Hi Janine, Thanks for sharing your trials. Sewing is such a great hobby but in reality things don't always go well. But there is a sense of fulfillment when we persevere, and yes, the project doesn't always have to be perfect. In answer to your retirement question, I have been retired now for two years. I remember in the beginning feeling a little out of sorts, like I was on vacation but I wasn't going anywhere and it was January. After I cleaned out some closets we jumped into a kitchen remodel but after the kitchen remodel was over and the summer travel and activities ended, I had to figure out how to be productive and enjoy my retirement. I have always been a list maker. So what makes me happy everyday is make a list of things' to do and plan my days. Now that you're not working you still have to have structure or you could end up feeling lost. Monday, Wed, Friday I go to the gym, etc.. I loosely schedule everything including sewing. I like to overschedule but I don't feel bad if I don't do it all. There's always tomorrow and I feel productive and tired when I go to bed at night. Do all those things that while you were working you said to yourself I will have time for that when I retire.
Dawn, thank you so much for sharing how you’re living/scheduling your days. Like you, I’m a list maker. I think I need some time-constrained things each week to add structure. Joining a gym is on the list and I think that will make a difference for my days, and my life. 💕
I love your question this week! I really just want to stay upstairs in the sewing room and sew! But..... that is definitely not a good thing. My husband and i try to pick one thing around the house each week to accomplish. This week, it's clearing out the "junk drawers" in the kitchen. I like to get into these projects right after breakfast. The first week i retired i was up and out the door shortly after 7 for about an hour getting a brisk walk. Unfortunately the weather changed and i got lazy, so back at it on Monday. I usually try to spend the afternoon sewing while my husband naps and watches something on tv I have no interest in. I still like to do my cleaning jobs on Saturday mornings and laundry on Sunday mornings. We also have 2 dogs that get daily walks. We usually try to get them out just before lunch, but sometimes it's closer to supper time. I've also found it's a good idea to make a menu for the week, and we take turns making supper. One thing i need to be is more flexible in my routines, I tend to get frustrated when i just want to sew and my husband, or friends and family want to do something. I'm very much an introvert, my husband is totally opposite. My current sewing project, a quilted jacket is taking longer than i thought it would, but should be finished by the end of the week. Im also trying to be more organized with my sewing. I want to work on long and short sleeved tshirts in the next few weeks, batch sewing. In the evening i will do hand sewing or work on crochet and knit projects, just time when i can keep my hands busy, talk to my husband and watch some tv. I also do alterations for other people. I have decided when to get those alterations finished and returned within a day or two, before my own sewing. Again trying to be more organized. I'm sorry the vest wasn't going as planned. It is very frustrating but great that you preserved and didn't just garbage it. I like that you talk about the good and the bad of sewing. It's encouraging for all of us, whether we are just starting out or are vey experienced.
Jennett, I know I'm very late in replying to this but I appreciate hearing more about how you (and your husband) manage things. I didn't know that you also do alterations for others. That's a real talent!!! ❤️
That seems to happen to me too. Once I start making mistakes, it turns into a cascade of mistakes. I admire your perseverance in not turning it into a wadder. Enjoyed your video.
I think it is fantastic that you share your struggles. We can all learn from them and it is encouraging to the rest of us. Not everything sews up easily. I am still working on a TNT t-shirt pattern.
Lori, thanks so much. Sometimes it seems like everyone in the online sewing world is just pushing out perfect makes without any issues. It's been encouraging for me to see that so many of you also make mistakes or spend a lot of time with a seam ripper in their hand. ❤️
Thank you, Janine! I really enjoyed this episode! Thank you for being so truthful about the struggles of a seamstress! Watching your videos is always like talking with a sewing friend! Brianna
Janine, I had to laugh when you were talking about the vest from hell. What a test of patience! I love the top you have on, especially that fabric. I need to find something like that. Thanks for sharing. Suzanne
This was a - laugh out loud video! I get so frustrated when I make dumbass mistakes. Then I look at it, laugh and move forward. You made me feel so Normal. As for retirement, I have to keep up with my calendar if I let it slide I get into trouble. I even have to schedule walking. Time gets away from me. I was so hyper aware when I was working, my time was focused and I didn't insert other stuff. Now I enjoy the other stuff but am aware it makes me slower at accomplishing.
Bless your heart! Sometimes projects just won't behave. Good for you letting it rest in the naughty bin until the zip arrives. The colors are great for you. I will look forward to seeing the finished vest.
I feel your pain on the zip. I made a rule to try opening and closing ANY zip I use because I once put one in something (might have been pants, I choose not to remember) and THEN went to try moving it…and it was very troublesome. Tried the soap or candle wax.. no improvement. So I test my zippers, which has kept me from using the ring zipper. And I decided some time ago that when zips are on sale at Wawak/Cleaners Supply, I would buy a few in basic colors to void struggling. That suits my style of making… Ihave plans, but will go with what Takes my fancy. And sometimes my husband will ask if I can make something for him… he used to bike a lot so bike jerseys that zipped in front were needed. They are quite expensive and often didn’t fit his , um, sizing needs. And a small stash at home keeps me from roaming stores. I am such an opportunist. Cheers to your forthcoming fixes and finishes. Chris in FL
When I have a sewing project that goes like that (and yes there have been a few), I look at it (after I get over the steam coming out of my ears), and think to myself "Well. I'm glad I got over all the foolishness in one project, so I don't need to do anything stupid in the next few." Lol. And because of that project full of mishaps, I usually do great on the next few. Probably because I'm extra careful after that.
