tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13988149997797905722024-03-05T13:20:47.016-06:00Artsy Fartsy MuslimahCrafting a colorful, Muslim life in a cross-cultural world.Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-23764053397395635952015-09-15T00:00:00.000-05:002017-03-10T12:42:03.704-06:00Self Sufficiency and the Muslim Life<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Long before I reverted to Islam, I was very interested in the ideas of self-sufficiency and homesteading. The lure of independence was overwhelming. I longed to live with the simplicity of our ancestors. I yearned to make what we needed and make things last instead being caught in the constant cycle of consumerism. I felt an appreciation and reverence for God's creation and the resources He has given us and wished to respect that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But then my first husband passed away. I was devastated. All the homesteading skills I had worked to develop seemed meaningless. I had no desire to work to create a utopia anymore. The utopia I had been working so hard to build was destroyed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It took me seven years to remarry. And seven years to care about my future again. But falling in love for a second time, having an instant family with (mostly grown) step-children and a new home has brought back my love of the independent lifestyle, as well as a financial need for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As I have been gardening, canning, freezing, sewing, thrifting, etc. this summer I have thought a lot about how this translates into the Muslim lifestyle I now live.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In reading other blogs I have seen many reasons for pursuing such knowledge and lifestyle. One of the top reasons is religious beliefs. Many Evangelical Christians and Mormons believe in stockpiling food and learning essential skills such as canning and growing a garden. Their beliefs behind this are not that much different than our own. We too believe in an "end times". And preparing for any emergency is a smart idea. But I think there are even more compelling reasons for a Muslim to practice self-sufficiency.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1.) To better follow the rules of the Quran. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We are forbidden from collecting/paying interest. One of the "tenets" of self-sufficiency is frugality and having money set aside for emergencies, etc. When practicing self-sufficiency, you live a lifestyle that makes it easier to avoid buying on credit, borrowing money in emergency situations, etc. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Also, by living a simple lifestyle you avoid temptation for haraam activities. When you stop eating out as much you avoid your server asking you if you want something from the bar. When your friends know how you live (and probably live that way themselves), you will not get invited to haraam parties or outings to haraam places like a casino. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>My husband, proud of some of the potatoes he grew this year.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When living simply, you will find your lifestyle centered around your home and your family. It will be easier to make your salat. You will have more choices about work as your dependence on your job lessens. As you grow your food piles and your savings and lower your wants, you will find you are not as tied to that job that requires you to be in the office/store/shop/etc. on Friday afternoons. You will find freedom to live as Allah intended.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2.) Safety. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Muslims across the globe are in precarious positions right now. Even in the USA. Times are good right now for us financially, but what about in the near future? It is easy to become suddenly unemployed in America, no matter who you are. But what if something happens to change the collective will and we suddenly are unemployable as Muslims? We will say alhamdullilah for a pantry of stored food, a fat savings account, and the skills to help ourselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Safety is also a daily concern for many Muslimahs, especially those living in the "Red" states or in some cities. Just a simple trip to the grocery store can result in harassment. So many hijabis are giving up wearing this sacred ayat of Allah because they fear for their safety. And in many cases, rightfully so! But what if there were options?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What if you didn't need to make little emergency trips to the store because you had a well stocked pantry, stored food, and a plan of what you would need? That way you could always plan your shopping trips with your husband, older son, father, or a group of women? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What if you didn't have to take that job you only took for the money because between living simpler and saving money, the money your husband makes is enough to support your family?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I see so many Muslimahs working hard to try and earn money for their families in a way they can do from home. Alhamdullilah! Now I challenge us all to learn skills to make us more self-sufficient, to store food for an emergency, and to save some of that hard earned money for a rainy day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Not all the skills that can be learned or practiced for a simpler, self-sufficient life will interest you or even be possible in your situation. Find the ones that work for you. Implement them. See your life change for the better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>What 50 pounds of tomatoes looks like after canning. This is spaghetti sauce. Not having to buy it in the store, this lot will save me over $50 over the next year. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You don't need to live in the country and be interested in farming and animal husbandry. Many housekeeping and self-sufficiency skills were developed and adapted for urban dwellers during the World Wars. There was a great need during those times for growing your own food, storing the excess, and making what you owned last because resources were so scarce from the wars. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Remember that creating a self-sufficient life is a process, not a goal. Baby steps will bring you closer to what you hope for, but as you get closer your goals may change as well. Be prepared to accept yourself and your successes and failures along the way. Every little bit you do protects you in the here and now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>My husband's garden last year while living in an apartment. It is possible to garden anywhere. There are always container gardens and community gardens.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since this has interested me for many years, I have some skills already in my arsenal (i.e. preserving food, simple cooking from scratch, sewing, knitting, etc.) And my husband brought with him some such as he is an excellent gardener and can do simple stuff on our car, among others. But in the areas of having a stockpile of preserved foods and bulk purchased items, saving an emergency fund, and implementing a workable budget, I am just getting started. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I intend to have my journey in all of this be a regular part of this blog. So far I have canned 50 pounds of tomatoes (and have 50 pounds more to go!), made about two gallons of apple butter, as well as some plum preserves and raspberry jam. I have started us on a budget and a strict savings plan. Our garden has produced even better than we expected. We have stopped eating out and bought a house within walking distance of our work, my parents, and the library. It is so nice to be feeling more in control of our life and finances and to know we are doing so in a halaal way. I hope you can find this serenity too, inshAllah!</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Please share with me in the comments below how you gain independence and self-sufficiency in our modern times.</span></i></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-80550025824493696812015-09-06T16:20:00.001-05:002017-03-10T12:42:24.465-06:00Capsule Wardrobes for Muslimahs Part 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These days it is so easy to build up a large collection of <b>clothes</b>. Often we have more than we even wear. So many <b>abayas</b> cluttering up our closets, our storage areas, our homes, our lives. We keep that <b>French jilbab</b> for sentimental reasons. The <b>manteau </b>we hope to fit into again one day. The <b>shalwar kameez</b> that is so cute, but never fit our lifestyle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Eventually comes a strong longing for <b>simplicity</b>. We realize that we don't need to own so much. That the Earth's resources are finite and by having too much we are keeping some of these resources from others in the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Owning too much encumbers us. Our lives. Our souls. It makes us clumsy and inefficient. How much time is wasted looking for items? How many times do we purchase something to find at home that we forgot we already had something that is nearly the same?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There is a movement that people are talking about. <b>Capsule wardrobe</b>. The idea is not new. But it certainly is a good one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The way it works is to have a limited number of garments of each type (pants, blouse, etc.) and have each of them be interchangeable creating a whole wardrobe of outfits without any of those wasteful garments we all own that don't really match much else.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sounds great, right? But how does this translate into a Muslimah's wardrobe? (Please see my post on the <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html">requirements of hijab</a> to know the exact parameters of our dress if you are unfamiliar.) But in short, I am talking about wearing a jilbab (an outer garment) with a head covering (which may or may not be part of the jilbab) and clothing underneath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So there are three categories of clothing needed: </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Outer clothing worn in public (Jilbab)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Outer clothing worn in private but when non-maharem men are present</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Under clothing worn in private in front of family or under the jilbab (not underwear)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>1. Outer clothing worn in public</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is the jilbab and a head covering. There are certain styles of jilbab that have an attached head covering and those where each is separate. Which is acceptable to you is according to the scholars you follow. Most allow for them to be separate as long as the same goal is achieved (covering of everything except the hands and face), but some prefer it all to be one piece.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At the very least a jilbab needs to be one garment that covers you from the shoulders to the feet with a head/neck covering also worn. Everything must be covered except the hands and the face. It should not be tight as to reveal your shape. And it should be opaque. If it is not one garment, it may be comprised of multiple garments as long as it still accomplishes the same requirements (though a few scholars disagree with this).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are as many styles of jilbabs as there are Muslim cultures in the world. Not all are easily available in America. Not all are practical for Western life.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. C</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">lothing worn in private but when non-maharem men are present</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When you are not in public, you are not required to wear a jilbab. But if you are in front of men you can marry (<a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html">see this post for the list of who these are</a>), you still need to be covered. That means the following choices (though this is not an exhaustive list):</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. a head scarf and an abaya or loose dress which covers all except your hands and face.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. a head scarf and a tunic shirt and very loose pants or skirt (again covering all but hands and face.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. a long khimar, french jilbab, or chador worn over loose pants or skirt</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Really anything goes here as long as you are still covered and it is loose. This is where salwar kameez are perfect!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Under clothing worn in private in front of family (not underwear)</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Under your jilbab you should wear more clothing than just panties and a bra and maybe a slip. You need to wear real clothes you would wear around your husband, kids, or female friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is clear from the Quran that a jilbab is to be worn over your clothes when you go out. So that means you should be wearing clothes at home before you pull your jilbab on, right? I don't think there are many women who walk around naked or in their underwear at home in front of their family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is the group of clothing I have had the hardest time understanding. I have come to the conclusion through study that it needs to be more than underwear, as I just stated. But how much more? Here some people differ.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If I will sit around the house watching TV or cleaning or talking to my Mom in it, that is what I will wear under my jilbab. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So in the summer I will wear a tank top or t-shirt and loose pants (I rarely wear a skirt since I wear long jilbabs and my pants are loose legged). In the winter I dress warmer: long sleeves, turtlenecks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So those are the main categories of clothing needed for a Muslimah. In Part 2 of this article I will discuss </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the different clothing styles that are common for Muslims.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Until then, my homework for you is to think about your life and your activities. How you spend your time determines what kinds of clothes your need and wear. A young professional will need much different clothing than a mother of four. Be honest about your needs as well as the style that makes you comfortable. Building a Capsule wardrobe is mostly about being honest about yourself and your needs and not buying items that feed into a fantasy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>What items of Muslim clothing have you found you love and feel the most comfortable in? Please share in the comments.</i></span><br />
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-86546801125132122612015-07-23T00:25:00.002-05:002017-03-10T12:55:29.495-06:00Why do we wear hijab?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">I am in a number of Facebook groups for </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">Muslim women</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">. And we discuss a broad range of issues. And sometimes we talk about</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">hijab</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">. Recently a woman in one of the groups made two separate comments that has me thinking.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> </span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><b>Why do we wear hijab? </b> </i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Awhile ago I gave up wearing hijab for 3 months. And I don't mean just giving up the headscarf. I gave up Muslim clothing. I still didn't dress like most American woman (I believed strongly in modesty long before I became Muslim), but I had friends that saw the shape of my ankles for the first time in our relationship.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I gave it up because I realized I didn't know <i>why</i> I was wearing it. When people asked me, I had canned lines from Muslim websites and memes I could regurgitate. But none of them rang true in my heart. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Sappy examples comparing women to objects such as lollipops, candy, pearls in oysters, and the moon. The idea that precious things are wrapped, covered, hidden. Not on display for anyone to ogle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i style="background-color: white;">This image is from a blog that has a nice <a href="https://sirajuldeen.wordpress.com/2014/03/16/why-the-wrapped-vs-unwrapped-candy-analogy-is-wrong-when-it-comes-to-hijab/">post</a> on exactly what I am talking about. <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I do believe that our bodies are precious and given to us by Allah. But women are human beings. Not objects, even valuable ones. Modesty shows that we have respect for ourselves. It is not a method of hiding women from the scary world.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />And in Western culture you <i>can</i> be modest without dressing like a Muslimah. A below knee length skirt and a long sleeve blouse accomplish the same goal as an abaya. Both send the message that you respect yourself and do not share yourself with just anyone. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />If, in my culture, I can dress as a Westerner modestly and send the same message, why do I need to go through the trouble of wearing a jilbab (outer garment) and head scarf? <i><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html">(see this past post of mine to learn about jilbab)</a> </i> What exactly does a headscarf and jilbab do for me that modest Western dress cannot?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I have been told multiple times (always by men) that hijab is my protection. Protection from being harassed. <i>Are they kidding me?</i> I don't mean to be rude but this isn't really true. Yes, dressing modestly can often save you from cat calls and sexual harassment. To most men (of course there are always jerks who don't get the hint or actually like bothering girls who say NO), a modest outfit tells them that a woman is off limits. But as I showed before, in America, a modest outfit need not only be Muslim dress.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>This is an excellent video that shows how women are looked at on the street by men when they are not dressed modestly. </i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />But there is another form of harassment that is very common in America for a woman dressed as a Muslimah. It is based on religious prejudice and bigotry. It is often levied at women because they are assumed to be an easier target as well as the fact that they are more easily identifiable as a Muslim due to the clothing they wear. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am more harassed dressed as a Muslimah then I ever was as a modestly dressed Westerner. Everywhere I go, I get stared at, gawked at, I even have rude comments made to me. Last week driving to the masjid, two men in </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">separate </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">trucks rudely stared at me. Honestly, I barely noticed as I am so used to it. But my husband was quite upset and worried about me. And many women have it much worse. My wearing Islamic clothing puts me at a greater danger in America. It does not protect me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />But I am not looking for protection. I am not hoping to hide in the shadows in safety. After a lot of study, reflection, and prayer I realized why we wear hijab. Why we go above and beyond the Western idea of modesty. Why we even risk our lives wearing such clothing, and in some countries break the law. There is only one reason.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><i>To show that we are Muslim.</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />That is the most compelling reason. When I put on the scarf and a jilbab, I am telling the world that I believe in Allah swt and His prophet Muhammad (saws). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;">Ya ayyuha an-Nabiyy qul li azwajika wa banatika wa nisa al-mu'minin yudnina alayhinna min jalabib hinna; dhalika adna an yu'rafna fa laa yu'dhayn. Wa kana Allahu Ghafur Rahim</span></i></span><br />
