Archer Addict

Hey look it's another Archer, number 5 if you're wondering.

No, no I don't have a problem. I can stop making them at any time.  I'm not frantically searching the internet for cotton flannel or anything. *Closes browser tabs* I don't have another mid process in a box...um yeah I do, sooooo never mind that.  

OK fine, I do have a "problem".... lack of closet space for all my Archers.  Do you think we can get a tardis closet, bigger on the inside and all that?  With it's own Archer room, Yes?  Do you think "The Doctor" subcontracts? Do you think he likes red pants?

While I'm looking for "The Doctors" number let me tell you about this fabric.  I found it during one of my numerous Etsy searches for vintage fabric. My brain immediately thought it would make a fantastic Archer. Gingham and ikat, it's double the awesome! I didn't buy it right away it because it wasn't a bargain and 2.5 yards might not be enough.  But gradually the though of someone else owning "MY" gingham ikat caused me to click the buy button and I can't say I regret it. 

When the fabric arrived I realized it had to be a hand woven textile. The hand of the fabric was kind of spongy and the design had lots of fun irregularities.  However fun irregularities do make plaid matching a big PITA, here are the the issues I had.

1. The size of the checks were not the same though out the whole fabric.  I didn't realize this until sewing and found one of my button bands matched perfectly and the other only half haphazardly. The first band was cut next to it's corresponding front and the other in a different location.  Doh!  Thankfully the one that matches the front is the one with the button holes.

2. The fabric next to the selvages was very biased so all pieces needed to be cut about 2" inward. Talk about a nail bitter when you're trying to match the gingham and only have 2.5 yards.

3. I forgot that I need to match the gingham and ikats motifs.  On my pockets the gingham matches perfectly but the ikat motifs are not the same.  Guess who didn't notice this until 2 days after the shirt was finished...this girl.

4 There was a weaving error/fiber flaw in the fabric where the fibers broke and created a "run" in the ikat. Thankfully I noticed it before starting and was able to lay everything out in a way where I didn't need this area. 

It took a little dubious gingham matching in some locations, but I was just able to squeeze out an Archer in the yardage available.  On the plus side, this hand woven cotton is super comfy to wear. So so cozy, it feels like my Archer is gently hugging me while I wear it.  I love you too Archer, never change.

Well I'm having no luck getting in touch with "The Doctor." about my closet situation.  Guess I'm gonna have to manufacture an emergency situation.  GRRRRARRRRR, I will eat you all and take your fabric. Nom, Nom, Nom.