Nienke

This Knipmode dress is made from an impulse purchase, once again I couldn’t resist the coupons. 

It was my first time participating in a challenge. I was added to the group ‘Let Sti(c)k together, who together think of themes and challenges to keep busy sewing and blogging. We could vote on several topics but the winner got the impulse purchase. I had voted on this because I have plenty of impulse purchases hanging in my closet. Mostly because in the beginning of my sewing career I bought whatever was cheap, without really planning what I’d use it for. *sigh

I bought the fabric at the first fabric market I went to with my friend, my very first ‘stoffen spektakel’. It was one of the coupons that I bought at a sales table, 2 coupons for 5 euros. Of course, I purchased four. *oh dear.

You can see that there is nothing wrong with the fabric, it’s just a different fabric type than what I usually use. I kept this fabric in my closet for four years because I think it is nice but never had inspiration what to make with it. A dress is what I had in mind, but with just 1.5m there aren’t many options. For me every pattern needs to have something different, something special, something not standard. 🙂

I really enjoyed making this dress from November 2017 Knipmode. I selected the dress based on the neckline and darts at the waist. This pattern also only needed 1.55m which I made possible by using every centimeter and closely placing the pattern pieces on the fabric. I didn’t need to shorten the dress which could have been an option if needed. While selecting the pattern I didn’t even notice the cap sleeve, but it ended up being my favourite touch or part of the dress, so I’ll definitely include cap sleeves in the future. 

The most difficult part of the dress was the neckline. It stands open which I created using facing, but I didn’t dare cut in the seam allowances because I was scared to cut too far. However, to get good corners or curves you have to cut in the seam allowances. Beside the open neckline is the dart for the approach of the upright hem.

Did I mention that I really loved making this dress?! I l’m super excited! If I hadn’t done htis challenge and made this dress the fabric would have remained in my closet for another 4 years. Now I have a fantastic new dress, if I say so myself.
Curious to know what the other ladies of ‘Let(s)tick together’ made? Click the links below.  
Sewing á la Carte , Adivastyle, Nathalie’s Naaisels, Blogliesje, Woohoo by Davina , Twoowlettes, KreATRIEN, Miel de Fleur, Gezien bij Justine, Just Delphine, Girls in uniform, OOYAmade,  

This is the first pattern I’ve drawn myself and I think it was a success!

A while ago I started the Modinette module at the Ensaid fashion school. I started for many reasons but mainly that after four years of sewing lessons I began to gain interest in measuring and drawing patterns. Bought patterns hardly ever fit perfectly; the more you sew the higher your expectations. *hihi, recognizable??

Drawing patterns is awesome for me! I enjoy it so much when you can make pieces fit perfectly and how much better it will look that way. It makes such a difference.

During lessons you draw everything according to the correct scale and even though I have been learning to be more patient, I have been wanting to draw and make things true to size. This way you gain more insight in what you draw…

To prepare for the exam you have to draw and sew for items which will be part of the evaluation. One of the assignments is a skirt; even though the final is not until February, I am permitted to work ahead when it comes to sewing. This is because I already have experience. *hihi, and something to do with patience.

So I decided on a wrap skirt, one I had seen come past but of course I added extra details. I kept the darts in the front and back like you would do in a regular skirt, which made that for a cleaner finish, I think. 

I added double ruffles and added a waistband to the skirt, which you slide through a button hole so that it lays flat instead of having to cross over each other and creating a twist. 

However, one big problem. I think it turned out so fantastic that I REALLY want to wear it, but if I want to use it for my exam I am not allowed to wear it. So I guess I’ll be thinking of something different for my exam, I’ll just get more practice. I will definitely be wearing this skirt come summer!You may think, why doesn’t she just make the same thing again? If you follow me and read my blogs, you also know that I never use a pattern twice, sometimes I make exceptions but with the amount of ruffles on this skirt, noooo way…!

I made this ladies suit for a wedding with a botanical theme. 

I’ve always had a somewhat eccentric clothing style. Yes, even when I was very young, which resulted in bullying. Money was tight so we often wore cheap clothing or received pieces on vacation in Italy which was ahead of Dutch fashion by 2 years. I always stood out. In a small ‘city’ like Lochem where I grew up, everyone noticed things like clothing. In my rebellion I’d clothe myself extra extreme to make a statement to the kids who bullied me; what I didn’t realize it that it just had negative consequences for me. 

When I started high school I received a complete makeover from my friend and my parents, hoping that I’d start with a clean slate. It worked, although I no longer felt like I could be me with my wardrobe. To this day I notice the effect it has on me. (While my personality isn’t prone to insecurity.)