Loved this Sewing Public Service Announcement! You had me on the edge of my chair with your vest saga! Couldn’t help but think that maybe this week’s video topic and the question you posed (post-retirement time management) might have contributed to your vest making issues. Could it be you might be sewing just a touch too much now that you are retired? When we worked we had so little time to devout to our sewing, we were laser-focused on what one item we were making. Now, you have more time, maybe you are trying to do too many sewing projects throughout the week. It is not easy to downshift from working full time to retirement. Give your self a big pat on the back each day you get closer to what you want your new lifestyle to look like. One thing is for sure, you are a natural on camera-we all love seeing you each week!
I’m a fellow member of the frequent mistake club. I finally told myself it’s a requirement to make at least one mistake per project. So far I have successfully done so. As far as retirement time management, I’m kind of untethered without the routine of work. I try to structure my days in some way. For me it means usually doing chores/errands in the morning and sewing in the afternoon. As always I love your conversational style and the chat with all of us. Have a nice week! -Addie
New subscriber and I thoroughly enjoyed your video. As one who retired the end of November and I find it is too easy to think I have all day or all week, etc. to complete projects, chores, etc. While working we had to schedule our time to accomplish things. After retiring I promptly got sick with bronchitis and Covid through Christmas. January 2 I was admitted to hospital for extremely low blood counts, etc. It is only in the last three weeks that I am truly feeling better and I have to utilize the following thoughts in my mind to not aimlessly wander through my days- not "I have to do..." but "I get to do....". That is really helping me to plan my days. I look forward to seeing all your past and future videos.
Nancy, thank you so much for watching and subscribing! I hope you are continuing to feel better every day. 💐 I like the "I get to do" approach. Maybe it would make sense to plan something fun for later in the day, so that there's a reason to get through the most boring tasks (cleaning the bathrooms!).
😂 I’ve definitely been in the dumb ass mistake club myself. Like sand through the hour glass so are the days of our lives 😂. I need to get my act together, I feel like I’m wasting so much time. I’ve decided I need to make myself a schedule for the week and put sewing on it. If I write myself a list, I do better. Since I semi retired myself this year I’ve been like a kid on a snow day and it’s not good.
Thanks for sharing your blunders. How many times in my 60+ years of sewing have I made such an out of stuff I’ve went by the garage can and dumped it with not so much as even looking to see if I hit it or not!! The part of the backwards pocket piece made me giggle thinking of some of the times similar things have happened to me. I bet you will get countless comments from fellow subscribers who say the same, it just happens!! Thanks for keeping it real my friend! Can’t wait to see your purchase of fact fabric!
Hi Janine! I was literally laughing out loud while listening to your episode today! So great that you shared your learning with humour. I don't know how to make more time for sewing because since retiring it seems to take so much longer to do everything! Don't know how I had time for work before. I'm in agreement with one of your previous episodes where you talked about slowing down and just enjoying the process. By the way, the top you're wearing looks really great on you - definitely your best colours. Thanks for your fun channel! Vickie
Love the softshell fabric your using for the jacket. Glad you are going to finish it and I can’t wait to see it. I lived in Olds in ‘86 when my mom started teaching. My dad also did a farming program there when I was younger. I had no idea there was a fashion school there as well. So interesting. Looking forward to your next vlog and have a great weekend!
I feel your pain. I made a wearable toile of the Itch to Stitch Mila without hitch, for some reason when I made the one with my "good fabric" I kept making stupid mistakes. Like having to make three collars and stands., etc. Grrr. Luckily I had extra fabric for all the extra cutting I had to do. I'm sure your vest will be awesome when you get it done and we will all be watching to see it!
Ok. You beat yourself up...I see the bruises! You do fine work...I've seen it. I've been sewing for 65 years and I've made some really bad mistakes. I enjoy your program.keep sewing
A routine seems to help me. I’m semi retired. In the morning, on weekdays, I set a timer for 10 minutes only and tick off one or two tasks on a list, cleaning related - I decided my own system. I then do a 10 minute gentle exercise video. after those 20 minutes I’m in the right frame of mind to sew or work etc. And yes we all make sewing mistakes or don’t think things through properly. I recently sewed on two patch pockets with the open tops towards the side seams instead of upright.
This sounds like a really gentle way to schedule yourself. I'm definitely a check-box person and to have a couple of small tasks might start my day right. Emphasising 'small' and manageable. Thanks for sharing that you, too make mistakes!
It will be so cute when it’s done! And I hate when I do stupid things when sewing. I generally walk away to ponder life and come back fresh. I never print instructions because I hate to waste paper and ink, it is kind of annoying but doable. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Janine this was my first time watching you.I loved this video. I too can easily make mistakes that really should not happen. I have just subscribed to your channel and look forward to many more laughs and experiences with you. Thanks.Anne ❤😂😂
I so enjoy your content on your channel. This was another delightful video! I smiled the whole way through your telling of your mistakes. Been there, done that! I'm retired 5 years & I think I'm finally trying to embrace being retired. I've been going non-stop the past 5 years, volunteering at a mission & my church & working part-time at a Farmers Market. I'm wired to be "productive" all the time & that's just not a healthy lifestyle in the long run so....giving myself permission to sit down in the middle of the day & read. How I find time to sew is it's how I destress so dishes in the sink, laundry to do, cleaning...can wait. I need to sew! It's a balancing act for sure! Good luck! D Chu
Deborah, thank you so much for your very nice words! Like you, I'm wired to be productive and it sure is a struggle. I think it's harder when other members of the household are working and there's that unavoidable question over the evening meal, "what did you do today?" I'm trying to schedule a bit of down time where I just sit and breathe. ❤️
Ahhh I am sorry it was so frustrating!! When you go back to it with a new mind set (time off for a bit?) I hope things go more smoothly for you. I love the top you are wearing, you have really found the colours that pop for you . Fab. Re the Concord tee and fabric, I had a similar issue; I tested the stretch , and then made a fave Tee pattern, and could barely get it on. I wore it anyway, and now will open the neck and make the sleeves 3/4 for a little give.I am hoping I don't have to put a strip down the underarm and sides. But what I think is that even though the stretch was technically the same amount, one was a narrow cable knit, and the cotton spandex COULD stretch but was very stiff compared to the rib style. Live and learn, but frustrating . I only had time for one article in the past 3 weeks. Love your channel, and your honesty :)
Nancy, I'm glad you're going back to your tee to make it work. Please let me know how it goes! That might be a good solution for many of us, especially if the alternative is for something to sit unworn. ❤️
Yup. Been there, done that with dumb mistakes! 😜 That fabric for the vest is really pretty! The top you have on is made with a vibrant and fun print! Baby goats!🐐
Hi Janine! My list of dumb sewing mistakes would be several pages at least! I really related to this video and we’ve all been there for sure (multiple times myself). I’ve also enjoyed reading the comments this video evoked from fellow watchers and those, too, brought me comfort that I am not alone in my sewing struggles. The vest fabric is so pretty and I have no doubt you will be successful in the end. I never knew I needed a cute goat t-shirt until now.
