https://larougetdelisle.com/blogs/sewing-with-cinnamon.atom larougetdelisle - Sewing With Cinnamon 2023-03-28T14:07:25-07:00 larougetdelisle https://larougetdelisle.com/blogs/sewing-with-cinnamon/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-80s-style-bandanarama-style-guide 2020-10-27T08:51:01-07:00 2023-09-02T18:11:23-07:00 Sewing A Themed Wardrobe 80s Style: "Bandanarama" Style Guide! Cinnamon Miles Hi Everyone! In Part 4 we wrap things up with a fun look at a classic 80s style accessory - the bandana! Shari has put together a tutorial showing how to use a purchased bandan to create 4 unique doll-size mini bandanas while utilizing the classic print. She also created a super cute style guide showcasing all the creative ways to waer those mini bandanas - 80s style!

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Hi Everyone! In Part 4 we wrap things up with a fun look at a classic 80s style accessory - the bandana! Shari has put together a tutorial showing how to use a purchased bandan to create 4 unique doll-size mini bandanas while utilizing the classic print. She also created a super cute style guide showcasing all the creative ways to waer those mini bandanas - 80s style!

Are you ready? Grab your fabric or purchased 21" bandana and follow along in the tutorial posted below!

Part 4 Tutorial and Style Guide- 80s Bandanarama!

How To Make a Doll-Sized Bandana

Cutting Instructions:

18” dolls are about 1/3 the scale of a real person, so in most instances scaling down full-size objects to 1/3 (.33) the size works in most applicational. A typical bandana measures about 21” square and with simple math we can scale it down for an 18” doll simply by multiplying the .33 scale of the doll by the full-size measurement of 21”.

.33 x 21” = 7” (rounded to the nearest 1/4”)

Add .5” for the hem allowance and the cutting size for your doll-size bandana is: 7.5” square.

But Wait! Because dolls heads are proportionately larger than their bodies, the 7.5” square will only work for bandanas worn on the dolls body. 18” doll heads are closer to about 3/5 the scale of a real person, so a bandana that will be worn on a dolls head should be scaled down 3/5 (.6).

.6 x 21” = 12.5” (rounded to the nearest 1/4”) 

Add .5” for the hem allowance and the cutting size for your doll-size bandana to be worn on the head is: 13” square

Using the pictured layout, you should be able to cut a 13” bandana and half bandana and a 7.5” bandana and half bandana from a single full-size bandana.

 

Sewing Instructions: 

The measurements for this bandana allow 1/4” for a narrow hem.

 

Standard Bandana - Working on one side at a time, turn each edge of the bandana under 1/8” twice and press to make a narrow double-fold hem. Carefully align the corners as you press to keep the raw edges concealed. 

To prevent the fabric from getting jammed in the sole plate, place a piece of tissue paper under the corner of the bandana before you begin stitching. Stitch the hem your bandana, slipping another small piece of tissue paper under each corner as you sew to keep the corners from getting jammed in the sole plate of your of by machine

Note: If preferred, use a hemming foot to hem the edges of your bandana. This video is part of the Sewing Machine Presser Feet Master Class:

 

 

Half Bandana - For a less bulkiness, cut the bandana in half along the diagonal before hemming to form two triangles. Hem as with the standard bandana. This variation will work for most applications shown in this tutorial... with less bulk!

 

 

 

How to Wear a Bandana - 80s Style

Let's Start at the Top! For most of these styles, use the larger 13" head-size bandana. 

The Hair Tie - When it came to hair ties, there were scrunchies and their were bandanas worn over a basic elastic band. We always went BIG in the 80s, and a simple elastic band would never do!

  • Tie up your dolls hair with an elastic band. Use the small size 7.5" bandana for this style. Roll your bandana from corner to corner along the diagonal (or from the diagonal to the opposite corner if using the half bandana). Wrap the rolled bandana around the elastic band and secure with a knot or a bow.

 

 

 

Pop Artist – Nothing says 80s like big bangs accentuated with an even bigger hair accessory.

Roll your bandana from corner to corner along the diagonal (or from the diagonal to the opposite corner if using the Half Bandana). Wrap the bandana around the back of your dolls head and tie it on top in a bow or a knot. For a funkier look, twist the ends until they curl up on themselves and tuck under the knot. Wear more than one for a totally 80s layered look.