When I saw this ladies suit from Naaitrends I fell in love, but didn’t start the project. Until I received a wedding invitation with a botanical chic theme, a perfect fit for this suit! I found the fabric for 6 euros (and that was 3 meters worth!). Worth the attempt of making the suit, even if I wouldn’t dare to wear it.

I never expected to be able to do this by myself, in the past I always took the ‘hard’ pieces to my sewing lessons… But we were off for the summer, so that wasn’t an option. So I took the plunge. I am so excited it worked so well, by myself!! The trousers are fantastic, the zipper lies flat. I made the blazer twice because it didn’t fit at the shoulders. I had my doubts while measuring, so I added myself plenty of seam allowances, and I could make it fit. 

The lining and collar worked out well, and I had never made collars on my own before. No pleat anywhere! I am proud of the result, although I wouldn’t make it again. The shape of the blazer does not suit me very well. As long as I wear it closed it looks very nice, but I always wear blazers open. However, when it’s open there is no waistline, which I’m disappointed about. Oh well, overall I am happy with how it turned out. 

Caught, a great statement! I remain caught in the insecurity to wear eccentric pieces and fully be me. Friends say this is nonsense and say I shouldn’t worry about a thing. I should show all my beautiful and crazy creations on social media. It’s often about the new and cool pattern, the techniques or the like. I must admit, about three quarters of the clothing I’ve made I don’t actually ewar. I just don’t dare. I make pieces because of a theme, or because of the techniques I want to learn, but maybe also a bit because I secretly hope to wear it!

I have been working super hard at improving my techniques and rose victorious in the process of making this suit! Both in skill and patience, normally I would have thrown in the towel and would not have remade the blazer twice. But, I’m starting to learn! 

Now to learn not to be so insecure and just be myself when it comes to my wardrobe. I am stubborn and enjoy it when things are just a bit different than what others do. They call that ‘individuality’, don’t they?! *hihi My wardrobe role model is Stijn Franssen, fantastic how she wears and combines stylish, athletic and neat items and just wears what she wants… This is a great example, and a great lesson for me… To be continued!

Ps. I did wear the suit to the wedding and constantly received compliments!

I tested this pattern for Fibremood, read in this blog what I thought about the pattern.

It has been a while since I wrote a post for my own blog. But this time I have wonderful news! I have been added to the group of Fibremood pattern testers!
I am really happy! I love testing patterns and have found that there’s a whole new level of personal development happening in the process. 

Many of you know (if you’ve read previous blog posts) that, after sewing for almost 5 years I have challenged myself to learn new techniques. I want to get to a whole new level of creating, knowledge and skill! This must include sewing from a variety of pattern magazines. Every pattern magazine uses its own methods and I found that I often got stuck in the beginning. But man, did I enjoy using this Fibremood pattern.

A huge advantage was that the pattern came with two sizing charts. One is a general sizing chart used as the basis for any project, and then a sizing chart per piece which impacts how the garment will fit. This way estimating the size is relatively simple, without necessarily having to measure again and again. Depending on a tight or looser fit, or should it be oversized? You choose, the sizing is there!

I drew the pattern and started second guessing its length, should I lengthen it? On the pattern there are lines indicating where to extend the pattern to lengthen the garment. After some recalculating and the thought ‘I’m often too hesitant’, I decided to cut the pattern as it was. And, it reaches to just above my knee, which is a great length for me. 

Fibremood uses a very fun finish on the sides of the panels, instead of using facing. They simply use bias binding. When turning the strengthened panels right side out, it will immediately create a clean, finished fold or edge.

To wrap it up I added bold buttons and fastened the buckles to the dress, finishing the youthful and cool style! I would like to share this detail – I found some of the materials such as the bias binding and buckles at garage or rummage sales! A while back I bought two boxes of accessories for a total of 10 Euros! I love scoring such deals and using its contents for all kinds of projects.

Enough about this dress and Fibremood (for now), I think you’ll have noticed my enthusiasm and I hope that I’ve inspired you to try this or another pattern. I would love to see your creations! Send me some pictures via Instagram @nie_nie_sewing which is hte best way to reach me!

The trousers and jumper (Britisch)/pants and sweater (US/CA) are both from La Maison Victor made with fabric from Javro Stoffenmarkt XXL.

This bubble was corduroy (96% cotton and 4% spandex) was perfect for these trousers. It came from Javro Stoffenmarkt XXL in Epse. I used La Maison Victor’s Turi pattern from the Jan/Feb 2020 edition. Wednesday I was browsing through all the good paperwork on Javro’s coffeetable when this pattern caught my eye! I usually wear tight fitting pants but something sparked my attention and made me want to attempt this pattern. Beside my love for corduroy, I also enjoy the stretch in this fabric, which makes it more comfortable to wear!

