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SEWING SEPARATES | NEW LOOK 6005
I’m off to a great start in 2023 with sewing from my current pattern stash. My goal for this year is to sew 23 patterns that I already have. I will still purchase patterns here and there, but not many. I’m looking forward to sewing separates this year, because I see a gap in my wardrobe. Also, I love having the ability to mix and match the pieces I make.
I’m definitely in need of more pants, of all kinds. Tops are lacking too, especially blouses. Of course, I’ll still be sewing my dresses, because that’s my favorite type of garment to make and wear. But first, I’m starting my “sewing separates” journey with this cute 2-piece fleece casual wear set. I love the outcome, so let’s talk about it.
PATTERN INFORMATION
I used two different patterns to create the set. The pants were designed with New Look 6005. The pattern has five different views with pocket and hem variations. When looking at the model on the pattern envelope, the pants legs appear to be more narrow than they really are when finished. After checking patternreview.com, I learned that the pants legs are quite wide. After sewing my muslin, I decided I liked the width and didn’t make any changes.
I sewed View B with the patch pockets along the side seams on the pants legs. I opted out of adding ties to the hem because I didn’t think it would look good with the wide legs. Although I don’t plan to use them, I really like the design detail of the patch pockets.`
I used Simplicity 8529 to design the top. The pattern is currently out-of-print but you may be able to find it anywhere older patterns are sold. Try Etsy and Pattern Review. There are four different views available with neckline, length, and hem variations.
I made View D with the contrasting neckband and sleeve bands. View D of this pattern is beginner friendly. If you have basic sewing skills, you should be able to follow along and complete the garment. The pattern instructions are straightforward. If you don’t know how to sew yet and want to learn the basics, check out my Sewing Course for New Beginners. I can help you to master the basics of garment sewing so that you can elevate your sewing to create finished pieces like these that are very well constructed.
I think my favorite parts on the top are the neckline and sleeve bands that I cut with a matching rib knit fabric.
Inside the Garment
Let’s take a look at the inside of the garments. I used my Vibrant Serger to sew the entire top, and the Euphoria Coverstitch to finish the neckline.Â
The pants were constructed with the Baby Lock Soprano for all the main seams, the Vibrant Serger to finish the seam allowances, and the Euphoria Coverstitch to hem the pants. I used a size 90/14 Jersey Needle in my Soprano with the All Purpose Presser Foot. I started with the Walking Foot, but the fabric kept getting bunched up, so I decided that this fabric must be too soft to feed smoothly with that foot. The All Purpose foot worked perfectly. Everything looks nice on the inside.
Fabric Options
The suggested fabrics for the pants are: Cotton and Cotton Blends, Chambray, Lightweight Denim, Twill, Silks and Silk Types, and Sueded Silks/Rayons. Obviously, I went totally opposite of the suggestions. I chose a knit fabric instead of woven. And, I went with a thick fabric rather than the lightweight options on the envelope.
It’s perfectly fine to choose fabrics that are different from the suggestions. However, if you’re new to sewing, I do suggest sticking with the options on the envelope or similar fabrics. Once you’ve gained some experience, then have fun playing with different options. I used a Bamboo Cotton Stretch Fleece in the color Scarlet. For the neckband and sleeve bands, I used a matching Bamboo Cotton Rib Knit. Both fabrics are from Core Fabrics. If you want to grab these fabrics, use my discount code ANITA10 for 10% Off (one-time use). The code expires September 2023. If you already used this code from our Tea Time Live in September 2022, that was your one-time use.
Alterations Information
I cut a size 14 for the pants and a medium for the top. No alterations were needed for the top and it fits exactly as I desired. The pants could have been taken in a bit at the waist on the pattern, but I just allowed the elastic waistband do the work of gathering that fabric in to fit. If I were to sew the pants again, I would definitely alter the pattern at the waist. I don’t like a lot of gathering at the waist, especially with thick fabrics. I would also make the waistband wider. I’m not a big fan of thin elastic waistbands. I thought I had cut the waistband wider but I didn’t.Â
Notions Information
There were no notions required for the top, except thread. The pants called for elastic, buttons and twill tape.
My Plans for the Garment
I made this set to wear while lounging around the house and running errands around town. It’s till cold where I live, and this fabric keeps me nice and warm. It’s the perfect outfit to cuddle up on the sofa with a good book and hot cup of tea.
