If you are new to this challenge, you still have plenty of time to join in. You can read details on the Greenstyle blog here. You can also read some of the many blogposts I have written when I participated in this challenge in previous years or used the concept when sewing. ALSO, Greenstyle is offering a 25% off pattern discount during the event with code “2023PFC!” Ok, now let’s get into what I have made!

The Ultra Crop Hoodie

I started off by making 2 hoodies. It is still cold out, and I like to have an easy layer. I have lots of pullover styles in my closet and really needed more zip up options. For the pattern, I chose the Ultra Crop by Greenstyle. This was my first time to sew this pattern. My first version of the pattern included the longest length available in the pattern with the hood and slimmer sleeves.

I used matching french terry and rib knit from Greenstyle for the fabric. This is a lighter hoodie and will work well into the spring. I love having the rib match so perfectly!

For my next hoodie, I added length to the bodice and a pocket. I also used the fuller sleeve option included in the pattern.

The fabric on this one is a fleece-backed knit from The Fabric Fairy. It does not feel that much heavier than the french terry I used on my first zip up, but it is much thicker and warmer! I love how it really keeps the cold out without all the bulk. If this one is out of stock, you can find lots more of their polartec style fleece here.

To add the pocket, I used the Kangaroo pocket on the Bianca pullover. I made the pocket a little wider than just half the pocket based on the size of my hand.

As far as sewing the Ultra Crop hoodie, it was rather quick. I had made several last month using a different pattern and used the same method from that pattern. The instructions on this one were very robust because of all the options in the pattern, and it was a little overwhelming to sift through at first.

The only adjustment I made on both hoodies was to remove length from the sleeves, add width to the bottom band, and to add width to the cuffs. I felt like the cuff and bottom band were too tight. The bottom band especially made this puff and rippling situation all along the bottom of the hoodie. I cut the band to be 1:1 and barely stretched it to fit, cutting off any excess. I don’t like that band to fit tightly across my midsection. I think the bands included in the pattern would be fine if I was making the pattern as a top, but as a hoodie, it is not necessary to have the waist cinched in so much.

I also don’t like the wrist cuff too tight so that I can check my watch without much of a struggle, so I added an inch. You can see it is not as fitted here as intended.

Racerback Tops

Next, I wanted to make a dozen racerback style tank tops. I ended up fitting in two, but I hope I can make more before summer arrives. They are my favorite style to work out in. They are simple and don’t get in my way when moving around. For both of them, I used tried-and-true patterns that I reach for every day and feel like I don’t have enough colors of them.

I used the Greenstyle Lille for the purple tank I made. The only adjustment I made was to remove length from the bottom. The Lille is fitted in the bust but has a little more ease in the midsection.

The next tank I made is with the Greenstyle Elevate Crop Top. This pattern has a bottom band to finish it instead of a hem. I omitted that and lengthened it (using their cami pattern for advice on the width/length for the rest of the tank).

This one is more fitted through the midsection, mainly because of the pattern I used when adding length to it.

I used athletic brushed polyester for both tanks – the 180 gsm version. Sadly, the places I bought it from are now out of business (Zenith and Quasar and Made Whimsy). Do you have another source for this fabric?

Athletic Shorts

I made two pairs of athletic shorts with running in mind. For the first pair, I wanted compressive with a pocket for my phone when running outside.

For the pattern, I used the Greenstyle Super G tights. The pattern does not have a shorts cutline, so I have a video here on how I cut the pattern pieces to make shorts.

For fabric, I used athletic brushed polyester from The Styled Magnolia. I got this print in a scrap pack, and I LOVE it! The floral is so pretty! I see it is now in their pick-a-print section and can be added to your pre-order any month.

My next pair of shorts is for treadmill running where I don’t want a pocket for my phone, and I want something loose and airy. I always feel like those runs are the sweatiest and hardest. Having cute shorts that help keep me from getting too hot makes them a bit more fun!

I used the Balboa pattern for these. I did the 2″ elastic band option and the shortest length on the pattern because I had just a half yard to work with.

I used stretch woven fabric from The Styled Magnolia for the main fabric and a black stretch woven from The Fabric Fairy for the binding. You can find the Floral Silhouette print in The Styled Magnolia’s pick-a-print section here.

Which piece is your favorite? I am so happy I had time to make each one of them. I love the prints on the shorts, and I used them for inspiration for the other pieces and which colors to coordinate with them. Both of my tops go with each shorts, so these will be great for mix-and-match.

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

If you want to support my creative endeavors, you can buy me a coffee HERE.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

A Zip Up Hoodie

The first project I want to show you is the latest pattern from Itch to Stitch. The Nazare Zip-Up Hoodie has become a closet staple for me so quickly. Before starting this one, I noticed I had lots of pullover style sweatshirts and cardigans in my closet but only a few zip ups!

The detail that instantly stood out to me on the Nazare is the seam lines on the bust for shaping and style. They bring some nice interest, are great for colorblocking, and also mean the pattern has the option for a regular bust or a full bust (those with a larger difference between their full and upper busts). The front has nice big pockets, the sleeves have cuffs, and the bottom band has a cuff.

Aren’t the details of the pocket and front seams so great! I also love that the bands are not stretched to fit the opening so there is not this poof of gathering above them or a tight fit. I also love that the bands don’t require ribbing because I don’t have a matching color of ribbing for so many of my french terries and fleece fabrics (more on that later).

Another fun part of the Nazare pattern is how pretty the insides are! The pattern actually calls for twill tape to finish the zipper and hood seams, but I only had white twill tape on hand. So, I pivoted and used some quilting cotton that doesn’t stand out too much against my main fabric. I cut my strip of quilting cotton 1 and 1/8 inches wide out of scraps.

I chose my size based on my full bust measurement and graded out for my hips that were one size larger. After making it, I am unsure the grading for the hips was necessary because it hits right above my full hip and is not a snug fit there.

