Monday, March 03, 2008

SWAP Monday

Garment #6 - The Jeans


I'm at the half way point with the SWAP. If I keep making one piece per week, I'll be finished just in time. The pattern for the jeans is from Patrones, 6/07 #13, and the fabric is a stretch denim. I liked this model because it is more trouser like, but still has the stitching details of jeans.

Here are some of the little details. All of the topstitching was done with a double thread of 40 wt. rayon thread in a gold color. I just used two strands of thread through the needle and a poly/cotton in the bobbin. I chose to do that instead of the "jeans thread" you can buy because I really don't like that thick thread. My machine doesn't either, and I usually have to put it in the bobbin. That means I can't see exactly where I'm top stitching and that drives me crazy. The rayon is prettier and shinier, too!

This is a false back pocket - there is a zipper, but no real pocket underneath. The cutting layout didn't show one, nor did the instructions have you cut out pieces for it. It was pretty easy to make, and I'll show you that tomorrow.

The pocket linings, waistband facing and back pocket underlay are all made of plaid taffeta:

I am very pleased with the way these jeans turned out. I'm even more pleased that I think I've found a pattern source for trousers and shorts that is fairly close to my own body shape and that I don't have to make major alterations to use. Would June be pleased? I'm not sure, but they do have a cleaner, more modern shape, and that's definitely a wardrobe upgrade.

Pattern Crisis update: I found another one on Etsy, in a girl's size 7. It is on the way, so I guess I'll be doing a bit of grading up in size!

Parting Shot: Another Jackie O. This one is Advance 8920. What I love about this pattern is the illustration on the envelope. Notice the giant houndstooth fabric of the blue version. Also check out the chunky bracelets on everyone and the bangles on version 2.

16 comments:

Johanna said...

Oh my, that topstiching is just perfect. Perfect! And the false zipper pocket and the tartan lining ... I am completely blown away by your skills!

cidell said...

That back pocket is fabulous! I'm curious also about the length of the fly front. Would you mind telling us? I love seeing great jeans made at home. Gives me hope!

Vicki said...

Ooh, they look very professional. Nice job on the topstitching and the back pocket is cool.

Vicki W said...

The jeans turned out very nice and I love the tafeta facings!

Shannon said...

Those jeans are so cute!! So, I'm curious - you say Patrones is a great source of trouser patterns similar to your shape. I also have a really hard time finding pants patterns that fit, because my waist is so much smaller than my hips (26" waist, 39" hip - ugh!) Is this your problem too or do you have other issues? I may have to try Patrones if you think they might work for me!

Great new pattern - I adore the pose being struck in view 2 - how chic darling!

Carolyn (cmarie12) said...

The jeans are fabulous but you know that I have to be different and comment on the Jackie Kennedy Advance pattern. This looks exactly like one of the outfits that was in the exhibit at the MOMA. You have to make this!

The original is a Chanel and is made from a black ribbed wool with the blouse in an ivory dot-embroidered silk satin.

I guess June would have worn this stunning outfit to church on Sunday and out to dinner with Walt (that was the hubby right?!) so you can make it...you really can!

Sigrid said...

Beautiful jeans, the details are so nice.

LauraLo said...

Gorgeous jeans, Summerset! I love the design, the back fake pocket, your perfect topstitching... and that plaid taffeta, what a beautiful and cheerful touch!

paco peralta said...

Summeret nice jeans, and this surprise on the inside is wonderful. A hug for you. Paco

Pta .- I have already communicated with Tany regard to send the magazine "Patrones" We will be in touch. Thanks.

Marji said...

love the jeans. I have a question - what happens when you unzip the zip on the false pocket?

designdreamer said...

Ha! Marji! good question. I'm assuming it's backed with that cute taffetta.
I was thinking, (and honestly I reread that part 3 times just to be sure) that you were going to say that you put a pocket in there anyway, but then I thought to myself, "how many times do people acutally USE back pockets"? So really, what's the point if you don't need/use it?
They're impeccable.
Anyone know of a pattern line for someone with the opposite problem?

Nancy K said...

Great jeans. I like your idea of rayon thread. What needle are you using?

Tany said...

BEAUTIFUL! Love, love those jeans!

My machine doesn't like thick thread either (I still remember all the extra "work" on my red lining dress)... using two strands of thread on the needle is a wonderful work around and the results are magnificent!

Lori said...

Great jeans, Summerset. My machine balks at topstitching thread, too. I really have to adjust the tension. Your sewing is magnificent.

Isabelle said...

What a great pair of jeans! I *love* the contrasting plaid :)

Debbie Cook said...

Love the jeans!