For a Rosie the Riveter look, fold the bandana in thirds on the diagonal.

Wrap the bandana around the back of your dolls head, wrapping up the hair in back and tying it on top in a bow or a knot.

 

 

 

The Headband – A favorite school girl hair accessory.

Fold your bandana in half along the diagonal or start with a Half Bandana. Fold in narrow folds (about 1/2”) from the corner to the diagonal edge. Wrap the bandana around your dolls head and secure with a knot to get a proper fit. Slide the bandana off around your dolls neck. Arrange your dolls hair and slide the bandana back over your dolls head with the knot at the back of the neck under the hair. If your doll has bangs, complete the 80s look by teasing them up as high as possible! For a bit more interest, tie a knot slightly off-center on the folded bandana before putting it on.

 

 

 

The Rockstar – Iconic and cool!

Fold your bandana in half on the diagonal or start with a Half Bandana. Fold it from the corner to the diagonal edge in 1” folds. Wrap the bandana around your dolls forehead, over the hair and tie at the back of the neck.

 

 

The Workout – As the physical fitness craze took off, sweatbands became a fashion accessory.

Fold your bandana in half along the diagonal or start with a Half Bandana. Roll the bandana tightly from the corner to the diagonal edge. Hold the ends of the bandana and give it a couple of twists. For a bit of glitz, wrap a piece of narrow metallic trim down the length of the bandana. Wrap the bandana around your dolls forehead and tie at the back of the head.

 

 

The Bad Hair Day (two ways) - Some days, that big hairstyle didn't work out. On those days, we would done our favorite comfy jeans and t-shirt and simply wrap our hair up 1940s style.

Fold your bandana in half along the diagonal or start with a half bandana. Place the folded edge of the bandana on the top of your dolls forehead. Bring the corner down over your dolls head and tie the ends over the corner at the base of the neck to hold it in place. Leave the corner free or tuck it under.

 

Or go for a Retro Style! For a little variation, turn this look upside down, tying the ends of the bandana at the forehead and tucking the corner under the knot.

 

 

 

The Biker - Just like The Bad Hair Day, except way cooler!

Fold a corner down on the diagonal, not quite in half. Place the folded edge of the bandana onto your dolls forehead near the eyebrows.

 

Bring the corner down over your dolls head and tie the ends over the corner at the base of the neck to hold it in place. Let the extended length of the corner hang down the back.

 

 

Neckwear! For these styles, use the smaller size 7.5" bandana.

 

The Bandit - This was the most common way to wear a bandana in the 80s. This handy accessory could rock even the plainest of tops.

Fold your bandana in half along the diagonal or start with a Half Bandana. Wrap the bandana loosely around the front of your neck and tie it in back. Wear it over a button down shirt with the collar turned up or on top of a basic tee. Wear more than one for a totally 80s layered look.

 

The Sailor – For a little nautical style.

Fold your bandana in half along the diagonal or start with a Half Bandana. Wrap the bandana around your doll’s neck and tie it loosely in the front with a square knot. For a little variation, roll the diagonal edge down to shorten the corner.

 

The French Tie – For the hipster in the 80s.

This works best with a Half Bandana. Fold your bandana with a narrow fold or roll it tightly from the corner to the folded edge. Wrap the bandana around your doll’s neck once. Tie the ends together in square knot. The knot can be worn in the front or off to the side. Turn it into a choker by moving the tie to the back of the neck.

 

From the Waist Down! The half-bandanas work best in the following applications.  

The Bracelet - In the 80s, it was common to see bandanas wrapped around wrists like bracelets. Not only did they look cool, but this also kept your bandana handy in case you suddenly needed a headband to tie your hair back during art class.

Use the smaller size bandana for this application. Fold in narrow folds from the corner to the diagonal edge. Wrap the bandana around your dolls wrist twice, tying the ends on top of the wrist. Tuck the ends under, if desired. Not only did we tie these to our wrists, but we also liked to wear them tied to our thighs over a pair of jeans or to our ankles. Wear more than one for a totally 80s layered look.

