A Little Black Bolero

Say hello to Ambiance Bolero #3 (technically #4 if you count my toile made out of leftover elephant DBP) and I’m sure it won’t be my last. It’s hard not to create multiples of such a versatile layering piece. I think I’d like to do at least one more in brown.

About the Fabric

Black Double Brushed Poly Spandex Knit from Cali Fabrics

  • Fabric Content: 96% Polyester/4% Lycra
  • Fabric Width:63″
  • Stretch:4-way 150%
  • Weight:5.5oz (Light Midweight)

Black DBP is a fabric staple in my sewing room. It’s great to have it on hand for everything from color blocking to full projects with a classic flair.

About The Pattern

  • mostly self-drafted
  • used sleeves from Dandelion Tee / size 2 / 21″ long
  • drafted cuffs at 4″

What I Did Differently

  • Compared to my previous DBP version in white, this has slightly widened sleeves and cuffs.
  • I accidently attached on sleeve inside out, so I had to unpick the serged seam and redo it with my sewing machine to minimize fabric loss. Thankfully, it fits and looks like it should even with that little hiccup.

Notes for Next Time

  • Debating widening the sleeves and cuffs a little bit more, but only for fabrics with snappy recovery like DBP. My previous version made out of sweater knit with a much looser recovery does not need any more ease.
  • Also debating widening the front bodice pieces, but still not sure.

Project Settings

Sewing Machine vs. Serger

Sewing Machine Serger
  • everything else
  • sleeve seams
  • sleeve attach
  • band attach

Sewing Machine Settings

Presser Foot Stitch# Stitch Width Stitch Length Needle Top Thread Tension Application
standard zig-zag (A) 5 1.0 4 blue tip 4 seams
overedge (C) 6 6 3.5 blue tip 4 edge finish

Serger Settings

Stitch Name 4-thread overlock
Needles R, L
Finger B
Threads 4
Tension Left Needle 4
Tension Right Needle 4
Tension Upper Looper 4
Tension Lower Looper 4
Cut Width 6
Stitch Length 3.5
Differential 1.0
Application seams

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Project Recaps, Sewing, The Things I've Made • April 7, 2025 | No Comments»

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *