Seamless needs YOU

Get involved with the #seamlesspledge! vine.co/v/bgIiaWtD5hA—
Elena Cresci (@elenacresci) February 25, 2013

Things are looking a little different around here! My good friend and all-round talented lady Martha Moreno kindly donated some of her time and waved her wand of creativity to spruce Seamless up a little. Doesn’t it look great? I love how the blog has a real retro feel to it now.

If you want to update the button on your blog, the new code is:

[a href="http://seamlessblog.wordpress.com/the-pledge/" target="_blank">[img src="http://seamlessblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/button.png" alt="The Seamless Pledge" /]</a] (replace the [ ] with < >)

She also created this schnazzy little card you can download and print off to fit in your wallet. The brainchild of fellow blogger Gillian, it’s a gentle reminder in your purse just in case you get tempted while out shopping.

It seemed right to go for a little redesign now – when I started the pledge as a baby journalist a little more than a year ago, I didn’t really expect anyone to pay any attention. 100 posts, 901 comments, 55,200 views and an amazing 150 pledgers later (give or take!), I think it’s safe to say I was mistaken.

I definitely don’t plan on quitting anytime soon – and here’s where you come in. I’ve got an idea for a little project to get people thinking about the pledge once more, but I need your help to get this ball rolling.

All I need are some willing volunteers who aren’t camera-shy. You don’t have to be from the UK, no siree. In fact, the more people from across the world, the better. You also don’t have to be pledging  right now. Perhaps you’ve done it in the past or you’re planning to. As I said, the more the merrier.

While I’m calling for volunteers, I may as well mention that if you’re interested in doing any guest posts, do let me know.

You can probably tell I’m wanting to keep this project under wraps until I get it off the ground! For more details (only if you can keep a secret!) just shoot me an email on elenamcresci at gmail dot com with the subject “Seamless project”.

In the meantime, what do you all make of the new design? Do you love it as much as I do?

Why don’t my shoes last?

If my shoes aren’t well-worn, there’s (usually) something wrong with them.

Well, except for these bad boys. They can take ANYTHING

Perhaps it’s all the stomping I do, but it doesn’t take too long before my shoes are well and truly scuffed, as I’m wobbling on uneven heels and just hoping the holes will stay away for another day. Being a pair of my shoes can’t be easy.

Rather than buy multiple pairs of shoes, I tend to wear one pair to death before grudgingly moving on to the next. Usually, this process can take about a year at the most. But lately, I’ve noticed my shoes wearing down quicker and quicker.

Is it just me, or are shoes just not made to last? It makes sense really – if they’re cheaply made, the prices will be down in the shops and people won’t really mind spending £2 on something they’ll chuck away in a matter of months.

Sound familiar? This is more or less exactly how I saw my shopping habits pre-Seamless pledge.

This is the reason shoes are exempt from my pledge – but I don’t really buy them often anymore. Even when I make a conscious decision to splash out a little more on a new pair of shoes, they just don’t seem to be able to handle my endless tramping around.

Then I’m back to square one, buying tacky shoes which won’t last two minutes because it’s not worth parting with more cash for a pair which won’t last much longer.

That said, there must be some reputable brands out there which aren’t going to fall apart at the drop of a hat? I got lucky with a pair of second-hand floral Doctor Martens on eBay a few months ago and they’re the best pair of shoes I think I’ve ever bought, but not quite work appropriate.

I’ve also got a battered pair of Converse which really should have given up by now – they’re a real pair of troopers, already scuffed when I bought from for five Euro at a flea market in Dortmund. But they’re still going strong!

What are your favourite shoes? When it comes to your shoe rack, is it a case of less is more, or do you need to stock up just so you can do some damage limitation by rotating which ones you wear?

Well, hello there 2013

Happy New Year everyone! Can you believe how quickly this year has gone by?

Some projects from 2013…

It feels like just yesterday I was talking about my sewing goals for 2012. So how did I get on?