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<i style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">O Prophet! Say to your wives and your daughters and the women of the faithful to draw their JALABIB close around them; that is better that they will be</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b> recognized </b></span><span style="font-size: large;">and not annoyed. And God is ever Forgiving, Gentle. </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1c1c; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 20.79px; text-align: center;">Quran, Surah al-Ahzab ayah 59 (33:59) </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In that three months that I gave up wearing hijab, I kept up my other obligations as a Muslim. I even fasted part of Ramadan dressed as a modest Westerner. I kidded myself that my clothes didn't matter as long as I was still modestly dressed and covered. I still kept all covered other than my head/hair/neck and my shape. I was still more modestly dressed than many modestly dressed people. I told myself I didn't need a headscarf to be a Muslim. I had fun doing my hair and wearing make-up and feeling pretty.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And then I went on a short vacation to our state capitol. We walked downtown to a farmer's market that is held weekly right at the base of the capitol building itself. On some steps leading to the building was a protest in support of Palestine. I was excited to see other Muslims! I live in a small town where we are one of only two Muslim families. And even we I go to the larger nearby city to shop, I rarely run into other Muslims. So to see so many, I was elated!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They were ending their protest and all came walking right by us. I said<i> "Asalaam alikum"</i> to a lovely, young sister wearing hijab. I got no response. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In her defense, I don't think she could hear me. The crowd was quite loud. And, in her defense, why should she ever expect a greeting from me? There was no reason to ever believe I was Muslim. I certainly wasn't dressed like one. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I learned a valuable lesson from that little heartbreak (and it </span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">was</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> heartbreak as I so rarely get to greet other Muslims.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Clothing is a language. We communicate through it who we are and what we believe and many other subtle details. As Muslims, our clothing tells the world in whom and what we believe. We are standing up for our beliefs, our way of life, the Quran, and Allah swt. We are telling the world that a woman can be Muslim and dress like this and still be a doctor, a secretary, a mother, a teacher, a writer, a person who rejects violence and injustice in the world. That we need not be thought of as oppressed. That we are every bit as capable, loved, encouraged, and valued as Western women.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But more importantly, it tells other Muslims who and where we are. In much of the world, we are the majority. But not in America. We need to know each other. We need to identify. We need to create communities for support. We need to be able to greet each other as Allah (swt) in the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (saws) have taught us.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i style="background-color: white;">"And when you are greeted with a greeting, greet in return with what is better than it, or (at least) return it equally."</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(Qur'an, An-Nisa 4:86)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>"You will not enter paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another: 'spread salaam' (the greeting of peace) among you." </i>(Muslim)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Our religion is a beautiful one. It teaches us how to live the best possible life. One of the most important aspects of our faith is community. People are meant to live together and Islam is a religion that is meant to be shared. The first way to have a strong, vibrant community is to clearly be able to identify each other. I hear/read everyday the tales of converts who are lonely and without community. Being able to recognize each other is the first step in creating a widespread American Muslim community. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I believe that Allah provided women with hijab for precisely this reason. Community starts in the home, with the mother. I challenge every Muslimah to think of herself as a mother to the Ummah. Wear your hijab proud and use it to increase the visibility of our Muslim community. Show people what a real Muslim woman is like, not the lies that Fox News would have people believe about us. And show other Muslims that you exist. That we are 1/3 of the Earth's population. That we are many and that we are strong. Let us stand tall, wearing our scarves and jilbabs, recognizing each other and strengthening the ummah, insh'Allah, for the glory of Allah swt.</span></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-58672613740929544552015-07-06T16:14:00.003-05:002017-03-10T12:55:45.831-06:007 Gorgeous Plus Size Abayas for Eid<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Every woman wants to look special on a special occasion. And nothing is more special to a Muslim than Eid! But for<b> plus sized women</b> this can be harder as finding clothes in our size and that flatters us can be a challenge. Here are 7 pieces that will make you feel on <b>Eid </b>like the <b>Muslim Queen</b> that you are! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/10/15-ways-to-have-new-clothes-for-eid.html">Last year I showed you how to alter or make new clothes for Eid with little time or $. </a> This year I am sharing with you seven of the prettiest gowns available in plus sizes and you can still get in time for Eid. Have fun drooling and ordering!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.shukronline.com/">Shukr:</a> </b>They are shipping yet until July 11th for Eid. Please note what they say on their site about these gowns:<span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> "<i style="color: #5e5e5e;">All our Gowns are slimmer fitting in the upper body and sleeves compared to normal SHUKR dresses and abayas. They are equivalent to half a size down from your regular SHUKR size. They are designed to be worn at female-only gatherings or in front of family members."</i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.shukronline.com/wd3811.html#">Secret Garden Gown</a> $169.95 <i>Also comes in a lovely Tawny Brown color. <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span></div>
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<span class="name" style="display: block; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.shukronline.com/wd3951.html">Zanubiya Gown</a> $189.95 </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.shukronline.com/wd3741.html#">Sahara Embroidered Gown</a> $169.95 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u><a href="http://www.eastessence.com/">East Essence:</a></u></b> They are shipping through July 11th as well.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.eastessence.com/New-Arrivals/Arabian-Silver-Beaded-Occasion-Abaya.html">Arabian Silver Beaded Occasion Abaya</a> $59.99 </span><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">comes in more colors as well</span></i></span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.eastessence.com/New-Arrivals/Royal-Golden-Evening-Dress-Abaya.html">Royal Golden Evening Dress Abaya</a> $59.99</span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.eastessence.com/New-Arrivals/Embroidered-Sequin-Dress.html">Embroidered Sequin Dress</a> $29.99</span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.alhannah.com/">Al Hannah:</a> </b> For standard shipping, they are shipping until July 11th.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.alhannah.com/products/ab634.html">Classic Embroidered Arabian Abaya</a> </span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">$54.99</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i style="background-color: white;">Do you know of any great gowns for Eid? What are you planning on wearing? Let me know below!</i></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-31602760740362310202015-07-01T01:12:00.000-05:002017-03-10T12:43:26.097-06:00My Favorite Plus Sized Muslim Online Clothing Sources<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am going to do what women rarely do... share my favorite </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">shopping sources</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> with you all. </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> Plus sized shopping</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> is hard for </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Muslimahs</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">. I don't really understand why, since it seems so many of us are a bit more generous sized. We (Muslims) should have a culture that promotes respect of our bodies and not trying to fit into today's beauty standards. My only guess is that many </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Muslim clothing companies</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> are in countries where better eating and more exercise are more prevalent than in the US, so even as a woman ages and gets "fuller" she is still quite thin compared to many of her American counterparts. But some are realizing that the US is a big market (no pun intended) and are starting to offer a larger range of sizes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>DISCLAIMER:</b> <i>Not all of the following business have I purchased from or done business with or had any contact with at all. And even if I have and give them a good recommendation, that does not mean your experience will be the same as mine. This list does not recommend or promise a good shopping experience and I am in no way responsible if you have complications or are unhappy. That being said, here is a list of some tips for ordering online, specifically with foreign, Islamic clothing sites. (If you have more tips, please add them in the comments section!)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. <b>Always look for a size chart with the measurements for their sizes.</b> Sizes are not standard, even in the US. A company can make a size any measurement they want. Know your personal measurements and look for the actual measurements not just the size. Here is a <a href="http://www.thechicfashionista.com/body-measurements.html">good tutorial on how to take your measurements</a>. Just last week I was looking at a site and saw that their 8X fit an American size 18!!! I would have bought my normal size and been severely disappointed had I not checked their measurement chart.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. <b>Once you find their measurement chart and confirm that their sizes fit you, always size up.</b> Our clothing is also supposed to conceal our shape, so it shouldn't be tight. I normally go up a size. But if you want to be sure, adding 2-3 inches on to your measurements for your bust and hips should be plenty of extra room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Also<b> know the length you need. </b> Since Muslim clothing is often supposed to be longer length, the right length can be critical. Some companies will go by your height, having designed the abaya/jilbab/etc. to hit you at a certain point, such as ankle length. Other times they will just tell you the length and if it isn't long enough (or too long), oh well. The best are when you can choose the length. Then you can decide if you want that garment to be calf length, ankle length or floor length. So know your measurements for each length of a garment length you like. Again, go to <a href="http://www.thechicfashionista.com/body-measurements.html">this link for help in about getting your own measurements</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. <b><a href="https://translate.google.com/">Google Translate</a> is your friend.</b> There is a whole world of foreign sites that you can buy from. But often their websites are not in English. But that shouldn't stop you. Just cut and paste yourself to understanding on Google Translate. Keep in mind that foreign companies need to be able to process your payment and ship your order to you. Not all companies are able to do this. Look for companies able to take PayPal or bank transfers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. <b>Be prepared to pay for shipping.</b> This is the hardest part of online shopping. Make sure you check the shipping costs before you approve the purchase. What is too expensive for shipping is really up to you. If I really love something and haven't been able to find it anywhere else, I will be willing to pay more for shipping. But if what you want is found on a couple of sites and this is the cheapest, make sure it really is the cheapest when you add in shipping. Don't be afraid of using plain old United States Postal Service. I have been buying online for over 15 years and have never had problems with them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">6. <b> Don't stick to just businesses that have their own websites.</b> eBay, Etsy, and Amazon are all good places to find smaller retailers, especially custom seamstresses. Be open to them, but be careful. First thing to watch for is larger retailers offering their stuff on Amazon or eBay or Etsy at inflated prices. Always look at who the seller of an item is and if they have a website. Check the website to compare prices. Of course, sometimes they offer items at a reduced rate or items they are not offering any more on their site. Then you know you are getting a deal!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">7. <b>Do research.</b> Ask around. Read blogs that do reviews. Google the company. Look at their Facebook page. If you are shopping on Etsy or eBay make sure you read the feedback and check their rating. Read the reviews on Amazon. If there are more negative comments than positive, stay away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8. <b>When buying from a retailer for the first time, only order one thing or a small dollar amount</b>. That way if you are disappointed by their service, quality, packing, anything, you are not out a lot of money.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">9. <b>Do not be afraid to talk to the customer service representatives.</b> They are there to help and make sure you are happy with your order. They know their products and can help answer any questions you have about them. If you have any reservations about ordering, you will probably feel better after talking to them. Or maybe you won't and then you will feel better that you didn't order after all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">10. <b>Yes, there are horror stories out there</b> of orders not showing up, getting the wrong items, not being able to get a hold of the company to resolve problems. Remember that those are often isolated incidents or companies that you would know to avoid if you do a little research. Refer to points 7 and 8 to reduce your risk.</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now on to the shopping!</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Note: I did not consider going up to size XL to be Plus Sized. There are plenty of sites like that. I am looking for 2X and up according to the measurements on the chart below. <b><i><u>Read carefully and pay attention to measurements NOT to sizes!!!</u></i></b></span><br />
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<i><u><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Custom made Clothing:</span></b></u></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>By "custom" I mean companies where you give them you measurements and your garment is made to order. You should expect longer delivery times for these companies as they need time to make your clothing as well as expedite your order and ship it.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://overgarments.com/index.html">Overgarments.com</a>: This site does custom made over garments in the abaya style. Give them your measurements and choose your color(s) and you will get your own unique garment. I have never purchased from her, but have read many good reviews on Facebook. She has great prices and often has even better deals! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/jilbabcity/m.html?ssPageName=&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2654">jilbabcity</a>: A seamstress from Houston, Texas who sells her overstock on eBay. I have purchased 3 garments from her. All were very well made and of good quality fabric. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://loveunspoken.net/">Love Unspoken</a>: Traditional styles with unique details. Custom made. You pick the fabric, color, and measurements. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.eastessence.com/?gclid=CjwKEAjw_MisBRCTuNPfoMqU4ngSJACrJv1VqSrybRGcq9oRHSRuIXINGGmVYfMCvsiHaWqDqB_EZhoCz3nw_wcB">East Essence</a>: I have bought from this company more than a few times. I have pieces of their I love and others that are just OK. I have read that they have greatly improved their koshibo fabric, which I never cared for. I would recommend them, but remember that you get what you pay for. They are not the highest quality, but are a good choice for the Muslimah on a tight budget.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.islamic-attire.com/">Islamic Attire</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.mybatua.com/">My Batua</a>: This company is very similar to East Essence but a little more expensive and a little higher quality. Some of their things are too expensive, in my opinion. I have purchased from them. Only one of the pieces (out of seven) was I really happy with. This was from a design standpoint and a matter of fit. Their items tend to be slimmer through the hips and I needed them a bit roomier without being baggy in the bust. For this reason, I don't know that I would buy from them again. But their quality was good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.onlineabaya.com/">Online Abaya</a>: Be careful of their sizing and check the measurements. They run smaller than you would think.</span><br />
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Ready to Wear:</span></u></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://en.modanisa.com/">Modanisa: </a> A Turkish company specializing in Turkish styles. You can get their website in English. Look for the symbol on the top to change the language if you need to. They accept Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal for foreign payments. I have read a good review of them on <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/">Old School Hijabi's </a>blog, but I have never purchased from them myself. The one problem I have with the site is they do not give the measurements for the sizes. They do tell you the measurements and size the model is wearing, which is very helpful. But they do not give the measurements for the other sizes. They use the more common Middle Eastern sizing system which is the size of the bust. Not real helpful if your hips are bigger.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.al-mujalbaba.com/">Al-mujalbaba</a> I have never purchased from them but have read fantastic reviews. They are a US (New York City) based business. Abayas and large square scarves are their specialty. They have a fun, youthful, urban style and most of their stuff is nursing friendly. And before you think I am wrong about adding them to this list, look at their measurement chart. Their XL equals a US 24/26/28. And in the description they give the actual measurements.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.alhannah.com/index2.html">Al Hannah</a>: A website with long established reputation. I have ordered from them in the past and have been very happy. I know of others with the same experience. They import much of their clothing from Jordan, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia. They recently redid their website and now it is easier to use.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.plussizemuslimah.com/">Plus Size Muslimah</a>: A lovely site and a lovely company. I have a longer review in this post. I have purchased from them and plan to again in the near future. Excellent quality.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.shukronline.com/">Shukr</a>: I have never purchased from them, though I have always heard wonderful things about them. What I have heard is that though they may seem expensive, their clothes are worth every penny.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.artizara.com/">Artizara</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.alsundus.com/index.html">AlSundus</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.alsharifa.com/1/alsh.php?id=815">AlSharifa</a>: Some of their caftans go up to a size 20. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><u>French Jilbab</u>:</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">French jilbabs are an over-the-head garment that is perfect for plus sized Muslimahs. They are sized by your height because they are so voluminous they will fit nearly any size. The only exception to that is the two piece ones because the waistband of the bottom skirt or sarouel pants is normally meant to fit a smaller sized waist. But the top piece will still fit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To learn more about French jilbabs, check out <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-sewing-french-jilbab.html">my post about sewing your own</a>. It is quite easy! But if you don't sew, the following companies sell beautiful ones. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://jilbablondon.wordpress.com/">Jilbab London</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://tasnimcollections.com/shop/index.php">Tasmin Collections</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.bismillah-boutique.com/">Bismillah Boutique</a>: I have never actually purchased from this company, so I cannot speak to their customer service. But I do have one of their French jilbabs. I got it in a trade with a friend. I like it a lot. It is excellent quality. Too good in fact. The elastic on the sleeves is a bit tight for me to comfortably push them up to wear under a jacket. I wanted to remove it, but it is actually sewn in place. I also had to pick out stitches and resew the edges of the face hole so my face would fit. Other than those two issues, the fabric is beautiful, it is very well made, and it is comfortable to wear.