SWAP 2008

[RuthieK]

Let's move the SWAP 2008 talk over to a new thread.

[cmarie12]

The worst thing to do is to think of one garment at a time and then make it,  because it is really hard to work through an 11-item plan without having it laid out in advance.  Of course, you can make changes once you start, but you need to have a plan in advance.  This is where people found storyboards invaluable.

This and pick your plaid/print fabric first are invaluable pieces of information for sewing and completing a SWAP.  I have done 3 Timmel SWAPs - one as a sew along and two as an actual participant, and have found that information to be the core of getting it done!

[Lisa Laree]

I agree, Carolyn!  It's so much easier to find solids to match the print element than it is to find a print that contains some solid colors that the SWAPist is trying to make work! 

Ask me how I know this... 

[Cat]

I don't wear jackets so I'm finding the twist quite tricky finding a pattern with 3+ non-jacket peices where I like three (or to be honest 2 ) of the peices. I have seen a few sleepwear/lingerie ensembles that I quite like. I have toyed with the idea of doing a lingerie/sleepwear swap before but wasn't sure if it would be in the rules. I'm thinking something along the lines of
1 dressing gown
6 bras/camisoles/pajama tops
4 knickers/pajama bottoms

Would this be allowed? If I can't find a 'wear out of the house' wardrobe pattern I like I'll probably do it regardless, and just play along at home if it doesn't meet the official criteria.

[RuthieK]

I'm sure when a lingerie SWAP was mentioned last year it was going to be allowed, but no-one did it in the end.
It would be cool to see! One of the ladies who posts here did a Pjs and robe SWAP style wardrobe for a hospital stay earlier in the year. I'll see if I can find the picture she took of them all together.

I second the advice of getting the print (or weave e.g a tweed) and then matching solids to it. It's quite easy to do it this way.
The print/weave does really need to have 3 colours though or else it can get a bit samey unless you add a contrasting colour of some sort.

e.g. black/white boucle tweed for jacket, black pants/skirt, tops in white and red

Having said that I saw one wardrobe which was all black and white and was very sophisticated. Not my colours, but maybe I could do a chocolate and cream version instead.

[J Culshaw]

Yes, J that would be allowed.   You have the combinations right so that would qualify.  Two years ago, Leeta did a workout SWAP, she made a fleece jacket,  four bottoms for walking,  and six workout tops, including some that had built in bras.    Her colours were soft green and black and some beige I think,  I thought it was an incredibly smart way to sew.  Bet she wore all those pieces to death. 

Thanks Ruthie, for starting the new topic.

Carolyn and Lisa, I couldn't agree more.  One year, I had a print that only had two colours in it,  black and taupe, and boy was I bored sewing all those black pieces.   If the print had one more colour, it would have been so much easier.   The magic about getting that print/plaid/ or tweed first is that the designer of the fabric has worked out that those colours totally complement each other.   It is a plan for success, all you have to do is pull those colours out and find solids,  which are easier to find than prints after the fact.   As Lisa said, ask me how I know.   

On the wardrobe articles link, I posted the remaining pictures of Lynn Cooks' black and white wardrobe.  She extended it to include brown, tan, and aqua.  After the first part which was just black and white with a print, she had 23 garments made.   After she added the browns and two prints with brown, black in them,  she was up to 38 garments.   Of course at this point, not everything works with everything else, but she makes sure that each piece works with 5 others.   She said she had enough combinations to be able to wear something different every day of the year.    Her closet space is a lot bigger than mine.    Julie

http://www.timmelfabrics.com/swap.htm

[reformfabric]

Wow! There is so much information on this thread. Thanks for all the tips. If I have got it right my starting points are as follows: think about the occassions I will want to wear the clothes I am making and the sorts of clothes I wear; decide on three colours which will work together; find a print first and a wardrobe pattern with at least three garment on that I want to make. Anything else we newbies should be thinking about at the very beginning?

[susan w]

Just a quick thank you to Laura.  That was exactly the information I needed. 

I can't wait to see all the plans develop, such fun and so many good ideas.

