Sewing - Simplicity 1142 - Jumpsuit (short version)

Pattern: Simplicity 1142
I made bodice A with shorts B. The pattern says it's suitable for use with knits, so as an experiment (before I use the nice non-stretchy fabric I wanted to make this from) I decided to have a go with some bright pink knit fabric I've had in the stash for a while.

Modifications and Adjustments:
I took my measurements and looked at the pattern. I was measuring a little bit bigger than the M on top (less than ½") but I needed an L for my hips. So, given that this was using a stretch fabric, I decided to make the M bodice and the L shorts, and ease them to the same size at the waist. (This is one of the reasons I love making my own clothes!)

It's about 2" difference between sizes at the waist, which is probably more than I'd want to try to ease on a non-stretch fabric, even with an elasticated waist. If I do make it again in then I will grade the shorts to the smaller size.



Verdict: 
I'm pretty happy with this playsuit! I think I'd like the waist to be a little lower, so I'd lengthen the bodice slightly. I like the pockets; this is the first time I've put pockets into a garment and I'm really pleased with them. It makes me want to put pockets into everything! I'm not sure about the back, It's a very fashionable style at the moment, but there's the visible bra-strap issue; if I wore a smaller cup than an F I might just go bra-less. If I make another one (I'm still undecided) then I'll probably either adjust the back somehow (lace panel, cut less steeply, same as the front, or something else)

Sewing - Simplicity 2414 - Shorts

More sewing! I found some really nice plaid fabric in my local Boyes and knew it was perfect for Simplicity 2414.

This pattern describes itself as "Misses Skirt & Pants; Misses' 1 Hour sewing pattern. Pants in a variety of lengths and tiered skirt in two lengths." I opted for view C, shorts.
Because I'd bought plaid, the pattern matching took ages. It took me a couple of hours just to cut out the pieces! However, once I got going the sewing was a bit quicker.

Closeup of the shorts, you can just see the pocket at the corner there, I'm so pleased with the pattern matching!

I'm afraid I don't have a modelled shot, the weather here hasn't been warm enough for these thin casual shorts yet. I'll update this post once I do get chance to wear them.

The finished shorts, just need the weather for them now!

I enjoyed making this pattern, it was actually easier to match the seams with the patterned fabric, and the lightweight cotton was a joy to work with.

Modifications
I didn't use cord for the waist ties, I made a tie from the fabric. It catches a little but it works well enough.

Things I'd change 
If I make these again, or if I make the other items on the pattern, I'm probably going to put some elastic in the waist instead of the ties, or possibly as well as the ties. As you can see from the picture they're pretty boxy. That works in this light fabric, but I wouldn't use a heavy linen or denim for this as it would be too stiff at the waist.
In hindsight I probably should have done french seams or similar. As I don't have an overlocker my seams inside are unfinished which might reduce the life expectancy of this garment.

I think this pattern would look great with contrast pockets, or with a contrast top to the pockets. The pockets blend in really well on my plaid though, which is nice!