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.store-nabira.com/">Nabira</a> I have ordered from this site a couple of times. I have always been pleased. My order came very fast. Usually less than a week. All the way from France! Their prices are extremely reasonable and yet their quality is good. They have a nice selection of French jilbabs, but I actually have only purchased other garments from them, which I love and wear all the time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.almoultazimoun.com/en/">Al Moultazimoun</a>: Fashion forward designs. Beautiful colors. Very feminine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://akhawat.fr/fr/">Akhawat</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Do you have a favorite plus size Islamic shopping source I didn't mention? Or comments on the ones I did? Please share below so we can help each other.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Thank you to <a href="http://ashleyelladesign.com/2015/06/10-free-stock-photos.html">ashleyelladesign</a> for the above stock photos.</i></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-51168893999263601352015-06-24T21:46:00.000-05:002017-03-10T12:43:47.040-06:00Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The last five months have been crazy! First, I got married. Then I got really sick. I mean </span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">really </i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">sick. Off of work. Multiple trips to the doctor. I was sick for seven long weeks. In that time I also got a new job (which I had applied for before I got sick). Alhamdullilah I got better just before we moved into our new house! I had to unpack. I left my new job. I left because I didn't like juggling two part-time jobs (among other reasons). I decided to find full-time work and that leads me to today's blog post... </span><b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">sewing a jilbab for an interview from an existing abaya. </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since I wear </span><b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">hijab</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">, I can't just go to a department store and pick up a suit for an interview. Plus I am </span><b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">plus sized</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">, making things even harder. I had to get creative. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEl7K-epmkh2gYqeYj7xbzkQvL6wdjFLEU1Ig1-iPHNxsy5Ew9uTBzBzmhVxuS1hSZiQRgz1l9sc5hlBDuNUJjbjfu_OBXJodoYvZPHuh4PH-6IdOau9oZb-NLbq48hyTHDvjchVgu226Z/s1600/IMG_20150605_143607582-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEl7K-epmkh2gYqeYj7xbzkQvL6wdjFLEU1Ig1-iPHNxsy5Ew9uTBzBzmhVxuS1hSZiQRgz1l9sc5hlBDuNUJjbjfu_OBXJodoYvZPHuh4PH-6IdOau9oZb-NLbq48hyTHDvjchVgu226Z/s640/IMG_20150605_143607582-001.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">This all started when I sent in my resume and was just hoping for an interview. I knew I would need something to wear. I have clothes for work, but nothing I thought would be good for an interview. Plus, since I only recently started wearing an outer garment, a jilbab, as part of my hijab (see </span><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">my post about hijab to learn more about this</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">) I don't have a lot of choices. This was the perfect opportunity to have the jilbab of my dreams.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So I shopped. And shopped. And shopped some more. All online, of course. I live in rural Wisconsin. There are no Muslim clothing stores in the area. I have to travel 2 hours to get to one in Madison. And they do not carry what I was looking for. And I was pretty sure that even if I drove to Chicago itself, I would have a hard time finding what I was looking for. Mainly I figured this because I have had such a hard time finding it online! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Coat style jilbabs are not easy to find in plus sizes. And that is what I wanted. A button down, full length, summer weight jilbab, preferably with A line styling. And not in what <i>most </i>websites consider "plus size" (AKA XL). I am a bigger girl than that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First, I must say that if <a href="http://www.shukronline.com/index.html">Shukr</a> would increase their range of sizes, I would purchase from them in a heartbeat. I love most of their stuff and they have <i>exactly </i>what I was looking for. But alas, they only have sizes for the slender among us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I considered <a href="http://www.eastessence.com/">East Essence</a>. I have purchased from them before and am familiar with their quality. I H.A.T.E. their koshibo fabric, though I read that it may have changed for the better since I last ordered it two years ago. Other items of theirs I have, love, and wear all the time. They have a jilbab that I am interested in, but I had read it is not really a summer weight so I am saving it for later. Also, it takes time to get their stuff since it is custom made and shipped from India. I hoped I didn't have time for that! I wanted an interview NOW.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I like some of the stuff from <a href="http://www.islamic-attire.com/" target="_blank">Islamic Attire</a> but they have the same problem as East Essence... the custom making and shipping from India. So again, I will save them for a later date.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then I looked at <a href="https://www.plussizemuslimah.com/" target="_blank">Plus Size Muslimah</a>. I had never purchased from them nor had ever heard from anyone who had. Their website certainly is attractive. As are their designs. I had admired several of their abayas for a long time but had never bought anything. Now, I saw that they had several designs on sale for $19.99, including the <a href="https://www.plussizemuslimah.com/product/plus-size-abaya-with-contrast-yoke/">Colorblock Abaya</a>. Unfortunately, it only came in a 7X. That is more than double the size I needed. But gazing longingly at the picture of this handsome abaya, I had an idea. I saw a button down jilbab made from this abaya. The same lovely colorblock design. The same attractive summer weight fabric. The same conservative, interview worthy colors. But with black buttons running down the front, creating the button down coat I longed for.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="p-482-dress_colorblock.jpg" height="640" src="https://www.plussizemuslimah.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/p-482-dress_colorblock.jpg" width="426" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Picture used with the permission of <a href="http://www.plussizemuslimah.com/">www.plussizemuslimah.com</a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I figured that if I ordered a size so much larger than my own, I would have plenty of fabric to work with. I hemmed and hawed and finally dove in and ordered it. I considered ordering more of their products at the same time but I try to order small the first time I order from a company so if I am unhappy I am at least unhappy at a smaller dollar amount. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There was no need to worry. My package came lightening quick! And it was packaged beautifully. Even wrapped with a pretty ribbon. The abaya itself, though <i>way </i>too big for me, was very well made and of a beautiful fabric. Light yet opaque. Perfect for summer. Perfect for the project.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For this project I had to enlist a helper. My good friend Kim became my assistant. By this time, I had the interview! We had only three days to complete the project. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first evening we laid the abaya out on the floor. We laid one of my frequently worn abayas on top of it to compare the sizes. Wow. We certainly had plenty of fabric to work with. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5blLWogyUzXm-DPmk_zKCs12TVDJuJSvdjVXYepPOLYHPnqn88vfUkYg_beredn-ppnA4IHQArgoeTt0lzT6NeLy22rO6bXEScXyvpG51M_IO6mU4YhDdZmgLpxS0kw2WVIOJD42W2MDe/s1600/IMG_20150518_200257556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5blLWogyUzXm-DPmk_zKCs12TVDJuJSvdjVXYepPOLYHPnqn88vfUkYg_beredn-ppnA4IHQArgoeTt0lzT6NeLy22rO6bXEScXyvpG51M_IO6mU4YhDdZmgLpxS0kw2WVIOJD42W2MDe/s640/IMG_20150518_200257556.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDk9u3s1PH21koTdykzgJFpEh8V8xMFRsaOiHIXxRBovNiJJxlNjs0-FT3Hg5oibc5Rl39zw_4BZSf8cXPdE6hhsCj9JNvpt49VJUo-7Scv5ynf7rk_lDBUwWKJ5LwhpyoODuy2gQ_OC7Q/s1600/IMG_20150518_181253329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDk9u3s1PH21koTdykzgJFpEh8V8xMFRsaOiHIXxRBovNiJJxlNjs0-FT3Hg5oibc5Rl39zw_4BZSf8cXPdE6hhsCj9JNvpt49VJUo-7Scv5ynf7rk_lDBUwWKJ5LwhpyoODuy2gQ_OC7Q/s640/IMG_20150518_181253329.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="380" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first job was to cut up the middle of the front so we could make the front opening. After a moment's hesitation, Kim cut right up the center.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Next we pinned each side to create the placards. I put more fabric on the inside edge of the inside flap so that if there was gaping while wearing it, it would be less likely you could see through the gap as the extra fabric will help fill it.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2y9knXI2j7Lo7-5sbeVP1PETiT3Jcu8LsMXXSSdaWgUJILvdQS0alh-ZUivVs7E5WvAL0VPS2ogzFUsq0Ggh7wPRxQZP4fnLCeGGsvIQHdmAJr_u508srOXM4hg6T3_r1mHkOWlMR296f/s1600/IMG_20150519_195805976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2y9knXI2j7Lo7-5sbeVP1PETiT3Jcu8LsMXXSSdaWgUJILvdQS0alh-ZUivVs7E5WvAL0VPS2ogzFUsq0Ggh7wPRxQZP4fnLCeGGsvIQHdmAJr_u508srOXM4hg6T3_r1mHkOWlMR296f/s640/IMG_20150519_195805976.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="360" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After carefully pinning the front, I tried it on. I knew I wanted an A line silhouette. So wearing the abaya inside out, Kim pinned in the waist. I wanted it loose enough for hijab standards, but without a lot of excess fabric in the waist. My bust and hips are much larger than my waist. I do not want to emphasize my shape, but I cannot stand too much excess fabric bulking up under my arms. I was looking for a nice, clean diagonal line out from my armpit, skimming over my hips, and to the floor.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8WM-GPu-TELwgCsYxkTAzp7N2GBhaZO_AvMWazhZuHykwevcTH3rE7K_BDX0GSXPIb-R-8HuMksYtciCdCb51I7XH3pbMT_UrQ0RF-1QP6rqjevj-C9SNFhdZ7tCIrTaoqeU3VwohQ0b/s1600/IMG_20150519_211009760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8WM-GPu-TELwgCsYxkTAzp7N2GBhaZO_AvMWazhZuHykwevcTH3rE7K_BDX0GSXPIb-R-8HuMksYtciCdCb51I7XH3pbMT_UrQ0RF-1QP6rqjevj-C9SNFhdZ7tCIrTaoqeU3VwohQ0b/s640/IMG_20150519_211009760.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="568" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first sewing I did was sewing in that fabric on the sides. Then I sewed up the placards. Once they were sewed, it was easier to try on. So far, I was very pleased.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In front of the TV that night, I sewed on the buttons. Then I hand sewed the buttonholes. I chose to do them by hand because (and this is my dirty little secret) I have never sewn a buttonhole by machine. <i>Gasp!</i> Honestly, I don't really feel like a real seamstress without that experience, but there it is. In the end, I was very pleased. The hand done ones turned out perfectly. My two tips are using a razor blade to cut the hole instead of a scissors and using embroidery cotton instead of sewing thread.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFN-1-J9BAWRwdW6bG2FKciQaxa5-HAK39ySTFuT6yB9c9Y7f2rfNkf6-4C7z3MUbgW82eBRl62682QBJhmeNTDQaK7ySpG3XMUcGMwuyc0l41F5e50f9DKLfUW6aAiM8YQ8WP7q4Prja/s1600/IMG_20150519_215341681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFN-1-J9BAWRwdW6bG2FKciQaxa5-HAK39ySTFuT6yB9c9Y7f2rfNkf6-4C7z3MUbgW82eBRl62682QBJhmeNTDQaK7ySpG3XMUcGMwuyc0l41F5e50f9DKLfUW6aAiM8YQ8WP7q4Prja/s640/IMG_20150519_215341681.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once I could button it and see how it hung while wearing it, it was possible to do the hem. I wanted a hem that just skimmed the floor. The week before I had seen at the Masjid some women with lovely jilbabs that were that length and loved the look. I believe the only foolproof way to do a hem, especially one like that where there is no room for error, is to pin it while wearing it. Once again, my assistant helped me, doing a wonderful job pinning it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I didn't actually sew the hem as I hate a noticeable hem seam and I didn't really have the time to do a hand sewn one. Instead I used iron on hem tape. That stuff is awesome and is very easy to use!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I took in the arms and shortened them as well.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUeLHhaUgn_GRKaeaot00_gjR3tZoUou7XahMPBvqYTIJZG88OgseJ6Zl8OC-YDeDVuY5kIfzrIKPL8dqMv_3baR4cMPy8XEn3qviWgi1e_8FpfC4cEL04DRYw0GyEdUBn1c8cZd0ttQa/s1600/IMG_20150519_211423823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUeLHhaUgn_GRKaeaot00_gjR3tZoUou7XahMPBvqYTIJZG88OgseJ6Zl8OC-YDeDVuY5kIfzrIKPL8dqMv_3baR4cMPy8XEn3qviWgi1e_8FpfC4cEL04DRYw0GyEdUBn1c8cZd0ttQa/s640/IMG_20150519_211423823.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Afterwards, I was pleased as punch! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ccrZX3Og9UIUGobzp6DoXJYCk-5zv1b4v8qO78R_1ctSscl-twaVkY2zQBNtRMjTqTxL3qjbHDtfDZLcr8uQwxWIIwXBT2wr_K6CbWILbGjzt7FUhd8CJKXFUp0tbRgBuCJnmjxNkQQD/s1600/IMG_20150605_143959311_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ccrZX3Og9UIUGobzp6DoXJYCk-5zv1b4v8qO78R_1ctSscl-twaVkY2zQBNtRMjTqTxL3qjbHDtfDZLcr8uQwxWIIwXBT2wr_K6CbWILbGjzt7FUhd8CJKXFUp0tbRgBuCJnmjxNkQQD/s640/IMG_20150605_143959311_HDR.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6cYsI1x5mLemYFICzaVLvsX2O6-nR28MeDINW88JhBlzf8qP1d3hBkhmQ3nqn802JOsKMJzBQRvW8OA1jt3m9Gp2rOLdYtxEiYwcFKX9jTVTcUT1GmDJ-j7mT7TrCPbL5fNQoIdJEV-f/s1600/IMG_20150605_143938992_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6cYsI1x5mLemYFICzaVLvsX2O6-nR28MeDINW88JhBlzf8qP1d3hBkhmQ3nqn802JOsKMJzBQRvW8OA1jt3m9Gp2rOLdYtxEiYwcFKX9jTVTcUT1GmDJ-j7mT7TrCPbL5fNQoIdJEV-f/s640/IMG_20150605_143938992_HDR.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="430" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5tsAb5cXfSYunVcqfql-y4HKebqslXE_LWmnVlqEMCCMAaaIxU_hM4dLSfX-eLIjE9ugN4-3g8iJ7ADy6rwDI2IIJqhOSFoEWkzlDhcgvkoG3_hbjsTWsmokM7JD0cUjiJEqZqJrS0Qk/s1600/IMG_20150605_143745963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi5tsAb5cXfSYunVcqfql-y4HKebqslXE_LWmnVlqEMCCMAaaIxU_hM4dLSfX-eLIjE9ugN4-3g8iJ7ADy6rwDI2IIJqhOSFoEWkzlDhcgvkoG3_hbjsTWsmokM7JD0cUjiJEqZqJrS0Qk/s640/IMG_20150605_143745963.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="460" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkg0gokv5-asiDMaMNTaBe2Mwh_bFx6LFAFWlFn8bpsJHQgBkShJ_xVvA5JYKNgM95Q_lblzrRCuLTtCxasXIA2HoN2DkOp2vHjiVrlOHGL8Q9zO9NFTpCQlv2vMV8m3cSX1r-upNygCF0/s1600/IMG_20150521_114806268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkg0gokv5-asiDMaMNTaBe2Mwh_bFx6LFAFWlFn8bpsJHQgBkShJ_xVvA5JYKNgM95Q_lblzrRCuLTtCxasXIA2HoN2DkOp2vHjiVrlOHGL8Q9zO9NFTpCQlv2vMV8m3cSX1r-upNygCF0/s640/IMG_20150521_114806268.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="272" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>How I looked the day of the interview.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thank you to my wonderful assistant and fabulous friend, Kim!!! I honestly could not have finished this project without you.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsPyuLbTExqzkVi-5JT9KdL9vWJ2j55J4TKfnYVaqM_j6DrEo5LX3SMiniMWTrVb4L4U3uviAyc_fYx053REkClkJI_zZns8pyYdaeQiYEuIAxn-PMA-m93zB_cTTdlBVls6Zy3SVfPmg/s1600/IMG_20150605_144023976-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsPyuLbTExqzkVi-5JT9KdL9vWJ2j55J4TKfnYVaqM_j6DrEo5LX3SMiniMWTrVb4L4U3uviAyc_fYx053REkClkJI_zZns8pyYdaeQiYEuIAxn-PMA-m93zB_cTTdlBVls6Zy3SVfPmg/s400/IMG_20150605_144023976-001.jpg" title="Sew a Jilbab From an Abaya for an Interview" width="225" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After notes:</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I always like to talk about what I wish I had done different and if I am pleased with the project. With this one, yes, I am pleased. Very pleased! I wear this jilbab A LOT! The only thing I would have done different is the hem. I think it looks really good at that length, but I step on the front of it all the time. I am not sure how to fix it other than just making it shorter. I am still considering the situation.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The abaya itself that I used was really nice. The construction was too good! I felt bad cutting it apart it was made so well. The seams were all french seams, not serged. A more expensive way to do them because they take more fabric and more time, but they last much longer. And are perfect for plus sized ladies because they can take more stress and wear. The fabric is wonderful. I know it doesn't look that light but it is and yet still opaque. Despite the dark color I am finding it quite comfortable for summer.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.plussizemuslimah.com/">Plus Size Muslimah</a> as a company impressed me a lot. My order came lightning fast! The picture above shows how nicely it was wrapped. When I contacted them to ask their permission to use the above picture, they were very excited and offered to help me any way they could. From this abaya alone, I believe that this company understands the needs of plus sized Muslim women for their clothing. I will definitely be ordering from them in the future.</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Please let me know what you think! Do you like coat style jilbabs? Do you have a hard time finding plus-sized Muslim clothing? </span></i></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-66020182268781856192015-06-05T00:48:00.000-05:002017-03-10T12:44:00.774-06:00Keeping Cool: Summer Hijab Ideas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Summer</b> is coming and honestly, around this time of year, I get a little scared. I don't like to be hot anymore than anyone else does. No <b>Muslim</b> woman who wears <b>hijab</b> does. Sweating is not attractive to me. On top of it, I do not have air conditioning in my house or my car. So I truly feel the summer weather. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So to ease my fears and help all you new hijabis out there, I thought I would come up with a list, insh'Allah, of what I do to <b>keep cool (or at least cool<i>er</i>) in the summer</b>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>1.) Mind over Matter</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A lot of it is a head game. When you think it is hot, you will be hot. Most days I just tell myself <i>it will get hotter, so why complain now?</i> And on a day when it seems the hottest, check the temperature. If it is under 90 degrees, I refrain from complaining. It isn't hot until it is at least 90.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hijab is not easy. A hot day makes it harder than usual. Especially with everyone asking, <i>"Aren't you hot?"</i> Of course I am! So is everybody else, hijab or not! Removing my clothing will not change the weather. But it will compromise my principles.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2.) Wear Loose Clothing</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I see lots of new hijabis trying to "hijabify" their old wardrobe by wearing long sleeve t-shirts under short sleeve outfits. Trust me, loose sleeves, loose legged pants, loose abayas, loose hijab wrapping styles are your friend in the summer. You want air to be able to reach you. Especially in humidity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sweat is meant to cool you off through the process of evaporation. You sweat, making moisture on your skin and it dries and as it does, you are cooled. If you are wearing form fitting clothing, that cooling action cannot take place. That is one reason Muslim clothing from hot countries, even for men, is so loose.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And remember, clothing that conforms to your skin is not hijab. We are to conceal ourselves, and that includes the shape of our bodies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>3.) Wear Light Colors</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am actually not a big follower of this one for my clothing. But it is true. You will be cooler in white than in black. Of course, there are many Muslimahs who feel it is better to wear dark colors, especially black. But if you are not one of them, try wearing lighter colors, at least your scarf, in the summer sun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>4.) Wear Natural Fabrics</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton, linen, and silk are much cooler in the summer than polyester. Polyester can be OK too. Just make sure it is breathable. If it resists water, no go. If air cannot blow through it, avoid it. You will thank me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>5.) Wear Light Fabrics</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This and #2 are the most important features for cool clothes for a hijabi. You can feel a cool breeze through a light cotton abaya. I love feeling a breeze on the back of my neck through a light scarf. Just remember that the fabric should also be opaque. See through is not hijab.