Susan

[Fox Valley Patti]

SWAP newbies - another piece of advice, that I wish I had heeded (!!) is to make sure that you've muslined the patterns you intend to use before the SWAP begins! 

Have the plan worked out - and really, commit it to paper and post it where you will see it - not just online (another lesson learned!!) because otherwise you will "percolate" away the entire sewing time, changing patterns and styles!  This is absolutely my biggest problem!

[J Culshaw]

reformfabric, you have caught on right away.  Sounds as if you are ready to put your thinking cap on. 
And heed Patti's advice,  a plan on paper pinned to the wall above your sewing machine is a very good idea.    Someone made a chart back in 2004, I think it was Jennifer, and I used to be able to find it on google.  Her site was called something like oaktrees, but I can only find the written material now. 

It was a great chart, with all three phases of SWAP worked out.    If anyone still has that link,  could you put it here so others can print it off?   I think it might have been Patti who posted this before.     Thanks,  Julie

http://www.timmelfabrics.com/swap.htm

[Fox Valley Patti]

By the way - look at the out-of-print patterns online at the Big 4 websites; there were a lot of "wardrobe" and multi-piece patterns there.

And, lots of them on eBay - Vogue's 5 easy pieces especially.  I think there was even a maternity one on eBay.

[SewingLibrarian]

Julie, thanks for your quick reply about the tweed. I'm getting excited about using it as my "inspiration piece" as they say on those designer shows. I ordered Vogue 2865, utilizing their free pattern offer, and plan to use the top, the dress, and the skirt from it. But I will make muslins first to see if I really like the pieces. Here is a picture.

[Susan in Saint John]

I think I'm going to find using a "wardobe pattern" quite a challenge as I have much better luck with some of the independent designer patterns fitting me.  I'll have to go through my pattern stash and see if I can find anything that I might be able to make fit me. 

Would patterns from Burda magazine count if they were designed as coordinating pieces (as they are in Burda Plus)?

Could 3 co-ordinating patterns from a single pattern designer be considered a wardrobe since many of the independent designers sell one garment per pattern?  e.g., Loes Hinse European Pant, Tank, and Casablanca Blouse

[nolasewer]

Whoohoo!!  I have lots of wardrobe patterns laying around and have never got around to sewing anything from them, so this is PERFECT! Thanks for a twist that gets me inspired to get moving, Julie!

Also, thanks to all the experienced SWAP sewers for sharing your advice on how to get started.  I'm off to find a tweed print I like to make a jacket, skirt and dress from and then add solids for the rest!!

Martha

[simonfreep]

Julie - I just posted a copy of the 3 part SWAP chart on my blog.  I sure wish we could remember who posted this chart as I would like to give credit where it's due.

[Gail G]

Julie -- Thanks for posting the rules and solving our anticipation-anxiety!!  Add me to the others who love the "twist" this year! And thanks also for the thought-provoking comment re: men ...while I doubt I could get Ken commited to sewing the entire 11 pieces, I'm tempted to do a SWAP for him! (Hey, I've done a few for me, one for my Mom... seems like a natural progression!) I know I have a "wardrobe" pattern that's premised on men's sportswear somewhere in my stash of stuff.... I'm off now to visit your website to see what I can adapt for him! I think I'm a returning SWAPist this year!

[rebells]

Here are a few websites to check out for alternative wardrobe patterns.  Most only have one or two patterns that might be suitable for the new SWAP.

Cutting line Designs   
http://www.fabriccollections.com/
Farewell to Arms (shirt,dress, skirt)
Less Is More (Shell, tunic, vest)

Christine Jonson Patterns   
http://www.cjpatterns.com/
BaseWear One (leggings,top,yoga bodysuit)

Lois Ericson Design & Sew 
http://www.designandsew.com/
Over & Under(jacket,vest,skirt)

Kwik Sew   
http://www.kwiksew.com/
3077,2991,2325,2477

Park Bench Patterns   
http://www.parkbenchpatterns.com/index.html

Perfection Patterns   
http://www.purrfection.com/index.htm

Revisions   
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/homepage/homepage.html