 

 

The Belt – 80s styles belts came in every size and shape imaginable. A bandana was an easy way to add shape and a splash of color to an 80s ensemble.

For dolls with a larger waistline, use a 13" head-size bandana. Fold your bandana with a narrow fold or roll it tightly from the corner to the diagonal edge. Wrap the bandana around your dolls waist over baggy tops or through the belt loops of your favorite jeans. Tie in the front or off to the side with a knot. Leave the ends loose for a more casual look or twist the ends until they curl up on themselves and tuck under the knot to give it a bit more style. Wear more than one for a totally 80s layered look. (not pictured)

 

 

Week Three Tasks:

  • Follow along with this tutorial. Make your own bandana from any woven cotton fabric, or use a purchased bandana to create ones with the classic bandan print!
  • Jump over the SWC Facebook Group for conversation and project sharing. 

 

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October Membership Links & Coupons:

Find the downloadable video collection on Vimeo, here:

https://larougetdelisle.com/user39282990/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style

Password: STYLE2010

Free Pattern Info: This code is good for one free pattern from larougetdelisle, any brand (€5.99 maximum discount, higher priced patterns will have a remaining balance due). This code expires 10-31-2010 and is a one-time use code available to Sewing With Cinnamon members exclusively.

Pattern Coupon Code: STYLE2010

  • For this topic we recommend using the code to grab the Liberty Jane High-Waisted Jeans pattern (if you don't already have it). Then jump in and follow along in the pattern hack outlined below.
  • Other patterns that will be used in this course over the following weeks are: The new Thimbles & Acorns Jelly Flats, Liberty Jane Bubble Skirt, and Liberty Jane Button Front Mini Skirt.
  • Or check out the style guide info in Part 1 for other patterns with a 1980s theme!

Course PDF Download: Members are eligible to download one course in a PDF format each month (this also includes longterm access to download the videos). This member benefit used to be for just the most recent months topic, but now you can choose to use this on the most recent topics, found in the SWC Bonuses section (not available to the public yet) or any course listed on the main website in the Sewing With Cinnamon Courses collection.

Note - The current months topic will be available to download the first week of the following month and can be redeemed with next months coupon code.

Course Coupon Code: SWC2010

    ]]>
    https://larougetdelisle.com/blogs/sewing-with-cinnamon/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style-jelly-flats-diy-craft-along 2020-10-20T09:28:39-07:00 2023-09-02T18:11:24-07:00 Sewing A Themed Wardrobe 1980s Style: Jelly Flats DIY Craft Along! Cinnamon Miles Hi Everyone! In Part 3 we switch gears a bit and take a look at something a bit more crafty! Shari is joining us with a fun new pattern and members-only full video tutorial! Everyone who grew up in the 80s remembers those trendy bright plastic shoes we called jellies, Right? This week, Shari is going to show you how to make a doll size version of the totally awesome jellies with a handful of glitter hot glue sticks. 

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    Hi Everyone! In Part 3 we switch gears a bit and take a look at something a bit more crafty! Shari is joining us with a fun new pattern and members-only full video tutorial!

    Everyone who grew up in the 80s remembers those trendy bright plastic shoes we called jellies. Although predecessors to these shoes probably originated in the late 50s or early 60s, it wasn't until the 1982 World's Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee the jelly craze took off. The 80s was totally into all things bright and synthetic and jelly shoes At first, although they were cheap to produce, their high price tag made them chic to wear. Soon high demand and brand knock-offs brought prices down to as low as $1 a pair and kids were buying them in every color and style under the sun.

    This week, I am going to show you how to make a doll size version of the totally awesome jellies with a handful of glitter hot glue sticks.

    Are you ready? Grab your pattern and follow along in the video posted below!

    Part 3 Tutorial Video - How To Make Jelly Flats: 

    Patterns used in this weeks video:

    Thimbles and Acorns Jelly Flats Shoes for 18-inch Dolls 

    Bonus: We have an SVG file also available for SWC members, that's you! You can use this file with your electronic cutting machine to cut out the foam pieces, saving tons of time!  

    Click Here to get the file download. (Sewing WIth Cinnamon Bonus Section)

     

    Week Three Tasks:

    • Watch the videos and follow along - will you make these super cute shoes too?
    • Grab your patterns and get ready to sew one or both of these examples too!
    • Jump over the SWC Facebook Group for conversation and project sharing. 