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>6.) Wear As Few Layers As Possible</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Another thing new hijabis do is layer their Western clothes to achieve the amount of coverage they need. This works fine in the cooler months, but in summer you are asking to be miserable. Long sleeve t-shirts layered under a short sleeve t-shirt and pants layered under a skirt is a summer disaster waiting to happen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My best advice here is to look to native Muslim clothing. Most of it comes from cultures where it is H.O.T. They know how to follow Allah and still be cool. Even in humid conditions. Salwar kameez from Pakistan: a hot and humid culture. Abayas from the Arabian Peninsula. Cotton jilbabs from Jordan and Turkey. Loose cotton dresses is many styles from different African countries. Adopting a "cultural" dress mixed in with your normal Western clothes can give you a unique Muslim identity and keep you cooler at the same time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't forget about wearing a jilbab! (<a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" target="_blank">See my post about hijab to learn more about jilbabs.)</a> What I do and is common in Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon, etc. is wear pants and a shirt with a coat style jilbab or abaya over when I go out. In the summer, I wear light pants and a tank top and keep my jilbabs light, airy, and unlined. My next post, insh'Allah, will be about the latest coat style jilbab I made from a purchased abaya. Watch for it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the lightest and airiest jilbabs is an over-the-head garment. A very common one in France and Canada is the French jilbeb. It is an all in one over-the-head garment, eliminating the need for a separate scarf and outer garment (jilbab). But make sure you get one made of good quality, breathable fabric. <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-sewing-french-jilbab.html" target="_blank">To learn more about them and even how to make your own, see my post about them.</a> Another style of over-the-head garment that could be quite cool in the summer would be the very long khimar from Somalia. A pull-on two piece (you wear it with a tie kerchief to hold back your hair) it normally reaches down to the knees or even to the floor. A very elegant garment that all you need on underneath is a tank top and a pair of light pants or a maxi skirt.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>7.) It All Starts at the Head</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The place we lose the most heat and need to keep warm in the winter is our head. So it stands to reason, that the place we should keep the coolest in the summer is our head. You might think then that it is foolish to cover it at all. Not so! Haven't you ever felt the head beat down on your scalp, especially if you have dark hair? Ever had a scalp sunburn? Covering your head is common sense for <i>everyone</i> in the summer!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As hijabis, luckily we have a ready way to protect our hair and scalp from the relentless sun. But how do we also stay cool?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The above tips for clothing also go for your head scarf. Keep the fabric light, airy, breathable. And preferably a natural fiber, though there are good polyester and nylon scarves for breathability. Keep the colors light. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Most important is how you wrap it. Keep it loose off your neck (unlike most Turkish styles). Do not use styles that wrap multiple times around your head, insulating it. I cover the underside of my chin, and I can tell that is a "problem". I start sweating around there before anywhere else because the way I wrap my scarf is double over that area and is held close to the skin. But to me it is worth it. Which brings us to our last tip...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>8.) Remember Why You Do It</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You had a reason why you became a hijabi. You have faith in why you cover. You believe this is the right way to follow Allah. So when it gets tough, when you feel like giving in, remember... your reasons are worth it.</span></div>
Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-47359659383276944512014-12-25T23:52:00.002-06:002017-03-10T12:44:45.854-06:00Resetting the Frumpy Muslim Mindset<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One thing I love about <b>Muslim clothing</b> is it's lack of shaping and complicated fitting. Yes, there are more Western inspired styles coming out that have more fitted shapes, but let's face it. The more you need to fit your clothes, the less it fulfills <b>the requirements of hijab</b>. Clothing is supposed to cover us. Hide not just our skin, but also our shape. And less fitting means it is easier to sew and design.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But for some, the lack of fitting and shape brings up other concerns. Recently, <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" target="_blank">Old School Hijabi</a> did a <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/style-ideas-looking-stylish-while-being-modest-and-on-a-budget/" target="_blank">post</a> about a question she received about not looking "scruffy". I have my own history on this issue. When I saw her call for ideas on this issue, I thought long and hard. Too long, as I missed getting to have any input on her blog or Facebook page. So, instead I thought I would write about my thoughts here.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First of all, in my opinion, the commenter probably meant the word, "frumpy". When I started wearing hijab, I had a big problem with that and still sometimes do. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are many, many photos floating around the internet where a hijabi looks so graceful and lovely clothed in an abaya that is created from yards of loose fabric. She is twirling on a pair of stiletto heels and her makeup and jewelry are to be envied. She looks angelic and pious and sexy all at the same time. And most importantly, for that frozen moment in time, she looks like everything we, as Muslim woman, want to be.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><img alt="Muslima Wear 2014-2015 Elbise Etek Ceket Bluz Şal Modelleri http://www.enguzeltesettur.com/muslima-wear-2014-2015-elbise-etek-ceket-bluz-sal-modelleri #frenchshiffon #sifonelbiseler #babyblue #bebekmavisi #uzunelbise #tesetturgiyim #tesetturelbise #kapalielbise #uzunkollu #mavi" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/17/57/33/175733f23764289ba6064c01a0ac0168.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How many of us long to feel in our clothes the way that looking at those pictures makes us feel? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeo1HJ2ZTlOBLc_BFpmtwXHNaN88QpCcEAio2nGX6JCT4dfBjXJRc6Qu_Fnx7TQq3oZxQ1dpuTBF8A-yn19KMRpSiXIjymoDDJTq-zZAfN0GDtHMeOSBsTpxSBZlK9Kj60kczdEiStBlSW/s640/New+Arabian+Abaya+Styles+2013+(8).jpg" width="465" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But for a lot of us, the truth is closer to feeling like wearing a garbage bag or a tent. Not really the glamorous feeling we were hoping for from looking at the pictures. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Why is this? Why is it that one woman can look so beautiful in yards of fabric, caught in a moment in time?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;">Right there, I think, is the first reason. She is caught at <i>one moment in time</i>. She isn't wearing these clothes all day </span><span style="line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">long</span><span style="line-height: 1.4;">, chasing after children, doing the laundry, sitting at a desk, rolling over the hem of her long flowing abaya (I have done this before!) The picture was probably taken at a photo shoot, where 10 seconds before someone was arranging her hijab, her skirt, her yards of flowing fabric. And the wince she had on her face from her </span><span style="line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">stiletto</span><span style="line-height: 1.4;"> heels was magically transformed into a smile for the camera. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;">Pictures are a frozen moment, often set up to give the viewer a certain impression. Even if they are a snapshot of real life, the real life that is ultimately shared with people is the one that the photographer wanted to share with you. S/he didn't publish all the shots where the model/subject's make-up was smeared. Or where she was </span><span style="line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">tripping</span><span style="line-height: 1.4;"> over her hem. Or where the bulge of her love handles was showing. Real life is subjective in a photograph. As real woman we need to remember that. Real life is constantly moving. Not stuck in a perfect moment.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;">The other reason I believe so many reverts feel "frumpy" in their new fashion style is simply because they were not raised in it. This became clear to me when I read <a href="http://muhajabat.wordpress.com/2009/04/25/chador-for-prayers-and-around-the-house/" target="_blank">Old School Hijabi's post about chadors</a> (this is her old blog, check out her new one <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" target="_blank">here</a>) and she mentions that little girls have "play chadors". By playing in these pint-sized chadors, they learn how to wear them. The learn how the fabric moves, how to move it and manipulate it. They watch their mother and grandmother and other women wearing them and imitate how they move in them. The chadors become second nature to them. When they become women and start to wear the chador as a normal everyday garment, they are already </span><span style="line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">accustomed</span><span style="line-height: 1.4;"> to how it feels.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.4;">Reverts have no experience with Muslim style clothing. There is nothing comparable in Western dress to chadors, French jilbebs, abayas. Except maybe the old-fashioned house dress AKA mu-mu, which most women avoid like the plague. Otherwise, there really are no items of clothing that most of us are used to wearing that prepare us for the unstructured, flowing cut and feel of Muslim clothing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">There really is no cure for this problem except to just plow through it. Find clothing you <i><u>ADORE</u></i>. But expect to feel awkward in it at first. Perhaps practice wearing it around the house for awhile before venturing out into public. Choose your public appearances carefully for a garment you are not comfortable in yet. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">Practice is the only way to get comfortable. I remember when I was a new Muslimah and I was ALWAYS having trouble with my headscarf. I used about 10 pins (I now only use 2). It was always sliding. After an hour I would hair sticking out everywhere. It was terrible. Now it is different. I still have "bad hijab days", but mostly I don't even think about it during the day. It is just part of my normal clothing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">When I started wearing abayas, it was a whole new learning process again. One I never mastered. I ended up adjusting my personal style to adapt. I shorten all my abayas to calf length and wear them with loose pants. I got sick of tripping over my hem constantly. So, if a style doesn't work for you, adapt it. Islam is not a hardship. We have rules for our clothing, but there is a lot of leeway within them. </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">Find what works for you. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"><i>I found this online. An important reminder that we could use in the USA </i></span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">with the recent maxi skirt trend.</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.4px;">When I started wearing the French jilbeb, once again, I needed to learn. I still have problems wearing it. I have trouble keeping it on my head. I am constantly sitting on it and pulling it backward. I dislike the "Cardassian" neck look it gives me. (Remember the Cardassians from <i>Star Trek</i>?) I wish the elastic in the sleeves wasn't so well made so I could remove it as it is too small for me. Learning curve. Learning what works and what doesn't and how to deal with the garment in general.</span></div>
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src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" 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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"><i style="background-color: white;">What a French jilbeb looks like.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i style="background-color: white;">What I think I look like when I look in the mirror while wearing one.</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.4px; text-align: left;">For reverts I recommend adapting your wardrobe slowly, as you are comfortable. If you dive in and try to change everything at once, you will most likely feel uncomfortable, unsatisfied, and unattractive. This type of situation has led many a revert to abandon their new style of clothing, and sometimes, even their new faith.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">You will find that as your faith grows, so will your desire to cover yourself. Parts you never paid attention to in the past, will now feel embarrassing to reveal even though everyone you know does so. Allah will be working on your heart. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">I felt I had to cover my hair right away. But it wasn't until later that I felt I needed to cover my ears, then my neck, and then the underside of my chin. The same happened with the rest of my clothing. Ankle-length skirts were fine at first. Now I would never even show the shape of my ankles.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">Of course there are reverts that dive in and are fully committed. I know a wonderful Muslimah who even started wearing all black and the niqab not long after her reversion. And she has never looked back! But most of us aren't like that. And we should never hold ourselves to someone else's standard. We are as Allah made us and as He wishes us to be. Be patient and merciful with yourself, as Allah is patient and merciful with you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">On this blog I have many economical and easy ways to incorporate Muslim clothing into your wardrobe. Just one piece can offer you many new outfits and ways to show your Muslim identity. Check them out!</span></span></div>
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<li><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/10/15-ways-to-have-new-clothes-for-eid.html" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">15 Ways to Have New Clothes for Eid with Little $ or Time</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-scarf-tunic.html" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Refashion: Scarf Tunic</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-15-minute-kaftan.html" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; color: black;">Refashion: 15 Minute Kaftan</span></a></li>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.4px;">Watch for many more. This is my favorite kind of post to write!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.4px;">So after a lot of thought, I decided that "frumpy" (or "scruffy") is actually all in your head. It is a feeling that is based on what clothing we are the most comfortable in. To get out of the "frumpy" mindset, you need to slowly incorporate new clothing into your existing wardrobe and give yourself time to adjust to them. Take time to learn the special skills need to wear them and feel confident. Take time to learn to appreciate your new silhouette and style as one given by Allah, not 5th Ave. Don't stop looking at those beautiful hijabi pics. Just don't expect them to be reality. Use them to learn and reset your view of beauty. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><img src="http://islamicartdb.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2014/12/yasmin-mogahed-my-body-was-created-to-pray/1513416286.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">You may still look "frumpy" to your friends and family. But remember that they have different goals for wearing clothing than you do. Non-Muslims wear clothes to impress people. To show off their bodies. For comfort. Lots of reasons. As Muslims we wear our clothing to please Allah. Regardless of other trivial concerns. For in the life of a Muslimah, Allah is what matters most of all.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><img alt="Proper Hijab" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3d/7c/15/3d7c1524823815a72d9bdac59955dc2c.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-25253298230021785702014-12-18T22:16:00.001-06:002017-03-10T12:45:08.612-06:00Refashion: Scarf Tunic<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7KfL8z6GbDSYPVIR-lNMSokDttj9VY6klMXS4Wfszd6cjCKr3XFv3ih8lxXTozwCPwuGfT3BSotS0-6cfn2g3X_OrPT2QQTJZfzUE2rtoDmw4HFT8CtTPtNI16boc5tDOVibolL90qWK/s640/DSC_0101.JPG" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;" width="640" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjizr6T1MQvzhUibY_bnQlhFgQuOTBU0eax0XKvUC5jj_nzbtlpK09uusFUJV6zQUhJgHV6dBURRPTxDWhlflw2xCUY4bI8CEHmc3YkMi632WQyO89Y15ozX4c6MkUgll2GwiATu8wi6H5W/s1600/Bismillah-al-rahman-al-rahim.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Hijabis</b> end up with LOTS of <b>scarves</b>. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We buy them because we need them. We buy them because we want them. We buy them because we can't pass up such a good deal. We buy them for that special event. We buy them because we want to try a new wrapping style and need a new shape, print, fabric, etc. to accomplish it. We are given them by friends and family cleaning out their closets. We find them at thrift shops and figure someone could use it, even if we don't care for it. We make them from a cool tutorial we found on the internet and just had to try. We buy them because it is a new season. (Spring and fall always do that to me!) We buy them to match a new outfit. We buy them because when you wear them everyday, they are the first thing people notice about you. And few women like to wear the same thing everyday. Since they are much less expensive than actual clothes, it is possible to have an entire wardrobe of scarves and just a few </span><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">jilbabs</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> and still look like you rarely wear the same thing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Since we end up acquiring so many, and really only have a few favorites we wear on a regular basis, we are left with quite a few that sit there unused, unloved, forgotten. Just waiting for their owner to have some inspiration on how they can be put into service again. Here is one idea... <b>sew a scarf tunic.</b> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is very similar to my last tutorial, <i><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-15-minute-kaftan.html" target="_blank">Refashion: 15 Minute Kaftan</a></i>. In that one, you took a <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-15-minute-kaftan.html" target="_blank">dupatta</a>, folded it in half, sewed up the sides, and cut a neck hole to make a garment. In this one, you combine two square scarves to be the front and back of your garment to make a scarf tunic. So this time you will need to sew along the shoulders as well, but you will have a finished neck hole without any work.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFP5nf9zbFjSwcWPNN3Y-Z0a_0V_v7Bbsbbo_MxLkxtRUBr3WMdKubJfKuezr1FHequAuR5509c33x-wsZI7V5QkPSr7kBhEOitqerExZSN9uaqG-slgsdhGsO3C7Q6rt2QDOnjn4VgVG_/s1600/20141201_214143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFP5nf9zbFjSwcWPNN3Y-Z0a_0V_v7Bbsbbo_MxLkxtRUBr3WMdKubJfKuezr1FHequAuR5509c33x-wsZI7V5QkPSr7kBhEOitqerExZSN9uaqG-slgsdhGsO3C7Q6rt2QDOnjn4VgVG_/s1600/20141201_214143.jpg" title="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" width="374" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 scarves (see below for a discussion on size, etc.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><u>INSTRUCTIONS</u>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">1.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Choose your scarves. I chose two 35" square scarves with matching patterns. But why limit yourself and be like me? The first thing to consider when choosing your scarves is size. The width of the scarves will be half the circumference of your garment. So combined, the width of both scarves must equal a measurement larger than the widest section of your torso. That is usually your bust or your hips. For me it is my hips, ugh!</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Measurements labeled B and F are the only ones you need for this project.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Remember when you measure yourself to <b>measure while sitting down</b>. Your measurements can change dramatically while sitting, especially your hips, but your bust also. Trust me. I learned this lesson the hard way. The first time I sat in an outfit I measured only while standing, I split the sides! What a waste of time, fabric, and hope.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="http://www.craveonline.com/images/stories/2011/2012/September/Film/Cinderella_Dress_Scene.jpg" height="224" width="400" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone knows that when you try on jeans you need to sit down in them to make sure you won't pass out, LOL! Same here. But no passing out. If you are a slim gal, you probably don't need to worry about this as any scarves large enough for this project should be plenty big for you. But if you are plus sized, you need to make sure your scarves will give you enough room. New clothes are no joy if you have to worry about how they fit. Swallow any guilt you may have and remember that there is no "size" for this garment since you are making it yourself. It is made in the size that Allah made you.