Well, I didn’t sew more. In fact, I think I sewed a bit less. Quality was a high priority, but my sewing abilities have yet to catch up with my ambitions.

But meeting new bloggers? I’d say that’s been a resounding success, both in real life and online. Since the pledge got started, more than 100 people have joined in from across the world.

I’ve been lucky enough to meet some of my favourite bloggers in person and get to know some others via Twitter. Even if my sewing doesn’t get any better, I’d like to keep this going.

Here are some things I’d like to achieve with the Pledge and my sewing this year:

1. Sew a work-ready wardrobe

You all know how much I love a good pencil skirt. In the next couple of months, I’d like to sew some classy clothes suitable for work. They’ll need to be well-made,  so it’s again a case of quality over quantity.

2. Tights, pants and shoes

As you know, underwear is exempt from my Pledge and while I certainly don’t buy as many shoes as I used to, I’m still buying them once I’ve worn my favourites  ’til they have holes in them. My aim for 2013 is to find places to buy tights, pants and shoes which are more in-keeping with the ethos of the pledge.

3. Reboot the pledge

The Pledge is just over a year old now, but I want to take it somewhere new. I’ve been chatting to Gillian and Clare about revamping the pledge for 2013. We’ve got some exciting ideas, so keep your eyes peeled for more information including how you can get involved…

Have you got much planned for 2013? Do let me know!

Featured Pledger: Jenn (Made to Fit)

For some, the Seamless Pledge is a complete lifestyle overhaul that’s difficult to manage. A few people have contacted me worried they won’t be able to take it because it might not work with their situation. So I’m happy to introduce you to Jenn, someone who’s made a few amendments to her pledge since she started to better suit her lifestyle.

Name: Jenn

Website: http://madetofit-jenn.blogspot.co.uk/

Pledging until she moves to her new house!

Why did you take the Seamless Pledge?

After I moved to New Zealand I had a hard time finding clothes. When I first heard about the pledge I had a closet full of worn out clothes I loved and newer clothes that didn’t fit well and I rarely wore. I thought it would be a great way to think more closely about the clothes I needed to add to my closet. When each item takes 2-4 weeks to sew, they all have to be closely considered.

I have mostly kept to the pledge. I pledged until we had moved into our new house, which was originally scheduled to be this past June. It’s now been delayed until December, but I don’t see myself giving up the pledge anytime soon.

I did slip in May – it was getting colder here and I needed some sweaters. I don’t knit and haven’t sewed with sweater knits, so I bought a couple of cardigans and a sheath dress for winter. I think it’s a good idea to have a couple of ‘get out of jail free’ cards for these types of emergencies.

What impact has the pledge had on your day-to-day life?

I no longer go to the mall. Instead I now spend my spare time dreaming about fabric. It wasn’t a huge change – I love the challenge of trying new, increasingly difficult patterns. I also love that I now wear mostly natural, luxurious fabrics. For example, I can afford silk and linen fabric, whereas I wouldn’t generally be able to afford them in RTW.

My husband bought a pair of poly dress pants for a wedding in June. I made my dress (silk) and my son’s pants and vest (lightweight wool suiting). I am so happy to be able to sew, and not have to deal with plasticky fabrics (although I did have to hem his pants the night before the wedding)

My son was originally part of the pledge, but is growing so quickly I couldn’t keep up. He has a few items that I’ve sewn for him and I prefer them to RTW – where else can you find grey sweatpants with elephants on them? I’ve made my husband a few merino t-shirts, Colette Negroni shirts, and have plans for a few more shirts for him.

Any tips for someone wanting to give up mass-made clothing?

Sew multiples. For me the hardest part is not having enough to wear. When I sewed my fall wardrobe I made two A-line skirts, two knit tees and two sleeveless blouses, using the same patterns. Fitting a new pattern is time consuming, especially when you end up with a wadder, so once you find something that works, make multiples.