Michelle, thanks so much for sharing that you're another member of the club! I think there are more of us than we imagined. All of those slickly produced videos and Instagram posts are deceiving. Hope to see a goat t-shirt on you, soon!
I love the printed softshell you are using for your vest. I cannot wait to see it all finished. But don’t you just hate it when you make silly mistakes? Urgh! The top you are wearing is stunning on you - those colours are so happy. I love the baby goats!! I totally agree with you - you’re a good luck charm and you need to go to more games 🤣 My sister goes to a lot of the Habs games and she has yet to see them win so I told her she needed to stop going!! I blame her for all our difficulties the past few seasons. 🤣 I hope you’re having a great start to your weekend! 💞
Izzy, aren't we funny with our superstitions around sports? And yes, your sister should stay home and give YOU her tickets! I've done a lot of crazy things to keep winning streaks going, the weirdest possibly being very serious house cleaning when games were on because that seemed to help. In the end, it didn't. But my house was clean that year! 🤣
Love your work, Janine! I think that vest deserves to go in "time out" for a while, don't you? You can gain some perspective on finishing it well. The fabric is beautiful. Your question of the week - I still work 5 days a week, and I do a little preparation every evening. Might only be 5 minutes cleaning and oiling the machine, filling bobbins, reading and digesting directions in pattern, and cutting out and marking fabric. Then I'm ready to sew, sew, sew on the weekend. I do patchwork as well, so usually have a pile of projects ready to move to the next step. I love to work on several projects that a time.
Linda, the vest came out of Time Out the other day and is now done! Woo hoo!!! You're right that a bit of time away from the frustration made it much easier to sit calmly and do what needed to be done. I like the idea of a few minutes a day in the sewing room, even if it's simply to do a task or two that will make it easier to get to work. Those little jobs can add. up to a lot of time. Thank you so much for sharing, and for watching!
Hi Janine, I have the Murcot puffer coat all cut out. I purchased the puffer coat fabric (pre-quilted) from Joann’s. I also prefer ease so I hope it works out for me. I plan on installing snaps in mine. Have a great week ahead.
My last project was also a comedy of errors! It just happens like that sometimes. I was grateful to come out with a wearable project and very happy when I was done with it. 😂
Yes we all make mistakes and some projects just go from bad to worse. Your fabric is beautiful and the vest will be very useful once you wrestle it to the finish line. Lots of great learnings to apply to projects going forward. I am in the midst of making jeans for the first time and have run out of thread, have the wrong colour jeans zippers for my fabric, and sewed a front pocket on incorrectly with the first pass then overlocked, then 2 rows of top stitching before I realized 🤦😭😭😭. I haven't even got to putting the zipper in yet which I know I won't do correctly the first time no matter how many tutorials I watch. But I will be so proud of these when they are done.... Or I will be ready to do the next pair with great learnings from this process. 😊 I have a softshell jacket on my cutting table next 😬
I am trying to make better use of my time but have not succeeded yet. Funny you should bring that up because that's what I've been saying and telling myself. That I have to make better use of my time so that I can sew up some clothes to wear. I also make many mistakes and feel like I'm not good enough to achieve a good product. I don't feel confident right from the get go. You make many beautiful garments.
Janet, I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one who wonders about how time is spent! It seems like a lot of us are hypercritical of our own sewing. Not everything I make turns out well, and there are often a lot of errors that are only seen on the inside. Plenty of times I have to change something midway through the project because I made a mistake. Please don't judge yourself harshly. Take your time, take a deep breath if you need to unpick, and give yourself grace. I have to do this all the time. ❤️
There must be something in the Alberta air because I, too, am working on a project that should have been straightforward and also using a special fabric I'd been saving. The project sits in the corner, waiting to be fixed. Today, I vacuumed and washed all the floors because it was more appealing. LOL After retiring, it took me almost a year to come to grips with the fact that my body needed to rest, and that it was okay to be sloth like. We don't have to be rushed and always on go, anymore. Happy sewing ! Bernadette
Bernadette - let's blame it on the weather! Snow, thaw, ice, chinook. We've had it all! And I've resorted to a lot of vacuuming these days, too 🤣 And I've been pondering the idea of 'rest' lately and if that's really the first step in retirement. Maybe it takes time for the gears to slow down and stop the compulsion to be constantly in motion.
Janine, thanks for sharing your string of frustrations while working on that jacket. I wish I could tell you about using time wisely. I feel like I've taken the last 10 months off in every way. I'm just started using my timer again to help keep me on task and give my eyes and hands more breaks. I love the colorful knit tunic you're wearing. The color is just fantastic on you! -Kelly
Kelly, those timers are so helpful, aren't they? I used them when I worked and need to get back to them again, especially for time at the computer. Thanks so much for watching!