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So make sure you choose scarves whose combined widths equal the measurement around the widest part of your body (bust or hips).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Important also is the length. I made this using square scarves, but there is no reason you couldn't use rectangles and have the tunic be longer, more like a kaftan. Or even have different lengths! Longer in back and shorter in front? Go wild!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next you need to think of pattern/color. I used two turkish style square "satin" (not real satin by any stretch of the imagination) scarves. Most of these style scarves are patterned. I chose two that were identical, but next time I want to mix it up! Mix two different patterns but same colors. Or have a patterned one for the front and a coordinating solid for the back. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5Sj-Vz78MGUUlEzs9GDnVAXXi9s6zGWjdv58xA_x8xX-yQUiRMJ1MtWYMEYgKJ-BfncII-zzDNXrB6EATQJhuDicyHVi3G4-p7eSB2A_lui7KjHu38mDpsTEzq4oZanJy87Q3mAZ7P8L/s640/HermesBlueScarf.jpg_effected.jpg" width="400" /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is a <a href="http://www.eaemileeanne.com/2012/11/a-scarf-collection.html" target="_blank">real Hermes scarf</a>. I wouldn't recommend using anything like this. But the shape and idea is the same.</span></i></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">The materials you use can affect your look. Satin is a bit more dressy. Cotton will be more casual and sporty. Also, be aware of your <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_210140811"></span>hijab<span id="goog_210140812"></span></a>. Be careful of fabrics that are see through or too clingy. Also of size. You want it to be baggy enough to be modest. I like to wear a loose chain belt over it to help avoid the "garbage bag" syndrome. If you have smaller waist than bust/hips, you will probably want to give it a little shape with a belt or a cardigan over it. Length is also important. You want to make sure your <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" target="_blank">arwa is covered</a>, if this is the longest garment you have on. Of course, you could make it shorter and layer it. But if not, make sure if covers past your crotch. A 35" square covered me fine, but I am only 5'4". So keep that in mind.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Make it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is really that easy. Do I need to say more?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">OK, I will go through the steps since this really isn't a tutorial without them. ;)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pin the sides together (right sides together), stopping 10" from one edge for the arm holes. Then, on the other side of that open edge, around the corner, pin shut leaving 10" open in the center for your head. Now, wherever you pinned,sew it. Now you are done. Cut your strings and try it on!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymIAfQkx0Ic6Ifp-DkMJ2cJG4qDr6AVbPLifN6SrY7fY-02jOtq-mtESR0hsG3r7dBmH4NoERfXp5B4_-EtExJqCWBYKd6u3B8nM-FLybOZ6swvI2mpzFcj-50Cz1CKCsY3HGTCh3rkBN/s1600/20141201_214143a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymIAfQkx0Ic6Ifp-DkMJ2cJG4qDr6AVbPLifN6SrY7fY-02jOtq-mtESR0hsG3r7dBmH4NoERfXp5B4_-EtExJqCWBYKd6u3B8nM-FLybOZ6swvI2mpzFcj-50Cz1CKCsY3HGTCh3rkBN/s1600/20141201_214143a.jpg" title="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" width="384" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sew where the yellow lines are. Easy peasy!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">See, even easier than the <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-15-minute-kaftan.html" target="_blank">dupatta kaftan</a>! You didn't believe me, did you?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you don't have a sewing machine, you could hand sew this easily. It will just take longer. Whip stitch along the edges of the scarf using small stitches for strength.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do not try using any "no-sew" techniques like iron on tape or fabric glue. I tried. The seams popped open when I sat down. There just is not enough strength in any of those methods to put up with the stress a garment goes through at the seams of the bust and hips.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And here are my pics!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-lUgxWBX_zbPfDxAhKULRowtEvAVuht2A8Aqv7mG-6wjvl6dJrulc10SeRJn1zQtWHdQpYYV6VlxCyt9U3yaa7jTe8nj0s2xPYW15A05XiEIf8zE5gKhPLvX5Qggy5a3ATX2CdXyV8wJ/s1600/20141201_213306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-lUgxWBX_zbPfDxAhKULRowtEvAVuht2A8Aqv7mG-6wjvl6dJrulc10SeRJn1zQtWHdQpYYV6VlxCyt9U3yaa7jTe8nj0s2xPYW15A05XiEIf8zE5gKhPLvX5Qggy5a3ATX2CdXyV8wJ/s1600/20141201_213306.jpg" title="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" width="298" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><i>Worn just plain. Warning! Garbage bag look. Not good on me.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhII_m35lZIyHUnrQ7-HHg-_n5qu4MXVlYkyDBUiNI__FwMuhffAbczHLfmHjs5mjomzprC2Pd_6SGdlc9HhjKTormvCjN3NotpAJy4nDhFe-o9hSJ9CsCRau2hxSXH8YbWO2_DT7imwP4b/s1600/20141201_213412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhII_m35lZIyHUnrQ7-HHg-_n5qu4MXVlYkyDBUiNI__FwMuhffAbczHLfmHjs5mjomzprC2Pd_6SGdlc9HhjKTormvCjN3NotpAJy4nDhFe-o9hSJ9CsCRau2hxSXH8YbWO2_DT7imwP4b/s1600/20141201_213412.jpg" title="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" width="270" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><i>Much better with a loose chain belt. Not too tight that it negates my hijab. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieih87fKeSn91PVJxvR_21yy-DSEwHBUaWzfM0S7UxGSJ5N7TBSqVEr3gHsur_Zq74zqJqdZa3-4rhvWODtwyYZaTKTMoAXGVLQD4lrgHHkafmjN31M43Is0QFZUJrDrXdrSmx8x4kDlkU/s1600/20141201_213457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieih87fKeSn91PVJxvR_21yy-DSEwHBUaWzfM0S7UxGSJ5N7TBSqVEr3gHsur_Zq74zqJqdZa3-4rhvWODtwyYZaTKTMoAXGVLQD4lrgHHkafmjN31M43Is0QFZUJrDrXdrSmx8x4kDlkU/s1600/20141201_213457.jpg" width="288" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> My favorite way it wear it is layered. This is under my favorite jean jacket.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9sDzVQcKW13NfTgQoNkIa3AlzcjY2YSHsE7F1zM2G3Ij-6i6SNCBYpKA_IBrUN41886phvLTzP0s6jANvCdppfznmJQ3V2qOPUiuQWWM88hWWMbWg4-exkD9NJGEkgZZV_41UIURIGZ4/s1600/20141201_213509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9sDzVQcKW13NfTgQoNkIa3AlzcjY2YSHsE7F1zM2G3Ij-6i6SNCBYpKA_IBrUN41886phvLTzP0s6jANvCdppfznmJQ3V2qOPUiuQWWM88hWWMbWg4-exkD9NJGEkgZZV_41UIURIGZ4/s1600/20141201_213509.jpg" title="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" width="260" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><i>More jean jacket.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNLXTxXGhkW9I8E2qnhnUFTVSrAMaMfS7IfhNtpIBhohfSSKjJIAF_7nQR04n5DptSinv38Rgq-OCqYVsMaVWFX3KvG3NIUCB9u8tLiIBjNT5ni3LM7PbUcXFYztQeK5Be6DEoAXdOKAv/s1600/20141201_213607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNLXTxXGhkW9I8E2qnhnUFTVSrAMaMfS7IfhNtpIBhohfSSKjJIAF_7nQR04n5DptSinv38Rgq-OCqYVsMaVWFX3KvG3NIUCB9u8tLiIBjNT5ni3LM7PbUcXFYztQeK5Be6DEoAXdOKAv/s1600/20141201_213607.jpg" title="Refashion: Scarf tunic hijab" width="252" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Under a cardigan. An easy way to add length while layering.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My favorite way to wear a scarf tunic is layering it. Here you see winter layering. A turtleneck and a jacket or cardigan. But it can work in summer as well. A long sleeve t-shirt underneath or a light jacket or cardigan on top. I would choose one of the other in hot weather. But this is a fun, easy, inexpensive way to add length from the waist in a Western wardrobe. Perfect for new hijabis!</span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-2919922149479406922014-12-02T12:58:00.000-06:002017-03-10T12:45:38.573-06:00Refashion: 15 Minute Kaftan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">I love <b>dupattas</b> because of their beautiful colors, fabrics and decorations! But I <i>do not</i> like to wear them on my head. There is just too much fabric there. I am not good at wrapping them and normally end up with a wad of wrapped fabric at my throat choking</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> me! <i>I hate that. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I have all these amazing <b>dupattas</b> I kept telling myself I should resell but I just couldn't do it. Then I thought up this idea...<b> making them into a kaftan</b>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This project literally can take you 15 minutes. This isn't one of those internet promises where the person claiming it is a way more experienced crafter or just suffers from what my family calls "<i>time fantasies</i>". This literally took me 15 minutes this morning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="http://i1183.photobucket.com/albums/x469/jaipurkalakendra/Kantha%20Work%20Dupatta%202/DSC00082.jpg" height="450" width="640" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">BUT, you must have the right materials and the right kind of fabric for it to be a 15 minute project. Otherwise it could be longer.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You are basically sewing up the sides of a large dupatta, leaving openings for arms, and cutting a hole for the neck. Viola. That is it. You probably don't even need to keep reading.</span></span><br />
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A dupatta is a type of veil worn mainly in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. They are extremely beautiful, being very colorful and/or richly embroidered and/or beaded. Usually they are of quite thin fabric since the areas where they are from are commonly quite hot. But they also come in thicker fabrics like woven wool as it can be quite cold in the mountains in the winter.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have bought all of my dupattas off of eBay (except the pink one I used here, that was a gift from a friend). There are some nice sellers that specialize in selling vintage items from India. I have gotten dupattas for only $7 apiece for simpler ones and even as little as $25 for very fancy ones.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.cbazaar.com/dupattas/silk_cotton-fabric/c-sb.html" target="_blank">CBazaar</a> is another affordable place to buy dupattas. I have never purchased from them and cannot comment on their service. If you have dealt with them or have any other good sources, please share in the comments.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dupattas are not always worn as hijab. Meaning they are not always worn to conceal what a hijabi wants to conceal. Many of them are thin fabric that can become form fitting (especially as a kaftan) or are see through. So keep that in mind when buying them or planning how you will wear them. A see through one may be beautiful over a long-sleeved, full-length abaya but not so much over a shirt and pants. One that is thin and hugs your curves too much may work if worn under a long cardigan and layered. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dupattas normally are part of a pants set called a Salwar Kameez. The Salwar are loose cotton pants worn under the Kameez, which is a tunic (or longer) length top. The dupatta is then worn draped alternately around the head, shoulders, arms and chest. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1398814999779790572" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="http://urbanduniya.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/foodline.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In Pakistan and India, it is seen as rude to have your hair uncovered in public for men and women, though this is not followed as much by the younger generations. Normally, a woman would tie/keep her hair back and loosely cover it with her dupatta or she may just wear it as a shawl draped loosely over her arms and shoulders. If she were Muslim and more conservative, she would wrap her dupatta so her hair and neck couldn't be seen at all, to fulfill the requirements of hijab.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #ea9999;">15</span><span style="color: #a2c4c9;"> Minute</span><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> Kaftan</span></b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 dupatta (make sure you have one wide enough to generously fit your body and long enough for the length you want.)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAOPrzZqSUsbFOVBJfDYeaQCIZZcOr_HGpUIjq8gV8NgT3bL-yVr9a2y0rwSIOXOtwJz18w7JPHUhibsCm9NFZJP7GD_9qyIGyeagW7X1tJTFc23U6ChmNM2L8ocqwX7vQwhZDABD6Fa7/s1600/20141201_212712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAOPrzZqSUsbFOVBJfDYeaQCIZZcOr_HGpUIjq8gV8NgT3bL-yVr9a2y0rwSIOXOtwJz18w7JPHUhibsCm9NFZJP7GD_9qyIGyeagW7X1tJTFc23U6ChmNM2L8ocqwX7vQwhZDABD6Fa7/s1600/20141201_212712.jpg" width="288" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Instructions:</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fold the dupatta lengthwise in half. It should be wide enough for a loose garment and long enough as well. I like knee length and they are normally perfect for that. If you want a dress length, you will have to look for a longer dupatta.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sew up each side starting at the bottom, stopping 10 inches below the fold. That is your arm hole. Do the same on the opposite side.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fold in half widthwise. Measure 4 inches out from the folded point along the folded edge at the top. Mark the spot on each side. Mark 3 1/2 inches down from the center point. Fold all the markings together, making a triangle point. Cut from one mark to the other. You now have a neck hole.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are two important details which make this a 15 minute project. The first is that you plan to wear it <b>under</b> a hijab, so the neckline will be hidden.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Second it that the fabric is a kind that doesn't unravel easy. Many dupatta are made out of a thin polyester. These are perfect. The edges do not unravel easily and can be finished by burning them with a lighter. Of course, this doesn't look the prettiest, but it works and won't be seen with a hijab.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Other dupattas, especially cotton ones, will unravel and present more of a problem. Then it isn't a 15 minute project anymore.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you have the right kind and don't mind the "unfinished" neckline, you are done! </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTBpqxHdtGS3S8fC60sDWVIPWvAp5PM1IcS6VDw2Ek5yrCGwGqKDc6mbejNGPVX5oZXWWDFjCiy_wlg1VRVLRNz8zc7c3hA5Q4XfX1AuLxX8YSFk2II6S-UTf1L3GymiTaHO5hh8gUy4T/s1600/20141201_212906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTBpqxHdtGS3S8fC60sDWVIPWvAp5PM1IcS6VDw2Ek5yrCGwGqKDc6mbejNGPVX5oZXWWDFjCiy_wlg1VRVLRNz8zc7c3hA5Q4XfX1AuLxX8YSFk2II6S-UTf1L3GymiTaHO5hh8gUy4T/s1600/20141201_212906.jpg" width="336" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBbilNKsnXr2dfYdLUlqVOGzMU1dUWYvG2VD_ieRjAjrcHAFCdNQKd_8NOekQWaFdd-F9VI9e93-nzKYwLV3MEgCbpCPbp1THm_aO4Bvx5Bvmx6ymrYunvHivSHOHHWwgKESnxl6yQ5n0/s1600/20141201_212919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBbilNKsnXr2dfYdLUlqVOGzMU1dUWYvG2VD_ieRjAjrcHAFCdNQKd_8NOekQWaFdd-F9VI9e93-nzKYwLV3MEgCbpCPbp1THm_aO4Bvx5Bvmx6ymrYunvHivSHOHHWwgKESnxl6yQ5n0/s1600/20141201_212919.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See the fun beaded edge along the bottom?</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you want a more finished neckline, read on...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1.) A hand sewn, rolled hem. This is actually very easy to do. But I must admit that I have a lot of experience with hand sewing. I once made a reproduction 1860's corset entirely sewn by hand. So to me a hand rolled hem is nothing, but I do think it is fairly easy if you have some experience. <a href="http://hubpages.com/hub/How-to-sew-a-rolled-hem" target="_blank">Here are some good instructions.</a> And a video:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2.) A bias tape covered hem. You can buy double folded bias tape anywhere they sell sewing supplies. I get mine at Walmart. <a href="http://infectiousstitches.wordpress.com/2013/09/13/tutorial-how-to-perfectly-fit-bias-tape-to-an-armhole-or-neckline/" target="_blank">Here are instructions for doing this kind of neckline.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3.) A normal neckline is done by adding pieces called "facing" that fold along the seam and hang inside the garment. Normally the same fabric is used so the neckline looks finished and the facing is basically invisible. In this case (since you don't have extra fabric), if you have some fabric scraps that blend (or don't, since your neckline will be hidden by your hijab) and are a similar weight fabric (that is important or the facing won't hang right), you can add in a facing to finish the neckline. <a href="http://www.randomlyhappyblog.com/2013/07/how-to-sew-facing.html" target="_blank">Here are instructions on how this works. </a> You do not need a pattern for cutting facing pieces. Just trace the neckline as perfectly as you can. Then cut a couple inches around the neckline. You will be doing the facing in two pieces. Sew the pieces together at the short ends (normally the top of the shoulder). Then pin the neckline edge to the neckline of the kaftan. Sew the neckline and facing together, right sides together. Iron, folding the facing to the inside, wrong sides together. Keep in mind that this method should only be used with opaque dupattas. The facing will show through otherwise. This video does a fantastic job of showing you how it works.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So now you have a new kaftan! You can wear it as a house dress or layer it as a jilbab. I love to wear them with loose pants and a turtleneck, a cardigan or jacket over the top. In the summer they are a cool jilbab worn with loose cotton or linen pants and a long sleeved t-shirt or light cardigan. And since they are so affordable, you can have a whole wardrobe of colorful overgarments!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NzR_3Ro7vECtUdtnnIRM18VLazm0Gg1IiRc218COqRB3jDcqgRhaO1keGJqflFU3fGGypS8xAzgq64Y6a6OIYnDZMRqIoAT_yVd9JZvuh0viRgbpg6CBa0sHUtGH1BWKN_DULNQMWcaB/s1600/20141201_211151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NzR_3Ro7vECtUdtnnIRM18VLazm0Gg1IiRc218COqRB3jDcqgRhaO1keGJqflFU3fGGypS8xAzgq64Y6a6OIYnDZMRqIoAT_yVd9JZvuh0viRgbpg6CBa0sHUtGH1BWKN_DULNQMWcaB/s1600/20141201_211151.jpg" width="322" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Worn with a short-sleeved cardigan. It looks even better when I wear a black turtleneck!</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie68Y9x9tVpJvKx5R39_AUdSiprpmyNJVmS336ULJr7hKKrKaZuIFfqKyIAovZzTBZ5c8EHGfS_BT0jVDRNtOxPxRDJK7meQOPLW7mfir5i88bJJPeHfuVItrbSD5gk52aENHnZEiJLIys/s1600/20141201_212327+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie68Y9x9tVpJvKx5R39_AUdSiprpmyNJVmS336ULJr7hKKrKaZuIFfqKyIAovZzTBZ5c8EHGfS_BT0jVDRNtOxPxRDJK7meQOPLW7mfir5i88bJJPeHfuVItrbSD5gk52aENHnZEiJLIys/s1600/20141201_212327+(1).jpg" width="290" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With a long. black vest over the top. But one that wasn't long enough to wear on it's own. In this way, I got to save a piece a clothing that normally I couldn't wear anymore!</span></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkTbYvxsnBZ76b265yU4Fgmsd3IuxsG8ykcwJRWRxw46co7mRpkxSmUPofYK9IejXArk8ORw3HLfaHIL0e8VyBJakhl5G5bX0l84K6mExXTXJsAdgD-SYAQJbzFz-wwGy3aS92gJ__2gq/s1600/20141201_212530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="artsy fartsy muslimah" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkTbYvxsnBZ76b265yU4Fgmsd3IuxsG8ykcwJRWRxw46co7mRpkxSmUPofYK9IejXArk8ORw3HLfaHIL0e8VyBJakhl5G5bX0l84K6mExXTXJsAdgD-SYAQJbzFz-wwGy3aS92gJ__2gq/s1600/20141201_212530.jpg" title="artsy fartsy muslimah" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With my favorite jean jacket.</span></i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7r6-PIjB0cS0SWgflTgQfrC20SArhA3aYFpnWRsSuWG2NRZ6bG1ninfwLnYLsOP0d_7I5mNGIGTOxO74f6qEdgmBAbj7DR4fA8AEIZNIaWwTV8Ko6H_VCiK8rmRYC6A3qRFTbkaLA4fWl/s1600/Bismillah-al-rahman-al-rahim+(1).gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">About a year ago I bought </span><a href="http://www.eastessence.com/islamic-clothing/abaya-and-jilbab/Bahar-Abaya.html" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">this abaya</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> from </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">East Essence</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">. I ordered the "khaki" color, which is actually a dark army olive green. And it was... OK. There is nothing really wrong with it. I just never felt comfortable with it the way it is. The fabric is thick and not comfortable for an </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">abaya</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">, I thought. More suited to a coat than a dress.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I spent about $28 on it, so I didn't want to just get rid of it. I figured there <i>must</i> be a way to change how I feel about it.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, I know you can wear an <b>abaya as a jilbab</b> and that is probably their actual purpose. But I can't get over my Western idea that an abaya is just a dress. And this one I felt was uncomfortable as a dress. So I decided to <b>refashion</b> it into something I enjoy wearing. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since I recently started always wearing an overgarment (what I refer to as a </span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">jilbab</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">) when out in public, I have been in desperate need of more of them. No girl likes to wear the same thing day in and day out! And since I don't have extra money for new clothes, I needed to be creative in how to get some.