Balloon-Sleeve Midi Dress

 Sewing a Balloon-Sleeve Midi Dress

This guide will walk you through the process of creating a beautiful and stylish balloon-sleeve midi dress from scratch. We will cover recommended materials, essential body measurements, step-by-step instructions for drafting your own pattern, and a detailed assembly method.

Recommended Fabrics

Choosing the right fabric is key to achieving the desired look for a balloon-sleeve dress. The ideal fabric should have enough body to hold the shape of the sleeves, but also a nice drape for the skirt.

• Cotton Poplin: A classic choice. It's crisp and holds the balloon shape well while being easy to sew.
• Linen: Offers a natural, breathable texture. It has a slight stiffness that works for the sleeves and a beautiful drape for the skirt.
• Rayon Challis: A lightweight, fluid fabric that drapes beautifully. It will create a softer, more romantic balloon shape.
• Crepe: Has a lovely texture and drape. It's a bit more challenging to work with due to its slippery nature, but it creates an elegant result.
• Satin: Perfect for a more formal or evening look. Its sheen will highlight the volume of the sleeves.

Body Measurements

Before you begin drafting, you will need to take the following body measurements. It's best to have a friend help for accuracy.

• Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape horizontal.
• Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your torso.
• Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
• Bodice Length: Measure from the base of your neck (at the shoulder seam) down to your natural waist.
• Skirt Length: Measure from your natural waist down to where you want the hem of the dress to fall (mid-calf is common for a midi).
• Arm Length: Measure from the top of your shoulder down to your wrist.
• Arm Circumference: Measure the circumference of your upper arm.
• Wrist Circumference: Measure the circumference of your wrist.

Pattern Drafting: Step-by-Step

Front Bodice

1. Base Block: Start with a simple bodice block pattern that fits your bust, waist, and bodice length measurements. You can find many free tutorials online for creating a basic block.
2. Neckline: Draw your desired neckline shape. A round or boat neck is a good, classic choice.
3. Waist Dart: Mark a waist dart on the front bodice pattern to add shaping. This dart will start below the bust and end at the waistline.
4. Armhole: Make sure the armhole is the correct size for your measurements. You'll be attaching the balloon sleeve here, so a comfortable fit is essential.

Back Bodice

1. Base Block: Use the same bodice block principles for the back piece.
2. Waist Dart: Add a waist dart to the back piece for shaping.
3. Center Back Seam: Draw a straight line down the centre of the back piece. This will be the seam where you insert the zipper.
4. Neckline & Armhole: Match the neckline and armhole to the front bodice piece.

Front and Back Skirt

1. Base Block: Draw a rectangle that is half of your waist measurement for the top width and half of your hip measurement for the bottom width. The length will be your desired skirt length.
2. A-Line Shape: To create a gentle A-line, extend the bottom hemline out from the hip line by a few inches on both sides. Connect the new hem points to the hip line.
3. Waist Dart: Add a dart at the top of both the front and back skirt pieces to match the bodice darts and create a smooth transition at the waist.
4. Back Skirt: For the back skirt, split the pattern piece in half down the centre to create a centre-back seam for the zipper.

Balloon Sleeve

1. Base Sleeve Block: Start with a basic sleeve pattern that fits your armhole and arm length.
2. Cut and Spread: Draw vertical lines from the shoulder of the sleeve to the cuff, spaced about 2 inches apart.
3. Slash: Cut along each of these vertical lines from the cuff almost to the shoulder, leaving a small hinge of paper at the top.
4. Spread: Place the cut pattern on a new sheet of paper. Spread the slashed sections apart evenly to create a wider pattern. This added volume is what creates the "balloon" effect. The amount you spread the sections will determine how full the sleeve is.
5. New Outline: Draw a smooth, curved line to connect the tops of the spread sections and a new line for the cuff.
6. Cuff Piece: Draft a rectangle for the cuff, which will be the width of your wrist plus seam allowances and the desired height of the cuff.

Lining

1. The lining pieces for the bodice will be drafted exactly the same as the main bodice pieces.
2. You can choose to omit the darts on the lining or make them smaller, as the lining is mainly for a clean finish and comfort.

Seam Allowances

Before cutting your fabric, you must add seam allowances to all of your pattern pieces.

• Standard Seams (Bodice sides, skirt sides, sleeve seams, etc.): Add a 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) seam allowance.
• Hems (Skirt hem, sleeve cuffs): Add a 3-4 cm (1.25-1.5 inch) allowance to allow for a clean double-fold hem.
• Zipper Seam (Center back): Add a 2 cm (3/4 inch) seam allowance to give you enough room to work with the zipper.