Interesting question. I’m not successful making more time to sew. But then, I need time to know sew so I can reflect on what’s not working and then I can find a solution to try. Does that make sense?
Maria, that makes perfect sense. Sometimes being way for awhile gives us perspective that we don't get when we move from one project to another, or when we keep hammering away at something that isn't working. I remember a lesson from a psychology class where they talked about how the brain processes information when we sleep - solving problems that we didn't realise we had!
Oh you gave me a good belly laugh when you said your dumb ass moves. If I had a dollar for every stupid sewing mistake I made I would convert my whole house into a sewing studio and have another house built. I’m getting ready to leave this next Friday to go spend a month down in Florida with family. I’ve been getting a pattern cut out. I’m going to be working on the bootstrap pants form. It had 19 pieces doubled and a couple wanted 4 pieces cut. I struggle for time to sew myself. My best time is in the morning from around 10 am to just after noon. It seems my afternoons are just little to hectic. My husband has part time job on Wednesday & Saturday . So that is when I do the bulk of my housecleaning. Sometimes I can do a little sewing in the evening but right now I’m dealing with cataracts and vision just isn’t there. I do a couple of things that help. If I do some housecleaning in the morning I try and do a couple of sewing things in the afternoon. Even if it’s something very simple like just marking my fabric, getting pattern on fabric,or anything just simple. If I have a morning of sewing then I act like that was my morning job and I came home and do a couple of simple chores like pick up and run my roomba over the floors. Also if I’m doing sewing in the morning other than getting dishes in the dishwasher the other chores wait until my sewing time is over. Also I alternate my months . At the end of one month I devote more to housecleaning and then at the end of the next month I devote more to sewing.
Victoria, I know that I'm very late in responding. I like the idea of doing small things when we can squeeze in a few minutes. Those little tasks aren't as much fun as the actual sewing. Interesting idea to alternate months for projects. Since we're moving towards the time when we have to spend some time working in the garden, that might be something I could try in May. That would also be an impetus to finish the spring/early summer sewing in April. ❤️
How do I make the most of my time since retiring? I never really think that I do. My job was non stop activity (nurse) and I always seem to measure what I'm doing now against what I did then. Still trying to figure it out. I feel your pain with the dumbass mistakes. I try and avoid a lot of them by making on item at a time. I won't start anything new until I either finish my current project or abandon it.
Sandra, nurses are under so much pressure all the time. I imagine that your brain (and body) need time to decompress. ❤️ Like you, I normally only have one project going at a time and that's what I plan to go back to. Power through one before starting another.
I would also like to now how to get a lot more done than I currently am getting done.The joy of retirement, it takes few more minutes to enjoy our morning coffee, usually not hurrying to to a scheduled destination quickly. Lunch time is usually laid back a bit and maybe a quick look at the tv. before we know iy, time to cook dinner. Oh did I ask Where does my time go. I do need to -pick up a book at the library, that I have waited on the list for a month to get my hands on it.Guess I won't get much done after I start reading, But, Life is good, I am happy and making several mistakes on making my blazer, Not too stressed that I am using the ripper outer method instead of the sew uo method, Have a good weekend.
I enjoyed reading your post to one of our favorite UA-camr. I’m retired too and what struck me was when you said “I’m happy”. That’s what matters. I take a lot longer in bed than I used to and I’m not feeling a bit guilty. Enjoy your life, because to soon it may end.
Deborah, it's really good to hear that so many others are going through the same thing. Some things certainly are enjoyable, like knowing that I can sit here at 8:39 a.m. and make another cup of coffee without having to rush out. But like you, there is that 'where did the time go?' feeling mid-afternoon. I guess it's a change in life that takes some time to settle in to. ❤️
Oh, Janine! I was growling at the screen as you told the tales. I hate so much how things just kept bottoming out. If you're interested in another opinion on the neckband process, I would refer you to Melly Sews - interesting take including cutting neckbands cut on the bias. For what's it's worth, I think your goat shirt fits nicely. I shall forever think of your hiccups as DAM - dumb-ass moves. Thanks for the video.
Hey - DAM - that would get past the UA-cam censors and we will all know what it means! 🤣 I'll look up Melly Sews. Those neckbands really can make or break a garment - although probably no one notices them but us. Thanks so much for watching & commenting.
I feel your pain! I’ve certainly been there too …. In fact I’ve just sewn the right side of the sleeve of a lining to wrong side of the armscye, not once but twice! 🫤
Hi Janine, Thanks for sharing your trials. Sewing is such a great hobby but in reality things don't always go well. But there is a sense of fulfillment when we persevere, and yes, the project doesn't always have to be perfect.
In answer to your retirement question, I have been retired now for two years. I remember in the beginning feeling a little out of sorts, like I was on vacation but I wasn't going anywhere and it was January. After I cleaned out some closets we jumped into a kitchen remodel but after the kitchen remodel was over and the summer travel and activities ended, I had to figure out how to be productive and enjoy my retirement. I have always been a list maker. So what makes me happy everyday is make a list of things' to do and plan my days. Now that you're not working you still have to have structure or you could end up feeling lost. Monday, Wed, Friday I go to the gym, etc.. I loosely schedule everything including sewing. I like to overschedule but I don't feel bad if I don't do it all. There's always tomorrow and I feel productive and tired when I go to bed at night. Do all those things that while you were working you said to yourself I will have time for that when I retire.