Also, consider what your lifestyle requires. Right now I’m doing a set of Fall work clothes that all coordinate. It’s not much fun, mostly neutrals, but it’s practical and I’ll wear them to death. I motivate myself by alternating something ‘practical’ with something fun. I finished a navy blouse, then sewed my Macaron. I’m almost done with a navy sheath dress, and next I’ll be making a fun casual dress. It’s important not to get bored.

Thanks Jen! Make sure you go read her blog here. Even if you’ve finished your pledge or had to give it up, I’d love to hear from you. 

Featured Pledger: Vicki Kate (Vicki Kate Makes)

Seamless’ second featured pledger is Vicki Kate, who’s midway through her pledge and has some serious stitching skills. Can you believe her dress is made from two bedsheets? Have a read about her pledge experiences:

Name: Vicki Kate

Website: http://vickikatemakes.wordpress.com

One year, from 30th birthday to 31st on the 24 Nov ’12 – new decade, new lifestyle commitment!

Why did you take the Seamless Pledge?

It was a mixture of fortuitous timing in discovering the pledge and wanting to take more responsibility for our world just as I hit 30. Being a Mum has completely changed my perspective on pretty much everything.  I need to lead by example to ensure my son grows up with a sense of responsibility, not just to his immediate community but the worldwide one too. It also gives me incentive (which is now habit) to shop second hand, search charity stores and eBay rather than buying new.  My sewing of garments has gone up a gear too, which was part of the plan!

What impact has the pledge had on your day-to-day life?

I’m a much more thoughtful shopper and not just when it comes to clothing. It’s spread to my grocery shopping (with regards to origin rather than it being pre-loved!) and also made me go to my fabric stash rather than shops for my material. I am so envious of the estate sale and thrift store hauls our US friends score! There’s nothing like that in my experience in Norfolk, UK. A positive is my limited funds go further.

Any tips for someone wanting to give up mass-made clothing?

Examine what you wear! I bet it’s 10% of your total. Look for items that work with that 10% but limit where you look.  If you freak out about charity shops (my sister does), go for eBay as, while you’ll pay more, there is better choice.  Also, develop some patience as sometimes you have to look for a while to find what you want. I’m still looking for the perfect red Mary Jane shoes!  Failing that, learn to sew! But that in itself leads to other consumer issues.

I’d heartily recommend Zoe’s blog for someone wanting to know how to live sustainably and Miss P’s blog for refashioning tips to make those charity shop finds perfect. Finally, train yourself to look beyond a garment’s (or pattern for that matter) first appearance. With a little ingenuity that granny tartan skirt could be amazing! 

Make sure you check out Vicki Kate’s blog for more on her creations. Want to be a featured pledger? Get in touch. 

How to tie a retro-style headscarf

Having a bad hair day? Never fear, a trusty square scarf can hide your hair-related woes.

Who needs to spend hours in front of the mirror when you can hide your bedhead and style it up like Rosie the Riveter. You can do it! It’s really easy and requires no sewing at all.

Featured Pledger: Sonja Beck Gingerich (Ginger Makes)

The Seamless pledge is nothing without its pledgers! Every week I’ll feature a new pledger on the site. Today, allow me to introduce you to Sonja of Ginger Makes:

Sonja in her Mello Yello vintage McCall’s 5995 dress

Name: Sonja Beck Gingerich

 Website: http://gingermakes.wordpress.com

Pledged for six months, now coming to the end of it.

Why did you take the Seamless Pledge? 

I’ve long felt guilty about relying on mass-made clothing, but I felt helpless when faced with the task of sourcing clothes responsibly.  So I was really excited to find a group of people who believe that it’s possible to walk away from unethically-made clothes.  I’m so grateful for the support and encouragement this group provides!

What impact has the pledge had on your day-to-day life?

