Skulottes, Coverups, and Links

The start of a new week! I just got off the phone with a friend who called to ask if I saw what happened in downtown Chicago last night. I did. It looked like something out of a Mad Max movie. We talked about it, and then I told her to turn her television off. Not that we shouldn't be informed, but we don't need to hear the same story repeated time and time again. 

It seems that the world is a mess at the moment. In some respects, it is. But, there are also wonderful people doing incredible acts of charity. On Saturday evening, I had to go to the grocery store. As I was coming home, I encountered a type of street party. People were spaced apart, wearing masks, and on the front porch of a house, there was a band playing. What really caught my eye as I drove past was a tip jar. So many musicians are hurting. They NEED to play, they NEED to work. Seeing someone open up their front yard for a lovely summer evening concert, and offer a bit of normalcy for some who are hurting, absolutely heartwarming. Of course, this is but one small story. But, this is what I want to focus on, not crazy gang of looters, and thieves. For a time, they may be winning. But ultimately, they won't. History has taught us this time, and time again.

I have to apologize as I have been very slow about getting my 1 Year Challenge pictures up on the blog. I'm happy to report that I'm doing well. I haven't missed a day :) And the best part is that I am truly discovering what I actually have in my wardrobe. I know that may sound strange, after all, I made all of it, I know it's there. But, being so focused has brought about a clarity that absolutely delights me. 

Yesterday we finally had time to enjoy being on our boat. It was horribly hot out, so the boat was truly wonderful. What's better to wear on a boat than a bathing suit and a coverup?!!

I originally posted this coverup 9 years ago. Wow!!!          

Here is the coverup I made to go with my suit. The piece is so very easy to make. There are only 2 seams, and better yet, it's just a rectangle. You can find a link to the instructions HERE.  

I did do a video, but I am having a difficult time getting it to my computer. But, if you pop over to my Instagram account, you can see it. 

You may remember that I made this suit for a Sew News sew along. It's the Soma Swimsuit from Papercut Patterns. 

The big hit of the week was this piece that I did for my Fabulous Free Pattern Friday series. I called it a skulotte as it's a bit of a cross between a skirt and a culotte. You can find a link to the super simple instructions HERE. I also did a video that you can see on my Instagram page. 

I had this on when I went to the grocery store on Saturday afternoon, and the lady who checked me out commented 3 times on how lovely I looked. Made my day!!!

My wish for whoever drops by today is that you will be able to find joy in your day. Take a few minutes and look around at all that is good. And maybe...turn off whatever you use to obtain news. Just for today, give yourself a little break. 

Happy Sewing!!!

Rhonda 

Creative Swimsuit Cover-ups/Soma Swimsuit Sew Along Begins

My first sew along post for the Soma Swimsuit from Papercut Patterns is up on the Sew News blog and you can find it HERE. I took a few liberties with the pattern, but it all worked out great in the end. So if you are thinking that you might like to make a suit this summer, be sure to check out the posts.

Have you ever found yourself at a hotel wanting to go to the pool and yet you have nothing to throw over your suit? I have! Even as a child, I was uncomfortable walking to the pool in nothing but my suit. I've borrowed a t-shirt from my husband, wrapped a towel around me, used the bathrobe provided by the hotel. They all do the job, but none provide the lovely, well put together look that I strive for. So since we are talking swimsuits over the next few weeks with the Soma Swimsuit sew along, I thought we would also talk about some fun cover-ups. 

I've done a number of Fabulous Free Pattern Friday pieces that are perfect for cover-ups.

The Magic Jacket
This piece is nothing but a big rectangle, and the pattern works well with border prints. You can find the instructions HERE.

The Flutter Top

This is made with 2 simple rectangles. The tie adds a little interest around the waistline and gives it a little more shape. Make it a little longer and it will take you from the pool to drinks at the bar, or a casual dinner. You can find the instructions HERE. 

The Easy Breezy Top

If you have a fun border print that would coordinate with your suit, this piece would be fun. The open sleeves help keep you cool and add interest. You can find the instructions HERE. 

Caught In A Wave

Wear it with or without a belt, either way you'll look super cute. You can find the tutorial HERE.

The Magic Rectangle Dress

Whether you take it a step further and do the ruching on the shoulders, or just leave it plain, the Magic Rectangle Dress is easy to slip on and will always look cute over any suit. See the tutorial HERE.

Hope that helps to get your creative ideas flowing!

Rhonda