I had never made a closure for buttons, so I faithfully followed the instructions given by LMV, which really helped this. Along with the button closure and the wide pant leg, the back pockets and wide loops stand out. 
Due to a narrower waist, I made wider darts which made the pants tighter near the top. 

This winter I’ve become a fan of larger and warm sweaters. Javro’s owner, Manon, helped me find a nice sweater and fabric that would go well together. She brought a knit material, Big Knit (80% cotton 20% polyester) and I was sold!
One reason why Javro is classified as a favourite fabric store is the service! They help the customer think through the process, listen to the customer’s wishes, and have all the knowledge to give great advice. This makes it worth the drive. 

For the sweater I used the LMV pattern Charlene (Sept/Oct 2018) and 5 needles! The fabric is cozy-warm, nice and thick but because of the puckering, it became so thick that the needles couldn’t handle it. With the first needle I thought ‘it must be dull’, the second needle my thought was ‘hmmm… let’s use a different one.’ The next day, while surging, I’d forgotten I used different needles and again two needles snapped. Yes, some silly mistakes, but I’ve learned a lesson. The needles designated for thicker fabrics went through with ease and no more needles broke. 
Full of enthusiasm I started this two-piece outfit, and I am still excited about the trousers and the  jumper. However, I am unsure if the two work well together. That’s why I’m showing you some other options, because it totally depends on preference. (I’ve found that I prefer a combination of fitted and loose items rather than two loose fitting items.)

These trousers are fabulous! I am so happy with them!

The sweater? Isn’t it fantastic too?! I love it…

In conclusion, I have to mention how content I am with these creations. I like showing the variety of pieces you can combine with these items and how you could wear it too.
Besides inspiring you with the clothing I make, I also want to give some attention to the store where I get so excited and where I’ve gotten inspiration for this blog!

Javro stoffenmarkt (fabric store) is just beside the A1 highway, exit Deventer. It’s easy to get to and has free parking. I came across the store on my way to my parents, who live in the town next to it. In September 2017, Javro moved from downtown Deventer to this more accessible location. Javro is short for Jan Vroklage, Manon’s grandfather. The business has been in their family for three generations! Grandpa and grandma started with a skirt factory in Deventer, when the factory was about to close they sold all the leftover materials in the cafeteria. It went so well that the idea arose to start a fabric store. Such a fun fact!

Beside the large storefront in Epse, there are also 3 shops in Germany.

I made this Burda dress with an embroidered cotton material found at Javro Stoffenmarkt XXL.

There’s a coffee table set up at Javro filled with inspiring books full of ideas. It’s quite inviting and often occupied by men waiting for their ladies. Often I arrive at the store with an idea in mind, and in the past I didn’t take time to peek at the table. One time I spotted a fun design on the cover of a Burda book. The shop attendant told me I can find individual patterns near the checkout – I was so excited to hear this. Now I usually pause at the table for a bit, to leaf through new magazines and books, books have patterns not included in the magazines. 

This is how I found Burda pattern 6758 ;ast time. Intially it looked like a difficult pattern and thus a fun challenge. In the end it wasn’t bad at all. The fabric I used really made this dress! The type of fabric you choose makes all the difference! I just love this embroidered cotton fabric, available in soft pink, yellow, and blue.

As a little girl I had an outfit made of a very similar fabric as this one. Truly, everything in fashion comes pack years later!
The fabric was super easy to work with and made a lovely summer dress! *It’s not quite summer yet but I’m kind of done with the yucky weather so I dared to approach the summer while making this dress. 
Ha, I wouldn’t be myself if I didn’t add a funky aspect to my photos and my outfit, something I am starting to be known for on social media *hihi
On our wedding day I wore Converse-s, so why not in combination with this dress?! I like how fun and active it makes the dress. You could easily combine it with white sandals or pumps, creating a different look (usually I show you a variety of pictures but those just didn’t turn out this time).

While making the dress, I wondered if I needed to line it. According to the instructions only the top needs lining. The fabric is a little thin and the embroidery makes for tiny holes, which made me wonder yes or no. I decided to complete the dress with just the top lined and wait to see if the rest needed it too. It isn’t see-through at all and because I always wear shorts under my dresses anyway, I decided to leave it like this. It also keeps the dress light and airy! I think it will be a new summer favourite.
The entire dress was rimmed with bias binding to give it a nice finish when not using a lining. 

To conclude I will show you the back; see the beautiful pleats. This dress fits perfect with this fabric! To get in and out of the dress I used a concealed zipper in the back.

Taking nice and creative photos is a unique challenge itself, you want to look good but also feel slightly awkward in the spotlight. This is how silly photos came to be, just doing something crazy makes me feel more relaxed. In my Instagram stories you can see the photoshoot progress. Here a little taste of this session, where I had the idea to imitate Marilyn Monroe. They didn’t completely turn out as I hoped, but we had so much fun!