The hood is not optional and does not have a drawstring. If you feel the need for one, though, I would add a buttonhole where I want the drawstring to come out and then before adding the hood, I would sew a line of stitching around the hood opening to encase it.

I love the way it fits and wished I had enough time in my day to make a dozen. I already started on a grey fleece one and hopefully will finish it soon. 

The red fabric I used is a cotton spandex french terry from Made Whimsy. My zipper is from Wawak.

Leggings and a Sports Bra

Next up is a new pair of Cavallo leggings and an Embrace Sports bra. I did an Embrace bra sew along a year ago and since have made so many more of these bras! 

During the sew along, I stuck to the pattern as written, and since then, I have had the freedom to sew the bra just the way I want. So, I don’t use binding on the neckline and don’t use the colorblocking piece included in the pattern for the front (because it is one extra seam I don’t need to show through my shirts!). To finish the neckline, I sew it the same exact way the Power Sports bra is sewn. This means that I put clear elastic in the seam and then sew it inside out through the shoulders.

I sew the racerback option the most because it works well for support when working out, but the pattern also includes a u-back option and a layered back option (where you layer the u-back and racerback for the ultimate support!).

And now the pants…

The Cavallo Leggings have no inseam and huge, wonderful pockets. The waist is HIGH (which I LOVE). I chose the lower of the two rise options available in the pattern. These have been the perfect winter running pants for me!

For the stitching, I chose a gold thread. I think it is a nice subtle contrast to this gorgeous print.

Speaking of gorgeous print – this one is from the Alcohol Ink round at The Styled Magnolia. It is offered on multiple bases, and of course, I chose my favorite – Athletic Brushed Poly. It is truly my all-time favorite base for workouts and for everyday life. It feels so good to the touch and to wear. You can find this particular print here or look at all the other ones in this collection here. The round is open through the end of this month!

Two Long-Sleeved Tops

Next up are two tops for layering. Since our winters are all over the place with how cold it really is on a given day, I made a lightweight T shirt and a thicker sweater for layering. 

For the T-shirt, I used the FREE Green Tee pattern from Greenstyle (the code to get it for free is found in their Facebook group). How do I not have a dozen of these in my closet!! I always forget what an absolute treasure this pattern is. If you need an easy knit T-shirt pattern, download this one. It also has a V-neck option.

I used bamboo lycra from The Fabric Fairy for fabric. Isn’t it such a pretty shade of pink? Well, sadly, this color is no longer in stock! If you still need a good T-shirt fabric, they have plenty of other colors. 

Next, I made a Cambria sweater from Greenstyle. This is a similar knit pattern but has multiple options for the sleeves and hem as well as a mock neck option for the neckline. 

I made the bishop style sleeves (the ones with the poof at the bottom).

The fun thing about this sweater is that I have MATCHING rib knit for the french terry. And, it is super luxe! The fabric is from Greenstyle and they have an entire assortment of matching french terries and rib knits. I also got pink and plan to make a zip up out of it. They are all on sale this month too!

A Slouchy Sweater

The last thing I made for 2022 was a slouchy sweater. This fabric is a squishy thick sweater knit from Minerva. 

The pattern is the Besharl Jacket from Style Arc. Their patterns are not very beginner friendly. The instructions are very sparse and to the point, but this one proved to be really easy to put together with just a few steps. 

I love the oversized look of it and have kept it on the back of a chair to throw over any outfit when I get chilled while working from home.

You can read more about this one on my posts on the Minerva page here and here.

That’s all for now! I have a project pile that is HUGE. I don’t think it ever really goes down because I tend to think of sewing projects quicker than I can actually sew. (The same goes for buying fabric, although I have been better at that lately!)

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin. 

If you want to support my creative endeavors, you can buy me a coffee HERE.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

For today’s post, I have a new running shorts sewing pattern – the Greenstyle 3R Shorts – to show you as well as a new top I made from a tried-and-true pattern.

The Pattern

The Greenstyle 3R Shorts pattern is an athletic shorts pattern that comes in 2 lengths. I made the shorter length for both of my shorts. The longer length is about 2 or so inches longer than this length.

The shorts have a split side seam, meaning that the front and back are not connected at the side. Rather, they are overlapped. This makes it really easy to have movement and full range of motion while you run and makes it easy to access the pocket in the undershorts. A lot of race style running shorts have the split in the side. I am so excited to have a pattern to finally sew my own!! I have been on a path returning to distance running this year, and this is exactly what my wardrobe needed.

The undershorts also come in short and long lengths. I did the short length for my undershorts as well. The pattern also includes a brief option if you do not want undershorts, but I really need that pocket to be able to store my phone so I can keep up with my podcasts while I am out on a run.

The 3R shorts waistband comes with different height options. You can pick between 2, 3, and 4 inches depending on what elastic you have on hand (or want to order) and how tall you like your waistbands. I chose the 3-inch waistband for both my shorts.

After you insert elastic into the waistband, you can sew stitching lines to really keep the elastic from shifting around. I ended up sewing 4 lines on my pink pair and 3 lines on my yellow pair. Which amount do you like better?

To do the stitching, I put one needle in my cover stitch and stretch the waistband out as far as I can while sewing in a straight line. You could also use a straight stitch on your sewing machine to have the same effect. I also use a longer stitch length when I sew these lines.

As far as fabric, I used a very lightweight athletic knit on both. I have no memory of buying either fabric though, so I possibly got it in a remnant sale or from a friend. This pattern can be made in stretch woven on the outer short and waistband as well. You would just want to make sure you are using a fabric with at least 50% 4-way stretch for your undershorts or briefs if you use a stretch woven outer fabric.

Athletic mesh, swim, lightweight athletic, stretch woven, etc. are all great choices.

The edges of the outer shorts are not hemmed. This means you will preferably use a fabric that does not curl or fray on the edges. If you do, though, it is ok; you will just need to do binding to keep them from curling or fraying.