Styling Options
While the pieces look great together, I’ll be separating them a lot.
Styling Option #1
Wearing the top with a pair of jeans is just an obvious choice.Â
Styling Option #2
I could see the pants styled with a long-sleeve t-shirt or this simple turtleneck that I made using the Nikko Top/Dress by True Bias. This was my first separate of 2023. I made it to wear with my white pants when I made my Pink Coat.
How would you wear the garment?
Do you have these patterns? Would you wear the garments? How would you style them? I would love to hear from you. Talk to me in the comments below.
Don't Forget your Sewing Project Checklist
Did you know that I created a Sewing Project Checklist to help you stay organized while sewing your garments? If you missed the video where I shared 3 Steps to Time Saving Sewing for Beginners, check it out to learn how you can streamline your sewing process. Tap the link below to get a Free PDF copy of the Checklist.
Thanks for stopping by,
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
Links to Products, Posts & Tutorials
Here are links to products, blog posts, and tutorials mentioned in this post.
- Pants Pattern
- Sewing Project Checklist
- Pattern Review Video
- Fabric Option 1 Fleece
- Fabric Option 2
- Learn to SEW
- Baby Lock Soprano
- Baby Lock Vibrant
- Baby Lock Euphoria
(DISCLAIMER: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. All opinions in this post are my own.).)
This Post Has 24 Comments
Hi Anita — the link to the Sewing Project Checklist did not work…..”page not found”…..glad I found your page
Hello! I saw this on Babylock’s instagram and was so amazed at how simple and comfy this looks. You mentioned that Simplicity 8529 is out of print and I’ve tried searching for it everywhere, but had no luck. If it isn’t too much trouble, could you recommend similar patterns that are easier to find? Thank you and hope to sign up for your classes soon!
Wow Anita! All I can say is another impeccable make! I really like all the looks, but if I had to pick a favorite, it is the set.
Oh, WOW! Thank you so much, Carla!
Love the idea of separates. I love that you can wear with other tops or bottoms. I do have a question the detail is superb, how long did it take you to sew this out fit? Do you just sew on it a little each day for instance thru the week or do you cut and sew the outfit in one day? For me I like planning and cutting out the pattern on one day then sew the outfit the following day. I get the most enjoyment from sewing when I sew at my own pace and not be rushed or on a deadline.
Yes it is 2:30 am in Florida LOL!
Thank you again for your inspiration!!
Hi Monica! I am a slow sewist and, like you, I LOVE to take my time on projects. I alter and cut patterns on one day, then begin sewing the next. I love paying attention to details, so I don’t like to be in a rush. However, there are times when I want to make something up quickly, but those are usually simple pieces that don’t require lots of details. I can’t remember exactly, but I think I took a couple of weeks to complete this set. I didn’t work on it every day, just when I felt like it. I love the peace that comes with the freedom to sew at my own pace.
Excellent!
Thank you, Delores!
Tastefully done. You always look so pretty.
Thank you Kimberley
You make casual look so fine and I love the color! I want to make this, but how do I find the right size? I follow the measurements on patterns for my size; but they always turns out too small. Does anyone else out there have the same issue? Should I just always go up a size?
Hi Brenda. Thank you. Always follow the finished garment measurements that are usually found on the front pattern pieces (not the envelope).
Im really liking this set!!
This color looks great on you and as always nice job on these pieces.
These pieces are so beautifully made. And that pocket detail is immaculate. You make even casual look Fabulous! No, I do not have these patterns but I may have something similar. I’m thinking French Terry.
Oh, thank you so much, Carmen. French Terry would look amazing!
This outfit is perfect for the weather here, too; it’s still cold. The color is so vibrant; it’s just what’s needed to perk up dreary day. Without a doubt, I agree with you – this outfit is great for lounging and to wear for running errands. Very nice outfit!
Thank you, De! I really love the color too. I’ve worn this set twice already. Sooooo comfortable.
You did a beautiful job.
Very nice 2 piece, looks good and comfortable.
Very cute!
Thank you, Miranda!
Your work is amazing and I love how you styled the 2 pieces. I think I would also love to make
the top a little longer, just below mid thigh and wear it with a pair of leggings and sneakers.
Thank you so much, Myra! Yes, I think the top would be so cute in a longer version over leggings.