Sasha Trousers 2.0 : : Nettie Bodysuit : : A Closet Case Patterns Two-Fer

Sasha Trousers, Closet Case Patterns, A Colourful Canvas, Nettie Bodysuit

Hiya peeps.

Reporting in with the final post of 2017. Standing at my wall. With my shadow. I gotta tell ya….having my gray, squashy self on the scene has relieved some of my photo angst.

Sasha Trousers, Closet Case Patterns, A Colourful Canvas, Nettie Bodysuit

This is my second test version of the Sasha Trousers by Closet Case Patterns. I found this tropical navy stretch cotton sateen at Fabricland…..summer stock on clearance.  Although the print clearly speaks summer, these pants have been in heavy rotation this fall/winter.  Comfort with a capital C….I often pair them with booties and a longish chunky knit pullover sweater. Today however, I nixed the pullover in order to better show the silhouette of the pants.

Sasha Trousers, Closet Case Patterns, A Colourful Canvas, Nettie Bodysuit

Again. Me with fabric that makes for challenging detail shots. I’ll walk you through…left side, top and bottom pics…back welt pockets. I’ve said it before….I think back welt pockets are everything. Top right…the waistband is narrow, contoured, optional belt loops, and sits slightly below my natural waist.The pants have a traditional front fly zipper closure and front slash pockets. Bottom right…a side view…the slash pocket is there, a bit camouflaged due to pattern matching.

Sasha Trousers, Closet Case Patterns, A Colourful Canvas, Nettie Bodysuit

All righty….before moving on to the Nettie Bodysuit, I want to touch briefly on the subject of fit. Sasha Trousers are intended to be slim fitting. And my tropical printed beauties here……honestly…are looking/feeling a leeetle too big for me. This is a me issue and not a pattern issue. {I just grabbed a tape measure and my current numbers put me in a full size smaller than when I sewed these.} They aren’t falling down, but I do need to do some minor alterations. Now. That being said. I’ve made two pairs…same pattern size….and they each fit me slightly differently.  My solid navy blue pair {seen here} have less stretch and as a result fit more closely. I guess what I’m saying is that I believe the pants fit true to size, but fabrication….specifically streeeeetch content….is going to play into overall fit. To help you out, Heather has included a helpful stretch guide in the instruction booklet.

Sasha Trousers, Closet Case Patterns, A Colourful Canvas, Nettie Bodysuit

Maybe not a hat-trick but how ’bout a Closet Case Patterns Two-Fer? I purchased the Nettie Dress + Bodysuit pattern a few months ago and I. Am. Hooked. I can’t quite believe I waited this long before reintroducing the classic bodysuit into my wardrobe.

I practically lived in bodysuits in the seventies and eighties. I either had gymnastics classes as a kid or aerobics and dance classes as a young adult. I also may have thought myself very cool wearing dance wear as street clothing. Leg warmers included. Please don’t judge.

It’s a beautiful thing to me…..the fit on the Nettie Bodysuit is exactly how I remember my favourite Danskin leotards….yes, that’s what we called them back then. For me…it’s all in the sleeve….slim and set in quite high at the shoulder line.

Sasha Trousers, Closet Case Patterns, A Colourful Canvas, Nettie Bodysuit

So…to wrap up blogging.2017….some of my makes haven’t yet made it to my online diary, and I’m okay with that. I know you are too.

It’s been a challenging year for many and there was more than a single time when I hesitated before hitting publish. So much going on in the world…and…G and I lost our lovely little Mia suddenly to cancer late spring. I struggled with how to integrate real life stuff into a fluffy little sewing blog. My solution….surely not perfect…was to keep A Colourful Canvas light and bright. I think I was successful on that front.