I’m not much of a shopper and I don’t have that many clothes, but I tend to make all my clothing purchases impulsively and unwisely.  I often won’t buy something I actually need, but I’ll pick up a novelty item on a whim without thinking twice!  I find myself more thoughtful about what I wear when I have to make something myself or source it secondhand– it takes a lot of work to add something to my wardrobe, so I want to make sure I’ll really wear it!  I’ve also found it’s really cool to slow down and appreciate the meditative process of making a garment.  I find so much joy and community in sewing, things I’ve never experienced while shopping!

Any tips for someone wanting to give up mass-made clothing? 

Learn how to sew!  It can be tough to find exactly what you need for in thrift shops or on eBay, so it’s great to be able to make wardrobe basics that fit you and your personal style perfectly!

Make sure you check out Sonja’s blog for more on her creations. Want to be a featured pledger? Get in touch. 

The end of my Seamless pledge

As of June 13, my Seamless Pledge was officially over. The minute I was released from my final NCTJ Media Law exam, I was able to run out and buy all of the clothes I wanted.

I’ll be honest, the pub was my first port of call…

Anyway! The end of the course and the pledge has been pretty bittersweet for me. As far as I’m concerned, the past nine months have been utterly fantastic. No matter how little I saw of my hobbies and life outside of journalism, I wouldn’t change my experiences on the course for the world.

Not to mention, if it weren’t for the course, I probably wouldn’t have started this whole pledge to begin with.  Honestly, I didn’t think I’d actually ‘make it through’, which seems daft now. After all, it’s only clothes.

Now, if I walk into a high street store, I don’t automatically rifle through the rails for bargains to add to my already swelling wardrobe. In fact, I’ll keep an eye out for sewing inspiration, but I’m more than happy to leave empty-handed.

But more than this, I’ve been honoured to be joined by a truly talented bunch. Your projects are amazing and your blogs are regular reads of mine. Honestly, if it weren’t for the rest of the pledgers, I’m not sure I’d find the pledge half as fun.

So! I’ve decided, I’m not giving up just yet:

I, Elena Cresci, take the Seamless pledge until December 31st 2012 (when I may well decide to extend it once more…) I will abstain from buying any new clothes until the end of my pledge. I will find ways to be fashionable without breaking the bank and without contributing to the cycle of fast fashion consuming the high street. I will trawl through charity shops, I will attend clothes swaps, I will look for second-hand items on eBay and I will craft my own clothes with my own two hands. This time, I’m officially exempting underwear and tights, but I will hunt down ethical and sustainable alternatives to the easier, mass-made options. Additionally, I will support and sustain the Seamless community as long as there are people willing to say bye-bye to the high street. 

You’re not rid of me just yet! Keep your eyes peeled for more on the site. There’ll be featured pledgers, some interesting interviews and I’ll even get a Seamless Pledge FAQ on the go.

Anyone else come to the end of their pledge? How have you found it?

The end is nigh…

The past nine months have gone by in the blink of an eye.

Back at the very beginning

On Wednesday, I am no longer a trainee journalist at Cardiff University. Providing I pass my exams, I’ll actually be qualified to work on a local paper, can you believe it?

As you probably know, Wednesday also marks the official end of my Seamless pledge. Perhaps it’s all the furious revision I’m doing for my final exams, but it’s not quite hit me just yet!

I’m not the first to complete my pledge – over at Thread Carefully, Julia finished her pledge and reflected on it here. What’s really nice to see is she’s not wanting to give up on it and has decided to pledge for another year. Then there’s Juliet, who commented a few days ago that she’s planning to take her pledge until the end of 2012.

I’m definitely leaning towards taking my pledge onwards and upwards, but what I’d really like to do is cultivate the community we have here. Speaking about Me Made May ’12, I mentioned how much I’ve loved the community aspect of these challenges and with the end of my course, I’m going to have far more time on my hands to be able to make more of this aspect of the pledge.

You might not know, but Seamless already has a Flickr group and a Facebook page going, but I’d like to take this community aspect a lot further. I’ve got a couple of ideas in mind, such as featured pledgers and the refashioning me-mades challenge, but I’d love to hear what you guys would like to do.