    Next Tuesday - Part 4: Complete the look with 1980s Accessories!

     

     - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

     

    October Membership Links & Coupons:

    Find the downloadable video collection on Vimeo, here:

    https://larougetdelisle.com/user39282990/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style

    Password: STYLE2010

    Free Pattern Info: This code is good for one free pattern from larougetdelisle, any brand (€5.99 maximum discount, higher priced patterns will have a remaining balance due). This code expires 10-31-2010 and is a one-time use code available to Sewing With Cinnamon members exclusively.

    Pattern Coupon Code: STYLE2010

    • For this topic we recommend using the code to grab the Liberty Jane High-Waisted Jeans pattern (if you don't already have it). Then jump in and follow along in the pattern hack outlined below.
    • Other patterns that will be used in this course over the following weeks are: The new Thimbles & Acorns Jelly Flats, Liberty Jane Bubble Skirt, and Liberty Jane Button Front Mini Skirt.
    • Or check out the style guide info in Part 1 for other patterns with a 1980s theme!

    Course PDF Download: Members are eligible to download one course in a PDF format each month (this also includes longterm access to download the videos). This member benefit used to be for just the most recent months topic, but now you can choose to use this on the most recent topics, found in the SWC Bonuses section (not available to the public yet) or any course listed on the main website in the Sewing With Cinnamon Courses collection.

    Note - The current months topic will be available to download the first week of the following month and can be redeemed with next months coupon code.

    Course Coupon Code: SWC2010

      ]]>
      https://larougetdelisle.com/blogs/sewing-with-cinnamon/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style-the-fold-over-waistband-2-ways 2020-10-13T09:21:36-07:00 2023-09-02T18:11:25-07:00 Sewing A Themed Wardrobe 1980s Style: The Fold-Over Waistband 2 Ways! Cinnamon Miles Hi Everyone! In Part 2 we jump right into another iconic design element of the 80s, the fold-over waistband! I don't know about you, but this was something I rember very fondly. I had an amazing pair of jeans that were accented with a mix & match color set, green, pink and yellow highlighting this fun design style! In this post, I'll walk you through two super simple ways to recreate this look. Once you see how to do it, you can use this same technique on any pattern that has a fitted waistband with a center front opening or seam, pretty fun right?

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      80s Jeans Fold Over Waistband For 18 Inch American Girl Doll

      Hi Everyone! In Part 2 we jump right into another iconic design element of the 80s, the fold-over waistband! I don't know about you, but this was something I rember very fondly. I had an amazing pair of jeans that were accented with a mix & match color set, green, pink and yellow highlighting this fun design style! I wish I had a picture, but for now all I have is the memory, I'll be on the hunt for the right fabrcis to recreate them soon! In this post, I'll walk you through two super simple ways to recreate this look. Once you see how to do it, you can use this same technique on any pattern that has a fitted waistband with a center front opening or seam, pretty fun right? 

      Are you ready?

      80s Style Fold Over Waistband Jeans for 18" Dolls

      Ok, let's jump in to Part 2!

      Patterns used in this weeks video examples:

      Liberty Jane High-Waisted Jeans & Shorts for 18" Dolls, with the pattern hack demonstrated in part 1 (pleated front legs).

      Liberty Jane Button Front Mini Skirt for 18" Dolls

       Button Front Mini Skirt Doll Clothes Pattern 18" Dolls

       

        Part 2 Tutorial Video #1 - The Fold-Over Waistband Mini Skirt Pattern Hack:

        In this first example I'm using the Liberty Jane Button Front Mini Skirt as my base design. This pattern has a flat front waistband and a separate elastic back casing. Follow along in the video to see how to modify the design to create a fold-over waistband.

         

        Here's a breakdown of the complete tutorial too:

        Pattern Pieces: Cut out all of the pieces as instructed in the pattern, with the excetption of the Waistband. This is the piece we will be altering to make a fold-over waistband.

