More than a year ago, when I first started learning how to sew, one of the first requests I got was for a jumper for my sister-in-law. I said yes without any hesitation even though I had no idea how to go about it.
More than a year after, she was scheduled to visit us in Singapore so I thought I better get started on this. I purchased the Be Smart Jumper Pattern from Ellie and Mac months prior, but had to make a quick trip to buy suitable fabric. This jersey lycra was not my first choice, but the shop I went to the day before to scout knit fabrics was closed when I came back.
This was my first Ellie and Mac pattern – though I’ve purchased at least 6 more on their Wacky Wednesday sales where patterns go for one dollar each. It was very, very easy to follow and a surprisingly very quick sew. Even the cutting was easy – one cut for the (seamless) circle skirt, one for the waistband and two for the straps. The only challenge I had was hemming this massive circle skirt, which is never fun to do.
Another added bonus was that there was a video tutorial for this which made it even easier to follow along. In the video, they were able to finish the jumper in about 20 minutes, and I probably could have done the same if I didn’t have problems with my serger.
I had to adjust the waistband because she told me before that her waist measures 28″ when I first asked her a year before, but it seems she lost a fair bit of weight so I had to take in about an inch from each side.
I’m pretty happy with how it turned out on her, although with her figure I think anything would probably look flattering. Once I lose some weight, I plan to make one for myself as well.
Pattern: Be Smart By Ellie and Mac
Fabric: lycra jersey from Maggie Textiles
Sleepy Flamingo 