Whether it’s some more challenges, giveaways, or spotlights on other pledgers, I’d love to know what kind of posts you’d love to see on the blog. If there’s anything you’ve particularly liked about Seamless so far, then I’d love to hear about it, equally if there’s anything you think I should work on.

In a way, I’d like the blog to be a focal point for pledgers to come, with groups on Flickr or Facebook acting as “support” networks while you’re pledging or even if you’re thinking of it.

Anyway, it’s time for me to get back to the revision! I shall see you all after exam hell is done…

GUEST POST: Thread Carefully’s 10 Sewing Commandments

Part 1

With almost 100 people taking the pledge now, I thought it was about time I got some guest posts here on Seamless! Today, the lovely Tabatha and Julia of Thread Carefully have thoughtfully put together their 10 Sewing Commandments with plenty of helpful hints and tips for beginners and experts alike. Without further ado, here are Commandments one to five…

Tabatha's Chantilly dress

1. Thou shalt only buy sewing equipment from reputable retailers.

This doesn’t include second hand or thrifted machines necessarily – those usually can’t be bought from retailers – here we mean new equipment.  It really is worth your while doing a bit of research before buying – not only into the brand and model number of the machine you’re interested in, but also into the retailer themselves.  If it seems too good to be true, it probably is! A good retailer will be there even after you buy your machine to service it, fix it and even show you how to use it if you need them to! If you are in the UK The Sewing Directory can help you to find your nearest retailer. If you can’t find what you’re looking for there, do a quick search online, but make sure you actually go to the shop.

2. Thou shalt not buy fabric simply because it is cheap.

How many times have I fallen for this (Tabatha’s good on this: she is way more restrained than I am) only to kick myself afterwards.  “Wow, that fabric that looks like it’s been stepped on is a bargain! I MUST HAVE IT. ”  No, just leave it.  It’s not worth it.  It’ll remain in your stash unused for you to feel guilty about forevermore.  By all means, if the fabric is cheap and you know you will definitely use it then there’s no reason not to buy it.  However, think carefully before snapping up a bargain piece of fabric, especially if you have no specific pattern in mind.

Julia's Tetris Macaron

3. Thou shalt not attempt to exactly replicate others’ creations.

This is one that’s close to both our hearts.  Like many people, the reason we started sewing was to have pieces that were unique to us.  We were both sick of constantly seeing other people in the same outfits or having people buy clothes because they liked how they looked on someone else.  Sometimes – dare we say it – we were even guilty of it ourselves.  When you start sewing you suddenly become appreciative of exactly what goes into making that piece.  You can deliberate over a pattern for hours, choosing the perfect style of fabric for it and the ideal trim.  At the end, you have something to be proud of.  It’s wonderful to admire other people’s creations and to garner inspiration from them, but if you love it so much you try to replicate it exactly, you are taking away the unique quality the other person has striven for. You should embrace the individuality that sewing permits, and create your own wonderful, inspired pieces, rather than copy  other people’s ideas.

4. Thou shalt always pre-wash or pre-shrink fabric.

I bet you, like us, have learned this the hard way.  Does much else need said on this, apart from that you will be devastated if your brand new, barely worn, [insert garment type here] shrinks the first time you wash it.  It has happened to us, and, although there may be a few commandments here we break from time to time, this is one we never, ever , EVER break.

Photo by Steven Depolo

5. Thou shalt always cut the correct size according to your measurements

Never guess what size you are based on your usual dress size (UK, US or otherwise).  Each pattern comes with measurements to help you identify your size , and that size will vary from company to company. Measure yourself each time and use that number.  It is only a number.  A number which no one need ever know, if you so wish.  The pattern may as well state sizes A, B, C, D, E for all the difference it makes.  An ill-fitting garment not only looks bad, but must surely feel bad.

Watch out later this week for the next five commandments, courtesy of Tabatha and Julia! In the meantime, check out their blog. If you’d like to write a guest blog for Seamless, get in touch!