It doesn’t happen to me often, but as soon as Papercut Patterns released their element collection, I knew it was something that would jump the queue and be sewn right away.
My blog for lamazi was already in going to be linen, sewn as elevated loungewear/dressed up comfies. I had already made my choice, and then at 12 midnight I messaged Liana to pitch my new vision involving the Mirri! Luckily she could see it working too and kindly agreed to change my original idea.
As you know, I need to make my clothes work for me in terms comfort while sitting in a wheelchair, and possibly bed rest. For me, a big part of improving my mood, is to be dressed in something I feel good in. I heavily associate loungewear and sportswear with being in hospital or rehabilitation and therefore I seek clothing that incorporate style and comfort.
Obviously, through sewing my own clothes, this search has become so much easier. I don’t necessarily have to sacrifice good style in the name of finding the ideal fabric. Having the ability to choose and modify a pattern and match it with an ideal fabric is is so liberating.
The Fabric
I chose the Mind the Maker Nisa Softened Linen in the colour Sienna. I have worked with linen before and I must admit to usually preferring blends with viscose or cotton to make it softer and less prone to being so stiff and crispy.
When I first unwrapped the fabric, I was really surprised at how how soft this was. Then, when I saw the bounce and movement, I actually double checked the website as I was sure this had to be a blend! It is in fact 100% linen, but has been mechanically softened. This means that no chemicals were used to soften it, and there is less water wastage that comes with stone washed softening. I am genuinely surprised as how much of a difference this has made to the feel and handle.
The Pattern
The new Papercut Mirri jumpsuit was a real stand out for me in this SS21 collection and I was sure that this would suit this linen. Tamlyn has written a really informative blog for Lamazi about all of the different types of patterns that can match the various linen types, and she recommended this as a good option for this linen too. Honestly, I have surprised myself, as I have never thought of myself as a jumpsuit person. I think I am scarred from ill fitting ready to wear versions!
The Mirri has a really interesting cut, which echoes elements of the Meridian dress in their previous collection; The Meridian would be a great pattern for this fabric too. The bodice shaping is created through the ties around the waist, instead of darts, gathers or pleats. I routinely make an SBA, but with this style, I didn’t need it. That isn’t to say there’s not plenty of room in there! The pattern provides detailed finished measurement figures, including how much wrapping ease there is for the bust.
I cut a size 3, blended into a 4 at the waist/hips which feels like a really good fit. When I remake (yes, when!) I will just do a small narrow shoulder adjustment. This is an ordinary adjustment for me, so I wouldn’t say the pattern is excessively wide here.
This was a project that went together really well. The fabric is right for the pattern, and everything was a pleasure to sew. I like the construction techniques and think it produces a nice finish. I usually try to find something to comment on in my blogs/reviews to make them balanced, but it really was such a joy to sew and wear.
It is marked as an intermediate which I think is pitched correctly. Papercut pattern instructions are sufficient, but I wouldn’t say they offer as much detail as other indie brands do; especially if you were going to give this a try as a beginner.
I love wearing this jumpsuit. I feel elegant and ready for a day out, (or in a different fabric, dare I say it, a night out) but also have the comfort to lie down. The pure linen is breathable and soft. For me, these are all the hallmarks of a successful make!
Marie
Ad|PR product fabric and pattern for blog post. Fabric and pattern are my own personal choices and opinions are solely mine.
The finished garment is stunning and you look fantastic in this jumpsuit. After your comments on the pattern I may consider making it as I do like jumpsuits and I need an outfit for a glamorous Christmas celebration.