Category: Activewear

The Sassy Sweatsuit – A Cozy Second Make

There’s nothing like a pattern that you love enough to sew twice. The Sassy Sweatsuit by Patterns by Dee definitely earned that honor in my sewing room! This is my second time making this pattern, and I have to say, it’s just as enjoyable as the first. The first one was made in November 2024 (the black and white). I am starting to see a theme with this pattern and the month of November.

For this version, I used a soft sweatshirt fleece (I wish I could remember where I purchased it — clearly I need to start labeling my fabric stash!). The fleece provided an excellent balance of warmth and structure. This makes it ideal for cozy weekends. It is also perfect for casual days out.

Easy and Beginner-Friendly

One of the things I really appreciate about the Sassy Sweatsuit is how beginner-friendly it is. The construction is straightforward, and the instructions are easy to follow. If you’re newer to sewing and looking for a confidence-boosting project, this one is a great choice.

Small Alterations

The only adjustment I made was to the pant length. I removed about 4 inches to get the perfect fit for my height. Otherwise, the pattern fit beautifully straight out of the envelope.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those patterns that I know I’ll reach for again and again. It’s comfortable, stylish, and comes together quickly — everything I love in a loungewear project. The Sassy Sweatsuit is a reminder that sometimes the simplest makes can bring the most satisfaction.

Until next time,
Keep the Sew Life with Riesha Nicolle 💜

Sew Lucky Jar Challenge 2025: Know Me 2100 Misses’ Bomber Jacket – Pattern #3

Are you looking for a stylish addition to your wardrobe? Do you want something cozy and versatile? Look no further than Sew Lucky Jar Pattern #3: Misses’ Bomber Jacket. This pattern combines the classic bomber silhouette with the warmth and texture of quilted fabric. It makes the jacket the perfect transitional piece for cooler months. Whether you’re a sewing enthusiast or a seasoned pro, this bomber jacket offers a fun project. It is also rewarding and will elevate your fashion game. Let’s explore how to make this jacket using quilted fabric for both the lining and the fashion fabric!

Why Choose Quilted Fabric for Your Bomber Jacket?

Quilted fabric is not only stylish but also practical. It provides extra warmth. This makes it a great choice for a bomber jacket. It will keep you snug during chilly days. The quilted texture adds depth and interest to your jacket, giving it a unique and fashionable look. Plus, it’s relatively easy to work with. Many quilted fabrics come in a variety of patterns, colors, and weights. This lets you personalize your jacket to fit your style perfectly.

In this pattern, I used quilted fabric for both the fashion fabric (the outer layer) and the lining. The lining was a remnant that I found at Joann Fabric. This creates a cohesive look. It ensures that the jacket is just as comfortable on the inside as it is stylish on the outside.

Tips for Sewing with Quilted Fabric

Sewing with quilted fabric can be different due to the thickness. It also has a unique texture compared to regular woven fabrics. Here are some helpful tips to guarantee a smooth sewing process:

  1. Use the Right Needle
  2. Take Your Time
  3. Use a Walking Foot
  4. Pre-Wash Your Fabric
  5. Press Seams Carefully

Style Tips for Your New Bomber Jacket

The beauty of this bomber jacket is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are some styling ideas to get you inspired:

  • Add a scarf or a beanie for an extra cozy touch during the colder months.
  • Pair your bomber jacket with high-waisted jeans or leggings for a chic, everyday look.
  • For a sportier vibe, throw it over a hoodie or graphic tee and finish the look with sneakers.

Conclusion

Sew Lucky Jar Pattern #3 Misses’ Bomber Jacket is a great project. Use quilted fabric for both the fashion fabric and lining. This method is a fantastic way to create a warm jacket. It will be stylish and functional. This piece will become a wardrobe staple. The quilted texture not only adds visual interest. It also provides comfort and warmth. This makes the bomber jacket perfect for layering in cooler seasons. With a little patience and some helpful tips, you’ll have a custom-made bomber jacket that’s as unique as you are.

Happy sewing, and enjoy the process of crafting your new favorite jacket!

Happy 2025

Welcome to my blog,

I’m Riesha (Ree-sha), known as RieshaNicolle across all social media platforms. I started my sewing journey in 2014, the year my mom passed away from stomach cancer. She was my world and when she gained her angel wings, I needed something to help me with the grief of missing her. So, I turned to Sewing. What started out as therapy for me, turned into a love for creating my own garments. Through my blog, I am excited to share my journey with all that are interested.

I am married, this year we celebrate 27 years in September. I have 2 adult children, a daughter, and a son. I love fitness, food, and fashion. I call it my 3 favorite F words. During the day, I work as a Staff Services Manager I for the State of California in an Investment Office, managing our Executive Support Team.

My first sewing machine had been purchased 2 years prior to me making a garment on it. I purchased it from Costco, yes Costco, to do borders on papercrafts, as I was into Scrapbooking photos of my 2 kids. At the time, I had no idea what I was doing with the sewing machine.

Please follow me on the following social media accounts:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rieshanicolle

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/rieshanicolle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RieshaSimmons

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/RieshaNicolle

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rieshanicolle

Amazon Storefront https://amzn.to/4jqdqCu

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@rieshanicolles

Here are a few of my favorite makes from past years.

