Friends, this might be one of the biggest surprise outfits of the year. I did not expect to love it as much as I do!
When I first signed on for That's Sew Cinematic, I was in the middle of the BBC series Land Girls. I immediately set my heart on making a set of overalls for myself. I began perusing pattern sites for overall patterns that appealed to me, and when I saw EvaDress Pattern 4536, I was sold.
It took a little longer to find fabric, though. I searched through all fabric stores I came across for tan canvas fabric, but kept coming up empty. I got lucky a few weeks ago when Rob took me to an antique store in his hometown. On the huge fabric pile was an amazing denim curtain for $10. This curtain was ginormous - I think I have enough left over for a skirt!
Finally, it came time to actually cut and sew the garment. I freaked out. I became seriously scared of the idea of working with this vintage pattern and cutting out the pieces incorrectly. I was convinced that these were going to be a mess. It only took two glasses of wine to dull my nerves enough to cut the pattern out.
Because I was so freaked out, I cut out the largest size available. I transferred all the marking accordingly, and got to sewing.
I was extremely pleased that my machine was able to handle the denim. It has major issues with bulkier fabrics, but those denim needles rocked it like a champ. I didn't break a single needle. This is a record for me as I practically own stock in the Singer company.
I did make some alterations to the pattern: I added four inches to the leg length, and it's a good thing, too! I ended up having a 3/4" hem in the end. I wish I had put in the pockets as I am used to putting them in pants - the directions called for attaching the pockets after the pant legs have been sewn. It was a bit difficult to maneuver, so I recommend attaching the pocket pieces to the pant legs and then sewing up the outside leg seam.
I used navy thread for all seam and top stitching - I wanted the shape of the overalls to stand out, not contrasting stitching. I adore the sweetheart neckline - it's one of the main reasons I bought the pattern in the first place!
I used the biggest buttons I had in my stash for the back opening. This allowed me to spread out and cover more distance, which meant the vent opening at the bottom would be more securely closed. The last thing I wanted was to leave too much space between the vent opening and the button so underwear could be seen. I feel a bit more modest now!
The belt is a great addition - it's a bit off center due to my moving the button spacing around, but it works nicely to keep the back from springing open and the sides cinched in. These have turned out to be some very shapely overalls.
Would I make this pattern again? Probably. I wouldn't necessarily make these in the overall style again, because I don't see the need for having more than one set of overalls in my closet, but I could definitely make the playsuit style of the pattern. I'm contemplating the playsuit in a fun plaid with big colorful buttons down the back. It's not out of the question. but I have a few more projects that I am working on first.
Though the pattern illustration shows these without a blouse, I decided to pair it with my McCalls 5929 (the first blouse I ever made). I have more of this checked fabric in my stash, so I may make a short sleeve version to pair with these overalls ... or a red flowered blouse would be equally lovely.
Friends, have you ever thought about making overalls? I plan on wearing mine around the house and to upcoming art fairs and festivals. Where would you wear yours?
Have a great weekend, all!! Enjoy your three day weekends, for those who live in the States :)