Dawn, thank you so much for sharing how you’re living/scheduling your days. Like you, I’m a list maker. I think I need some time-constrained things each week to add structure. Joining a gym is on the list and I think that will make a difference for my days, and my life. 💕
I love your question this week! I really just want to stay upstairs in the sewing room and sew! But..... that is definitely not a good thing. My husband and i try to pick one thing around the house each week to accomplish. This week, it's clearing out the "junk drawers" in the kitchen. I like to get into these projects right after breakfast. The first week i retired i was up and out the door shortly after 7 for about an hour getting a brisk walk. Unfortunately the weather changed and i got lazy, so back at it on Monday. I usually try to spend the afternoon sewing while my husband naps and watches something on tv I have no interest in. I still like to do my cleaning jobs on Saturday mornings and laundry on Sunday mornings. We also have 2 dogs that get daily walks. We usually try to get them out just before lunch, but sometimes it's closer to supper time. I've also found it's a good idea to make a menu for the week, and we take turns making supper. One thing i need to be is more flexible in my routines, I tend to get frustrated when i just want to sew and my husband, or friends and family want to do something. I'm very much an introvert, my husband is totally opposite. My current sewing project, a quilted jacket is taking longer than i thought it would, but should be finished by the end of the week. Im also trying to be more organized with my sewing. I want to work on long and short sleeved tshirts in the next few weeks, batch sewing. In the evening i will do hand sewing or work on crochet and knit projects, just time when i can keep my hands busy, talk to my husband and watch some tv. I also do alterations for other people. I have decided when to get those alterations finished and returned within a day or two, before my own sewing. Again trying to be more organized. I'm sorry the vest wasn't going as planned. It is very frustrating but great that you preserved and didn't just garbage it. I like that you talk about the good and the bad of sewing. It's encouraging for all of us, whether we are just starting out or are vey experienced.
Jennett, I know I'm very late in replying to this but I appreciate hearing more about how you (and your husband) manage things. I didn't know that you also do alterations for others. That's a real talent!!! ❤️
That seems to happen to me too. Once I start making mistakes, it turns into a cascade of mistakes. I admire your perseverance in not turning it into a wadder. Enjoyed your video.
I think it is fantastic that you share your struggles. We can all learn from them and it is encouraging to the rest of us. Not everything sews up easily. I am still working on a TNT t-shirt pattern.
Lori, thanks so much. Sometimes it seems like everyone in the online sewing world is just pushing out perfect makes without any issues. It's been encouraging for me to see that so many of you also make mistakes or spend a lot of time with a seam ripper in their hand. ❤️
Thank you, Janine! I really enjoyed this episode! Thank you for being so truthful about the struggles of a seamstress! Watching your videos is always like talking with a sewing friend! Brianna
Brianna, thanks so much for your kind words! 💐
Janine, I had to laugh when you were talking about the vest from hell. What a test of patience! I love the top you have on, especially that fabric. I need to find something like that. Thanks for sharing.
Suzanne
Thanks, Suzanne! This one is definitely a test, but I'm softening a bit the longer it hangs there and waits for me to come back to it.
This was a - laugh out loud video! I get so frustrated when I make dumbass mistakes. Then I look at it, laugh and move forward. You made me feel so Normal.
As for retirement, I have to keep up with my calendar if I let it slide I get into trouble. I even have to schedule walking. Time gets away from me. I was so hyper aware when I was working, my time was focused and I didn't insert other stuff. Now I enjoy the other stuff but am aware it makes me slower at accomplishing.
Bless your heart! Sometimes projects just won't behave. Good for you letting it rest in the naughty bin until the zip arrives. The colors are great for you. I will look forward to seeing the finished vest.
Thanks, Karen. It hangs on the closet door, mocking me ... but last night I did a bit of work so we're becoming friends again. 😁
I feel your pain on the zip. I made a rule to try opening and closing ANY zip I use because I once put one in something (might have been pants, I choose not to remember) and THEN went to try moving it…and it was very troublesome. Tried the soap or candle wax.. no improvement. So I test my zippers, which has kept me from using the ring zipper. And I decided some time ago that when zips are on sale at Wawak/Cleaners Supply, I would buy a few in basic colors to void struggling. That suits my style of making… Ihave plans, but will go with what Takes my fancy. And sometimes my husband will ask if I can make something for him… he used to bike a lot so bike jerseys that zipped in front were needed. They are quite expensive and often didn’t fit his , um, sizing needs. And a small stash at home keeps me from roaming stores. I am such an opportunist. Cheers to your forthcoming fixes and finishes. Chris in FL
When I have a sewing project that goes like that (and yes there have been a few), I look at it (after I get over the steam coming out of my ears), and think to myself "Well. I'm glad I got over all the foolishness in one project, so I don't need to do anything stupid in the next few." Lol. And because of that project full of mishaps, I usually do great on the next few. Probably because I'm extra careful after that.
Loved this Sewing Public Service Announcement! You had me on the edge of my chair with your vest saga!
Couldn’t help but think that maybe this week’s video topic and the question you posed (post-retirement time management) might have contributed to your vest making issues. Could it be you might be sewing just a touch too much now that you are retired?
When we worked we had so little time to devout to our sewing, we were laser-focused on what one item we were making. Now, you have more time, maybe you are trying to do too many sewing projects throughout the week. It is not easy to downshift from working full time to retirement. Give your self a big pat on the back each day you get closer to what you want your new lifestyle to look like. One thing is for sure, you are a natural on camera-we all love seeing you each week!
I’m a fellow member of the frequent mistake club. I finally told myself it’s a requirement to make at least one mistake per project. So far I have successfully done so.
As far as retirement time management, I’m kind of untethered without the routine of work. I try to structure my days in some way. For me it means usually doing chores/errands in the morning and sewing in the afternoon.
As always I love your conversational style and the chat with all of us. Have a nice week!
-Addie
New subscriber and I thoroughly enjoyed your video. As one who retired the end of November and I find it is too easy to think I have all day or all week, etc. to complete projects, chores, etc. While working we had to schedule our time to accomplish things. After retiring I promptly got sick with bronchitis and Covid through Christmas. January 2 I was admitted to hospital for extremely low blood counts, etc. It is only in the last three weeks that I am truly feeling better and I have to utilize the following thoughts in my mind to not aimlessly wander through my days- not "I have to do..." but "I get to do....". That is really helping me to plan my days.