Construction Method

1. Prepare Fabric: Pre-wash and press your fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage after the garment is made.
2. Cut Pieces: Place your pattern pieces on the fabric and cut them out, being careful to use the correct grainline and transfer all markings (darts, notches).
3. Sew Darts: Pin and sew all the darts on the front and back bodice and skirt pieces. Press them flat.
4. Join Bodice and Skirt: With right sides together, pin the bodice waistline to the skirt waistline. Sew the seam and press it open.
5. Sleeves: Sew the seam on each balloon sleeve to form a tube. Gather the top of the sleeve head to fit the bodice armhole and gather the cuff edge to fit the cuff piece. Attach the cuffs and the sleeves to the bodice.
6. Side Seams: With right sides together, sew the side seams of the dress from the sleeve cuff all the way down to the skirt hem. Leave the centre-back seam open for the zipper.
7. Lining: Sew the lining pieces together in the same way you did the main dress.
8. Insert Zipper: Place the invisible zipper into the centre-back seam.
9. Attach Lining: Attach the lining to the dress, typically by sewing it to the neckline and armholes.
10. Hems: Finish the hem of the skirt and the sleeve cuffs. You can use a double-fold hem or a blind hem stitch for a professional finish.
11. Final Pressing: Give your finished dress a final press to set all the seams.

General Sewing Tips

• Always use a new, sharp needle that is appropriate for your fabric type.
• Test your stitches on a scrap of fabric before you begin sewing.
• Press as you go. This is one of the most important steps to a professional-looking garment. Pressing seams open and flat will make a huge difference.
• Use plenty of pins or clips. This will ensure your fabric layers don't shift while you are sewing.
• Stay-stitch curved seams, like the neckline and armholes, to prevent them from stretching out of shape.

The Window Sill Hanger

 

"The Window Sill Hanger" is a short, wide, and low-profile plant hanger, likely designed to maximise light for plants by utilising the window space without a bulky, ceiling-mounted design. Here are instructions, materials, and tips for making a version of this hanger.

Option 1: The Wooden Dowel and Macrame Hanger

This version is a classic and versatile choice that provides a natural, rustic look and is easy to customise.

Materials:

• Wooden Dowel: A smooth wooden dowel, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter. The length will depend on the width of your window.
• Macrame Cord: A 3-4mm single-strand or 3-ply twisted cotton cord is a great choice.
• Small Metal Hooks: S-hooks or small screw-in hooks to attach the plant hangers to the dowel.
• Mounting Hardware: Two large, strong adhesive hooks (e.g., Command Hooks) or ceiling-mounted screw hooks.
• Potted Plants: Choose small, lightweight pots with plants that thrive in bright, direct light. Succulents, cacti, or small air plants are excellent choices.

Instructions:

1. Cut the Dowel: Measure the width of your window frame and cut the wooden dowel a few inches shorter than this measurement.
2. Attach Mounting Hardware: Install two adhesive hooks or screw hooks on the top of your window frame, spaced to match the length of your dowel.
3. Create the Main Hanger:
• Cut two long pieces of macrame cord (e.g., 6-8 feet each).
• Fold each cord in half.
• Tie a Lark's Head knot around each end of the dowel, ensuring the dowel is balanced and the two hanging cords are of equal length.
• You can add a series of square knots or half-hitch knots below the Lark's Head knots for a more decorative top.
4. Hang the Dowel: Secure the macrame loops over the hooks, allowing the dowel to hang level.
5. Create Individual Plant Hangers:
• For each plant, create a simple, small macrame hanger. A good design is to use four pieces of cord, each about 3 feet long.
• Tie a Gathering knot to form a loop at the top.
• Tie a series of square knots or half-hitches down the length of the cords.
• Form the cradle for the pot by tying a series of square knots, making sure the pot fits snugly.
6. Assemble and Display: Use the S-hooks or screw-in hooks to attach the individual plant hangers to the wooden dowel. Adjust the length of each hanger to create a pleasing, staggered look.

Option 2: The Tension Rod Hanger (No-Drill)

This option is perfect for renters or those who want a quick, non-permanent solution.

Materials:

• Tension Rod: A spring-loaded tension rod that can be adjusted to fit snugly inside your window frame.
• Curtain Rings with Clips: These are a simple and effective way to attach the plants.
• Lightweight Planters: Small ceramic, plastic, or metal pots.

Instructions:

1. Install the Tension Rod: Place the tension rod inside the window frame, about 1-2 inches from the top. Extend the rod until it is securely in place. Test to make sure it can hold the weight of your plants.
2. Attach the Plant Hangers:
• Simply clip the curtain rings to the top edge of your small planters.
• Slide the rings onto the tension rod, spacing them out evenly.
3. Adjust and Display: Arrange your plants on the rod. You can use different sizes of pots or a combination of plants to create visual interest.