Sveta from Sewing Sveta, Barbara on Instagram, Me, Louisa from Damselfly’s Delights, Carolyn from Handmade by Carolyn, Melanie from Bag and a Beret

It was while reflecting on this year’s posts that I realized there was one epic event that somehow did not make it to my blog….WOT….and that was meeting the lovely Carolyn from Handmade by Carolyn. Carolyn and her husband traveled all the way from Australia to experience Alaska and BC’s coastline. Vancouver International Airport was their gateway back home and with but a few hours free, Carolyn generously agreed to meet a few of us local creative buddies. We ate and laughed and shopped {Dressew} and laughed some more.

I’ve made many wonderful friendships through my blog. Perhaps you and I will meet in person in 2018?

Enormous thanks for following along with my sewing antics over the past year. I wish you Peace. And Joy. And all good things in 2018. xo

Wearing: Closet Case Patterns

Sasha Trousers also seen here

Nettie Bodysuit

36 Comments

  • Reply No Fear of Fashion December 21, 2017 at 10:19 pm

    I am in awe over this outfit. That colour (coral?) looks sooo good on you. And you found pumps and a cardigan in the same colour! Incredible. The bodysuit, the trousers… you are amazing. Such a good seamstress. An A+ my dear.
    Sorry to hear about Mia. Losing a pet is always so sad. I know.
    Nevertheless I wish you a merry Christmas and a lovely new year with much happiness.
    Greetje

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:34 pm

      Thanks so much Greetje!

      Yes! The colour is coral. I meant to mention it in the blog post….that the colour is a little more pinky-coral than the orange coral that my monitor shows. I’ve worn the sweater before….here Of course, it looks a little more pink in those photos LOL. And again yes…I feel lucky when I can get colours that match closely. It doesn’t always happen with fabric, but in this case my bodysuit matches perfectly.

      Thanks for your condolences re Mia. ‘Tis true…it never gets easier when a four legged leaves.

      Happy Christmas to you and Ron both! xo

  • Reply Manju December 21, 2017 at 11:00 pm

    Fun outfit that looks great on fit. I know what you mean about the fit on different fabrics though…especially after wearing for a day! Happy Christmas and best wishes for the new year.

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:36 pm

      Thanks Manju. LOL…it’s the worse when the fabric shrinks throughout the day isn’t it…

      Off to check out your post on the same…and to commiserate.

      Happy Christmas to you too!

  • Reply Suzanne December 22, 2017 at 5:49 am

    Look at you rocking a leotard! I remember them well.

    Can I just comment how lithe you are looking here? Is there some magical secret you are keeping to yourself?

    The whole outfit looks wonderful. I do think coral is your colour.

    Have a wonderful Christmas Sue!

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:38 pm

      I’ve made five bodysuits. {blush} But they’re easy to do and they are such great basics for me now. I love wearing them under sweaters or shirts or jumpers or with sweats around the house.

      LOL…yes, well I’m sure the camera angle has something to do with the magic, but I am finally, slowly, reverting to my natural size. It’s not been easy though.

      Happy Christmas to you too Suzanne….we are enjoying our goodies!!

  • Reply SewingTidbits December 22, 2017 at 6:23 am

    When I first saw the release of the Sasha pants I was convinced I wouldn’t buy the pattern, but now that I see the 2 versions you made, I’m starting to have doubts… Happy holidays!

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:40 pm

      LOL….You might be hooked then? I do the same…after reading blog posts decide I need a pattern in my life.

      Wishing you the very best of the season as well!

  • Reply Shybiker December 22, 2017 at 6:26 am

    I’m sorry for your loss. The trousers are beautiful and I love bodysuits. Happy holidays.

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:41 pm

      Thank you Ally. Wishing you the loveliest of holidays too!

  • Reply Nancy Baten December 22, 2017 at 6:36 am

    Fantastic colors! I wish you a Merry Christmas!

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:41 pm

      Aw…thank you Nancy! Happy Christmas to you as well.