My Top

My top pattern is one that I have found I wear over and over again and reach for all the time. It is the Greenstyle Elevate Crop Top, except I lengthened and hemmed it instead of using the cross over band. I used the Greenstyle Cami pattern as my guide on what to make the sides and hem look like. Every time I make one, I realize I need a dozen more in every color! It really is the perfect gym or running top when you don’t want to wear only a sports bra but need to stay cool.

The Elevate crop pattern has the option of a U back or a racerback, bands or binding for neckline and armholes, and lower or higher scoop necklines. I chose the racerback, bands, and lower neckline for this one.

The fabric I used for my top is Athletic Brushed Polyester (ABP) from The Styled Magnolia. The print I used is their thin black and white stripes. They are my go-to place lately for ABP for working out. It is exactly the weight and feel I love. Soft and light but not too light that it shows your underthings.

Fitness Goals

As I mentioned earlier, I am getting back into running! This is my first summer in over a decade that I have ran outside consistently. I go in the morning, usually around 8 am, and it is already so humid and hot that it has really been a test of my fitness.

I started running again in January, and I am determined not to give up. My goal is to run a half marathon in late Winter or very early Spring of 2023. My progress has definitely not been linear and has had so many ups and downs already. Getting back into running after a substantial break is not as easy as I’d imagined it would be! Send me all the tips if you have any.

Since it has been so hot outside lately, I do end up running inside on a treadmill 1-2 times per week, but the way the treadmills are set up at the gym, there is not much cold air circulation, so I still end up a sweaty mess when it is all over.

What season are you in in your fitness journey? Even if running is not your activity of choice, I think you will love these shorts. They are comfortable enough for yoga, biking, dancing, or just lounging around! You could even make just the outer shorts as a sleep short.

The pattern is on sale this week. Grab it HERE.

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin. 

If you want to support my creative endeavors, you can buy me a coffee HERE.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

You may notice a theme in today’s post and that is most of my tops with sleeves have sleeve drama. With the exception of one woven tank top and a woven blazer, every other project I have to show you has gorgeous sleeves and some kind of unique detail that I adore. Let’s get started, and at the end, share with me which pattern or which detail is your favorite.

Friday Pattern Co. Sagebrush Top

The Sagebrush top by Friday Pattern Company has the quintessential puff sleeves. These sleeves are short, end right above my elbow, and are gathered at the top and finished with elastic in the bottom hem. Above the bust is a ruffle that is such a cute detail and adds interest to the top.

The back is closed with a tie that is made from the bias used to bind the neckline. I prefer not having a button back closure and like the yoke with a tie how it is done here.

The Sagebrush has a roomy fit and is comfortable to wear.

I used a rayon challis from The Styled Magnolia for this one. I have also made this pattern in a linen/cotton blend before (you can see that post here). If you want fuller sleeves, you will want a crisper and more structured fabric. I wanted to have more drape in the body and not as full sleeves for this top, so rayon challis was perfect.

Itch to Stitch Lemont

The next woven fabric project I have to show you is a puff sleeve pattern designed to make broad shoulders not look so wide. The Itch to Stitch Lemont pattern is so figure flattering and has the most gorgeous sleeves and genius construction. If you have been hesitating to try out a puff sleeve top because you don’t want to add any width to your shoulders, you will want to try this pattern. 

The secret is the way the sleeves are set in. It is a dolman style short sleeve with gathering at the top of the sleeve and the cuff. The cuff does not have elastic and is a piece of binding.

There are princess seams in the bodice and the side of the top are part of the sleeve, so you still only have three main pieces to cut out (a front, back, and sleeve) with one piece for neck binding and another small piece for the sleeve binding.

My light purple/lilac top is a cotton voile curtain that I found at Target many years ago and saved to use for testing out new patterns. My test version ended up fitting perfect without needing alteration, so I am glad I used this pretty curtain for my top! I love finding inexpensive fabric for test garments.

My second top I made using the Lemont pattern is made in a cotton gingham from Minerva. This is the emerald colorway with a 1/4 check pattern. The fabric base is cotton and this one has a soft hand and works really well for garment sewing.

I love how this pattern worked so well for this fabric. I really did not have to match plaids since the side bodice is in a bias direction.

This pattern has a higher neckline but still does not require closures because you can pull it over your head. The hem ends right above my high hip, so if you are taller, you will want to add length. I love tops this length because I find it so flattering on my petite legs.

The green color is perfect for Spring. I have more of this fabric left over and made a sundress out of it. My dress is still waiting on buttons, but I will share it with you when I finish it!

I love how well this one turned out! You can find my initial posts on my green Lemont here and here.

McCall’s 7969

I rarely sew McCall’s patterns, but I have sewn 2 so far this spring! The first one – McCall’s 7969 – is now a FREE pattern that is offered by Minerva when you sign up for their newsletter. Unfortunately, I bought it before it was free, but it was worth it because I ADORE this dress! I also love that McCall’s patterns can now be purchased as PDF files.

This dress is flowy and has tons of ease and is the most comfortable dress I have ever worn. The sleeves are really big as well, but I think they are so nice to wear. I really don’t feel swallowed by this dress, and that is always my fear when wearing dresses that are oversized. This pattern is definitely a fabric hog!

The fabric is a delightful rayon challis with this wild print. I LOVE it! You can find my posts on it here and here when I initially posted what I made on the Minerva site.

McCall’s 7899

The next McCall’s pattern that I tried is all about the sleeves. McCall’s 7899 is one I am so glad I tried!

I ADORE these sleeves. This is a raglan pattern with pleats that are so perfectly placed along the top of the sleeve. The bottom is gathered with elastic in the hem. There is also a non-pleated version if you want to save time and a sleeveless version as well, but I just HAD to make these sleeves first.

The back has a button closure, but I sewed it down instead of using a button because my hair always gets caught on buttons back there, and I noticed I could put the top on without needing to open it up. 

