From Sue To You

Welcome to my blog!

While enjoying my recent Christmas vacation, I caught the sewing bug. I purchased the Wiksten Tova pattern last year I think, but had not gotten around to actually sewing it until now. Considering that it’s one of the pricier patterns, sewing up a Tova became the #1 project of 2013 especially after seeing some lovely versions on Pinterest.

My girls are 14 and 17 and have no problem offering their opinions on my fashion sense (or lack thereof!). Let’s just say when it comes to the Tova, they have some concerns. In their defense, I chose to make the first version in some old quilting fabric I found in my stash. I wasn’t sure how the fit would be so didn’t want to make a wadder with my good stuff.

Perhaps it is a little Holly Hobbie-ish, but I prefer to think of it as “Bohemian”:

And version #2, the full Tova dress made of a blue hemp fabric I’ve had in my stash for several years. My sister, nieces and younger daughter burst out laughing when this one was modeled originally. Perhaps the fabric choice is what makes it pioneer-ish? Or as my sister mentioned, maternity-ish?!:

In spite of the lukewarm reviews, I still think that the Tova pattern is full of potential. I have some white Irish linen that I think will make a perfect Tova. The pattern is very well drafted and the step by step instructions are accompanied by detailed photos. I had fun making the shirt and dress and that’s the main thing. One advantage to being over 40 is that I don’t really care if people like what I’m wearing anyway!