joysinstitches

  • A New Type of Finished Sewing Project

    I used to hate sewing. Once I finally learned to like it, I hated being precise. Then, I gradually found enjoyment in being (at least mostly) precise, but said for sure I would never take up quilting! shudder Ahem. Well,… Continue reading

  • 1950s Three-Piece Suit, Two Ways

    This outfit I made back in September to wear to my brother's wedding, and only recently finally got pictures of it. I found the mallard blue cotton online at a cheap price per yard, and loved the color and drape… Continue reading

  • Project Journal: Thrifted Sweater Coat Made 1930s

    Something a little different this week! As the weather has turned chilly again, I've rediscovered how much I like sweater coats. They are less formal than jackets, longer and more versatile than regular sweaters, and especially nice for long car… Continue reading

  • 1950s Floral Flair Dress

    I did not intend posting about two blue dresses in a row, but judging from the amount of blue in my stash it's likely to happen more than once, and at least they are quite different in styles and shades!… Continue reading

  • 1940s Confetti House Dress

    This was one of the dresses I would have made this summer had I not been pregnant. Now I quickly am squeezing in a few cotton house dresses this fall yet, even though the weather has already turned. I do… Continue reading

  • Classic Staples: 1940s Print Blouse

    This blouse has been on my to-do list for years. Long time readers may remember me mentioning it several years ago on an upcoming project post. Well, it has finally become reality!   It took a while though even once… Continue reading

  • 1940s Heirloom Blouse

    This was a super fun project, and unusual for me. I made it toward the end of my pregnancy, so couldn't get proper photos until recently, but now I can share it with you.   After watching some online classes… Continue reading

  • Adjustable Maternity Wardrobe: Success?

    Now that I am back to normal size, I've been able to see how well my adjustable dresses made during pregnancy, work for a non-pregnant shape. The answer in a nutshell is – some better than others! My tie front… Continue reading

  • Quick & Easy Pattern Sizing (Not for Perfectionists!)

    Over my years of blogging, I have had a number of inquiries about how I do my pattern sizing (or rather, pattern re-sizing), to take a vintage pattern that is too large or too small for my measurements, and make… Continue reading

  • The Addition

    Baby Betsy arrived early yesterday morning!   As a result, we are taking it easy around here, just recuperating and enjoying the baby.  I was pretty sure the baby would be a girl, so I went ahead and made up… Continue reading