  • Reply PsychicSewerKathleen December 22, 2017 at 6:47 am

    Gorgeous outfit and what an inspiration! I am a BIG fan of Closet Case too 🙂 I made 2 Ebonys this fall and wear the shortie version all the time (soft bamboo/cotton that I bought here at the Makehouse in Victoria BC) I made the tunic version in the same fabric. The shortie really suits me so much better I think I’ll have to cut the tunic down. I also have Heather Lou’s Ginger jeans, ebook and even signed up for her online course yet haven’t made them yet. I’m such a huge fan of pull on jeans (the Eleanors by Jalie) I’m not convinced I would even wear a pair of jeans much (I’m 63 and just wore jeans for so many years -50?! – I’m honestly feeling a little TIRED of them!) Maybe I could probably make up the Gingers as pull ons too 🙂 I’m making 2018 the year of pants and coats so no doubt the whole jeans project will make their way onto my cutting table 🙂 I looked at this pants pattern but again was unclear about whether this style is really what I need even though they are nice! You’ve given me some food for thought (or consideration!) 🙂 I would love to have had the opportunity to meet Caroline! I’ve been following her blog for over a year – what a maker she is!

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:46 pm

      You and I Kathleen. We need to form a west coast CCP fan group, LOL.

      Ooooo….had not heard of the Makehouse. I am familiar with Gala fabrics. It sounds as though you have two lovely fabric shops in town. Others? Do you also buy online?

      You’re 2018 plans are in sync with mine. Pants are still a high priority/interest for me too and I haven’t made a coat for so long. I recently bought Lara Sanner’s new coat release and want to get making it soon! And of course, the Clare coat really works for me too! Nice proportions for my size.

      I hear ya about pull on jeans. I reach for mine frequently. They probably should be called jeggings but they are a bit larger sized than that on me and I like the extra comfort room. mmmmmm…..I think I might make a pair of pullon Gingers…more jean like than my workout ones, but as comfy. Thanks for the thought!

  • Reply Sew Sarah Smith December 22, 2017 at 7:26 am

    This is a brill post Sue; great Makes (I’ve got to get the Nettie too now!) and lovely words. Wishing you all the best too over the holidays and into 2018 x

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:47 pm

      Thanks Sarah! More. MORE Netties to come and I will discuss in greater detail!

      Happy holidays to you and all the best for 2018. xo

  • Reply Priscilla December 22, 2017 at 8:51 am

    The colour of the bodysuit is just gorgeous (and a gorgeous colour on you), and it brings out the pattern in the pants. You look wonderful!

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:48 pm

      Thanks Priscilla. I do love me some bright colour, don’t I!

  • Reply Pursuit December 22, 2017 at 9:02 am

    I’m always delighted to see a post from you and, in spite of not knowing which end of the needle is supposed to go through the material I really enjoy reading how you work out the details of each piece you create and the lovely pics you share. So sorry to learn about your Mia. There are no words to convey the loss you must feel. My heart is with you.

    Looking forward to 2018 and all the fun posts I know you will send. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:51 pm

      Thanks so very much for your comment! I’m happy you enjoy the posts even though you haven’t mastered needle and thread. 🙂

      Thanks also for your condolences. I haven’t had the heart to take her photo down from The Team Page. I always feel she’s still with us in spirit!

      Happy Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well!

  • Reply Louisa December 22, 2017 at 9:04 am

    You are just so freakin’ adorable, Sue! You know what works best for you and you sew it up so nicely. It’s a huge advantage over trying to find what doesn’t exist in the shops, isn’t it? Wishing you a very colourful 2018! Hugs!

    And – oh look! There’s me.

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:53 pm

      Thanks Louisa. I’m getting there. When I first got back into garment sewing, I was pretty random with some of my makes and they didn’t get worn very much, LOL.

      Isn’t it so great not having to shop retail for clothing!!!! Plus a hundred more exclamation marks!

      2018…bring on a colourful canvas! WOOT!

      Yes…YOU. Didn’t we have fun that day!!!