You can read more about this top and the fabric I used on my posts here and here.

Vivian Chao Laurence Top

I finally have a pattern without sleeve drama that I made this Spring. This sleeveless crop top is the Vivian Chao Laurence Top. It is the PERFECT scrap buster for woven fabrics. This is an organic cotton and does not have the same drape and soft hand like the emerald check I showed you earlier. It is definitely more structured. 

You can find my posts with more details on this project here.

Tudor Wrap Blouse and Fawn Skirt

I also used the same gingham to make a Stitch Witch Patterns Tudor Wrap Blouse and a Common Stitch Fawn skirt. 

The Tudor Wrap blouse has a square neckline and puff sleeves that have elastic in the top of the sleeve and in the sleeve hem. The pattern includes the option for a button up front with a solid back or a wrap front or a wrap back. This is the option with the solid front and the wrap back. I feel like the ties on this pattern are not quite long enough to wrap around the front and tie in the back, but they are too long to tie only in the front. I am going to have to play with it more to find the most comfortable and cutest way to tie. The rest of the fit, though is absolutely awesome!

I ran out of fabric on my Fawn Skirt to do the third tier, so I hemmed the second one and have a shorter skirt. I think it works great in this fabric and looks just as good!

I AM Artemis Jacket

Last, but definitely not least, I made this linen blazer at the beginning of spring using the I AM Patterns Artemis Jacket pattern, and I have worn it so much! I used a heavier weight linen/cotton blend for my jacket, and it was such a great choice for the look I was going for!

The sleeves are grown onto the body, meaning there is no sleeve/armscye seam. The pockets are big and genius in their construction. I left off the button in the pattern on the collar. Whoops! Do you think I should go back and add it?

I did the option in the pattern for lining it, but I did not like how it was finished so I used the construction method for a lot of coats that I have made – two examples are the Greenstyle Molly Coat and the Papercut Nova Coat. If you want a pretty lining finish, I suggest you do the same! Here are my insides:

I pieced together a few quilting cottons I had in my stash that blended well with the tones of the front. The top I am wearing under my jacket is a Greenstyle cami (you can read a post on that pattern here).

I initially posted the details about sewing this jacket here and here.

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

The Pattern

The Made for Mermaids Thea Pleated Top is a shorter top style that finishes at the high hip.

It is not a crop top, but it is a perfect and flattering top length. I have a longer torso compared to my legs, but when I wear tops that hit at my high hip like this one, I find it helps to balance my proportions. I am 5’2″ for reference (with all my shortness in my legs!).

The Thea has three neckline options (a mock neck, higher scoop, and lower scoop). My green top is the higher scoop neckline option.

My mustard top is the low scoop neckline option.

The pattern also includes two back options. My green one is the tie back option. The back cut out is finished with half an inch elastic to really cinch it in.

My mustard one is the solid back.

Both back options have a seam down the middle.

As far as sleeve options, you can choose a flutter sleeve or a fitted cap, short, or long sleeve. I did not hem my flutter sleeve. I think it makes it flow better.

My mustard top has the more fitted short sleeve.

All options have four pleats on the front with a shaped waistband. The pleats on the Thea give it lots of nice ease and a perfect little detail to make it stand out from your average knit t shirt or top.

The tie back option gives you more room to tie the top to where the waistband is more fitted, while the solid back’s waistband is not tight not loose. It is the perfect amount of ease.

Fabric

I used double brushed polyester from Knitpop for both of my tops. I think it is a great fabric for this top and is also pretty inexpensive.

Resources

• You can purchase the pattern here.
• You can find double brushed polyester fabric in prints or in solids.

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

Greenstyle patterns are my absolute go-to when it comes to sewing clothes for being active in, and since I have been working out more, I was really excited to join in this year in their annual fitness capsule challenge. You can read my post last month on the beginning of my capsule here.

Now let’s get into my capsule sewing for this year – and start with these leggings! I made the Cavallo leggings again. These are quickly becoming my most sewn and worn leggings pattern for running and working out in.

The Cavallos stay up really well, have wonderful pockets, and NO INSEAM.

The backside has a curved bridge at the top that is pretty flattering as well.

They also are not overly tight so I can wear them all day if I want to.

The fabric I used to make my leggings is athletic brushed polyester from The Styled Magnolia. This print is called Summer Glow, and it is available on multiple bases in their current preorder through the end of this month.

Next, I made two tank tops with a pink cotton lycra.

This is the same pattern mashup I made last month at the start of my capsule. I used the Elevate Crop top for the top neckline and everything above the armscye. Then, I used the Cami pattern for everything below the armscye and hem.

I LOVE this color for a tank top. Unfortunately, the fabric base was NOT as perfect as I wanted it to be. The fabric does not have any spandex in it, so it starts to grow and feel looser as I wear it.

The fabric is a combed cotton jersey from Knitpop. I did not realize until after I made this top that the fabric is 100% cotton and does not have spandex. So, my lesson was learned.

On the bright side, I did find a pattern that works perfectly for it – the Tie Back Tank.

This tank top is open in the back and tied so you can adjust the tie to get the tank nice and snug, so no more worrying about fabric growing.

I adjusted this pattern by removing like 4 or 5 inches from the length. I realized that if I make the pattern as drafted there is just so much extra fabric bunched up in the front after I tie it above my butt in the back. I find it is more flattering to be slightly shorter on me.

I really love the cool breeze I feel on my back when running in a Tie Back Tank. It is not my go-to when I am doing activities where I need to be on my back more, though, because the knot digs in.

Shorts

I also made two pairs of shorts! These are the Greenstyle Balboa shorts.

They have two length options – I chose the shorter length. They also have three waistband options – 2, 3, or 4 inch. I did the 2-inch with two rows of stitching on the waistband.