Let’s explore the endless possibilities of needle and thread together – one stitch at a time!

The Sew Life with Riesha Nicolle – Make Nine 2024 Edition

Here we are again back at the beginning of 2024 and talking about our Make Nine for the year. I create a list every year. Sometimes I complete them and sometimes I don’t. WIth 2024 being my year of consistency, that’s my word for the year by the way, I was like why not.

The most important outfit of 2024 will be whatever I am going to make for Chicago Frocktails. This event is taking place in Chicago June 8 – 9, 2024. More details to come on this outfit as they are available. I will do a whole recording of what I am making and the process. You will be able to find it on my YouTube channel. 

How did I come up with my list? Well a couple of things.

  • I based it off of the skills I want to learn
  • Things I struggle with, for example zippers and buttons
  • Style of the pattern
  • Sewing Level, beginner, intermediate, advanced
  • Fabric type

Beginner patterns are always my go to for a quick and easy sew. These are good for last minute, I don’t have anything in my closet to wear, patterns. I have a few Tried and True (TNT) patterns that I refuse to give up.

Intermediate patterns are patterns that challenge my skills and I here for it. I have been sewing since 2014 and it is time to step up my game. There is no reason I shouldn’t be making these patterns.

Advanced patterns are the patterns that I will be making towards the end of the 3rd quarter in 2024. I will build all my skills needed to move forward and be comfortable picking up these patterns to sew.

So let’s get into this list. Of course with new patterns coming out for Spring/Summer/Winter I may want to change a few, but for now, this is my list. I will be making these in this order.

  1. Vogue 9319 – Very Easy Vogue Misses’ Tops, Shorts, and Pants – View B and View D

Skills to learn: Wide Front and Back Yokes, Pockets, and Back Zipper

    2. Vogue 1674 – Easy Misses’ Dress – View A – Colorblock

    Skills to Learn: Lining and Invisible Zipper

    3. Simplicity 8702 – Misses’ Knit Jacket, Pants and Leggings- View A and View C

    Skills to learn: Color Blocking, Zippers, and Drawstring

    4. McCall’s 8438 – Intermediate Misses’ Coats and Vest – View A

    Skills to learn: Buttonholes and Buttons

    5. Simplicity 9700 – Intermediate – Misses’ Jumpsuit – View A

    Skills to learn: Topstitching, Zipper, Set in Sleeves, Buttoned Cuffs, Buttoned Pockets, Side Pockets, and Belt Carriers

    6. Simplicity 9893 Misses’ Cape by Mimi G Style– Intermediate

    Skills to learn: Cargo Pockets, Inverted Pleats and Flaps, Storm Flap, Buttons, Tabs, Convertible Sleeve

    7. Know Me 2063 by Brittany J. Jones – Intermediate – View A

    Skills to learn: Elastic Casing, Side Pockets, Front Fly Zipper

    8. Know Me 2067 by The Stitch Fitz Advanced- Misses’ Dress – View (undecided)

    Skills to learn: Lined Bodice, Boning, Optional Straps and Invisible Back Zipper

    9. Simplicity 9894 by Mimi G Style – Intermediate – Misses’ and Women’s Top and Skirt – View A and B

    Skills to learn: Bust Cups, Zippers, Topstitching

    Until Next Time, Go Sew Something,

    Part 1 Sew September

    Vogue 1835 Misses Pants and Tops

    Are you ready for Fall? I sure am. Fall is my favorite time of year. The trees change, the time changes, the temperatures are cooler, and I can finally wear my warm and comfy clothes.

    For my first official Fall pieces I used Vogue 1835. Vogue describes this as a Misses’ top, pants, and slippers pattern. There are two top variations, short and long-sleeved. I choice the long-sleeved to prepare for the Fall and Winter months that we “should’ be getting in California. The weather today is a high of 75 degrees, which is still slightly warm for October.

    I was able to cut the top and pants both in a medium. I was pleasantly surprised that I did not need to alter the length of these pants. I stand proudly at 4″11 tall and usually cut off at least 4′ from the length. I did taper the leg from the medium to the small my calf muscles are still under construction.

    Pattern Description: Misses’ Tops, Pants, and Slippers

    Pattern Sizing: XS – XXL I cute the M

    Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it looks exactly like the pattern envelope photo.

    Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes Super easy to follow the instructions. They were laid out and easy to understand.

    What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked how versatile the pants are. I can dress them down with sneakers for running errands or dress it up with flats for brunch with the family.

    Fabric Used: I used a Ponte Knit that was in my stash. I think I purchased it 2 years ago.

    Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Although I cut the medium in the pants, I graded from the knee to ankle for a tighter fit. My thighs are fuller, which makes the medium fit from the knee up, but it was to loose from the knee down.

    No alterations made on the top.

    Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will be sewing this again, in either a sweatshirt fleece or velour stretch for the Holidays for running errands.

    Conclusion: Love the look, love the pattern, it is definitely one of my new favorites in the category of quick and easy to Sew.

    Part 2 – Sew September

    I will showcase how I styled these pieces for multiple looks to be wore on different occasions. Follow my blog get notified.

    Thanks for stopping by. Make it a Fashion Forward Day!!!