Something I've been contemplating lately is the fabrics I use to sew my clothes. Some of the most common fabrics are very harmful to the environment. Polyester ends up in our water as micro-plastic. Rayon is one of the most deadly industrial products for workers - that includes that "bamboo" fabric that is advertised as eco-friendly.


This helpful article, "Fig Leaves Are Out. What to Wear to Be Kind to the Planet?", in the New York Times compares the different fabric types.






Turns out that wool is probably one of the best. Hemp isn't mentioned, so I'm going to look more into that.


However, for now, I'll have to work through my large stash of fabric I already purchased. I also buy a lot of used clothing, since I don't have much spare time for sewing at the moment.


At least when I finally do have time to make a whole new wardrobe, I'll know to look for fabrics that are a little more earth friendly.

omg! My little guy, plus working full time, has kept me so busy! I've had very little time to work on much. But, working slowly and steadily after his bedtime every night, I've managed to finish my sweater. Finally!



I used the Keswick Sweater pattern. Before making the final sweater, I had made a test sweater for my little guy. It was a great way to test gauge and practice the cable.


The yarn is Cascade Pacific - a blend of 60% Acrylic and 40% Superwash merino wool. I love it as it doesn't itch.



There is a simple moss stitch on the sleeves and back. It's a little less boring than stockinette stitch and also easier to count stitches and rows. This made it much easier to end up with sleeves that were the same length - ha!


I changed one thing about the pattern. The original pattern is a bit of a bomber style, starting out with less stitches on the bottom band and then adding stiches to expand out. I didn't want this, so I started with the same number of stitches that are needed for the body and did no increases.




Overall, I love the sweater and I'm a bit sad that I only finished it as the weather is finally warming up. Oh well!

I used designs from the Keswick Sweater with my own Spiffy Stitches Sweater Calculator to create a bay sized cable cardigan.


I was able to figure out my gauge and test to see if I like the yarn, which is Cascade Pacific worsted. And I also got to see if I could manage the intricate cable design of the Keswick sweater, which I hope to make for myself.


My little guy likes the sweater, but can't sit still long enough for better pictures. haha

A few months ago, I made my SHB a hat.


I used the TinCanKnits Barley pattern. The only change I made was doing a moss stitch instead of the plain garter stitch.

For yarn, I used Cascade Pacific worsted. Overall, the hat looks cute and was an easy project.

I always knew that women's pockets were inadequate, but now I know more of the history around why. This article on Racked talks about the politics of pockets and is a fascinating read.



Turns out pockets in female dress are quite feminist. One of the main reasons why I sew is to improve the functionality of my clothes - and that includes pockets.