For fabric, I used the same print from The Styled Magnolia – Summer Glow. I used their stretch woven base for this project, though. (My leggings up above were made with their athletic brushed polyester knit).

The Styled Magnolia’s stretch woven is really nice for athletic shorts and very similar to what you would find in a high-end athletic store.

I love being able to get similar fabric to what I feel in a nice store and replicate the item to be even better (because handmade always fits better!)

The second pair I made is a solid navy.

My goal is to have a dozen of these shorts for this summer. I already have been running in them a lot in the gym since I have made them.

The navy is a stretch woven from The Fabric Fairy. Their stretch woven is a little lighter weight and also a really nice base. This navy is very versatile with a lot of tops I run in.

Another Cropped Tank

Yes, I made another of these cropped tank mashups of the Elevate and Cami like my pink one above. This one is in an athletic brushed polyester left over from leggings, and it is so MUCH nicer and holds it shape better.

I cropped this one a little more than the others I have made, and I am not sure if I am quite bold enough to wear it out as much. I wore this set to the gym the other day, though, and got compliments from many random strangers. 🙂

I love that I can order two different fabric types from The Styled Magnolia and get the same print and wear them together.

Hoodie

Yes, I needed a layer because it is spring and randomly chilly or windy.

I used the Greenstyle Bianca for this one. It has the option of a hood, collar, or neckband. Two pocket options (or no pockets) and different lengths. This is the cropped hoodie with the kangaroo pocket.

I used a fabric that I have had in my stash for some time and do not remember buying! It is some type of fleece and really warm.

I left this in my car last week, and it was the perfect layer when I got cold at the baseball fields watching my kids play this past weekend.

It is nice and oversized so works well over other shirts.

Brassie Joggers

I feel like this post would not be complete if I did not make a pair of Brassie joggers for my capsule. They are my favorite comfy jogger pattern ever.

I have blogged about them repeatedly, have a sew along for them, and sew them and wear them more than probably anything else in my closet.

This pair is made in a brushed athletic knit from The Fabric Fairy. It is a deep dustier purple that is marled (or heathered) looking. This color is no longer in stock, but they have other colors of this base in stock and usually restock things quickly.

This is a great outfit for when I am working out on my upper body. I usually like to wear shorts or something lighter on my legs if I am running or doing cardio. I think these would work great for running outside in colder climates or just working from home like I also like to wear them.

Tennis Skirt

My next capsule item on my list was a tennis skirt in navy. I thought it would go really well with all the other items.

Do you notice that is NOT ME wearing the skirt I planned!?

Well, my oldest daughter informed me at 7 pm on a Monday night that her first tennis match for her middle school was the following day and that the team required the kids to wear navy shorts or a navy skirt. She also let me know the school would not be providing said navy bottoms like they had when she had run cross country. I guess she forgot to tell me this on Friday in all her excitement of making the team.

In that moment, I was so happy that I could sew and create exactly what she wanted in a matter of an hour (I had already made her this pattern the summer before, and I did not have to reprint). Seriously, I felt like superwoman when I handed her this skirt, and she looked so cute in it!

The pattern is the Rally skirt from Greenstyle. It has these undershorts with pockets for her tennis balls. Wish her the best in her matches this year!

I used Navy Flex fabric from The Fabric Fairy for her skirt. This color is no longer in stock, but they have others here.

When I am looking for athletic fabric for this pattern, I am looking for three things: (1) a fabric with higher spandex, so it does not grow or feel loose while active in it, (2) a fabric that does not curl on the edges, so I don’t have to hem it, and (3) a non-brushed fabric so the skirt does not stick or cling to the undershorts. This fabric was perfect for all of these and has washed really well.

Which item was your favorite? I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

I find it one of the quickest and most satisfying things to sew. I also can get a great fit in fabrics I love and feel good wearing. When I wear my handmade gym clothes when working out, I do not have to worry about everything staying put or feeling too tight in the wrong places, and frankly, that is worth all the time and effort it takes to sew my own. I also am petite so struggle with finding fit in store made bottoms.

Did you know that Greenstyle Patterns has an annual Fit Capsule Challenge? I have taken part in it for the past several years and always find so much inspiration and motivation when I join in. It usually lasts a month and has prizes and discounts.

The gist of the challenge is to sew at least 3 items that coordinate well for whatever type of activity you do to stay in shape. I have blogged about it several times, including here and here. You can read the details specific to this year on the Greenstyle blog. ALSO, there is a sitewide pattern discount of 25% off!! Use code 2022PFC through March 13th.

I got a little head start on sewing for it this year and made 6 items for today’s post! I hope you love all the details of each item. Let’s start with the bra.

I made the Greenstyle Embrace bra. This is a pattern that I have grown to love. I previously made dozens of Power Sports Bras but have lately been reaching more for my Embrace bras because I love how easy the flat front is to wear under more garments. (The power sports bra has princess seams on the front) I made this Embrace bra using the techniques in the Power Sports Bra pattern, though, because I did not want to do binding on the neckline. I have a sew along for the Embrace pattern here.

This is the racerback view on the pattern. It also includes a U-back style and a layered U and racerback for even more support.

Next, I made these Inspire leggings and added the Brassie jogger pocket onto them. I chose this pattern because it has more ease which gives me more room to grow. I notice when I work out more, I usually gain the inches in my backside and legs.

I used gold topstitching thread and love how it sparkles. To get this type of seam, I first sewed my seam with a serger (right sides together like usual). Then, I topstitched that seam down using my coverstitch with 3 needles, sewing on the inside of the pants. The only place I sewed from the right side was on the rise and hems. I decided they did not need to be highlighted.

It is like a little touch of magic.

I used the free contour waistband pattern on these instead of the waistband included in the pattern. It has a little more shaping to it and stays up better when running.

Next, I made a pair of Super G shorts. These also have the gold sparkle topstitching.

The Super G pattern has a gusset and the best pockets. The pattern does not include a cut line for shorts, but I have a video on how I cut the pattern pieces here.