Stretch & Sew
https://www.gmidesign.com/stretch/home.html
               

[Marji]

Interesting twist Julie. Thank-you for getting the rules up.
Now I just have to figure out how to make 11 pieces work for corporate suit wear while also working with each other. The plan I'd been playing with, moving pieces around etc, was pulled from the dress plan last year that allowed 2 jackets.
II'm thinking that a jacket worn without a blouse underneath could technically maybe pass as a top - except there is no way a jacket can be worn over a jacket - so that bops out the jacket as top theory.
oh, back to the drawing board.
oh, and I'm adding an extra Rule for Me! All of this needs to come from my prodigious Stash. It's possible.

[Marji]

Wow, I just went back and read the other SWAP thread, the one before Ruthie started this one.
Julie, You found a LOT of patterns. This is a fun and exciting twist.
I'm sewing for my sister, and she came up in August so that we could do a marathon muslin fitting session. Fortunately, the two patterns she's chosen that we've been working with will each qualify for 'wardrobe' patterns.
one is Vogue 2898 and the other is Vogue 8137. She chose them each for the 'suit' qualities, but it is fortuitous that I can "make them work".
It's just that extra jacket thing.
Ya know, I think I'm going to end up making her a jacket outside of the plan, 'cause SHE is counting on two jackets. That is in addition to the one that I have finished to ship out to her tomorrow. hmmmm

[Lisa Laree]

oh, and I'm adding an extra Rule for Me! All of this needs to come from my prodigious Stash. It's possible.

I did my whole '06 SWAP from the stash, with the exception of the required purchase from Julie.  Yes, it IS possible! 

[Marji]

oh, and I'm adding an extra Rule for Me! All of this needs to come from my prodigious Stash. It's possible.

I did my whole '06 SWAP from the stash, with the exception of the required purchase from Julie.  Yes, it IS possible! 

Well, yes, of course, There is the purchase from Julie, and I already Know what that needs to be, and since I've had it in my mind, almost since I finished the last SWAP, I've almost gotten to the point where I consider it my stash...LOL...in Julie's possession. Just need to exchange the $ for the fabric to get it here. 

[mamanado]

Lisa, I'm super impressed!  And Marji - can't wait to see your plan...

I'm reposting my pattern pick for those who might have missed it in the last thread (as this SWAP-dedicated thread was started right after):





I know some folks balk a bit at the jacket requirement but I have to say, I'm loving that part of the challenge - and as a SAHM, it is a challenge to figure out how to incorporate a jacket into your wardrobe without looking silly...for me, I'm enjoying wearing a couple of RTW jackets this fall with 3/4 sleeve (one with the popular lantern sleeves!) instead of my standard boxy polartech jacket.  I feel so much more polished!  This pattern really speaks to me as well, because in the winter time I struggle with looking pulled together and polished when wearing 18 layers to keep warm.  The jacket looks like a chic yet snuggly jacket to me (made out of the proper material, of course), and the skirt is also fun and flirty and not overly "corporate."

[Lisa Laree]

Technically, the Required Purchase doesn't have to be fabric...it *could* be a pattern or two.  One of Louise Cutting's patterns just about meets the required value.

So I guess you *could* do the whole thing from stashed fabric

[blue mooney]

Wow! So much swap activity already!
Julie, I had to laugh when you said how bored you were with sewing black last year. This year I'll be dealing with that...but hey, at least I only have to wind bobbins once!

I think having a number of TNT patterns is one of the big keys to a successful swap. And since we have a nice long lead time, if you don't have TNTs yet, you can get them ready before the official start date.

rebells, that was good of you to research the indy companies!

Planning out the swap combinations is like a fun puzzle - makes me think of sudoku. Wonder if planning swaps staves off alzheimers???

eta...Ms. Picklejuice, that is a cute pattern. I really like the collar on the jacket, and that shell can be cute or sexy...or both...

