The “Birthday Dinner” Dress

Name & Location:   Nina Andreevna, Vermont, USA

Blog: none (yet?)

How long have you been sewing: My grandmother taught me to sew when I was a young girl (I turned an old pillowcase into a t-shirt; very chic). Only in the last year or so, have I had my interest revived in sewing my own wardrobe.

Why did you want to commit to The Sew Weekly Challenge: To challenge myself to start and follow through on projects. I have a growing pattern and fabric stash just waiting to be used.

What do you love most about sewing garments: I love the whole creative process; it’s a great outlet from the stresses of my day job. Also, it’s a great feeling wearing something beautiful, original and handcrafted, and having someone complement your outfit!

What do you hate most about sewing garments: The need to take things slow!  I tend to rush through my projects, which produces sloppy results.  Also, choosing fabric.  Those fabric recommendations on the pattern envelope? Yes, need to start consulting them.  Pretty polyesters do not work for every pattern!

What do you want to accomplish this year with regard to the challenge: I want to slow down and use proper techniques and hopefully that will result in more wearable garments!

Your biggest non-sewing goal of 2012:  I recently completed my Master’s degree in Physics & Mathematics and am studying to take (and pass!) my Actuarial examinations.

What are your favorite sewing/fashion blogs:  So many inspirational blogs, but here are the top 10 which grace my bloglovin feed.

A Beautiful Mess, A Dress A Day, Elegantly Academic, Erica B.’s – D.I.Y. Style!, Gertie’s New Blog for Better Sewing, Green Apples, Kristine or Polly, SEWN, threadsquare, Tilly and the Buttons