        • Step 1: To create a new Waistband piece, simply double the height of the exisiting piece so it is twice as tall. Cut 2 of this modified pattern piece.
        • Step 2: (1:45 - 4:50) Follow the pattern instructions to sew up the skirt until you get to Step 9. The next steps are the same, but your waistband piece will look different because it is taller.
        • Step 3: (4:50 - End) Follow the pattern instructions through Step 18. At this point we will make a slight change to the instructions and only sew the center front overlapped seam to just below the waistband seamline. Don't overlap and sew the waistband at all. Leave this section open so it can fold over and spread apart.

         

        To finish off the design, simply fold the waistband over, half the width at the side and the full width at center front. It will naturally spread apart and create the angular effect. If desired, you can add button holes to this section too. Now your skirt is complete! 

         

        Part 2 Tutorial Video #2 - The Fold-Over Waistband High Waist Jeans Pattern Hack:

        In this second example I'm using the Liberty Jane High Waisted Jeans as my base design. This pattern has a full fitted waistband that wraps around the entire waist and has a functional front opening. Follow along in the video to see how to modify the design to create a fold-over waistband.

           

          Here's a breakdown of the complete tutorial too:

          Pattern Pieces: Cut out all of the pieces as instructed in the pattern (we are using the midified pieces frrom the hack in part 1 to include the pleated front and looser back leg), with the excetption of the Waistband. This is the piece we will be altering to make a fold-over waistband.

          • Step 1: To create a new Waistband piece, we will be changing the overall measurement to from 1-1/2" to 4" for the height of the wasitband. For this example we are also using a contrasting floral print fabric to add a bit more 80s flair! In this case we are cutting tow separate pieces that are 2" in height, one in denim and one in floral print.
          • Step 2: Sew the pattern as instructed up to Step 30. Sew The two long waistband strips together, press the seam allowances open.
          • Step 3: The waistband will attach to the pants the same way as instructed in the pattern, with one change. When you line up the wearers right side, you'll want to press under 1/4" along the short end of the waistband piece. Then line it up 1/4" from the raw edge of the center front opening. This will allow you to finishe this side of the waistband with a finished center front edge that will fold over.
          • Step 4: Finish attaching the waistband as instructed. Topstitch around all four edges to complete. 
            • Step 5: Continue with the pattern instructions to finish up the pants. When finishing the front fly opeinging, you will cut the hook and loop tape to fit the fly overlap only, do not extend up past the waistband seam line. Then fold the new wasitband over to finish!

             

            Add buttons, iron on studs, and other embellishemnts to complete the look!

             

            Week Two Tasks:

            • Watch the videos and follow along to see how how easy it is to add a fold over waistband to these patterns!
            • Grab your patterns and get ready to sew one or both of these examples too!
            • Jump over the SWC Facebook Group for conversation and project sharing. 

            Next Tuesday - Part 2: The Jelly Flats Full Video Tutorial WIth Shari!

             

             - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

             

            October Membership Links & Coupons:

            Find the downloadable video collection on Vimeo, here:

            https://larougetdelisle.com/user39282990/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style

            Password: STYLE2010

            Free Pattern Info: This code is good for one free pattern from larougetdelisle, any brand (€5.99 maximum discount, higher priced patterns will have a remiaing balance due). This code expires 10-31-2010 and is a one-time use code available to Sewing With Cinnamon members exclusively.

            Pattern Coupon Code: STYLE2010

            • For this topic we recommend using the code to grab the Liberty Jane High-Waisted Jeans pattern (if you don't already have it). Then jump in and follow along in the pattern hack outlined below.
            • Other patterns that will be used in this course over the following weeks are: The new Thimbles & Acorns Jelly Flats, Liberty Jane Bubble Skirt, and Liberty Jane Button Front Mini Skirt.
            • Or check out the style guide info in Part 1 for other patterns with a 1980s theme!

            Course PDF Download: Members are eligible to download one course in a PDF format each month (this also includes longterm access to download the videos). This member benefit used to be for just the most recent months topic, but now you can choose to use this on the most recent topics, found in the SWC Bonuses section (not available to the public yet) or any course listed on the main website in the Sewing With Cinnamon Courses collection.

            Note - The current months topic will be available to download the first week of the following month and can be redeemed with next months coupon code.