[Gailete]

I've been fascinated with the SWAP concept for over a year now and am considering tipping my toes in the SWAP waters but I have a question or two. I'm rather disabled by arthritis and the doing of things are limited for me which leads to my first question. Is the January to April time frame is that supposed to include cutting and layout plus sewing or are we allowed to have everything pre-cut and just literally sew starting Jan 1? Also I've been losing weight and am down close to 35# at this point and hopefully will be losing some more--any ideas on how to plan a wardrobe that can accomodate a 20-30# weight loss?

I like the idea of using a wardrobe pattern, except as a mostly stay at home person, I never ever wear tailored jackets, only sweatshirt ones to keep warm, so that will be a struggle to have one that matches everything else.

[girl_in_bleue]

Julie, I had to laugh when you said how bored you were with sewing black last year. This year I'll be dealing with that...but hey, at least I only have to wind bobbins once!

I'm thinking about a black and white SWAP this year. Lynn Cook's B&W wardrobe is very inspiring. And I like that idea of only two thread colors.

I've found that my SWAPs have been too colorful. I know that sounds weird. But I end up with stuff that technically matches but over the years I just haven't worn the pieces together. I always go back to my black t-shirts with jeans, no matter what I have hanging in the closet. (Except for my coat from last year. I wore that all winter and spring and still love it. But a great coat has a way of perking up an otherwise boring outfit.) I'm also going to strive for the original concept of TNT patterns and fast-sewing garments as much as possible. I'm thinking there will be lots of knits involved.

I like the idea of using a wardrobe pattern, except as a mostly stay at home person, I never ever wear tailored jackets, only sweatshirt ones to keep warm, so that will be a struggle to have one that matches everything else.

Gailete, there are some wardrobe patterns that include a jacket that's more like a cardigan. I'm considering using New Look 6735. I, also, don't have a need for a tailored jacket this year. I love sewing more formal clothing, but I don't have a need for it. I do need more practical, everyday, wearable clothes.

[mamanado]

Stephanie - I totally LOVE that NL pattern - I keep meaning to pick it up (and forgetting!)...what a versatile pattern - sweater, long sleeved and short sleeved t, skirt and pants!  Yay!

[Gailete]

I like that NL pattern too! I do have a Simplicity wardrobe pattern with a cardigan style jacket that I've been thinking of making and it would fit with the rules too.

I was just working on a knit top (sewing on knits is new for me) and tried it on after sewing up the seams and hubby said I could take it in more! Wow it has been a long time since I made anything that was too big. I'm hoping this pattern works out for me as it is like a thrift store knit top that I love so I wanted a TNT pattern for that style, plus to be able to actually make a knit top without ripples--I've been studing up on technique.

I'm thinking of a black, purple, pink theme for the SWAP from stuff in my stash. But hearing about the lady who wants to do a nightwear theme set my mind thinking in different directions since I'm sick so much, I spend half my time in jammies!

[Susan in Saint John]

Now I just have to figure out how to make 11 pieces work for corporate suit wear while also working with each other. The plan I'd been playing with, moving pieces around etc, was pulled from the dress plan last year that allowed 2 jackets.
II'm thinking that a jacket worn without a blouse underneath could technically maybe pass as a top - except there is no way a jacket can be worn over a jacket - so that bops out the jacket as top theory.

Would a reversible jacket work? or sweater sets with a shawl as your jacket?

[LauraTS]

Stephanie, what a great pattern. I've been looking at NL 6571, too:



Of course the print fabric that inspired my whole color scheme idea is a woven cotton, so if I go with all knits I'll have to find another print to use...

[Robin]

Oh I highly recommend sewing a loungewear collection!  I did it last summer and I have enjoyed my nice new PJ's.


Today I organized my fabric by color.  And I already ordered fabric from Julie.
I think I am leaning towards a black-based collection with a black jacket and menswear fabrics for bottoms.  That makes it easy to come up with blouses and shirts in pretty colors and shirtings.

The idea of winding a bunch of black bobbins and loading the serger with black thread is very appealing.

Marji - you could make a coat that goes over jackets.  That way you can make as many jackets as you want.
I sure do like the patterns and ideqas y'all are posting! 

