flimsy when worn over the head. It’s also a great choice for the leggings because the fabric holds everything in just right “for me.”

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

You may have noticed by now that all the pieces I’ve sewn have been created from very simple patterns and constructed of knit fabrics. This is definitely an intentional choice. I decided that if I want to do a Collection at this time in my life, the majority of the patterns and fabric must be super easy for me to work with and very comfortable to wear. That doesn’t mean I have to compromise style though. There are so many cute and stylish patterns on the market for those who are new to sewing, and since I have a special place in my heart for beginners, this is a great time to SHINE the light on Beginner-Friendly patterns.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

Now, keep in mind that I did say the “majority” of the patterns I use will be easy. There are also a few intermediate level patterns in the Collection line-up.  The pattern I used for the dress I’ll be sharing next week is a Mimi G Style Simplicity pattern, and she has created a step-by-step sew-along video tutorial to help you out. We’ll discuss that next week. 

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

Several of you have asked if I will be creating tutorials for a couple of the pieces I’ve sewn for the Collection. The answer is, YES. However, I haven’t decided which ones or how many I will make video tutorials for yet. I will decide that after the Collection is complete.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

Create the Look!

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

I have a feeling I’ll get lots of wear from this set. I wore the tunic and leggings the other day and it’s the ultimate comfort I’m going for. This look is definitely my favorite so far.

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

COLLECTION RECAP

Click on the links below if you’ve missed the other pieces in the Collection. Also, make sure you stay with me until the end because I’ll show you how I mix and match all the pieces to create more outfits. If you want to play along, see how many outfits you come up with. It should be fun. Who knows? Someone may come up with an outfit that I miss. 

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

Well, I’m off to start my next piece for the Collection. If it turns out the way I envision, it’s going to be fabulous.

Thanks for stopping by!

Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!

Anita

DIY - "Casual Woman Collection" - Pieces 5 & 6

Anita Morris

Anita is the Author of STEP Into It, Overcoming Trials That Lead To Purpose. She is also an Online Sewing Instructor for beginner sewists. She is passionate about helping women to step into their purpose by walking in the calling on their lives. She hosts a popular YouTube channel where she helps women to become confident in their sewing skills.

This Post Has 32 Comments

  1. Myra

    Anita, this is super cute!! I love everything about it, including the way you styled the pieces! I am totally in to more casual attire lately and this cute set is a winner in my book! Also, I love, love, love you sewing at the hospital! Truly inspiring to know others feel the same about sewing, “we’ll do it where ever we can!” and being with the loved one, doing what you love is “Priceless”!

    1. Anita Morris

      Heeeey Myra! Thank you so much sister. I love you.

  2. Edna Madera

    I love it… thanks for sharing the info about the attend but most of all the link for finding the fabric. As a beginner I struggle with picking the right fabric for my projects so having a link to find the fabric you use guides me in using the correct fabric when I test the texture and the colors. Thank you

    1. Anita Morris

      Hi Edna! Awesome! I’m so glad the fabric links are helpful to you.

  3. Carmen

    Love, Love, Love. You are a great sewing inspiration to me. Continued prayers for your family.

  4. pam

    Love your collection and fabric choice. Still praying for you and family.

  5. Tarah

    Anita, I love that these looks are practical , but stylish. They fit you great. Prayers for healing and recovery for Cemo. Thank you for continuing to share your gift with your followers.

  6. The Sewing CPA

    This is so beautiful, Anita. I appreciate that you always keep us beginner sewists in mind. I always look forward to seeing what you make.

  7. Sheila

    What a beautiful collection this is. I love it. You did an awesome job on it. It looks great on you Anita. Work it lady!!! You look so happy doing what you enjoy. Keep them coming.

    1. Anita Morris

      Thank you Sheila! I’m loving it.

  8. Eryn Shields

    I love the pants version and you are a G to haul a sewing machine up to the hospital! LOL Love it! But, seriously, I love that you find time to feed your soul a bit. When you are at your best, you can be the best partner to Cecil!

    1. Anita Morris

      Yes, Eryn! I’m finding that I do much better with him when I’m taking care of myself. I had to learn.

  9. Tawanna

    Hi Anita. I am not a sewer. However, I love reading your posy and seeing your creativity. Keep it up lady. Blessings to you.

  10. Rosalind David

    Anita, I have been trying to locate bursa 6990 in Maryland and I have been unsuccessful. I like this top & skirt.

    1. Anita Morris

      Hi Rosalind. You can purchase it online if you don’t find it in your town.

  11. Angela Hill

    Hey Ms. Anita, you look gorgeous glad to see you, and Yes please do a tutorial on this love your collections I have this pattern but haven’t taken out the package at all, can’t wait to see what else you will be making. Love ya and God Bless.

  12. Sherry

    Ms. Anita, your collection thus far is on point. I really like all the pieces and will definitely be buying this pattern. I am continually praying for you and your family! God Bless you!

  13. Gwen Styles

    Girl you do good work and you always look FABULOUS! God bless! you and family!

  14. Brittany Jones

    This is so perfect!! I love this look! So comfy, and casual! You are killing this collection Ms. Anita!!

    1. Anita Morris

      Thanks Brittany! I’m loving this set.

  15. Florence

    It brings me joy to see you getting your sewing groove back! I absolutely love your casual collection. You’ve proven that you can be comfortable without looking frumpy. I’m definitely inspired. Thank you for taking the time to share. I do appreciate it.

    1. Anita Morris

      That’s right, Florence! Casual does NOT equal frumpy! Thank you so much!

  16. Angie Jackson

    Awesome look and I will be getting this pattern for sure

    1. Anita Morris

      Thanks Angie! Enjoy making your pieces.

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