            Course Coupon Code: SWC2010

              ]]>
              https://larougetdelisle.com/blogs/sewing-with-cinnamon/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style-topic-overview-pleated-high-waisted-jeans-pattern-hack 2020-10-06T09:07:29-07:00 2023-09-02T18:11:29-07:00 Sewing A Themed Wardrobe: 1980s Style! Topic Overview & Pleated High Waisted Jeans Pattern Hack Cinnamon Miles Hi Everyone! Welcome to a new installment of Sewing A Themed Wardrobe, this time we're taking a trip down memory lane!  The theme is "1980s Style Fashion". In this topic we will explore the style that stood out and really set the tone for that era. Items like acid washed denim, pleated jeans, bubble skirts, leggings, jelly flats, scrunchies, and of course, big hair! Wheather you're creating an expanded wardrobe for the new 1986 historical character, Courtney Moore™ or creating the pieces for the modern day, I'm sure we'll have fun creating these things together!

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              larougetdelisle 1980s Style Doll Clothes Patterns Pleated Jeans

              Hi Everyone! Welcome to a new installment of Sewing A Themed Wardrobe, this time we're taking a trip down memory lane!  The theme is "1980s Style Fashion". In this topic we will explore the style that stood out and really set the tone for that era. Items like acid washed denim, pleated jeans, bubble skirts, leggings, jelly flats, scrunchies, and of course, big hair! Wheather you're creating an expanded wardrobe for the new 1986 historical character, Courtney Moore™ or creating the pieces for the modern day, I'm sure we'll have fun creating these things together!

              The Sewing A Themed Wardrobe: 1980s Style Topic Will Include:

              • Part 1 - Topic Overview, Pleated High Waisted Jeans Pattern Hack
              • Part 2 - The Iconic Fold Over Waistband - Add it to your pattern
              • Part 3 - The Jelly Flats "craft along" with Shari Fuller
              • Part 4 - 1980s Accessories  - The 80s Bandanrama!

              Over this 4-part topic,  I'll show you how to create the Ultimate 80s wardrobe for your doll!

              Are you ready? Let's go...

               

              October Membership Links & Coupons:

              Find the downloadable video collection on Vimeo, here:

              https://larougetdelisle.com/user39282990/sewing-a-themed-wardrobe-1980s-style

              Password: STYLE2010

              Free Pattern Info: This code is good for one free pattern from larougetdelisle, any brand (€5.99 maximum discount, higher priced patterns will have a remaining balance due). This code expires 10-31-2010 and is a one-time use code available to Sewing With Cinnamon members exclusively.

              Pattern Coupon Code: STYLE2010

              • For this topic we recommend using the code to grab the Liberty Jane High-Waisted Jeans pattern (if you don't already have it). Then jump in and follow along in the pattern hack outlined below.
              • Other patterns that will be used in this course over the following weeks are: The new Thimbles & Acorns Jelly Flats, Liberty Jane Bubble Skirt, and Liberty Jane Button Front Mini Skirt.
              • Or check out the style guide info at the bottom of this post for other patterns with a 1980s theme!

              Course PDF Download: Members are eligible to download one course in a PDF format each month (this also includes longterm access to download the videos). You can choose to use this on the most recent topics, found in the SWC Bonuses section (not available to the public yet) or any course listed on the main website in the Sewing With Cinnamon Courses collection.

              Note - The current months topic will be available to download the first week of the following month and can be redeemed with next months coupon code.

              Course Coupon Code: SWC2010

               

              Ok, let's jump in to Part 1!

              One of the most prominent design elements of the 80s was pleated, but not just pleats, pleated jeans! Follow along in this pattern hack to see how easy it is to add pleats to this design. Then use your new skill to add pleats to any other design you choose!

                Part 1 Tutorial Video - The 80s Pleated High Waisted Jean Shorts Pattern Hack:

                 

                This pattern hack post was done in collaboration with IG user @forofsuch. I'm loving her beautiful photos of the finished product!

                Patterns used in this weeks video examples:

                Liberty Jane High-Waisted Jeans & Shorts for 18" Dolls.

                Here's a breakdown of the complete tutorial too:

                Important prep step: First we will make modifications to the pattern pieces! 

                To begin, print out all the pattern pieces. But BEFORE you cut out the pants/shorts front and back from the printer paper, make these changes and modifications right on the paper:

                Step 1:  We will start with the Pants Front pattern piece.