I look forward to seeing all your past and future videos.
Nancy, thank you so much for watching and subscribing! I hope you are continuing to feel better every day. 💐 I like the "I get to do" approach. Maybe it would make sense to plan something fun for later in the day, so that there's a reason to get through the most boring tasks (cleaning the bathrooms!).
Thanks for sharing your blunders, Janine. I am usually an active member of the same club LOL Live and learn! Love your video!
You are so welcome!
😂 I’ve definitely been in the dumb ass mistake club myself. Like sand through the hour glass so are the days of our lives 😂. I need to get my act together, I feel like I’m wasting so much time. I’ve decided I need to make myself a schedule for the week and put sewing on it. If I write myself a list, I do better. Since I semi retired myself this year I’ve been like a kid on a snow day and it’s not good.
I'm so glad to hear that I'm not the only one, Jan!
Thanks for sharing your blunders. How many times in my 60+ years of sewing have I made such an out of stuff I’ve went by the garage can and dumped it with not so much as even looking to see if I hit it or not!! The part of the backwards pocket piece made me giggle thinking of some of the times similar things have happened to me. I bet you will get countless comments from fellow subscribers who say the same, it just happens!! Thanks for keeping it real my friend! Can’t wait to see your purchase of fact fabric!
Oh noooo ... straight into the bin! Well, I guess we've all had those. But then we have all probably burned a few cakes, too! 🤣🤣🤣
Hi Janine! I was literally laughing out loud while listening to your episode today! So great that you shared your learning with humour. I don't know how to make more time for sewing because since retiring it seems to take so much longer to do everything! Don't know how I had time for work before. I'm in agreement with one of your previous episodes where you talked about slowing down and just enjoying the process. By the way, the top you're wearing looks really great on you - definitely your best colours. Thanks for your fun channel! Vickie
Your vest will turn out fine and I think it will be very pretty.
Love the softshell fabric your using for the jacket. Glad you are going to finish it and I can’t wait to see it. I lived in Olds in ‘86 when my mom started teaching. My dad also did a farming program there when I was younger. I had no idea there was a fashion school there as well. So interesting. Looking forward to your next vlog and have a great weekend!
Thanks so much, Erin! I didn't realise it was there, either. Might have been a fun program.
I feel your pain. I made a wearable toile of the Itch to Stitch Mila without hitch, for some reason when I made the one with my "good fabric" I kept making stupid mistakes. Like having to make three collars and stands., etc. Grrr. Luckily I had extra fabric for all the extra cutting I had to do. I'm sure your vest will be awesome when you get it done and we will all be watching to see it!
Oh gosh, that must have been so frustrating! So buying just a bit of extra fabric helps in the long run - especially precious fabric.
🤣🤣🤣 So heartening to hear of mistakes. I make quite a few! Enjoyable video but would have loved to see your high end fabric!
Ok. You beat yourself up...I see the bruises! You do fine work...I've seen it. I've been sewing for 65 years and I've made some really bad mistakes. I enjoy your program.keep sewing
Hahaha! I'm getting better at some things but other skills are sure a work in progress! Smoke and mirrors 🤣
A routine seems to help me. I’m semi retired. In the morning, on weekdays, I set a timer for 10 minutes only and tick off one or two tasks on a list, cleaning related - I decided my own system. I then do a 10 minute gentle exercise video. after those 20 minutes I’m in the right frame of mind to sew or work etc. And yes we all make sewing mistakes or don’t think things through properly. I recently sewed on two patch pockets with the open tops towards the side seams instead of upright.
This sounds like a really gentle way to schedule yourself. I'm definitely a check-box person and to have a couple of small tasks might start my day right. Emphasising 'small' and manageable. Thanks for sharing that you, too make mistakes!
It will be so cute when it’s done! And I hate when I do stupid things when sewing. I generally walk away to ponder life and come back fresh. I never print instructions because I hate to waste paper and ink, it is kind of annoying but doable. Thanks for sharing!
I would schedule a time to…weekly or daily, make a date with yourself.
Hi Janine this was my first time watching you.I loved this video. I too can easily make mistakes that really should not happen. I have just subscribed to your channel and look forward to many more laughs and experiences with you. Thanks.Anne ❤😂😂
Thank you so much, Anne!
I so enjoy your content on your channel. This was another delightful video! I smiled the whole way through your telling of your mistakes. Been there, done that! I'm retired 5 years & I think I'm finally trying to embrace being retired. I've been going non-stop the past 5 years, volunteering at a mission & my church & working part-time at a Farmers Market. I'm wired to be "productive" all the time & that's just not a healthy lifestyle in the long run so....giving myself permission to sit down in the middle of the day & read. How I find time to sew is it's how I destress so dishes in the sink, laundry to do, cleaning...can wait. I need to sew! It's a balancing act for sure! Good luck!
D Chu
Deborah, thank you so much for your very nice words! Like you, I'm wired to be productive and it sure is a struggle. I think it's harder when other members of the household are working and there's that unavoidable question over the evening meal, "what did you do today?" I'm trying to schedule a bit of down time where I just sit and breathe. ❤️
Ahhh I am sorry it was so frustrating!! When you go back to it with a new mind set (time off for a bit?) I hope things go more smoothly for you. I love the top you are wearing, you have really found the colours that pop for you . Fab. Re the Concord tee and fabric, I had a similar issue; I tested the stretch , and then made a fave Tee pattern, and could barely get it on. I wore it anyway, and now will open the neck and make the sleeves 3/4 for a little give.I am hoping I don't have to put a strip down the underarm and sides. But what I think is that even though the stretch was technically the same amount, one was a narrow cable knit, and the cotton spandex COULD stretch but was very stiff compared to the rib style. Live and learn, but frustrating . I only had time for one article in the past 3 weeks. Love your channel, and your honesty :)
Nancy, I'm glad you're going back to your tee to make it work. Please let me know how it goes! That might be a good solution for many of us, especially if the alternative is for something to sit unworn. ❤️
Yup. Been there, done that with dumb mistakes! 😜 That fabric for the vest is really pretty! The top you have on is made with a vibrant and fun print! Baby goats!🐐
Isn't that vest fabric pretty? I can't let it go, no matter how long it takes to finish it.
