I’ve had a few false starts with this challenge (see here, here, here, here, and here), but now I have almost completed my final outfit. I thought I would make it the subject of a couple of posts so that I can do all this work justice.
First of all let me reacquaint you with the rules: every part of the garments produced has to be grown/produced/processed in the area in which we live. For participants living in Perth this means that we can’t use fabric, cotton thread, elastic, zips, clasps, etc. It also means that we are now confined pretty much to wool (although there is a producer of fish leather in Western Australia, but it’s expensive). We also cannot use any chemical dyes, so only plant dyes are acceptable. With all that in mind let me unveil the first part of my outfit. I have machine knitted a top and trousers.
I had a practice run at the trousers (effort journaled here) and they worked pretty well so I was prepared to risk this precious locally spun and produced wool. I machine knitted four long rectangles, soaked them in warm water for 15 90 minutes (it was supposed to be 15 minutes but I nipped in to see a friend and got held up!), dried them flat and then cut them out using the same pattern as the aforementioned practice trousers. I then sewed the seams using a small backstitch and blanket stitched the edges. As with the brown trousers, I allowed the bottom edges to roll up, but I note that the seams poke out a bit in these photos – nothing that a stitch or two won’t solve. To keep them up I ribbed a waistband and hand sewed it to the top of the trousers. It is visible through the top, but never fear, that top is a layering piece so nothing will show through it when the whole outfit is worn (including my underwear!)
Speaking of the top – this was a later addition to the outfit and was designed to provide an aspect of modesty to the outfit. I used a dropped stitch pattern – this means that I deliberately dropped every 5 stitch, getting that laddered effect, and knitted two rectangles and two oblongs. The two rectangles are simply joined at the shoulder with some top stitching and the sides sewn up, and the neckline allowed to roll.
The oblongs were turned on their side and attached to the bottom. This was really because I was afraid of a dromedary effect – if you know what I mean ;). The neckline was allowed to roll over, so no finishing required.
OK, the obligatory back view!
I haven’t finished my shoes yet, so went barefoot, which is much more seventies anyway. If you are thinking that knitted trousers are pretty naff, please keep in mind that they are for sale in Zara and Alexa Chung added them to her collection this year, although I note the massive cuffs on hers.
I do need to say that Archie gave me a bit of a hard time when I knitted the trousers but then sheepishly admitted that he really liked them – win for me! He even offered to take these photos which is why you are looking down on me in a couple of them.
As mentioned, this is the basic part of my outfit, I have two more items of clothing, plus shoes and bag to come still make.
Ok I just can’t wait to see the rest now. These two pieces are quiet clever. I certainly couldn’t clothe myself if I was given such limitations! I love the colour and the look is so soft and comfortable. Like I said, I can’t wait to see the rest! Good for you!
Thanks Linda, the fabric is really soft thanks to our merino sheep!
I don’t knit, but even I have heard about lovely merino wool!
Yes, it is lovely, Linda and a lot of RTW clothing uses merino.
You look so snuggly and warm!! I’m pretty sure if I had these in my wardrobe they would be worn all winter. The final reveal well be spectacular!!
thanks Nicki!
You look extremely radiant and proud on every pictures! Is it Archie’s magic behind the camera or your well-deserved pride for making this wonderful outfit. This set is particularly outstanding. What a challenge with all these rules!
Thank you Hélène, I have learned so many new skills that it’s really exciting.
I love the outfit on you. The colour looks amazing – I don’t see you in plain cream very often.
This is just beautiful Sue. What impressive skill and versatility you have!
Thanks Sofia!
Oh wow you are unbelievable, such an amazing outfit, all made by you. I also can’t wait to see the final reveal.
Thank you Sharon, I’m really looking forward to the final reveal!
Sue, this outfit is GORGEOUS! It’s suits you extremely well! Clever choice. Knitted pants – I think I want to try that.
You should try it Anna, they are pretty easy to make once you have knitted the rectangles.
WOW! Both pieces look so beautiful. I can’t wait to see the final outfit in entirety!
Lovely work Sue. I am looking forward to seeing the completed outfit and I am very impressed with your skill and the amount of time and effort you have put into this whole concept.
Thanks Jean, I am so close to the end!
Looking good so far – can’t wait to see the refinished result! 🙂
Me too!
I bet Alexa Chung is copying yours! This outfit is fantastic and so chic. No sniggering this time!!
thanks Megan, I’m glad you sniggered, it made me lift my game!
I think this is very cool!!
Loving it so far!
Stunning outfit!
Thank you Patrice!
That is a truly stunning outfit. Amazing effort. I think it almost might have been easier to move to a different area with better sewing resources! Kudos to you.
Haha, thank you Judy!
So glad to be able to read and see all your work now. These two pieces are very cleverly designed and put together. I admire your work and research Sue.