Helloo! I hope you've all had a wonderful few days and that Father Christmas aced it with the presents this year. I'm still in recovery from the annual turkey overdose, so decided to take the opportunity to look back at the past year on the blog before the next onslaught of pies….
On the dressmaking front, my boiled wool coat was probably my most successful garment of 2015.
There are a few things I'd do differently if I was given my time again, but overall it's been a huge success and has had a LOT of wears. Other garments that have been worn to death this year include my Barkcloth Skirt,
Walkley Top (a surprise hit).
and my Little Black Dress
In fact everything I've made this year has been worn, proving that I'm finally getting better at diagnosing which wardrobe gaps actually need to be filled!
I had the pleasure of seeing two of my favourite gents guest starring on my blog this year. My pal Joe and his beautiful Liberty print ties proved to be a big hit (here and here).
He's still optimistic about sewing his own seven-fold-tie, so look out for a re-appearance next year. My son Louis also popped up, proving he's a chip off the old block by sewing his own waistcoat. He's a genius I tell you!
On the blog front, I was very, VERY proud and delighted that my blog was nominated for Best Sewing Blog in the Sew Magazine British Sewing Awards 2015. I still can't quite believe that one, thank you again to everybody who took the time to vote for me! I also wrote two new tutorials which were published in Love Sewing Magazine - one for a Chequerboard Baby Blanket
and one for a Tooth Fairy Cushion
The project that took the longest time and energy this year was without doubt making a memory quilt for my Aunty. I was a bit wrung out after it was finished to be honest, but I'm so glad I did it as I know it brings her a lot of comfort.
2015 was also the year I joined the 21st century and opened an Instagram account - I'm @janemarland if you're interested! I surprised myself by how quickly I got used to it (much quicker than Twitter, which I still struggle with to be honest).
Apparently these were my nine most popular Instagram pictures this year |
Instagram won't replace blogging for me because I still love reading sewing blogs and writing my own, but it's a satisfying quick fix in the meantime. I've also discovered lots of new sewing bloggers to follow which can only be a good thing.
All in all it's been a fab year, probably my best dressmaking year to date. So thank you to everybody who has followed along, commented on the blog and offered advice and feedback, it's all very much appreciated. Here's to another happy sewing year in 2016! x
Great line up! Looks like you had a great 2016. I love looking back over my sewing year and seeing what I accomplished.
ReplyDeleteThank you! I like looking back too, there are often things I've totally forgotten so it's good to have a record! x
DeleteYours is one of the best blogs out there, Jane. I always look forward to your postings and seeing your excellent work. The main reason I like your blog too, is because of the fabulous tips and detailed news on each project. I learn so much from you. Here is to another successful year of sewing-2016!
ReplyDeleteOh wow, what a lovely comment thank you! That makes me more determined than ever to make 2016 another successful sewing year! x
DeleteGreat year, the memory blanket was such a wonderful project.
ReplyDeleteThanks, I'm glad I made it! x
DeleteLovely to see all your highlights!
ReplyDeleteYou're right, it is good to look back to see what you've achieved ….must do it myself! Hope you have a very happy 2016.
And you too, thank you! x
DeleteOh Jane I am so glad you wont leave blogging behind. I love your posts. I also have wardrobe envy. ;) I look forward to seeing more in 2016 and to possibly joining Instagram myself. Possibly! ;)
ReplyDeleteAw thank you very much! You should give Instagram a go, if an old dinosaur like me can get to grips with it I'm sure anyone can! x
DeleteThat quilt is really fabulous!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, a lot of love went into the making of it! x
DeleteI must say I love a good round up. And it is the perfect opportunity to analyse the year gone and what you want to achieve the following year. I have really enjoyed reading your blog this year and have bought a few patterns on your recommendation. You give insughtful sewing advice and write with great honesty and humour. Slightly longer comment than I intended but just wanted to say how great I think your blog is. Happy new year!!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Christina! I'm delighted to have discovered your blog this year too and always look forward to your posts. Here's to lots more sewing and inspiration from the two of us for 2016! x
DeleteWhat a successful sewing year, lovely! Can't wait to see what you get up to in 2016!
ReplyDeleteAnd you too love, looking forward to seeing what's in store for you for 2016! xx
DeleteWithout doubt that coat is my favourite make of yours this year, I love the colour and the minamilist style. The barkcloth skirt is a very close winner-up, again in blue! We clearly have similar tastes :-)
ReplyDeleteI think we do for sure! A good dose of navy blue is always a winner! x
DeleteWhat a wonderful 2015 when it comes to sewing for you! I particularly love your little black dress and can’t believe your son made his waistcoat?! Oh my gosh, how old is he? Love to see blog posts like these that I can use as additional resourcesto kick my butt when I am lazy working on my sewing projects!
ReplyDeletePast year was extremely productive! I also adore wool coat! It is really fashionable thing. Color is amazing!
ReplyDelete