Next, I made three tank tops that mix and match well with this as well as lots of my athletic clothes – a grey bamboo/cotton longer tank, a black cotton cropped tank, and one out of this alcohol ink print.

For the grey tank top, I used the Greenstyle Lille pattern.

For my next two tank tops, I used the Greenstyle Elevate for everything above the armscye and Greenstyle Cami cropped hemline for everything below the armscye.

Which one would you wear the most with this set?

Fabric

The print fabric that I used for this post is called Mystic Cavern. It is part of the Alcohol Ink artwork in the current round at The Styled Magnolia. I got the Athletic Brushed Polyester base. It is a soft fabric that wicks sweat really well. It is not heavy but is thick enough for leggings and sports bras as well as tanks and dresses! They have lots of other bases if you prefer to sew bags, quilts, or other types of garments.

The grey fabric is the bamboo cotton jersey base from The Fabric Fairy. I like this base better than a traditional cotton lycra because it is softer. I also like it better than a traditional bamboo lycra because it is a little heavier so does not wrinkle so bad and show every lump and bump.

The black fabric is a cotton lycra scrap from Made Whimsy. This is part of their dream solids so it is a softer cotton lycra and great quality. It is not quite as soft as the bamboo, but I still like how well it works for a tank! It is still a great quality for the price.

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

My husband was my photographer for these pieces. He happened to be wearing all stuff made by me! The top is an Excel tee in double brushed poly and his shorts are the Iron joggers in French Terry.

I have the details for all my most recent projects, a life update (at the very end), and a video for you today!

Let’s start with the video. You can watch that here.

I seemed to have a color trend this month without even realizing it! I normally tend towards pink, but I have sewn a lot of mustard and burnt oranges and navy more than other colors recently. I still love pink, so maybe I need to add some pink projects in February for Valentine’s Day.

Bottoms

The first category of projects I want to show you are the bottoms I have made. I made one pair of woven pants, two joggers, and a pair of leggings!

True Bias Lander Pants

I made the Lander pants pattern two months ago, and this pair of pants has gotten so much use since then! I love the button front style.

I also love the high waist and wide (but not too wide) legs.

I also especially love how soft this fabric is and how comfortable they are to wear in everyday life!

I wrote a more detailed post about these pants here and you can also see more photos of them here. 

Greenstyle Brassie Joggers

I love wearing comfy joggers, and I wear them so much when I am at home. My favorite pattern for joggers is the Greenstyle Brassie joggers, and I made two pairs this month!

I made this pair in this soft and cozy bamboo cotton french terry from The Fabric Fairy. This is the bengal grass colorway (that looks more green than yellow). I love the soft feel of this fabric, and I plan to buy the black or navy next time I order some.

I also used some camel french terry from The Fabric Snob for another pair of Brassie joggers. This one is more goldish or dark mustard. It has a charcoal heathered textured look due to the wrong side of the fabric being a charcoal/brownish color. When I went to find a link on their website, this particular one was sold out, but they have the same color without the heathered look and contrast backing. You can find that one here.

I made the high-rise version of the pattern for these and love it!

Are you as big of a jogger fan as I am? I have a sew along for the Brassie Joggers here if you want to sew a pair with me or want to watch any of the techniques for sewing them.

I also made one pair of leggings! These are the Cavallos. 

I made this pair to go with a sports bra that I made a few summers ago. You can see the post I wrote when I initially sewed the bra here. Since I am no longer breastfeeding, I removed the nursing clip access and found it was the perfect time to make a pair of matching leggings.

I love that the Cavallos have no inseam and BIG pockets.

They also don’t feel as compressive as other workout leggings patterns to me. 

The feather fabric I used is called Feather Bound and is Athletic Brushed Polyester (ABP) from The Styled Magnolia. 

Tops

I made four different knit tops, using two different patterns.

Friday Pattern Co. Adrienne Blouse

The Adrienne Blouse has sleeve volume and a slim bodice silhouette. 

I made one top using this Navy Double Brushed Poly (DBP) from Knitpop. It is such a perfect fabric for this top! I want several more in solid colors.

I also made one from an ITY from Minerva.

It is such a pretty floral!

I wrote more details about this project here and here.

Helen’s Closet Elliot Sweater

My next knit top project was using the Helen’s Closet Elliot Sweater pattern. I made one top in a bamboo spandex from The Fabric Fairy to wear with my Lander pants.

The pattern has different hem length options, and this is the crop view. 

I love that the turtleneck is wider and looser and does not choke me. It feels really comfortable to wear. It kind of flops over in this fabric, but I like it!

I also made another Elliot sweater in a bamboo rib knit I got from Blackbird Fabric. This color is called Wisteria. 

I used the neckband option on the pattern for this top. I think it makes a great basic cropped tee, and the rib gives it a little texture.

Layers – A Pullover, Cardigan, and Jacket

I made two layering tops to wear out on our colder days as well as a jacket! I used my scraps from my Brassie joggers for pullover and cardigan and my Lander scraps for the jacket. I was happy to be able to make so much out of each fabric and have very few scraps left over.

FibreMood Didi

The Didi is an oversized drop shoulder pullover with a nice zipper detail and big collar.

The Didi pattern states it is for knit fabrics, but I did not find anywhere in the pattern that indicated the minimum stretch required. This French Terry has minimal stretch, and I went with the smaller size (I am between sizes). I think the sizing turned out perfect so feel free to use any knit fabric regardless of how much stretch it does or does not have. I did add length to the cuffs and bottom band since this fabric is not stretchy. I would have rather used a rib knit, but I did not have one that matched that well.

I DO NOT plan to wear them with these joggers, but alas, I did not want to change out of these joggers when I was taking photos! So, imagine this pullover with some jeans or colorful leggings. How would you style it?