[J Culshaw]

Wow, everyone is buzzing with ideas, it's great to see all the posts and I love seeing the pics of patterns.   Aren't we all the same, the picture of a pattern cover sends us into a mermerized state of imagination. 

Susan, sorry I am going to discount the Burda magazine as it is just too complicated to keep track of.   Since the magazines usually have 60+ patterns in them,  that is just too wide a scope.    But you can certainly use them for the other 8 garments,   it is just too hard to track, same thing with Ottobre magazine.   I had been asked about that prior to posting the rules and decided it was just too wide open.    And this is coming from someone who loves Burda and is currently making a jacket from one.

Shannon,  all I can remember is that her name was Jennifer and her posting name was twinoaks, perhaps she is still around here.   Thanks for the link.  I printed it off several times for my own use. 

SAHM,  I understand the jacket dilemma.  My friend Brenda has made the Loes Hinse Sweater Coat about 7 times and wears it so much. One in a wool boucle, one in printed denim,  another in stretch corduroy,  she says it is her most versatile pattern.   She has even made it for her sister in silk brocade.    Oh, and she made it as a work garment, she is a dental hygienist by day.  And another in cotton knit serves as her housecoat.   She uses every LH pattern a zillion times and gets her money's worth out of them.   The Sweater Coat pattern is easy to sew, and looks like a long sweater if you use a knit.   And those patterns posted look very similar.  Also a long jacket like that solves the problem of jacket length over different tops.   

The question about the time frame,  officially you should make your garments between Jan 1 and April whatever.   Can't remember the date I wrote!   But I think that cutting out in advance is allowed,  it would probably be a good idea to get the fiting and cutting done if you can.  Why not?  I have no problem with that, let the machine start humming after Christmas.   Julie

[Tonia L]

I am amazed to see that after all these years there is still so much interest in the SWAP version of sewing.  Of course, I just love it!   I am so happy to see that people are benefitting from such a great method of sewing.

I am working on a fall SWAP that I am hoping to whip together for a business trip to San Diego in two weeks.  I have a number of items cut already, and now just need to find time to sew them!  The trick, as usual, is to use the T'n'T patterns that are easy to make up.  I am using a brown glen check fabric for my suit base, it has a subtle teal blue/aqua line through it.  The suit pants are LH's Oxfords that I have inserted an invisible zipper into.  I used LH's modified Bolero jacket (with the shawl type collar) for a jacket, which I lined.  I found the absolutely perfect fabric today for a blouse to go with it - brown, aqua and cream.  I also have cream RPL oxfords, brown RPL oxfords, and grey RPL oxfords cut (all past offerings from Julie!), as well as a brown RPL Piazza jacket cut and waiting to be stitched up.  My goal is to get a pair of Oxfords sewn each night this week.  I am almost finished the first pair, I just have to hem them.

I am hoping to sew a couple of "fancy" tees in rayon/lycra jersey, one in a deep teal, one in a rust colour and one in a coordinating print to mix and match.  No time for a story board for this one, but I am hoping to get stage two started when I get back (branching out into aubergine and teal coordinates).  Wish me luck for my lofty goal!

[J Culshaw]

Yeah Tonia, and you started it all,  glad to see you still here after five years!

Thanks so much Shannon, that chart is great. Here is the link for everyone else.  Print it off (print several so that you can make changes)  - it is so helpful.   Julie

http://bp0.blogger.com/_9LuiGjwGQU8/RvloIYjo1BI/AAAAAAAABwg/jwz2qO2vL-I/s1600-h/swapchart.jpg





http://www.timmelfabrics.com/swap.htm

[LauraTS]

I was going through the sewing folder on my computer and reread this great document on creating wardrobe clusters from the University of Kentucky Extension. The ratios of garments are a bit different than the SWAP rules, but the idea is the same and I find the article helpful. You can download it from this page of sewing articles; it's toward the bottom titled "Building a Basic Wardrobe by Clusters" (there's a lot of other good articles there too) or here's the direct PDF download.