Talking Pants (and vests!)

My husband thinks Lockdown no 3 is having a negative effect on my mindset.

‘Why else,’ he exclaimed, ‘would you be making adult sized, children’s vest and pants sets?’

My answer is that I’m saving the planet by stash busting my jersey scraps. It turns out that this is actually terrifically good for my mindset if a feeling of satisfaction, pure delight when I put on a matching set, and a feeling of warmth and comfyness is anything to go by.

This is the Itch to Stitch Cartagena Cami and Made by Jack’s Mum Wonder Undies.

I started with the vests

Yes, I made quite a few! The instructions were great and the fold over elastic very easy to attach using a regular sewing machine zigzag stitch. These are straight off the machine with no practice.

They are quite addictive!

Kennis (of Itch to Stitch) provides you with the exact measurement of each piece of elastic required

I bought a range of foldover elastic off Amazon

Quite by chance, in my size one elastic spool was the perfect length for one complete vest.

The garment is body hugging. My stretchier jerseys are easier to get on than the one from an old RTW cotton T shirt (the navy one) with less elastane.

I made the size in accordance with my measurements. I would also recommend these for summer wear but I would size up for that instance unless you are lean with no additional bumps!

I have worn them most days beneath my new sweaters. They have washed and washed and washed.

The pants (knickers to me!) are the Made by Jacks Mum Wonder Undies

I chose this pattern as this looked liked the nearest silhouette to my everyday comfy pant and had good reviews by others.

The pattern features both briefs and shorts, both of which can be either low or high rise. The legs and waist can be finished with either elastic or jersey cuffs/bands. An overlocker/serger will create the neatest finish for some parts, but all options can be made using a regular sewing machine.

The pattern goes from XXS to 5XL and requires 4 way stretch jersey. I made the size true to my measurements.

The high rise waist is extremely high! Think Bridget Jones, but higher. After a couple of toiles I went with the low rise, but widened the waist band, a mid-way between the high leg and shorts leg, but narrowed the cuff at the groin and widened it slightly at the outer edge.

These are not sexy, but kinda cute for a 48 yr old when worn with the vest!. They are extremely comfortable and do not budge all day under jeans or joggers.

A complete win in my book

My husband just laughs!!!

Love, Lucie xx