                • Using a ruler, make marks 1 inch below the “cut here for shorts” line, then connect the marks to make a new cut line.
                • Cut out the Pants Front pattern piece, using your new line as the bottom cut line. 
                • Cut the Pants Front piece in half from top to bottom.

                • Tape a piece of paper behind the left side, then measure over an inch along the length of it and draw a line.
                • Now bring the right side of the pattern piece to that drawn line and tape it in place, lining up the top and bottom edges. Draw lines across the one inch gap, reconnecting the top and bottom edges. Trim off the extra paper at the new cut lines you have drawn.

                • Using your ruler, and starting at the top left side of the pattern piece, which is center front and where the fly is, measure over 1 inch to the right and make a mark.
                • Measure over to the right again ½ inch, and make a mark.
                • Measure over to the right again 3/8 inch, and make a mark.
                • Measure over to the right again ½ inch, and make a fourth and final mark.
                • These are your marks for the pleats you are going to fold in. Set the Pants Front piece aside.

                 

                Step 2:  Now to modify the Back Pants piece! This will be much simpler. 

                • First, measure 1 inch down again from the “cut here for shorts” line, and draw a new cut line.
                • Next, following the curve of the new cut line, extend it out ¼ inch on either side.
                • Using your ruler for a straight edge, draw straight lines connecting the top of the pattern on the left to your ¼ inch extension, and the point of the crotch to the ¼ inch extension on the right side.
                • Cut out your pattern piece now, using the new cut lines you have drawn.
                • Yay, now you have your two new pattern pieces! Using these and the rest of the printable pattern pieces, cut out your shorts.

                 

                Step 3:  Before you begin step 1 of the pattern instructions, follow these instructions:

                • First, transfer the fold lines to the fabric pattern pieces with chalk.
                • Next, following the directional lines, fold the two pleats over toward the center front, matching up the chalk lines once folded. Pin in place. Your pieces should look like the photo below.
                • Baste over your pinned pleats and remove pins.

                Step 4:  Now begin following the pattern instructions, and continue through completing step 28, then follow these steps before beginning step 29:

                • Serge or zig zag the bottom edges of both legs.
                • Fold up the bottom edges of each leg ¾ inch and iron in place.
                • Stitch down the ironed hemline, catching the edge of the turned up fabric. Stitch another seam 1/16 to 1/8 inch away from original seam for the double seam look.

                Step 5:  Now you can resume the pattern instructions beginning at pattern step 29, omitting the hemming steps of 39 and 40, since you already did the hem.

                Now your shorts are complete! The yoke and pleats are perfect and so 80’s!


                Week One task:

                • Watch the videos and follow along to see how we added the pleats to the original design.
                • Grab your patterns and get ready to sew your own pair too!
                • Select the fabrics you'd like to make these shorts. Lightweight denim works great for this type of design.
                • If you want to try your hand at bleaching your shorts to give them an acid wased look, be sure to check out the "How To Bleach Denim To Get The Acid Washed Look" blog post too!
                • Jump over the SWC Facebook Group for conversation and project sharing. 

                Looking to build your 1980s Wardrobe? be sure to check out our collection of patterns that capture the theme and include many of the iconic design elments! Click HERE

                1980s Color Palette: There are a few themes present in the 80s, one of which is represented in the new American Girl Historical collection for Courtney. It's the vibrant bright colors represented here:

                1980s Prominent Design Elements: Think, big, bright, bold, and exagerated, to start. At least for the "rocker girl" or "preppy" type looks.

                • Large puffy sleeves
                • Yoke design element on pants and skirts
                • Pleats, especially pleated pants 
                • Bubble skirts
                • Mixing bold colors, geometric designs
                • Big stripes
                • Lot's of leggings! Pair these with oversized tees or layered under skirts. Solid leggings and lace leggings too!
                • Cropped jackets
                • Satin fabric was big! 

                There is also the softer side which includes ruffles, puffy sleeves, big collars, dropped waist dresses, lace trim details, and a more muted color palette (but we'll touch on that more in Part 4)

                Next Tuesday - Part 2: The Iconic Fold-Over Waistband

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