Getting Started with Sofia

August 18, 2020

In the last sew-along post, we made the adjustments to the pattern and discussed making a muslin for the Sofia pattern. In this post, we'll go over all the supplies, tools and notions needed for the project. We'll also make a cut list for each of the versions for this pattern.

Fabric and Notions:

  • Good quality elastic thread - I've linked to several sources in this post
  • Regular thread to match your fabric
  • Lightweight fabric - the heavier the weight, the more subtle the shirring effect will be.
  • Sewing machine
  • 1/4 elastic for the dress style, cap/elbow and bishop sleeves - see instructions for quantity
  • Fusible interfacing (for shoulder strap used with Bell sleeve) 

 

Tools

  • Scissors
  • Pins
  • Iron
  • Stitch ripper
  • Measuring tape
  • You may need a small screwdriver to adjust your bobbin tension
  • Safety pin for use with cap/elbow/ bishop sleeves

Additional tools

For your fabric guidelines you will need either:

  • A drafting ruler and a fine chalk marker

  • Or a pressure foot with a 1/2" distance between the needle and to foot edge. Check out this post for a tutorial on how to turn your regular pressure foot into a guide foot.

 

Cut list:

Let's go over the cut list for each version of the pattern. You can then go ahead and cut out all of the pieces in preparation for the sewalong.

Note: Several people have asked if it's possible to use the Shoulder strap with the other sleeve options. The answer is YES!

You would make this adjustment if you desire more bra-strap coverage, or if you would rather not wear a strapless or bandeau bra. For this version, cut your desired sleeve, along with the shoulder strap pieces. Omit piece I.

There are no pattern modifications needed, however the sewing method for this will change. This be covered in more detail in a later post in the sew-along series.

For this option, make sure to test the Strap length. If adjustments to length are made, make adjustments to the Bell Sleeve pattern before cutting the sleeve. This is discussed in more detail in this post.

In the next sew-along post, we'll start sewing. The first step will be shirring the bodice, so get ready for the fun part! 

 

 

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