I love how the zipper part is done. I first read through the instructions and had no clue how this was going to work out, but once I followed the pattern step-by-step, it all made sense and felt genius! I would love to sew this pattern up again while we still have cold weather.

I used a basic YKK plastic zipper for this one, but I would love to find some unique ones to add even more interest. Do you have a source for unique zippers? 

True Bias Marlo Sweater

Next, I used my left-over bamboo french terry for a Marlo. This is an oversized dropped shoulder garment as well.

This one has a V neck and comes in a cropped or mid-thigh length.

It has wide bands and requires big buttons. The bands really cinch it in to fit snugger around your waist. I used the pattern piece for bands that are made out of non-rib knit. I bet that if I used rib knit, the bands would be more relaxed.

Chalk and Notch Joy Jacket

Ya’ll, I am so excited about this jacket!! The Chalk and Notch Joy Jacket is such a great pattern!

Do you ever finish a project that you just can’t believe that you made it?

That was definitely this one! I mean, it took forever (well, not really but there were times that I felt like I would never finish!). The instructions were very easy to follow, and there wasn’t anything in particular that was hard. It was just very involved, and there were so many pattern pieces.

It is fully lined.

It has a collar option or hood. The hood is a three-piece hood.

The hood has a drawstring casing, and there is also an option for a drawstring casing through the hem.

As far as adjustments, I removed one inch in length from the body and sleeves. I also used a smaller seam allowance through the bicep, elbow, and forearm. 

You can get more details on the blogpost I wrote for this jacket here.  Can you believe I had enough fabric left over from my Lander pants? I ordered 3 meters and had a few moments of doubt that it wouldn’t work. Thankfully, it is easier to play pattern Tetris with solids. 

I made the bottom drawstring long enough to tie a bow, but I think I may take an inch or two more off the length. Does it look like it hangs a little long to you?

Dresses

Last, but not least, I made four dresses!

Deer and Doe Myosotis Dress

The Myosotis dress is an oversized dress with all the ruffles.

I love the shorter length and how it feels to wear.

The bodice has three buttons, a collar, and 6 darts! I felt like the darts were unnecessary since it is not fitted and has so much room. Can you see my scar from my ankle surgery a few months ago in the photo above? It has healed so much!

You can read more about my dress in the post I wrote on it here.

Twig and Tale Driftwood

With my scraps, I made my daughter a Driftwood dress.

This is such a cute peasant-style blouse or dress pattern. It was pretty quick to sew for her too!

You can read more about her dress on the post I wrote on it here.

Friday Pattern Co. Wilder Gown

I also made a Wilder Gown in this gorgeous bird print from Minerva. 

This is a flowy tiered dress with a neckline that has a bow. I left mine untied when I wore it.

I wore this one on New Year’s Eve to ring in the New Year. It was a great dress to be festive while lounging around at home.

You can read more about the dress in the post I wrote on it here.

Ellie and Mac I Love the 90s Dress.

Finally, I made my daughter another I Love the 90s Dress. She picked out this adorable fabric from The Fabric Fairy and asked for a dress from it. 

This babydoll style dress is quick and perfect for cotton lycra. I made her one several months ago in this candy print from Jumping June, and she wears it so much that I knew it would be a winner. Here is the other one I made her.

It was cold outside, and her hem was flipped up, but I think you get the picture. She LOVES that dress. And now she has another one she loves just as much.

Life Updates

This fall – I started a new job (well not new, but one I had taken a break from for five years), both boys played competitive baseball with lots of tournaments and practices, my oldest ran cross country, and I had ankle surgery. It was a full season for sure.

Ankle surgery was tough. In August I sprained my ankle a week before my kids started back to school. After three weeks in a boot and two months of physical therapy, my foot was still not much better. So, I had an MRI and found out that I had a tarsal coalition. It was that moment where all of my random ankle pain that I have had for so long made sense. I was happy to know the cause and sad to be facing surgery.

The doctors said the surgery was not necessary if I did not plan to be that active and could live with the pain. I definitely did not want to live in pain, and I felt like not being active was a death sentence. I turn 40 next week, and the thought of becoming sedentary seemed so bizarre!

So, I had the surgery in October. I was not able to do anything for a week. I was not casted, but I was too swollen for a boot. My husband carried me around or I crawled if I needed to use the restroom. After a few days, a sweet local lady let me borrow her foot scooter. After the first week of immobility, I was able to wear a boot again. Then after a week in the boot, I was in a regular athletic shoe and started physical therapy. After a month of physical therapy, I was walking without a limp and starting to run and jump again!!! 

Writing that all out seems like I had an easy recovery, but I had so many emotional days and pain-filled days. My biggest problem was all the nerve pain. I had nonstop tingling and strange sensations all on top of my foot. I did acupuncture, and it helped (especially with the swelling and constant tingling). I still have random zaps and burning sensations and numbness, but I am about 90-95% of the way better. The only time it still tells me that it is hurt now is when I lay down at night. This too shall pass.

What have you been sewing? Which garment is your favorite of the ones I sewed?

I hope I inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

In 2017, the Moxi shorts pattern released and quickly became my first activewear pattern to embrace and obsess over. I haven’t really stopped sewing athletic wear ever since and have no plans to stop. Obsess may be putting it lightly. 

Now, 4 years have passed, it has a kids’ version available AND the grown up version has an expanded size chart and updated fit.

The fit of the updated Moxi pattern now angles up as it reaches the side. The previous original pattern was more straight across and shorts like on the side. The kids version follows the style of the original Moxis. You can see the different sides between mine and my daughters. See how my back piece angles and swoops up as it reaches the hem of the front while hers is a slighter, more modest sweep up?

I feel like the pattern update made the shorts cheekier on me, and I will need to fix the lower back to be more shorts-like and not brief-style on my next pair. I am really thinking it is going to be the slightest change and probably just my personal preference.

