One Thimble, Issue 16 has just released!! I’m very excited because not only did I get to sew up several of the patterns, but I was able to do a full review for this issue.  I don’t know if there has been another issue I was as excited about so far.  Issue 16 is all about Under the Sea and I don’t know if there could be a better theme if I let my girl’s choose one on their own.  They love Mermaids and this issue definitely gives more than a head nod to wonders under the sea.

I sewed up the Pearlie Dress, the Triton Singlet Tank with Meg is a Mermaid Free Motion Applique, and the Scuttle Shorts.  I’m going to give a brief description of my sewing adventures while putting these together, then share my thoughts on all the other goodies included in this issue.

Pearlie Dress:

The Pearlie Dress was probably my favorite sew for this issue. I’ve made four so far and have been keeping the pattern pieces close by.  It’s such a quick sew.  Perfect for those last minute birthday party gift dresses or for a beginner to tackle on their own.  Pearlie includes two bodice options, three front pocket styles, top and dress lengths, and curved hemline with a dolman sleeve.  The Littles wore these dresses the first day of school and a group of teachers wanted one for themselves.  I said we would have to have a sew day and I would help them sew one themselves.  This is me requesting Peach Patterns release a women’s pattern for this quick sew. 🙂 I will say that the construction order on this pattern was slightly different than I would have expected.  In the end, not matter which way you sew it, it will have a great finished product.

Scuttle Shorts:

I sewed several pairs of the Scuttle Shorts to get a feel for the pattern.  This is another seriously quick sew.  A great project for a confident beginner.  These shorts are suited for stable knit fabrics such as french terry, interlock, double knits, etc.  I first used some interlock scraps for a quick muslin and liked them just as much as I did my french terry version. The Scuttle Shorts feature color blocking options, multiples lengths, and a front faux drawstring if you want to add that for a little extra touch.  My only negative on this pattern was the 1/4″ seam allowance, and that is really must more of a personal preference than anything else.  Some people really prefers this seam allowance.

Triton Singlet and Meg Mermaid FMA:

The Triton Singlet is definitely geared towards a boy target in my opinion.  I don’t have boys, so we went with it anyway to pair with the scuttle shorts.  An interesting bit about the Triton is the arm openings are hemmed rather than using a binding.  I think this helped to speed the construction.  Be sure to measure your model and follow directions carefully.  This tank is loose fitting and has quite a bit of ease.  Personally, I feel it leans towards the boy realm of design which allows for a more open arm.  If you are making it for a girl, I recommend trying it on during construction to see what adjustments may be needed. (This is also suggested in the pattern.)   To spice up our outfit and to hit the Mermaid theme a bit, I added the Meg Mermaid FMA to our tank.  This mermaid is creative and original in it’s design.  I’ve already had multiple requests from the girls to make more.  We also printed an extra page from the pattern and all three girls colored their own Mermaid Design.  Next time I may try to re-create the designs of their mermaids to help them feel special and like a designer themselves.  It’s such an easy way to let them get involved and love the things we make even more.  It’s like bringing their imaginations to life.

Along with these patterns I’ve sewn up there are SIX additional patterns you will find in this issue, plus some cut files for HTV, tutorials for little projects, and all the articles to fill your free time with reading.  The pattern collection is one I’m glad I will have in my stash.  We have already purchased the fabric needed for the snuggly Mermaid Tale from Molly and Mama.  The twins think that they will use their tails as their Pre-school rest time blankets.  They are hounding me about getting them completed.  I think the Makana Mermaid Skirt will be so popular for summer fun too.

Not only is this issue loaded with some pretty stellar patterns, I got quite a bit of information from the articles as well.  The articles are organized into sections: Special Features, Techniques and Tutes, and Handmade Business.

Special features kick off the Issue.  I probably got the most from the It’s All about that Drape article from Jenn Kennedy.  She really did a great job explaining drape, and showing how it affects your projects.  Very useful and probably worth reading several times, even if you understand the concept.

From the Techniques and Tutes Section, I must say I loved the One Pattern, Many Costumes article.  Costume season is just around the corner and this article shows some Inspiration on how you can use the One Romper from Issue 13 as a base for so many costume ideas. I sewed up a top version of the One Romper in a previous tour.  It has quite a few options even before considering the hacking you can do with it.  The possibilities are only limited by you.  I love the ideas that get the juices flowing.  This article is perfectly timed.

Brooke Smith of Idle Sunshine (a girl I’m glad to claim as part of my blogger family) contributed an article about mashing sizes for perfect fit.  I know I need to do this more and she share some very helpful tips and reminders to help you make adjustments for your own projects so you get a great fit.  Now, for me to utilize this tip in real life.. That is the hard part.

Lastly, the Handmade Business section includes some great resources.  I don’t have a handmade business for selling created items, but I know that I need to find better ways to grow my blog and following.  I was intrigued by the Instagram Analytics article, and that I could make good use of putting together a vision board.  I know some people may think vision boards are silly, but you can’t get someplace if you don’t know you are going there.  Taking some time to make some choices and plans will be worth the time investment in the future.

This wraps up my stop on the One Thimble Issue 16 Tour.  I’m always glad when I get to be a part of this project.  Maybe one day I’ll be contributing something worthwhile to an issue.  Until then, be sure to check out all the other stops that are featuring Issue 16.  Don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter too!

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Issue 16 Tour Schedule