I made this Bjorn jumper from La Maison Victor for my husband.

I hesitated if I should write a blog about this jumper, as it was just a simple little project between others. I wanted to spoil my husband Martijn with a homemade piece of clothing. He is very critical and knows exactly what he wants! In his closet are some of my creations that he never wears, and I have fabrics chosen by him at the ready but haven’t made anything with it. *we don’t have the same preference hihi. However, he is always very enthusiastic about the pieces I make! When I found these fabrics at Stoffenspektakel in Barneveld I knew this would be a colour combination we would both like, so I took them home for him.

It wasn’t a difficult pattern to make, but there are many details and finishings I was excited about so I decided to write a blog anyway! Let’s begin with the zipper. The zipper ends in the middle point of the jumper, the point which separates the jumper into two sections- this provides much room for creativity when it comes to fabric and colour choice.. 
By cutting exactly into the middle of the point and sewing a defined angle instead of in a curve, a sharp point is created. You have to be very careful with the zipper as the needle could easily snap. (I’m disappointed that there are shadows in the photos – this way you can’t see the zipper well. Just know that the point is very angular and tight. I am proud of it as this was quite the challenge!

The jumper has an upright collar, the perfect place to use two colours. The outside is the same colour as the top of the jumper. When you fold the collar down you see that the inside is the same as the bottom half of the jumper; the green comes back! (This was a great solution as I couldn’t find any rust coloured bias binding.)
Yes, you need bias binding for the collar! I hadn’t seen this before, so was curious how this would work. It makes for a smooth and nice finish on the inside. It’s beautiful how it all comes together, much better than when using surging, especially as this way the collar can be folded down nicely

The point on the back is the same as the front. As the point leads to under the arm you can pick either colour for the sleeves, one colour keeps the jumper more subdued and balanced.

I have enough fabric to make another project for my daughter, then they can be twins! The pattern for her item I will draft, I will lengthen the jumper to make it a more feminine item. I hope to write a separate post about it when I get the project finished! I will definitely take the techniques I learned in this project to the next one!

We make a crazy couple! Martijn always takes all my photos for the blog and it’s fun to do that together. In the last year we have both learned a lot and he’s inspired to learn photography skills. Being in front of the camera was a little uncomfortable for him. When I asked him not to be so stoic, I got this look. *hilarious, it sure gave me a good laugh!

In this blog you can read how I made my first Burda dress (6264) and where I got the materials for it.

When I walked through my favourite fabric store Javro XXL on a Wednesday I fell in love with this fabric! Wow, a typical Nienke fabric! *hihi
Next, when I passed the coffee table filled with lovely pattern books and examples to inspire a Burda book caught my eye, with on the front this dress! It had to be!
I had no idea Javro also sold individual Burda patterns?! But yes! That it’s ideal and they ordered it for me; a week later it arrived at my house.

It was a simple pattern but I have been kind of stuck using the same pattern company and thus their way of working. So I decided to keep this pattern for our sewing/stitching day that I’d planned with contacts I know personally or through my social media and my blog. I had all day to work on this dress, completely focused and all kinds of help around me. 

In the end it was relatively simple to make this dress and I hardly used the directions that were included. I can totally become more confident in this. Do you recognize this?
I understand what the pattern was labelled ‘easy’, the techniques used can be advanced, although that wouldn’t necessarily improve the dress itself.

It is rare to make a piece twice (in fact, I have never done that). If there was one piece I had to choose to make again, it would be this dress! A simple design to make, excellent to combine with a variety of fabrics, you can make it in a variety of ways and it fits beautifully, quite slimming in fact.
However, I did lengthen the skirt so that I could wear the dress to work. I work as a practitioner in addiction treatment care, and believe that the knee length skirt is modest for my professional outfits.

There’s a bit I want to share with you about my stitching day! What a fantastic experience! I organized this day with Lilian. I personally know people and have gotten to know others via social media, who like me love stitching and sewing. I decided to ask and find out if people would be interested in doing this together. Of the 15 invited eight were able to come, and the others were enthusiastic about it as well. Eight stitchers the first time was just fine, we were able to get a good indication if this would be successful without having to worry about costs for a venue. 

I really enjoyed that in the groupchat we started, a nice, helpful camaraderie was formed, even though some of us had never met. People asked each other for explanations, helped with patterns, offered mini tutorials on their machines and we shared our progress. A group of people gathered, people who don’t know each other, and formed a respectful and welcoming ambiance because we all had the same interest and hobby. I thoroughly enjoyed that part! We had a lovely day together, learned much from each other, and made new friends. We decided to continue this, meet every six months and share either winter or summer wardrobes.