Mighty title there …..

Happy New Year, friends!  I first encountered the term “epic” applied to sewing projects in a book by Sandra Betzina.  In the first edition of “Power Sewing” (1990s), she referred to some of her sewn garments as “epic”. Those particular projects took time, effort, the best materials, and utmost skill.  I think you get the picture.

Making an epic item or two is included in my plan for 2018 sewing activities. Note that I did not use the word “resolution” (eye roll).  So, here’s my list:

1. A French, tweedy, trimmed jacket, in the style of the classic Chanel is the most epic of all. How much will I get to wear it, though? I’m not sure but I’ve never made this kind of jacket, where the lining is quilted to the tweed. Dorcas of the Instagram account @lonestarcouture makes one every January, and has invited her followers to join in.  Why thank you, Dorcas, I think I might.  Its only fitting that I include an image of Mademoiselle Chanel, designer of the original French jacket, wearing her signature piece.

   

2. A dressy, blingy kurta set! We of South Asian descent, are nothing without shine and glitter. We own it, and wear the bling to perfection.

   

3. Learn techniques to add delicious details to clothing.
   • The aptly named “sharks teeth” is a detail I’d like to learn. Sue Stewart (Sue Pennington), heirloom sewing expert, coined that term. I’ll have a post about “sharks teeth” sometime in the foreseeable future.   (I finally get to use that term — “foreseeable future”.)

     

• “Boutis Provencal” is another detail I want to learn. It’s origins lie in old French handwork. I’ll explain in the relevant future post, after trying my hand at it.

In the interest of not getting carried away with sewing plans, I will end the list here.  Of course, there are the usual things in the sewing pipeline, such as replenishing my wardrobe.  I do have to clothe myself, you know.

My dearest friends, I wish you a peaceful, happy and healthy 2018. I hope you get to sew a lot this year.

Samina