Spring sewing

I've been doing a good bit of both garment sewing and patchwork this spring (in addition to my daily cross stitching...that never changes!). I used to do some garment sewing back in my twenties (that's been a while) and I've been making pajamas and lounge wear for a long time. But I have found it harder and harder(and less pleasant) to shop for quality clothes over the last several years. Even expensive clothing is often poorly constructed, and the attention to detail is frequently not great. 

So I decided to find a few patterns I really liked that fit me well and do some personal sewing. I've already found a couple of tops that are a perfect fit for me. The first is The Camp Shirt & Dress by Liesl & Co. :

I bought this as a printed pattern and I've made a wearable muslin that worked wonderfully. I plan to make a few more tops, plus I'd like to make a dress version with a navy rayon fabric I've got in my stash.

The second shirt pattern is the Rhapsody Blouse & Dress by Love Notions. This is a PDF pattern that you can print at home. I love it, and it has already become a go-to pattern. I've already made 4 tops from this pattern that I wear all the time. I've got another one cut out and have plans to make at least 2 more:

It's a relaxed fit, but it's beautifully finished. It's designed with french seams and a finished yoke, so the only seams that need finishing are the armholes. I've already made versions with long-sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, short sleeves and a cap sleeve. The curved hemline is both  comfortable and flattering. 

Plus, printing the pattern at home is much simpler and easier than I thought it would be. I love that you can print out just the size you need (using the 'layers' options). And since you use copy paper, it's still lightweight but more durable than a tissue paper pattern. 

Below are the fabrics I've used to make Rhapsody blouses so far. Three are quilting cottons and the pink is a cotton lawn:

Now, I'm on the hunt for a just-right pants pattern and a couple of summer dresses!