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So I had an idea for this abaya and when I looked at the structure of it, I saw it would work perfectly!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This abaya buttons from the neck to the waist. The buttons are hidden behind a placket. Then there is a fake placket from the waist to the hem. My plan was to open this fake placket, add closures for the bottom half and shorten it to calf length.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My only worry was the drawstring at the waist. If the casing for the drawstring was sewn over the seam for that placket (and that connects the two sides of the front together), then I wasn't sure what I would do. But, </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">mash'Allah</i><span style="font-size: large;">, it did not. There was one clear seam from the open top through to the hem.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I like my <i>jalabib</i> (plural of <i>jilbab</i>) to be openable from the front since I often go places where I may take them off (private residences of family or close friends). And to me it is weird to go to someone's house to visit and have to pull my jilbab off over my head. Pulling over my head feels like undressing and makes me stretch in a way I don't want to even in front of people I am related to. Opening down the front is much more convenient and modest.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Plus, they just feel more like a jilbab to me if they open down the front. I also prefer them calf length. I like my pants or skirts showing out the bottom. Again, to me it seems like more of a jilbab because people can see you have clothes on underneath. For years I had no idea other muslimahs were wearing more clothes (other than underwear) under their abayas! And since I live in a predominantly non-Muslim community (so people don't know our clothing customs) and people are supposed to realize we are wearing an OVERgarment (over other clothes), I like to "sh<span style="background-color: #cccccc;">ow" people I am wearing clothes underneath.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"><i style="background-color: white;">Ya ayyuha an-Nabiyy qul li azwajika wa banatika wa nisa al-mu'minin yudnina alayhinna min jalabib hinna; dhalika adna an yu'rafna fa laa yu'dhayn. Wa kana Allahu Ghafur Rahim</i></b></span></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">O Prophet! Say to your wives and your daughters and the women of the faithful to draw their JALABIB close around them; that is better that they will be recognized and not annoyed. And God is ever Forgiving, Gentle. </span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Quran, Surah al-Ahzab ayah 59 (33:59) </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For more info on why I dress the way I do, see <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" target="_blank">my post on hijab</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b style="background-color: white;">THE REFASHION:</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was able to open the seam behind the fake placket down the front. One seam ripper and some mindless TV. Easy peasy.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then, instead of actually sewing them (both due to laziness and because I didn't have of that color thread <i>and</i> didn't like the way black looked with the weird olive color of the fabric), I used iron-on hem tape to cover the raw edges from the seam I just opened.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Same stuff I used (but different color). I picked it up at Walmart for $1.67 a pack. I used 1 1/2 packs for this project. Sometimes my laziness </i><u>is</u><i> able to overcome my miserliness.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQuHm6UcMl8gorZ1__Ipe3pciScnkMZE5EZPEv9l3wFQG3M5vjdaxgZATIRc2_mk5FtfN5S1DuRhXKN-aa_cj32WEwLuoaQ9BG3rKuaWr7YA5o8U45G68Rpr4VavIF9AHzajprmyJdtbo/s1600/20141006_221320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQuHm6UcMl8gorZ1__Ipe3pciScnkMZE5EZPEv9l3wFQG3M5vjdaxgZATIRc2_mk5FtfN5S1DuRhXKN-aa_cj32WEwLuoaQ9BG3rKuaWr7YA5o8U45G68Rpr4VavIF9AHzajprmyJdtbo/s1600/20141006_221320.jpg" width="384" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> <i>Here is the hem tape after using it. Wish I had used a darker color, though. But since it doesn't show I guess it doesn't matter.</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I then measured for shortening it. I knew I wanted it calf length. I don't have anyone handy to help me with hems, so I have devised my own do-it-yourself method.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I put on a pair of older knit pants. Then I put on the garment. Holding it the best I can to my body (and noting in the mirror where it hits) I bend over and mark with tailor's chalk where the hem lands on my pant's leg. Then I hike it up to where I want it to land and do the same.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The method isn't the most accurate, but with a </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">jilbab</i><span style="font-size: large;"> hem you can off by an inch or so and it doesn't matter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I measure between the two marks on my pants and now I know how much I need to cut off my garment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For this one I measured 8 inches. But I have to remember the hem. I actually removed only 7 inches, leaving room for the hem. I measured, marked with chalk and cut, moving slowly and carefully around the hem. It is a wide hem (the skirt is fuller than it looks in the picture above) so it takes patience and care to get it straight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After it was cut off, I used iron on seam tape for the hem. Again, laziness and lack of thread. Plus the stuff is SO easy! I ironed on the tape along the edge of the hem all the way around. I peeled off the paper covering, folded it over and ironed it down to complete the hem. To make it all nice and neat, I also covered the hem's raw edges with the same iron-on hem tape I used earlier.</span></div>
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<img src="http://yeswecoupon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/HemTape.jpg" /></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">They call this stuff hem tape too. I called it seam tape to be clear. I love this stuff! </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is NOT how you use it though!</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iNElUkMmCJxp3g5lYJ0Fsi0SDgHK83Eb_rlj_GEJFuibwu2ZwyNueOIS-S0zJQ0S65nXwuT278Srb5uSD35IkV55RNspZ507qDgnNcN2HIglbg82uA7Y3p5i8I3LqhWmBd48PVc9T-B3/s1600/20140919_231925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iNElUkMmCJxp3g5lYJ0Fsi0SDgHK83Eb_rlj_GEJFuibwu2ZwyNueOIS-S0zJQ0S65nXwuT278Srb5uSD35IkV55RNspZ507qDgnNcN2HIglbg82uA7Y3p5i8I3LqhWmBd48PVc9T-B3/s1600/20140919_231925.jpg" width="384" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The bottom right edge shows the seam tape (with and without the paper covering still on). The loose section is the hem tape I placed over the rough edge.</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now I just had to decide how to close the bottom. I found some pearl covered snaps I really liked, but thought it would be weird for the closures</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;"> to only show on the bottom half. So I will save them for my next refashion </span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">(I have another "abaya to jilbab refashion" planned! Check back for it.) </i></span></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These are the snaps I rejected. But I can't wait to use them on my next project! I think they will be very pretty.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next I considered hooks and eyes. But they didn't seem right. So I went with snaps that you cannot see from the outside.</span></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Hook and eye: nice, but for another project.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sew in snaps that are unseen from the outside of the garment. Perfect!</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;">I measured the placket, deciding that the last 6 inches would be open. I was left with 20 inches. I decided to have 4 inches in between each snap. Counting one at the top, I had 6 snaps to sew on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I measured each 4 inch space and marked it with chalk. Then I sewed the top (the males) snaps down.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After the tops were finished, I did the bottoms (the females). To get an accurate spot to sew them to, I rub my tailors chalk on the male side and then carefully pressed it to the side where the female should go. Left behind was a dot of chalk to show me where to sew the female.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">After that, I was done! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I wore it... and realized... </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">I had made a mistake.</i><span style="font-size: large;"> The snaps popped open so easily. PLUS, I had used silver ones, figuring so one would see them, but since they popped open easily they were easily seen. Not good. Luckily I wore it to an event where I was mostly standing so there was little popping going on. But I went straight home and planned a fix.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now I have sewed in hooks and eyes. I was worried they would be too difficult to open but that is much better than opening too easy! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wore it to work as a test. A much more controlled environment. Worked great!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I now had a new </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">jilbab</i><span style="font-size: large;">. It doesn't look a whole lot different, except for the length. But for me it is much easier to wear. I now have a garment that is a working member of my wardrobe instead of always being pushed to the back of the closet. </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">Alhamdullilah!</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">WHAT I WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I figure every project has things you wish you had done differently. I want to share with you mine, so hopefully you will avoid some of my mistakes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As I already said, I wish I would have chosen hooks and eyes the first time around.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If I was going to keep the snaps, I wish I would have used black ones.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wish I would have used hem tape that matched better. I used some I bought for something else. It is a light taupe color and is noticeable if the hem flips open/up. Doesn't happen much, but I am picky.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lessons learned.</span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-34976661138045572942014-10-07T23:30:00.000-05:002017-03-10T12:46:38.925-06:00Refashion: Boring shrug robe to fun jilbab!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is a <i><b>shrug robe</b></i> from <a href="http://www.eastessence.com/islamic-clothing/abaya-and-jilbab/Classy-Shrug-robe-Black.html" target="_blank">East Essence</a>. It is made from a knit fabric. It costs $19.99. A good deal. Right?</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.eastessence.com/core/media/media.nl?id=30419&c=3374976&h=54cdbf9839d9af822823" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://www.eastessence.com/core/media/media.nl?id=30419&c=3374976&h=54cdbf9839d9af822823" height="640" width="387" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I thought so too. But when I got it, I just wasn't excited by it. Unfortunately I get that a lot with the clothes from <b>East Essence</b>. Many of their designs are just not... <i>there</i>. BUT, their prices <i>are</i> so I can tweak them and add that extra flair!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As I have recently started always wearing a jilbab when going out in public (see my <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" target="_blank">post on hijab</a> to know why and what a <b>jilbab</b> is), I have really needed more of them!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This shrug did the job required of a jilbab if I pinned the front closed. But I still didn't like the all black. For an entire year after my late husband passed I wore ALL black and I just can't stomach that much black anymore. It puts me right back into that grief mindset.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You wouldn't think you would feel all covered in black in this shrug by looking at the picture, but when you pin the front shut and it covers you shoulders to ankles, you are covered in black!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First I needed a new way to close it. Pinning it was ruining the fabric and was a hassle. A few times the pin had come open and caused me some embarrassment not to mention pain.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So at Walmart I found these giant snaps. I think they are fun and perfect for this!</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">They look just like this and are as big as a quarter!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But I still wanted to liven it up somehow and add some color. Hmmm...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I found the snaps I looked at the ribbons. And there was a pretty satin rainbow diagonal stripe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After some consideration I decided to go for it. Now, this was not a project for a beginner. And though I don't consider myself a beginning sewer, I am close to it when it comes to sewing knits. Knits are a whole different ballgame.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pinned the ribbon to the inner edge of the shrug; from the bottom edge on one side, up to the neck and then down the other side. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I sewed the ribbon on the edge not on the outer edge first (see pic below)</span><span style="font-size: large;">, which I DO NOT recommend! The ribbon and the fabric of the shrug would have been much easier to handle if I had started on the outside edge first.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then I sewed the snap on at waist level. The nice thing about this shrug is that when it is closed by just one pin or snap at waist level, it actually stays shut well all the way down. There is extra fabric that overlaps and keeps it closed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wouldn't recommend wearing anything tight or revealing underneath on the bottom. I only wear full skirts or loose pants, so I don't worry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So now I have a new jilbab and a fun one at that!</span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-71159726053691225772014-10-01T23:02:00.002-05:002017-03-10T12:46:59.061-06:0015 Ways to Have New Clothes for Eid with Little $ or Time<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">So, it is almost <b>Eid</b> (or <b>Byram</b> as is said in Eastern Europe/Turkey) and we all know that <b>new clothes</b> are a tradition for our holidays. But what if you have no money left in the budget for a new outfit? Refashion!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am sorry this post is a little late. I actually didn't think of it until about 10 minutes ago. But a major part of what I intend for this blog is about <b>refashioning clothes</b>. Making the old new again, or at least different so you feel you have something new. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now I know there isn't a lot of time left for any major projects, so I thought I would just compile a list of some easy and quick things you can do to change an old and boring piece of clothing. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. <b>Embellish it! </b> At your local craft store or even Walmart, you can get little rhinestones that can be glued or ironed on. Beads that you sew on. Pretty, bright colored threads with which you can embroider on a design.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. <b>Add a lace edging. </b> Recycle some vintage lace or buy some lace edging/ribbon and sew onto the edges of your cuffs and hem of your abaya. Sew the edge to the inside of the edge with it hanging out for a professional look.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">pic from <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" target="_blank">Old School Hijabi</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. <b>Dye it.</b> Rit dye is cheap and easy. Dye your abaya or jilbab a whole new color! This works best to go from a light shade to a dark, but you can mix colors as well. Try a green over blue for a teal. Dark colored clothing won't show a color change, of course. (the end of <a href="http://sweet-verbena.blogspot.com/2011/07/boho-maxi-dress-tutorial.html" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> has good dyeing instructions)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0sW94NJhjJ4l4mxzNnaFQa63zwNoJ96GiYk0w4e6oqREi7coEEwDa9cHqSsXWKVux3E3mplcJNZlo9yUyA22YQicZc1nUkrcNTZtYzsk7y41QjbcI-pmLj3M45L3ycNo0LpF9UEJAuEOu/s640/IMG_1648.JPG" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. <b>Add a ribbon edging.</b> Sew a ribbon along the edges of your cuffs, hem, or a placket.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y188/msonmezay/Craft%20Projects/SL377333.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. <b>Shorten </b>an abaya to tunic length and wear with a skirt or loose pants.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6.<b> Lengthen </b>a tunic or shirt with a panel of fabric to make an abaya. (<a href="http://ummhisham.blogspot.com/2012/05/dyi-abaya-in-2-hours.html" target="_blank">see link for tutorial</a>)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">7.<b> Sew </b>a simple maxi skirt. (<a href="http://crazylittleprojects.com/2012/09/sew-your-own-maxi-skirt-its-easy.html" target="_blank">see this tutorial</a>.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Free Maxi Skirt Pattern" src="http://crazylittleprojects.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Howtomakeamaxiskirt-635x1024.jpg" height="640" width="396" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. <b>Turn a maxi skirt into a pair of wide-legged pants</b>. (<a href="http://www.earthboundtrading.com/blog/2013/10/17/diy-skirt-to-palazzo-pant/" target="_blank">see this link for a tutorial.</a>)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="DIY Skirt to Palazzo Pants by Earthbound" src="http://www.earthboundtrading.com/assets/ebt/blog/10-17-DIYSkirtToPalazzoPants/IMG_2938-edit-web.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">9. <b>Sew a dupatta into a skirt </b>by cutting it in half, sewing up the sides, and sewing an elastic waistband.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. <b>Sew a tunic</b> with matching (or contrasting?) scarves and wear over a long sleeve shirt or plain abaya. <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-scarf-tunic.html">(see my post)</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Completed dress made from 2 scarves" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/d4/3d/b1/d43db1c8bd4a6f239cc7698b89bf71c3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">11. <b>Sew a simple caftan</b> to wear over a long sleeve shirt. (see <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/refashion-15-minute-kaftan.html">my tutorial </a>and pics below)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Spanish Marie�s Caftan" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/f7/48/60/f74860c53ae6f04745695f06cd275358.jpg" height="640" width="294" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">12.<b>Sew a simple maxi dress.</b> (<a href="http://sweet-verbena.blogspot.com/2011/07/boho-maxi-dress-tutorial.html" target="_blank">See this tutorial</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYCOy3KpGy0sWFZogNexzH3SNSwuG5OqewtLdXRswztj0mLDuRbJY_g141THSg2TsZZsthYjYDzOIU-6ROetPNCyMqNa2GkS3w-SPeqz9dOLZ4Eh_dKkdM7zQACDOWqpGnGeuLcxCCQu5/s640/IMG_1752.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">13. <b>Sew a scarf into a cute jacket/shrug</b> to wear over an abaya. Just sew up the sides to create arms.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="diy kimono cape. Get scarf and sew up sides" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e7/6e/af/e76eafbc10ce63110f77518e7b84be69.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">14.<b> Sew a dupatta into a tunic </b>by cutting in half and sewing up the sides and top, leaving holes for arms and neck.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">15. <b>Take a large panel of lace (even curtains or a tablecloth can work) and sew into a caftan </b>to wear over an abaya (see the caftan tutorials above). Try dying (see tutorial above) for a nice change than your normal white or ivory lace. Or find a panel of black lace for sophistication!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT6B0yo3dfC_xBk_1ADW4t-mrXCOb0kbUEEaYIBL2b5J0ro2xGY" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So there are 15 ideas for creating new clothes for Eid from almost no money or time!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please share with me in the comments any other ideas you have! And send me pics of your creations! I will only share them if I have your permission.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>May Allah (swt) bless you and your family this Eid!