Happy Friday, Sewing Ladies! This week is extra special because I have 2 things for you. They were just so perfect together, I couldn't resist doing them both at the same time.
While I was working on the More Pleated Pouches pattern, I had a pretty bad episode of PMS. There was some weeping. I hope I didn't get any tears on your pattern! It's all ok though. I've been doing this (pattern making and PMSing) long enough to know what's up and that it will pass shortly. A bit of cry sort of feels good sometimes anyway.
Besides, the PMS made me remember it was time to make more of these! I've been using these for years and have gradually refined them to the size, shape, and materials that work best for me. I thought you could probably use them too...so here is the pattern.
Since you are going to need snaps, there is also a great deal on snaps too.
Kimm, at Hooked on You, is very kindly offering (25) size 16 pearl snaps in your choice of colors. Thank you, Kimm!
You can order snaps here. If you don't specify colors, she will send you an assortment. Give her a little extra time for shipping. She might have lots of orders to fill.
If you can't order snaps today, mark Hooked on You as a favorite so you can find her the next time you need snaps. She's got tons of colors and a variety of options for quantities.
The snaps are the best closure for these. They are easy to close, last a long time, and look pretty too. I like size 16 the best because they are easy to use with snap setting pliers. But other sizes are ok too. You can use other snap setting tools--or use sew-on snaps instead--but the pliers are by far the simplest way to install them.
If you've never tried a fabric pantyliner, I think you will like them. They are much more comfortable than commercial ones. They are also way more charming when you make them in your favorite flannel fabric! We can all use a bit of charm during the days we often feel the least charming.
These are meant to be back-up for a tampon or menstrual cup, or for spotting days. Of course, you can experiment with making them longer or thicker.
If you want to try making them with two layers of batting, print the pattern pieces out slightly larger to make room for the extra bulk. Try printing at 105%, and then use a 3/8" allowance to make it easier to sew. I use a 1/4 allowance for this version and use a 1/4" foot with a guide. It is easy to sew them with this many layers using the 1/4" foot, but it gets tricky to sew more layers. So just make the pieces bigger and use a larger allowance.
Happy stitching!