Hi Janine! My list of dumb sewing mistakes would be several pages at least! I really related to this video and we’ve all been there for sure (multiple times myself). I’ve also enjoyed reading the comments this video evoked from fellow watchers and those, too, brought me comfort that I am not alone in my sewing struggles.
The vest fabric is so pretty and I have no doubt you will be successful in the end.
I never knew I needed a cute goat t-shirt until now.
Michelle, thanks so much for sharing that you're another member of the club! I think there are more of us than we imagined. All of those slickly produced videos and Instagram posts are deceiving. Hope to see a goat t-shirt on you, soon!
I love the printed softshell you are using for your vest. I cannot wait to see it all finished. But don’t you just hate it when you make silly mistakes? Urgh! The top you are wearing is stunning on you - those colours are so happy. I love the baby goats!! I totally agree with you - you’re a good luck charm and you need to go to more games 🤣 My sister goes to a lot of the Habs games and she has yet to see them win so I told her she needed to stop going!! I blame her for all our difficulties the past few seasons. 🤣 I hope you’re having a great start to your weekend! 💞
Izzy, aren't we funny with our superstitions around sports? And yes, your sister should stay home and give YOU her tickets! I've done a lot of crazy things to keep winning streaks going, the weirdest possibly being very serious house cleaning when games were on because that seemed to help. In the end, it didn't. But my house was clean that year! 🤣
“Dumb ass moves” list 😂. I’d have a big one of those! That tunic you’re wearing is beautiful.
Hahaha! Better to admit a mistake and learn from it, right?
Love your work, Janine!
I think that vest deserves to go in "time out" for a while, don't you? You can gain some perspective on finishing it well. The fabric is beautiful.
Your question of the week - I still work 5 days a week, and I do a little preparation every evening. Might only be 5 minutes cleaning and oiling the machine, filling bobbins, reading and digesting directions in pattern, and cutting out and marking fabric. Then I'm ready to sew, sew, sew on the weekend. I do patchwork as well, so usually have a pile of projects ready to move to the next step. I love to work on several projects that a time.
Linda, the vest came out of Time Out the other day and is now done! Woo hoo!!! You're right that a bit of time away from the frustration made it much easier to sit calmly and do what needed to be done.
I like the idea of a few minutes a day in the sewing room, even if it's simply to do a task or two that will make it easier to get to work. Those little jobs can add. up to a lot of time. Thank you so much for sharing, and for watching!
Hi Janine, I have the Murcot puffer coat all cut out. I purchased the puffer coat fabric (pre-quilted) from Joann’s. I also prefer ease so I hope it works out for me. I plan on installing snaps in mine. Have a great week ahead.
I love the top you are wearing, a fun print. The vest will be cute despite all the hurdles along the way, don't be too hard on yourself x
Thanks, Alison!
My last project was also a comedy of errors! It just happens like that sometimes. I was grateful to come out with a wearable project and very happy when I was done with it. 😂
That's the key - if we get something wearable then we seem to forget the frustration.
Yes we all make mistakes and some projects just go from bad to worse. Your fabric is beautiful and the vest will be very useful once you wrestle it to the finish line. Lots of great learnings to apply to projects going forward. I am in the midst of making jeans for the first time and have run out of thread, have the wrong colour jeans zippers for my fabric, and sewed a front pocket on incorrectly with the first pass then overlocked, then 2 rows of top stitching before I realized 🤦😭😭😭. I haven't even got to putting the zipper in yet which I know I won't do correctly the first time no matter how many tutorials I watch. But I will be so proud of these when they are done.... Or I will be ready to do the next pair with great learnings from this process. 😊 I have a softshell jacket on my cutting table next 😬
Oh Nancy, I feel your pain! I bet they will turn out fine. And as you said, if they don't you learn from it and move on.
I am trying to make better use of my time but have not succeeded yet. Funny you should bring that up because that's what I've been saying and telling myself. That I have to make better use of my time so that I can sew up some clothes to wear. I also make many mistakes and feel like I'm not good enough to achieve a good product. I don't feel confident right from the get go. You make many beautiful garments.
Janet, I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one who wonders about how time is spent!
It seems like a lot of us are hypercritical of our own sewing. Not everything I make turns out well, and there are often a lot of errors that are only seen on the inside. Plenty of times I have to change something midway through the project because I made a mistake. Please don't judge yourself harshly. Take your time, take a deep breath if you need to unpick, and give yourself grace. I have to do this all the time. ❤️
There must be something in the Alberta air because I, too, am working on a project that should have been straightforward and also using a special fabric I'd been saving. The project sits in the corner, waiting to be fixed. Today, I vacuumed and washed all the floors because it was more appealing. LOL After retiring, it took me almost a year to come to grips with the fact that my body needed to rest, and that it was okay to be sloth like. We don't have to be rushed and always on go, anymore. Happy sewing ! Bernadette
Amen, sister!
Bernadette - let's blame it on the weather! Snow, thaw, ice, chinook. We've had it all! And I've resorted to a lot of vacuuming these days, too 🤣
And I've been pondering the idea of 'rest' lately and if that's really the first step in retirement. Maybe it takes time for the gears to slow down and stop the compulsion to be constantly in motion.
