Sometimes a DIY comes together after lots of research, mood-boarding and testing. And sometimes a DIY just happens. Like today! Here’s how it went down. A few weeks ago, I purchased some grid-patterned bed sheets with no real purpose in mind other than to use the fabric for something. Then yesterday it came to me — a pillowcase is basically a dress with no arm or head holes. So why not simply cut those pieces out? That’s what I did, and it worked like a charm. Introducing my new favorite sewing hack — the pillowcase dress. Read on to see how I made this beauty.
Materials and Tools:
— sewing machine
— pins
— fabric scissors
— pillowcase
— tape measure
— iron
Instructions:
1. Measure and cut out your neckline.
2. Take note of the distance from the top of your shoulder to the bottom of your armpit. Then cut out an armhole that is at least an inch longer if not more.
3. Fold, iron and pin the cut edges. Sew your hem in place.
First things first, measure your neckline. I went for a boat neck, but you can cut this into any shape you want. My other idea was to cut out a long, wide rectangle to add some interest and stick with the geo theme.
Cut out your head hole!
For the arms, I measured from the top of my shoulder to about three inches below my armpit. I wanted the holes to be quite a bit bigger than my arms, but you can adjust to your liking.
Cut ’em out!
Pin, pin, pin.
Sew, sew, sew.
Ta-da! I decided to go with the loose-fitting shift dress look, but you could easily add a few darts to give it more shape.
Who knew pillowcases were so versatile?! Other ideas include a tote, a dirty laundry bag (especially when traveling) or fabric to use for DIY napkins. Rusty on your sewing skills? No worries. Take my Sewing 101 Online Class and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Eye love it! Now to make 100 more. If you need me, I’ll be organizing all of my new pillowcase dresses in my closet.
Back in January, we introduced you to a feel-good cause to inspire your New Year's resolution: a walking challenge to help raise funds for the amazing cancer fighters at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I took part in the challenge with the Brit + Co team and ended up walking 105+ miles in January — it was awesome.
This spring, there's a new challenge on the horizon, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Big Climb. The ask: On May 15, 2021, you can step up to take cancer down by committing to climb 1,311 steps, walking 3.2 miles, or doing 440 chair step-ups at home as part of the Big Climb. If you need some motivation to bring movement back into your daily routine — look no further!
As always, it's free to sign up, but climbers are encouraged to set a fundraising goal to help beat cancer. We'll be organizing another Brit + Co team to step up, and I hope you'll join us too! Keep scrolling for a peek at where I'll be completing the challenge in my Los Angeles neighborhood around the hidden Silver Lake Stairs. Happy climbing!
Never underestimate the power of an accountability buddy! I asked my in-laws, my partner, and a few friends to join me so we can keep each other motivated and accountable in completing the challenge — virtual high-fives all around! Also, my dog Fox is a great climber, too.
An aesthetically pleasing backdrop is a huge motivator for me! I'm fortunate to have all sorts of painted steps around my neighborhood to keep the challenge interesting, but you can also keep cool inside with at-home chair step-ups.
Don't forget to share your progress on social — #BigClimb!
Feel free to break the challenge up if you need to by tackling half the distance in the AM and half at sunset. Here's me 1,311 steps later and ready for a break — but, think I earned this one!
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