  • Reply Vix December 22, 2017 at 10:42 am

    Oh Sue, I’m so sorry to hear about Mia especially when you were so kind and supportive when we lost Polly to cancer last year.
    On a brighter note those trousers are wonderful and I’m a big fan of the body. I’m glad they’re having a comeback, my 1980s ones are on their last legs.
    Have a wonderful Xmas. xxx

    • Reply Sue December 22, 2017 at 12:56 pm

      Thank Vix, so very much. Our little loves…they choose how they leave but it’s always so hard. Fortunately it’s the happy and the good and the funny memories that stick!

      Oh my goodness…original leotards from the 80s. That’s fabulous. Mine got so much wear that even though they were of high quality {I couldn’t bear to skimp on a garment that would cause me serious embarrassment if it malfunctioned} the elastics did eventually give out.

      Happy Christmas to you and Jon! xoxox

  • Reply Mary Carroll December 23, 2017 at 2:14 pm

    Wow, those are great looking pants! I am coming out of lurking mode to say so and to wish you a Merry Christmas from AZ.

    • Reply Sue December 23, 2017 at 2:35 pm

      Thanks Mary!

      Wishing you a very Merry Christmas as well!

  • Reply Connie* December 24, 2017 at 3:57 pm

    I am so sorry to hear about Mia. Gosh. Those little fur babies just get into our hearts and our lives. I lost my best little buddy, Pancake last month. It is so quiet around here. Sigh…. So your tropical trousers. Very cheerful. I have yet to make a pair of pants that fit so I am very impressed with yours. Plus the sunshine and the bits of snow and your sunny little face. I feel better already.

    • Reply Sue January 31, 2018 at 9:43 pm

      Thanks for the sweet reply Connie. I remember when you lost Pancake. It’s so true…the home feels so much quieter when a four legged love leaves. xo

  • Reply Melanie December 28, 2017 at 3:09 am

    The bodysuit is awesome!! I need to improve my sewing to make one. This is fantastic on you!!

    I laughed at your quip about the grey squashy self. In one photo, it’s a bit freaky because you can’t see the shadow part connected to you. Hahaha!!

    And of course the pants look really good too, such a fun, bold fabric. I’m glad you’re feeling like you are becoming more yourself. This bright outfit is a balm for the dark winter out here.

    • Reply Sue January 31, 2018 at 9:43 pm

      Thanks Melanie. Oh, now that would be freaky….if my grey squashy self just took off doing her own thing…

  • Reply Carolyn December 28, 2017 at 5:10 pm

    I love these cute floral trousers on you Sue!! and you’ve styled them perfectly with the lovely twinset. And it was such a lovely time to meet you and the other lovely ladies!! I just wish we’d had more time, you girls are a hoot. I’d love to meet with you all more often! Thank you for your gorgeous blog, I love reading all about your cheerful creations and look forward to seeing what you’re up to in 2018 too! xxx

    I’m so sorry to here you lost your beloved Mia – hugs – I know just how hard it is to get over that terrible sadness.

    • Reply Sue January 31, 2018 at 9:45 pm

      Thanks for the kind words Carolyn. I will always hold the remembrance of Sienna close in my heart too.

  • Reply Lynn January 11, 2018 at 10:07 am

    Oooo! I love the trousers. Maybe someday I will be daring enough to make myself a pair of bold print trousers.

    • Reply Sue January 31, 2018 at 9:45 pm

      Thanks Lynn. I’ve got another pair of bold ones coming this year!

  • Reply Sabine January 22, 2018 at 11:46 am

    These pants are beautifl, Sue. Actually the kind of pants I like most, floral and with a little twist to the 60s. You look fabulous.
    To meet blogging friends always is a highlight, I made this experience also several times last year.
    Let me know whenever you come South of Germany.

    • Reply Sue January 31, 2018 at 9:46 pm

      Thanks Sabine! You know I seem to be drawn to the styles of the sixties these days. I think one thing I like about that era is that clothing was generally not too over-sized which suits my frame I think.

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