Saturday, June 2, 2007

Easy Weekend Project - Capri Re-Make & Summer Shirt Jacket


Re-make #1 - Capris

Today's Easy Weekend Project will require you to raid the back of your closet.



This all started when I was clearing out old clothes. (sigh)...a pair of summer pants I bought in Hawaii; I loved them. They were as comfortable as pajamas, tropical, and figure flattering. But, after the second washing, they had drawn up to become high-waters. I had held on to them this long thinking I might use them as a pattern for another pair, but that didn't happen. As a last ditch effort to save them from the Goodwill bag, I decided to re-make them into capris.






I cut them off below the knee and serged the edges.
I then found a tan fabric, cut two 4" wide strips and folded in half for the 2" cuff. With right sides together, it was pinned to the bottom of the pant leg.
I top-stitched along the top and bottom of the cuff for a finished look and I was done!
New life for my Hawaii pants! Woo Hoo! (sorry for the lousy picture) I have since capri-ed two pairs of high-water sweat pants, too!

Re-make #2 - Summer Shirt Jacket

Now, I was inspired. What else could I save from "the bag". A big white cotton shirt was the next to receive a make-over.

I just don't wear long oversized shirts. However, I did need a summer jacket. Something to put on when restaurant air-conditioning reaches sub-zero temps or after the sun goes down at the cook-out. So, I cut off the shirt-tail bottom and serged the edge. Then cut a long strip of vintage fabric for the bottom. Hemmed the strip and attached it (right sides together) to the shirt bottom. Top-stitched and turned back the edges at the front placket. (sp?) I added feedsack covered buttons to the front pockets and a fun flower and stem applique to the back. What's in the back of your closet?

8 comments:

Rosemary said...

So so cute!! I am in awe of your sewing talents. I don't sew too much. I paint things. I guess we all have our talents.
Rosemary

Crafty Mama said...

Hi Kimberly! I realky like that jacket! What cute details with the buttons en flower on the back..... and as always... Great fabric!!!
Ok, were is my sewing machine???!!! Hihi you got me started! Enjoy your weekend!

Lizzie said...

OK, I know I should be commenting on how crafty you are and what a cute outfit that is, but I am too distracted by your beautiful HAIR!!! Is that you? You have one of the prettiest heads of hair I have ever seen.

Grrr. I am jealous!

Niesz Vintage Home said...

Hi Lizzie,

LOL :)
I'm in desperate need of a haircut!
I'm probably at THAT age when I shouldn't have long hair anymore, but its kinda like my security blanket.

I need to find a style.

ShabbyInTheCity said...

Way to go! Very creative and you are so smart :)

Trudi said...

Hi Kimberly,
Thanks for the fabric info.
I've cut long pants off to make capris, and love that, but I adore the shirt jacket. I'll have to try that one. Love it.

Cheryl Ensom said...

Lovely re-make! Just found your blog and enjoying it...hugs, cheryl

Heidi Ann said...

I absolutely love your jacket. Really fabulous!