</i></b></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-82574973671306545502014-09-20T20:35:00.001-05:002017-03-10T12:47:35.108-06:00DIY: How to sew a French Jilbab<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I fell in LOVE</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;"> the <b>French jilbeb</b> after I read about them on </span><a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><i>Old School Hijabi's</i> blog</span></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">. She is THE expert on them, as far as I'm concerned. ;) I also would rather make anything I can instead of buying, so I decided to figure out <b>how to sew a French jilbeb</b> so I could have one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">She believes, and I tend to agree, that they are a perfect garment for a jilbeb in western culture.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> They are easy to move in, come in amazing colors, cover Western clothing well (so underneath you can wear your favorite jeans and t-shirt), and they identify you as Muslim. All important points for wearing a jilbeb.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I just recently started wearing jalabib. I didn't realize before that it was a requirement of hijab. </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">(If you want to know more about wearing jalabib </span><span style="font-size: large;">(plural of jilbab) </span><span style="font-size: large;">in general and as a requirement from Allah, see <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">my post on hijab</span></a> and <a href="http://www.muhajabah.com/jilbab.htm#sharia" target="_blank"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">this article</span></a>.) </span></i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In my quest to start wearing the jalabib, I thought about buying the French jilbeb style, but I always have the theory </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">"Why should I buy when I can make?"</i><span style="font-size: large;"> I love a challenge! Plus I must admit to being pretty cheap, both from necessity and as a general personality trait, LOL.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I did buy two secondhand ones I </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">thought</i><span style="font-size: large;"> were French jalabib from someone on Facebook, but they turned out to be khimar that they added sleeves and the forehead tie to. Not what I was looking for, but examining them has helped me understand how the forehead tie works and the actual vast differences in design construction that can exist between different styles of overhead garments.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Looking at pics on </span><i style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" target="_blank">Old School Hijabi's</a></i><span style="font-size: large;"> blog and on sites where you can buy them (</span><a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/guide-to-the-french-overhead-jelbab-part-3/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">see <i>Old School Hijabi's</i> blog for a list of online stores</a><span style="font-size: large;">) I got a pretty good idea of how they are constructed and what they look like. I also found this pic on pinterest: </span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately, the blog where this image is originally from is gone. I cannot give credit to the owner. If you know whose drawing this is, let me know and I will gladly give them credit.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I didn't actually follow this diagram much, but I did find it very helpful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here are some pics (all from <i><a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" target="_blank">Old School Hijabi</a>, thank you!</i>) that helped me visualize how they are made and how they are worn:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love this one because it shows that this style looks good on ALL shapes and sizes of women.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This one shows how the forehead tie looks and is attached.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This one shows that the seams go down the TOP of the arm. When I figured that out, it all made sense.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This one show that you can wear them with niqab as well.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Look how much fun you can have in them!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This one is VERY similar to the one I made, even the color is the same!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So pretty and elegant! That is close to the color of fabric I have for my next one.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Fun for more than one!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So cool!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I just LOVE them!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After about two weeks of thinking through how the garment works and what the pattern should look like, I decided one afternoon to dive in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In all, this project took me about 10 hours. It would have taken less (more like 6 or 7) if I hadn't had to redo the sleeves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>NOTE:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>This is an easy sewing project especially compared to sewing Western style clothes, but you still need some sewing experience. This is a tutorial for making a French jilbab, NOT for learning how to sew. You should be familiar with basic sewing techniques, making an elastic hem (for the cuffs), setting in a simple sleeve, hemming, and simple altering of a pattern for your own size. I endeavor to describe things as much as possible and give links for other tutorials. Please read the entire tutorial through a few times before attempting it and I strongly suggest you use cheap fabric for your first try.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">First, </span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">materials needed:</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Fabric: </b>I chose a beautiful green fabric. I don't really know fabrics, but when I read about the commercial ones being made of fine crepe, this is the fabric I imagine. I had 3 3/4 yards that was 46" wide. I bought it at a thrift store for $4.00. At least 4 yards would have made the sleeve<i> </i>construction <i>much </i>easier and that is the minimum amount I recommend depending on your size. I also recommend at least 60 inch wide fabric especially if you are plus size. If gives you more room for your shoulders. I am 5'4" tall and a size 24. I made mine to be about calf length. It is more the length than the width. If you want one floor length or are tall, you will need more fabric. Make sure you choose a light fabric (so it isn't too heavy off your head) but not too thin as to show the shape of your body and not see-through! As I mentioned, various types of polyester crepe are what is normally used. If you are nervous or are a beginner, I suggest you use a cheaper fabric for your trial run.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>matching color thread</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>tailor's chalk</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>sewing shears</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>sewing machine</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>measuring tape</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">a <b>pair of socks</b> if desired for sleeve cuffs <i>(I used fancy trouser socks. But any socks will do. Consider their thickness (for during warm weather) and if they are a color/pattern you always want on your jilbab.) If you decide not to have cuffs like that, you will need <b>thin elastic</b> for the cuffs.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Instructions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First you will need <b>accurate measurements</b> of yourself. Some of the ones you need are not your normal sewing measurements.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><u>Measurement A:</u> </i>The length you want your jilbab to be measured from the top of your head to the hemline you want.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><u>Measurement B:</u> The</i> widest point on your torso (probably your hips or bust) while sitting <i>(this measurement must be at least 10" less than double the width of your fabric for modesty. If it isn't, you will need to add another panel of fabric for the body or find wider fabric.)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><i>Measurement C:</i></u> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Your upper arm circumference while flexed</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u><i>Measurement D:</i></u> The length from one wrist, to the side of your neck, over your head, to the other side of your neck, and to the other wrist with your arms at your sides and then while holding the measuring tape to the top of your head, tilt your head all the way to one side letting the measuring tape ride up your arm. This ensures you have room to move your head. (<i>if this length is longer than the width of the fabric, you will need to add sleeves or make your arm holes lower on the body. I will talk about this later.)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Open the fabric from it's center fold and lay it out folded in half at the top. Adjust it so it is 8 inches longer at the bottom on one side only. I laid mine out on my bed.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfOjAE3Fb6MtrmKEvh-ParOHEisHuNq28XpYlP8ZmUlo2uzx7dqV_UlN7nPCru0TdrCkz7ieanyvQ5qcxrj281AtcqbjSSsyETpt-H-wUu202_WdRwwdGKJ0556nepwgeoxuiU88Rb9rq/s1600/20140914_173130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfOjAE3Fb6MtrmKEvh-ParOHEisHuNq28XpYlP8ZmUlo2uzx7dqV_UlN7nPCru0TdrCkz7ieanyvQ5qcxrj281AtcqbjSSsyETpt-H-wUu202_WdRwwdGKJ0556nepwgeoxuiU88Rb9rq/s1600/20140914_173130.jpg" width="384" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Fabric laid out on my bed. Notice the bottom layer is longer than the top at the bottom. The bottom layer should be 8" longer than the top. This is to account for the fabric that goes over your head.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCD2ZUYH36IgP5A4uq4woMcU3sasE7mVIHkDlYPasJfCc4jx6h9SYikjR8w2x_lCCo-IUT_4el2dOZrXD4LYRKV74Kb1GHmTwO6b5su-FgpZR54S9FMPpDxp4bzDKWNN8DY5rFvpiI87ig/s1600/20140914_173446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCD2ZUYH36IgP5A4uq4woMcU3sasE7mVIHkDlYPasJfCc4jx6h9SYikjR8w2x_lCCo-IUT_4el2dOZrXD4LYRKV74Kb1GHmTwO6b5su-FgpZR54S9FMPpDxp4bzDKWNN8DY5rFvpiI87ig/s1600/20140914_173446.jpg" width="384" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I laid out a favorite abaya just to check the length and width. It was more to make me feel secure than to really measure anything. I felt better when my measurement showed the same as what the abaya told me.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczA9K7Gp1Y_FbCURkq9wgSJdn6MZzlJoBZheR6fdnR1JA0xNUK12wysapHxXYr_91f_1b8oM7ugcVrUqD2E1TDx10TiWBhnl6bwfjNmDdL5ayCqA1EtG-kEaWjhygExARSEdHmZZGuG76/s1600/image-1+(10).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczA9K7Gp1Y_FbCURkq9wgSJdn6MZzlJoBZheR6fdnR1JA0xNUK12wysapHxXYr_91f_1b8oM7ugcVrUqD2E1TDx10TiWBhnl6bwfjNmDdL5ayCqA1EtG-kEaWjhygExARSEdHmZZGuG76/s1600/image-1+(10).jpg" width="566" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This drawing shows your fabric laid out as above as well as the beginning measurements I talked about.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Measure from the shorter bottom <i>measurement A</i>. Mark it with tailors chalk. Measure and mark multiple times across the fabric to give guides for cutting. Remember to leave a seam allowance!!! Cut the fabric.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbhbDby_mRVcZHWSiJVl9AIf4ZT0bwcuRwwJIxF6eUoYq_cl1lBJaMcqCdOJKuYlzomgonaDytNyDF8jLbZnTGhyphenhyphennWjsSWhpwyJuQvciIv5W5Ao9oojuK_pht7oP05JdYZHd_VXuovC0S/s1600/20140914_173903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbhbDby_mRVcZHWSiJVl9AIf4ZT0bwcuRwwJIxF6eUoYq_cl1lBJaMcqCdOJKuYlzomgonaDytNyDF8jLbZnTGhyphenhyphennWjsSWhpwyJuQvciIv5W5Ao9oojuK_pht7oP05JdYZHd_VXuovC0S/s1600/20140914_173903.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When I measure, I measure exactly and then cut leaving a seam allowance. NEVER forget your seam allowance! You can see here I cut about 2 inches above where I measured (the white line from the chalk.)</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Measure the center of the fabric. Mark with chalk. Measure 5 inches out from the center on each side and mark with chalk. This is the head/neck hole and is left unstitched.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Measure <i>measurement C </i>plus 4 1/2 inches from the top of the fabric on each edge. Mark it. This space is left unstitched for the arms/sleeves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sew the shoulders and the sides.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7Of6iOudsVT89wK0noAedLaikeNqRMydc-UA7J3q7nsAeZXdCM1XirulUtajXWhyErSbQvyiLqbJodp_f-M3Qbk1WgOzFiSp9ojyF4qWtxfoehSkW4yPgu2IjCOudMAuof32XlEDch8o/s1600/image-1+(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7Of6iOudsVT89wK0noAedLaikeNqRMydc-UA7J3q7nsAeZXdCM1XirulUtajXWhyErSbQvyiLqbJodp_f-M3Qbk1WgOzFiSp9ojyF4qWtxfoehSkW4yPgu2IjCOudMAuof32XlEDch8o/s1600/image-1+(9).jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This drawing shows where to sew. The squiggly lines are the sewing.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now it is time to deal with the sleeves. IF the width of the fabric is equal to Measurement D plus 2 inches for the cuff, you do not need to add sleeves. If it is shorter, you need to add sleeves OR place your sleeve holes lower on the body.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>OPTION 1:</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is not what I did. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>IF the width of your fabric equals Measurement D plus a seam allowance of at least 2 inches to accommodate an elastic cuff , you do not need to add sleeves. (To be honest, this option will only work for very petite sisters unless you manage to find fabric wider than 60".)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Make an elastic cuffed sleeve by creating a hem casing and threading through the elastic. See this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYLHTEq4ZTQ" target="_blank">video tutorial</a> (it isn't in English but is easy to follow) and here is another good <a href="http://thru-hiker.com/projects/wrist_elastic.php" target="_blank">tutorial</a>. Now you have your (not-really-a) sleeve. When you try it on, it should look like the one below (at least in the arm area.)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="148233_376316919129668_543417453_n" src="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/148233_376316919129668_543417453_n.jpg" height="640" width="409" /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Version without sleeves. See how there is no defined "sleeve". The edge of the fabric is even with the hand opening.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>OPTION 2:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I did not do this, either.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you want sleeves like in the version above BUT your fabric isn't wide enough to equal measurement D plus a 2 inch seam allowance you can do the following:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-fzuYfmPFjk27yttrhpG3p1NufXeEkirVAvjIS01PxfU9qS8yLCl3wJ9jhiSSLgCzFryxRZvJl7jok_RhwcY1aBlTA1Az04_IWL-v5ah98GxCSYi64ZL0sWh866Kvysx005HSoZXgjdr/s1600/image-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-fzuYfmPFjk27yttrhpG3p1NufXeEkirVAvjIS01PxfU9qS8yLCl3wJ9jhiSSLgCzFryxRZvJl7jok_RhwcY1aBlTA1Az04_IWL-v5ah98GxCSYi64ZL0sWh866Kvysx005HSoZXgjdr/s1600/image-1.jpg" width="608" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Divide your measurement D plus 2" in half. Measure to the center of your fabric. From the center, measure to the outer edge and then around the corner. Mark where your measurement falls. Depending on where the corner of the fabric will lie on your body, you will probably want to cut the corner to a curve. Make sure you measure the curve, as it will be shorter than going around the corner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Set your sleeve hole as described above at this new point. Create elastic cuff sleeves as in Option 1.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>SOMETHING TO CONSIDER: </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When you choose this option, you save fabric and don't have to actually make sleeves, BUT when you lift your arms, the hem of the garment will go up. Make sure you are OK with this and that your arwa will still be covered when the hem goes up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Screenshot from 2013-01-09 21:41:17" src="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Screenshot-from-2013-01-09-214117.png" height="640" width="448" /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See how the hem goes up when she lifts her arms? This is also a version with knit cuffs added to the sleeves.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>OPTION 3:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This IS what I did.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A version with sleeves</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">All you are doing is adding extra width to your fabric and creating a casing for your arm to go through. Very easy. As the French jilbab is a very unstructured garment, no fancy sleeve hole shaping needs to be done. We will simply be sewing on a tube to the main body of fabric.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwdUcR9xEZmt9mZvgzo7wby-q1Waqm55WIQEwDSUUV7Z4ZFEP-oj9xlARdBdCnr_Th5gWFZQDFfHM5PZ7NhZyEIHdeVbsh7tkiplLQNTzvauYRtwpV_7oI6jItyPORMoLso0qNw_qwyfy/s1600/image-1+(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwdUcR9xEZmt9mZvgzo7wby-q1Waqm55WIQEwDSUUV7Z4ZFEP-oj9xlARdBdCnr_Th5gWFZQDFfHM5PZ7NhZyEIHdeVbsh7tkiplLQNTzvauYRtwpV_7oI6jItyPORMoLso0qNw_qwyfy/s1600/image-1+(4).jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See how it is simply a tube that extends the fabric so the arms are covered?</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Measure and cut out 2 rectangles of fabric:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Length of sleeve: (Measurement D minus width of fabric divided by 2) plus 2 inch seam allowance</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Width of sleeve: Measurement C plus 4 1/2 inches plus seam allowance </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>If you need to, you can make each sleeve tube from 2 rectangles instead of one. Just cut out 2 pieces the same length but half the width but still with seam allowances. You will then have two seams along the sleeve.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGRffpglsddLiV51EAOFVMYO1Tt8KWQm96Tn79oaBxmmyfKGy2IYS9vHoUa6a5hcfjy4OYNCcr9xGmBaRUzMfzY38OEA5RSjKRdsSYfpFtYdd-8xlNQfKqer7r1em5Ti2szmKKnZIKzvG/s1600/image-1+(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGRffpglsddLiV51EAOFVMYO1Tt8KWQm96Tn79oaBxmmyfKGy2IYS9vHoUa6a5hcfjy4OYNCcr9xGmBaRUzMfzY38OEA5RSjKRdsSYfpFtYdd-8xlNQfKqer7r1em5Ti2szmKKnZIKzvG/s1600/image-1+(5).jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fold a rectangle you just cut in half along the long side (or if you have 2 rectangles, line them up together). Sew it up along the long side. You now have a sleeve. Repeat with the second one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sew in the sleeves. Here is a good <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2014/02/sewing-in-set-in-sleeves/" target="_blank">tutorial</a> for setting in sleeves. Ignore what is says about the curved sleeve shape. Your sleeve is much simpler. Just be concerned with matching the seam on the sleeve to a seam on the body. Your sleeve tube should fit exactly inside the hole you left for it. If it is larger at all, just pleat it a bit at the bottom seam.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For most Western style clothing, the concern is with fitting the body smoothly with the fabric. That leads to the normal sleeve shape you see in most sewing patterns (just Google "how to attach sleeves images" to see what I mean.) For Muslim clothing, we do not want to <i>fit</i> the body. We want to <i>cover</i> it. So bagginess is our friend. So there is no need to shape the sleeve or the armhole (or really any other part of this pattern.) So we can use very basic shapes which are easier to fit together.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Zu_dzfX88niPpomtXRu5Mf-AGUTkykNVKTCk48SyqpJwAec3TE_mMtVK-mgohjBpxS6cS7KWuc3LBDE5ksTHtT6Zsr3UtfuKDex2wQBSGaryFrfDcpDeRw07cTwjTNZBDiY09YVKsw8p/s1600/20140920_175236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Zu_dzfX88niPpomtXRu5Mf-AGUTkykNVKTCk48SyqpJwAec3TE_mMtVK-mgohjBpxS6cS7KWuc3LBDE5ksTHtT6Zsr3UtfuKDex2wQBSGaryFrfDcpDeRw07cTwjTNZBDiY09YVKsw8p/s1600/20140920_175236.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sewn in sleeve. You can see what took me so much extra time. I didn't have enough fabric in large enough pieces, so I had to piece together some to make the sleeve. That is the weird seam you can see in the middle of the sleeve. Honestly, you really can't see it since the sleeves are so poofy.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now follow the instructions in OPTION 1 above if you wish to have an elastic cuff OR just do a normal hem on the sleeve end for an open sleeve OR add a pair of knit cuffs as described below.