Janine, thanks for sharing your string of frustrations while working on that jacket.
I wish I could tell you about using time wisely. I feel like I've taken the last 10 months off in every way. I'm just started using my timer again to help keep me on task and give my eyes and hands more breaks.
I love the colorful knit tunic you're wearing. The color is just fantastic on you!
-Kelly
Kelly, those timers are so helpful, aren't they? I used them when I worked and need to get back to them again, especially for time at the computer.
Thanks so much for watching!
I’ll have to watch/read the comments. I drastically need to organize my time.
You and me both!!! 😁
Interesting question. I’m not successful making more time to sew. But then, I need time to know sew so I can reflect on what’s not working and then I can find a solution to try. Does that make sense?
Maria, that makes perfect sense. Sometimes being way for awhile gives us perspective that we don't get when we move from one project to another, or when we keep hammering away at something that isn't working. I remember a lesson from a psychology class where they talked about how the brain processes information when we sleep - solving problems that we didn't realise we had!
LOL~ can't wait to see the pretty vest 😄
Thanks, Neena ❤️
Oh you gave me a good belly laugh when you said your dumb ass moves. If I had a dollar for every stupid sewing mistake I made I would convert my whole house into a sewing studio and have another house built. I’m getting ready to leave this next Friday to go spend a month down in Florida with family. I’ve been getting a pattern cut out. I’m going to be working on the bootstrap pants form. It had 19 pieces doubled and a couple wanted 4 pieces cut. I struggle for time to sew myself. My best time is in the morning from around 10 am to just after noon. It seems my afternoons are just little to hectic. My husband has part time job on Wednesday & Saturday . So that is when I do the bulk of my housecleaning. Sometimes I can do a little sewing in the evening but right now I’m dealing with cataracts and vision just isn’t there. I do a couple of things that help. If I do some housecleaning in the morning I try and do a couple of sewing things in the afternoon. Even if it’s something very simple like just marking my fabric, getting pattern on fabric,or anything just simple. If I have a morning of sewing then I act like that was my morning job and I came home and do a couple of simple chores like pick up and run my roomba over the floors. Also if I’m doing sewing in the morning other than getting dishes in the dishwasher the other chores wait until my sewing time is over. Also I alternate my months . At the end of one month I devote more to housecleaning and then at the end of the next month I devote more to sewing.
Victoria, I know that I'm very late in responding. I like the idea of doing small things when we can squeeze in a few minutes. Those little tasks aren't as much fun as the actual sewing.
Interesting idea to alternate months for projects. Since we're moving towards the time when we have to spend some time working in the garden, that might be something I could try in May. That would also be an impetus to finish the spring/early summer sewing in April. ❤️
I talk about my dumb mistake. I made with my granddaughters pajamas. And I was rescued by my husband! Come by and see my oopsie!😅
Hahaha - your husband must be a real gem if he can rescue a sewing project! I'll be sure to go watch.
I block out tasks and 2pm alarm is labeled "craft time"
How do I make the most of my time since retiring? I never really think that I do. My job was non stop activity (nurse) and I always seem to measure what I'm doing now against what I did then. Still trying to figure it out. I feel your pain with the dumbass mistakes. I try and avoid a lot of them by making on item at a time. I won't start anything new until I either finish my current project or abandon it.
Sandra, nurses are under so much pressure all the time. I imagine that your brain (and body) need time to decompress. ❤️ Like you, I normally only have one project going at a time and that's what I plan to go back to. Power through one before starting another.
I would also like to now how to get a lot more done than I currently am getting done.The joy of retirement, it takes few more minutes to enjoy our morning coffee, usually not hurrying to to a scheduled destination quickly. Lunch time is usually laid back a bit and maybe a quick look at the tv. before we know iy, time to cook dinner. Oh did I ask Where does my time go. I do need to -pick up a book at the library, that I have waited on the list for a month to get my hands on it.Guess I won't get much done after I start reading, But, Life is good, I am happy and making several mistakes on making my blazer, Not too stressed that I am using the ripper outer method instead of the sew uo method, Have a good weekend.
I enjoyed reading your post to one of our favorite UA-camr. I’m retired too and what struck me was when you said “I’m happy”. That’s what matters. I take a lot longer in bed than I used to and I’m not feeling a bit guilty. Enjoy your life, because to soon it may end.
Deborah, it's really good to hear that so many others are going through the same thing. Some things certainly are enjoyable, like knowing that I can sit here at 8:39 a.m. and make another cup of coffee without having to rush out. But like you, there is that 'where did the time go?' feeling mid-afternoon. I guess it's a change in life that takes some time to settle in to. ❤️
Thank you for sharing your make & your wip. Can you share the contact info for the person in Olds?
Mary, I'm happy to email you the info. Please send me an email and I'll reply back. My email is lifeofjanine@gmail.com.
Oh, Janine! I was growling at the screen as you told the tales. I hate so much how things just kept bottoming out. If you're interested in another opinion on the neckband process, I would refer you to Melly Sews - interesting take including cutting neckbands cut on the bias. For what's it's worth, I think your goat shirt fits nicely. I shall forever think of your hiccups as DAM - dumb-ass moves. Thanks for the video.
Hey - DAM - that would get past the UA-cam censors and we will all know what it means! 🤣
I'll look up Melly Sews. Those neckbands really can make or break a garment - although probably no one notices them but us.
Thanks so much for watching & commenting.
Sounds like you learned a lot because of the "mistakes" . This is not all bad. Bet you don't make those same mistakes again.
Absolutely! I think we learn more by actually making the mistakes than reading about them in a book. 🤣
I feel your pain! I’ve certainly been there too …. In fact I’ve just sewn the right side of the sleeve of a lining to wrong side of the armscye, not once but twice! 🫤
Oh Denise, so sorry to hear this and completely know your frustration!!!