Cari says, "It feels so good to be here! Life’s taken a few zigs and zags, but I’m back under the needle and thrilled to be part of Roz’s newsletter again. My latest project was Nate’s “American-made Shirt.” Marcia and Nate were my apartment neighbors when she asked me to make a custom dress shirt for her hubby’s birthday. Nate’s all about 100% American-made clothing—well, I’m American, but let’s be honest, some countries do certain things much better! That’s why I chose this dreamy 56” black cotton stretch shirting from Sew Much Fabric. It didn’t disappoint. Even though it was deadstock from Italy by designer Burberry, we decided it still counted as “American” since I made it right here at home. ?
I prewashed the fabric in cold water, dried on regular and heavy steam pressing before cutting. I started with Vogue pattern V8415 as the base for Nate’s personalized fit. After taking his measurements and making a few tweaks, he patiently sat through three fittings (and a few pin pokes!). The last fitting focused on the sleeve—and that’s when AI entered the sewing room. I had just finished a three-day course on using AI for business, so I tested it on my craft. The results blew me away: sleeve-pitch diagrams, construction notes, and techniques straight out of Savile Row and Paris couture.
The finishing touch? Buttons upcycled from a $5 Gloria Vanderbilt shirt I found at Goodwill—instant gratification and eco-friendly, too.
It feels fantastic to be sewing again, and I hope this project inspires you to take something ordinary and make it your own kind of fabulous.
Thanks for following along!