Another change from the original in the pattern update is that the pattern now includes the option of using a stretch woven waistband with elastic. It still has the original version’s knit waistband option, but I am loving the elastic waist option as well when I don’t have a matching knit or don’t want to break up the waistband from the shorts. The kids version has this option as well.

The update gave me more room in the crotch, and they are much more comfortable when I sit down. They are still a lower rise, but not as low, and I think this is why they are more comfortable. You can get a higher rise by using the knit waistband in the pattern because it has two options for rise height. The woven waistband is for 2 inch elastic.

Do you like the update? I am super happy with the new size chart for adults. It goes up to a 62 inch hip!

Here is a side-by-side visual if you are trying to decide whether you will stick with the original or want to use the update. The blue chevron is the original pattern.

How to Choose Size

Use your hip measurement to decide which size Moxi shorts to make. I made two of the updated adult Moxi’s and one for my sweet 10 year old. I am a 35 inch hip, and on the size chart, size C is 34-35 inches and size D is 35-36 inches for hip. I don’t fall to one side or the other and am squarely at 35, between the two or in both whichever way you slice it.

I made a size C for this pretty floral pair and cut the fabric where the stretch goes across the body. This floral fabric is a stretch woven from The Styled Magnolia (and on preorder through the end of this month!). 

I also made a size D in a stretch woven given to me from a friend. Here is what the size D looks like on me.

If you are between sizes and want a closer fit or are using a stretchier fabric, go with the smaller size. If you want a looser fit and more room, go with the bigger size. Here is a front view of the bigger size on me.

Do you prefer the smaller size or like the ease of the size up?

More Athletic Sewing

I made another Rally skirt with a matching Embrace bra! I adore this pattern and planned to play lots of tennis in this outfit. 

Planned is the key word. A little over a week ago, I was playing tennis and rolled my ankle. I was running to hit a ball and stepped onto a ball that I had left on the court (I was in a hurry because I had just 10 minutes left to play and did not want to stop and pick up balls quite yet).

I stepped directly on the ball, and my ankle rolled so hard. It hurt so bad, and I could barely even walk off the court! May I be the reminder to you that getting in a hurry, being impatient, and not just doing the thing you know to do doesn’t always work out in your favor. 

I saw the foot/ankle doctor the next day, and am now in a boot for three weeks, and then, we will do physical therapy, and my prayer is that I will be back to walking, running, and doing all the normal things soon. In the mean time, I still have worn my Rally skirt because it has the best undershorts! Here is me trying to laugh in the face of adversity.

And, of course, the boot. 

Here I am wearing my stylish boot with a pair of Brassie shorts and a Lille tank. I had just barely enough of this print left for these shorts when I finished my Rally skirt. 

I sewed this Embrace bra using the method of the Power Sports Bra so that I could skip binding the neckline. I love the flat front style of the Embrace because it does not show through my tighter fitting tank tops. It still has shaping with the front dart, and I also use cups!

Set Backs

I have been the most inconsistent runner for the past 9 years. I fell in love with running as a hobby when I was 21 and ran consistently week in and week out until my third child was born after turning 30. I have had so many false starts/stops ever since trying to find my rhythm. I mostly just seem to lack motivation for it when there are so many other things pulling my attention. I am now in the middle of being 39, and something happened to me in July, and I started running again. I was so slow at first but consistently stuck with it FOR A MONTH. I ran the morning before I hurt my ankle, and it actually felt good, the way I remembered it, and I was not so terribly slow.

I got out of the shower last night and realized I could barely walk on my foot. The pain is still so real. Here is my prayer that I can find my way back to my hobby. Here is also my request of you, go for that run. Take that long walk. Feel how nice it is to be pain free! And, if you have pains like I do, I pray you heal and work through them. 

Seasons Change 

For the past 3 years, I worked as an admin for Greenstyle Creations and last month I stepped down. I am working as a lawyer again, and it feels good to now sew for just fun. My kids started school in public school last week. I will no longer be homeschooling! I still have one last kid at home with me during the day – my 3 year old who plays a lot quieter than my sons did at this same age. I am able to get a lot more done during the day now! I feel all the nostalgia of changing seasons. I know God sees me and that he has good for me in this life and is constantly directing me and helping me. I seriously don’t know how I homeschooled them as long as I did!

Resources – Patterns

1. Moxi Shorts – Adults, Youth, or buy both
2. Staple tank (pink tank top worn with my moxi shorts)
3. Embrace Bra pattern (sports bra worn with my moxis and with my rally skirt)
4. Rally Skirt pattern
5. Brassie Shorts pattern
6. Lille Tank pattern (black tank top worn with my brassie shorts)

Resources – Fabric

1. Floral Moxi Short Pattern for Me is stretch woven from The Styled Magnolia. This print is in their preorder, but they also offer this same base on many different prints! This base is easy to work with and very beginning friendly. It also feels great to wear and washes well!
2. The white binding on my moxi shorts and the black binding on my daughters is the solid stretch chiffon from Joanns. It is lightweight and makes the edges not feel bulky. Here is the link for the white and here is the black.
3. Stretch chiffon from Joann is the fabric for my daughter’s Moxi shorts. It is unlike any other chiffon I have tried and is silky smooth. It is lightweight and makes excellent athletic shorts. I have several moxis made from it four years ago that still look as good as new after multiple washes and wears over the years.
4. The fabric I used for my sports bra, rally skirt, and brassier shorts is Athletic Brushed Polyester. It is also from The Styled Magnolia. This print is called ecliple and is in their current preorder and they offer lots of prints on this base as well. 

I hope I have inspired you in today’s post!  I would love to stay connected with you. You can find me on Instagram. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE. If you want to take a look into the things that inspire me, you can follow me on Pinterest. You may also follow my blog with Bloglovin.

Disclosures

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small compensation when you purchase via my link. This does not cost you anything, and I genuinely appreciate your support. Any and all opinions expressed are still my own.

The Pattern

Fabric

The Top

Disclosures