Tips for Both Options

• Choose the Right Plants: The best plants for a window sill hanger are those that don't mind bright, direct sun. Good choices include string of pearls, burro's tail, string of hearts, or small Tillandsia air plants.
• Consider Weight: The hanger's design and materials must be strong enough to support the total weight of your planters, soil, and plants. A tension rod is best for very lightweight plants, while a sturdy dowel with screw hooks can handle a bit more.
• Balance and Symmetry: A window sill hanger looks best when the plants are evenly spaced and the overall design is balanced. A good rule of thumb is to use an odd number of plants (e.g., 3 or 5) for a more dynamic look.
• Use Natural Materials: For a cohesive and calming aesthetic, stick to natural materials like wood, cotton cord, and ceramic pots. This will complement the natural light and greenery of your plants.
• Check for Airflow: Make sure the hangers and plants don't block the window so much that it prevents air from circulating. Good airflow is essential for healthy plants.

Udon Carbonara Recipe

Udon Carbonara Recipe

This recipe puts a delightful Japanese twist on the classic Italian Carbonara by using thick, chewy udon noodles instead of spaghetti. The result is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that's quick to make.

Yields: 2 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 servings frozen or pre-cooked udon noodles
• 100-150g (3.5 - 5 oz) guanciale, pancetta, or bacon, cut into small pieces
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 large egg yolks
• 50g (about ½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons reserved udon cooking water (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Instructions:

Get Started:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. While the water heats, prepare the other ingredients. Cut the guanciale, pancetta, or bacon into small pieces. Mince the garlic, if using. Grate the Parmesan cheese.

Cook the Udon:

1. Once the water is boiling, cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. This usually takes just a few minutes, especially for frozen or pre-cooked noodles.
2. Before draining the noodles, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy cooking water. Drain the udon and set aside.

Cook the Pork:

1. Place the chopped guanciale, pancetta, or bacon in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook until crispy and golden brown, rendering some of its fat.
2. If using garlic, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Remove the pan from the heat.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper until well combined and slightly thickened.
2. If you like a looser sauce, you can whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved warm udon cooking water. This will also help to temper the eggs.

Assemble the Udon Carbonara:

1. Add the drained, hot udon noodles directly to the frying pan with the cooked pork and fat. Toss quickly to coat the noodles.
2. Remove the pan completely from the heat. Immediately pour the egg yolk and cheese mixture over the hot noodles.
3. Toss vigorously and quickly until the heat of the noodles and pan creates a creamy sauce that coats the udon. Be careful not to scramble the eggs; the residual heat should be sufficient. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more of the reserved cooking water, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Serve:savoury

1. Divide the Udon Carbonara between two bowls.
2. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
3. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a touch of freshness.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, savoury goodness!

Nutrition Information (estimated per serving):

• Calories: 500-650 kcal (depending on the amount of pork and cheese)
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 30-45g
• Saturated Fat: 10-15g (depending on the type of pork and cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sodium: 700-1000mg (depending on the saltiness of the pork and cheese)

Note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown and can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

Tips for Perfect Udon Carbonara:

• Use good quality ingredients: The flavour of Carbonara relies heavily on the quality of the eggs, cheese, and pork. Freshly grated Parmesan and good quality cured pork will make a noticeable difference.
• Don't overcook the udon: Cook the udon al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce.
• Work quickly: Once the noodles are cooked and drained, work swiftly to combine them with the pork and the egg mixture. The heat of the noodles is crucial for creating the creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
• Reserve the cooking water: The starchy water from cooking the udon is a secret weapon for achieving a smooth and glossy sauce. Add a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick.
• Remove from heat: Always take the pan off the heat before adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
• Season generously with black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is a key component of Carbonara, providing a lovely aromatic and slightly spicy counterpoint to the richness of the sauce.
• Serve immediately: Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh. The sauce can thicken and become less creamy as it cools.
• Optional additions: While not traditional, you can add a minced clove of garlic to the pan while cooking the pork for extra flavour. Some variations also include a splash of heavy cream for an even richer sauce, but this deviates from classic Carbonara. You could also experiment with a pinch of nutmeg in the egg mixture for a subtle warmth.
• Tempering the eggs (optional but recommended): To further reduce the risk of scrambled eggs, you can temper the egg yolk mixture by gradually whisking in a tablespoon or two of the hot reserved udon cooking water before adding it to the pan. This gently raises the temperature of the eggs.

Enjoy your delicious and unique Udon Carbonara!