paradise

paradise

I'm Ann. I've been sewing since I was 9. My first project was a denim wrap skirt. Thrifting is a way of life for me - both eco-chic and financially savvy.

30 x 30 autumn capsule wardrobe to sew

30x30 capsule wardrobe for sewists

What’s a 30 x 30 capsule wardrobe? You take 30 pieces from your closet, and wear / mix them for 30 days. It’s designed to keep you IN your closet, instead of looking elsewhere (instagram, pinterest) with the wanties and…

Sew a French Girl-Inspired Wardrobe

Sew a French Girl Wardrobe Breton Tee and Wide Leg Jeans

Sew your own French Girl-inspired spring wardrobe using popular sewing patterns The French seem to have a certain je ne sais quoi in their dressing. It’s at once both effortless and put together. New for 2023, I updated it with…

Sew a Bias Slip Skirt

Sewing a bias slip skirt

It’s nearly fall – but a great fall/spring transition garment is the bias slip skirt. Here are my picks to sew a bias slip skirt for fall or spring! The bias slip skirt is an a-line skirt cut on the…

Sew your own espadrilles shoes!

Sew your own espadrilles shoes

The perfect spring/summer cotton shoe is the espadrille. You can sew your own espadrilles shoes! Years ago, there was a website called Espadrilles, Etc. and I mean years ago (1997 ish). You could buy them in every color. Guess what?…

How to Wear White Jeans in Winter

White jeans in winter outfit

How to wear white jeans in winter! Back in the Polyvore days, I planned this capsule wardrobe, but recently referred to it in a sewing video. What DO you wear with white jeans in winter? And yes, I wear my…

Stash Beyond Life Expectancy

Fabric vintage pattern haul

Conversation with a (sewing) friend today: I’m considering that I have reached SBLE – Stash Beyond Life Expectancy. That is, my fabric (pattern) stash is maybe more than I can make. I am pretty sure NOT on the fabric side,…

Jalie Simone Shorts Pattern Review

Jalie Simone Shorts Sewing Pattern Review

I’ve made these before, but never for myself. This is my Jalie Simone Shorts Pattern Review. In short? Make these! Pun, intended! True to Jalie, the fit is good (Jalie runs “narrow” – that is, I find there’s not a…