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>ADDING KNIT CUFFS:</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAE6sM5e3ZrpKzm9qKkQSjVzSc_7Wj3eOh_N_SfUSEaxO-5ErTYkm_8fxdAz1ILVwOa7utfWK1bvOE3iGGpgY7yhWjcMX4HnZ-UW7VfoBFWPI7xDVYS0PFOTOb767sjNd8s994fxxXKdIr/s1600/20140920_174939-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAE6sM5e3ZrpKzm9qKkQSjVzSc_7Wj3eOh_N_SfUSEaxO-5ErTYkm_8fxdAz1ILVwOa7utfWK1bvOE3iGGpgY7yhWjcMX4HnZ-UW7VfoBFWPI7xDVYS0PFOTOb767sjNd8s994fxxXKdIr/s1600/20140920_174939-1.jpg" width="181" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I liked the idea of a knit cuff on the end of the sleeve. I could push the sleeve up if I wanted to for wearing a sweater, but would still have coverage. Important especially since I have a number of short sleeve cardigans I like. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic;">I do not believe that wearing something over your jilbab negates your hijab UNLESS whatever you wear over it is worn specifically to (or even unintentionally) reveal the shape of your body, which your jilbab should be concealing. If a coat or sweater is loose and worn over your jilbab, I think it just adds to your jilbab by adding more layers that conceal your shape.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I decided to use a pair of socks for the cuffs since I didn't have any jersey fabric in an appropriate color and I was too cheap to drive 30 mins and spend $ for some. ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I looked at using normal knit socks. I have a HUGE sock collection. I love unusual ones and collect especially knee highs. I thought it would be cool to have a funky patterned knee high as the cuff. BUT, I was concerned about it always matching but even more so, I wanted this to be an all season jilbab. Normal socks seemed too warm to wear most of the year.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIHfzTxG1JRjyzQdFRuyXYylsSvzvcs_A-YD35J9vt5aONAi2FAvPr3ieXqXmbkWS8nHqCmVqcetcu2rXfP_BjNzyGbyUlZpOisq-dthG4vAlEI2TFVgxjLxF9EZJak6ZvLjC-wAIaCFk/s1600/20140914_180043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIHfzTxG1JRjyzQdFRuyXYylsSvzvcs_A-YD35J9vt5aONAi2FAvPr3ieXqXmbkWS8nHqCmVqcetcu2rXfP_BjNzyGbyUlZpOisq-dthG4vAlEI2TFVgxjLxF9EZJak6ZvLjC-wAIaCFk/s1600/20140914_180043.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Picking out a pair of socks...</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So I chose a discreetly patterned pair of trouser socks. They will match everything and are cooler in warmer weather.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To add the sock, turn right sides together (sock and sleeve), putting the sock up inside the cuff. Now sew the fabric to the sock. <u><i>BUT, your sock will be smaller than your sleeve.</i></u> To fix this, pin your sock into the sleeve in two places across from each other. Start to sew your seam. As you sew, pull the sock making it stretch so it is the same width as your sleeve. Stitch it in place, always keeping it stretched. When you are done, it will go back to it's normal size, gathering the sleeve sewn to it. Easy peasy.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCJ7MJgkQxeDqX2QNUPewLUkt_mOoDs1GQ1XqZyQ98RGHHfg8Jf8x5D2QB7v2wGVblj6bYYnYLOrWQKmGhXgOsOTEPktPhQG4sq6e1WQTfAU-xu45X8LOw1B6ooEjIaQwkX8g77e6uqSi/s1600/20140914_202543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCJ7MJgkQxeDqX2QNUPewLUkt_mOoDs1GQ1XqZyQ98RGHHfg8Jf8x5D2QB7v2wGVblj6bYYnYLOrWQKmGhXgOsOTEPktPhQG4sq6e1WQTfAU-xu45X8LOw1B6ooEjIaQwkX8g77e6uqSi/s1600/20140914_202543.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See how the sleeve gathers on top of the normal sized sock-now-cuff?</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Forehead Tie:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The forehead tie is just a piece that is sewn to the back of the neck hole. It is worn over the top of your head, tying around it, keeping the jilbab covering your head and neck. It is actually quite simple.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See how the forehead tie piece is sewn to only one side of the neck hole (the back)? This diagram doesn't show the sleeves done because I actually did the tie before the sleeves when I made mine. But it doesn't matter which order you do them in.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Forehead tie seen from the outside back of the jilbab.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Forehead tie and neck hole seen from the front (upside down).</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cut out your forehead tie. There is no real pattern here. It should be about 45 inches long. For the width, I measured from where I wanted the edge to be on my forehead to the top of my head, which was about 6 inches. I just cut out a folded (along the long edge) piece, making the ends thinner so it is easier to tie. The thickest part in the center should be 10 inches long to match the neck hole opening of the jilbab.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><i>This how the forehead tie should look before it is sewn on.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sew along the open edges in two sections. Start at each end and sew towards the center, leaving an opening of about 1 1/2 inches for turning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now turn the tie right side out and iron it flat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Top stitch carefully along the folded edge. Be as neat as possible. This edge will be on your forehead.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Top stitching the tie's front edge.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now pin the edge with the opening into the backside of the neck hole of your jilbab, right sides together. Sew the jilbab's neck hole to the tie. The tie should be sewn to the entire raw edge of the back of the neck hole.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now fold over and hem the front side of the neck hole. This will be the edge at your neck or chin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <b>Finishing:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is now time to try it on (<i>like you haven't already!!! LOL!</i>) I found that the chin hung down on me. I tried a few things to make it a custom fit and have the chin fit right on mine (I cover my chin and sides of my face. See my <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-theory-and-my-practice-of-hijab.html" target="_blank">post on hijab</a> for more about that.) but I could never get it right. Whenever I got the chin right, the sides of my face still showed and that just looked weird! I gave in and I just pin the sides up, which actually feels more natural and secure than any of the other adjustments I had tried. From what I have read, it seems that pinning to get a custom fit may be the norm. Either way, it works for me.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here you can see how I pinned up the sides.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now it needs to be hemmed. YOU MUST MEASURE FOR THE HEM WHILE YOU ARE WEARING IT! Because the <i>back</i> of the garment gets lifted by your head, you cannot get an accurate hem when it is lying flat. So you either need help with marking it or come up with a way to mark it on your own. I have seen people use a string with chalk on it across a doorway but then you need to know how far off the floor you want it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are normally two lengths of hems in commercial ones. One is floor length and the other is calf length and meant to be worn with a skirt or loose pants. I made mine calf length. I like jilbabs where you can see the bottom of my pants or skirt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anyway, mark your hem and hem it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">YOU ARE DONE!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">MASH'ALLAH!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here are pics of me wearing mine.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">First time I wore it. I wore it to work with a short sleeved open front cardigan and over black pants. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I also wore a light cotton dupatta, here shown around my neck. I also wore it as a normal headscarf, over the jilbab, as shown by Old School Hijabi <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/style-idea-moroccan-style-jilbeb-paired-with-a-scarf/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>HOW TO WEAR A FRENCH JILBAB:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once again, check out Old School Hijabi's blog for a great <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/guide-to-the-french-overhead-jelbab-part-1/" target="_blank">pic tutorial </a>on how to out one of these on. And below is a good video tut. It is in French, but you will get the idea, especially if you read OSH's blog first. Plus, the beautiful blue of her jilbab will have you mesmerized!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I know that OSH and the video above show them wearing an underscarf with their jilbab. I do not. I rarely (if ever) wear underscarves of any kind. I stopped when I noticed my hair was breaking off at my hairline from the friction. Plus I am very prone to headaches <i>and</i> have a big head so most underscarves are tight and cause me pain. If people are interested, I can post a tut sometime on how I wear my hijab without an underscarf.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you are concerned about looking thinner, you will NOT in a French jilbab. I don't say this to scare you. But it can be a shock to see yourself in one, especially if you are a plus sized sister. I know I was shocked. I loved how I looked in it, but I knew I am not actually "that big". But it really is just that I am used to seeing myself in more form fitting Western style clothes. I remind myself that this silhouette</span><span style="font-size: large;"> is more pleasing to Allah. :)</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thank you to <a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/" target="_blank">Old School Hijabi</a> for the pictures and the support!</span></i><br />
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<i>ALSO: Please share with me pics of your creations! If you give me permission, I would love to post them so people can see what is all possible with this tut!</i></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-10932588957447152472014-09-15T16:58:00.003-05:002017-03-10T12:47:58.889-06:00The Theory and (my) Practice of Hijab<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">It is my belief that as of the writing of this post, most of my readers are my friends and family. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining about that fact! I love that you guys are reading my meandering thoughts. But it seems to me that this then is the perfect platform to explain to all of you why I dress the way I do. So here is <b>the theory behind and how I practice hijab</b>. This post is mainly meant for non-Muslims, though I think it could be helpful for new Muslimahs as well, insh'Allah </span><i style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">(as with all "unusual" words, see my 'Glossary' post for definitions)</i><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">. I do plan for this blog to be a platform to show how I create my own modest clothes, so this post will explain the "rules" that I follow when designing them. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wear hijab. I consider myself a hijabi. Also known as a<span style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">l-</span><span style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">muhajabah</span>. The meaning of these words is someone who dresses <i><u>and acts</u> </i>in a modest fashion according to the teaching of Islam. Notice my emphasis. If you do not act in a modest fashion as well, your clothing means nothing!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Men have hijab, too. For them it is more about their behavior and their inward thoughts and feelings. <span class="quran" style="border: 0px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 19.799999237060547px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their private parts; that will make for greater purity for them. Indeed Allah is well acquainted with all that they do."</span><span style="line-height: 19.799999237060547px;"> [Al-Qur'an 24:30] </span>For all of you that think that hijab is the burden of a woman to keep a man from straying in his thoughts, here is a wonderful hadith about men's hijab. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i style="background-color: white;">Narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas (radi Allahu anhu): "Al-Fadl bin Abbas rode behind Allah's Messenger (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) as his companion rider on the back portion of his she-camel on the day of Nahr (slaughtering of sacrifice, 10th Dhul-Hijja) and Al-Fadl was a handsome man. The Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) stopped to give the people verdicts (regarding their matters). In the meantime, a beautiful woman from the tribe of Khatham came, asking the verdict of Allah's Messenger. Al-Fadl started looking at her as her beauty attracted him. The Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) looked behind while Al-Fadl was looking at her; so the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) held out his hand backwards and caught the chin of Al-Fadl and turned his face (to the other side) in order that he should not gaze at her. She said, 'O Allah's Messenger! The obligation of performing Hajj enjoined by Allah on his worshippers has become due (compulsory) on my father who is an old man and who cannot sit firmly on the riding animal. Will it be sufficient that I perform Hajj on his behalf?' He said, 'Yes.'" [Sahih Bukhari]</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Notice that the Prophet (pbuh) turned the man's face. He did not tell the woman to cover herself or leave or even stop talking. The burden was on the man. He was responsible for his own thoughts and behavior. <b> Hijab is NOT intended for "saving" men from their uncontrolled thoughts by covering up every little sexy bit of a woman. Hijab is about respecting ourselves and our bodies as more than sexual objects and putting our sexuality in it's proper place. But even more than that, hijab is about following Allah's commands and showing the world that we are Muslim.</b> </span></span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Clothes should cover from navel to knee at all times except when alone, with wife, or when necessary for medical procedures.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A man should avoid unnecessary interactions (i.e. flirting, small talk) with women other than wife and relatives (wife, daughter, step-daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter-in-law, stepmother, blood-related aunts, mother-in-law, granddaughters)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A man should avoid looking at women other than wife and relatives</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A man should avoid thinking about women other than wife and relatives</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A man should avoid unnecessary touching of women other than wife and relatives</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When alone, with husband, or when necessary for medical procedures can be naked.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When with other women, she should be covered at least from navel to knee (though these days, women normally wear shirts with each other. Breasts are allowed to be uncovered for breastfeeding.)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When with male relatives (father, grandfather, sons, brothers, sons-in-laws, nephews, blood-related uncles, father-in-law, stepfather, grandsons), she should be covered modestly. Her hair/head, lower arms/hands, calves/feet may be uncovered.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When with males who are not relatives as stated above but are in a private setting, all is covered except face and hands. <i>Some scholars differ on the following areas: feet (I cover), face (I do not cover), underside of chin (I cover). </i>Clothing should also be loose as to not show the shape of the body and be opaque.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When in a public place, a jilbab should be worn. Jilbabs come in many different styles depending on your culture. But it should be a garment worn over your clothing. It should be loose, opaque, and cover most of your clothing. It is permissible (according to scholars I follow) for the jilbab to consist of a combination of garments, such as a coat and a headscarf, instead of just a single garment covering from the top of the head down. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A woman should also avoid talking, touching, and thinking of men other than her husband or relatives.</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i style="background-color: white;">Ya ayyuha an-Nabiyy qul li azwajika wa banatika wa nisa al-mu'minin yudnina alayhinna min jalabib hinna; dhalika adna an yu'rafna fa laa yu'dhayn. Wa kana Allahu Ghafur Rahim</i></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">O Prophet! Say to your wives and your daughters and the women of the faithful to draw their JALABIB close around them; that is better that they will be recognized and not annoyed. And God is ever Forgiving, Gentle. </span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is a <a href="http://www.muhajabah.com/finalrule.htm" target="_blank">link</a> to an excellent article that examines all the rulings of hijab and gives evidences for them.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are other recommendations about colors, jewelry, etc. Mainly, we are forbidden from wearing anything that makes us seem better than other people and we should not try to attract attention to ourselves. To everyone this means something different. Some only wear black without any added ornaments or jewelry. In Indonesia pastels are thought to be the best colors for women. In this area of hijab fashion, it is more up to individual/cultural tastes. My personal tastes go towards some bright colors, but used in simple ways. I prefer solids and less often wear prints. If I wear prints, it is normally my scarf not any other clothing. As for jewelry that normally can be seen, occasionally I add a special hijab pin, otherwise bracelets are all I normally wear. I don't like much bling. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am just beginning to wear a jilbab all the time. I only recently learned of this requirement. Previously I thought that only modest clothing was good enough. I have also altered what I think "modest clothing" is now. I used to wear clothes that simply covered my body, but now I also wear loose clothes that do not reveal the shape of it as well. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hijab is a journey if you were not brought up wearing it. It is hard to give up long held beliefs and traditions with something so important as clothing. Some sisters, mashAllah, are able to jump from skimpy Western clothes right into fully covering, including niqab (the face veil). But for most of us, it takes years to learn how to cover in a way that obeys Allah's commands and yet makes us feel comfortable, safe, and beautiful. (See my post on <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/12/resetting-frumpy-muslim-mindset.html" target="_blank"><i>Resetting the Frumpy Muslim Mindset</i></a> for a discussion on this journey.)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My favorite style is a ankle or calf length abaya (like a dress) or simple coat style jilbab over loose pants. Sometimes I wear a maxi skirt instead, but still over leggings or pants. If I plan to take my jilbab off, I wear a loose, long sleeve tunic shirt that is at least thigh length. If I won't be taking off my jilbab and it is warmer weather, I may only wear a tank top underneath. Always shoes and socks (I don't care for sandals normally). And a headscarf. My favorite are very large (50-60") squares in solid colors or simple floral prints. In the summer I have ones of very light materials and can actually feel the breeze on the back of my neck. As I am sensitive to the sun anyway, covering doesn't usually bother me in the summer as long as the material of my clothes is light and airy (but not see-through). In the winter I am often cold and appreciate the extra layers.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I think my new favorite style of jilbab is going to be the French jilbab. It is actually originally a Algerian style that spread from there. But it is very popular with teens in France, thus the name. It is an overhead garment, meaning it is a garment that covers your body and your head all in one. I have been fascinated by them for some time and have considered buying one. But I decided instead to make one! Pretty risky since I have never actually seen one in real life, but it is turning out well so far, insh'Allah. I just have to finish the sleeves and hem it and I will have my first French jilbab! I am pretty excited! Plus, I will be posting a tutorial on making your own! (Here is the link to the tutorial: </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-sewing-french-jilbab.html" target="_blank">DIY: How to sew a French Jilbab</a>.) </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is really quite easy, especially if you have some sewing experience. If you wish to learn more about them, check out </span><a href="http://www.oldschoolhijabi.com/guide-to-jilbeb/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">this set of blog posts</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> by </span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Old School Hijabi</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">. She is THE expert on French jilbabs and I learned most of what I know from her!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is a 2 piece French jilbab from <a href="http://www.almoultazimoun.com/en/" target="_blank">http://www.almoultazimoun.com/en/</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> The one I am making will be longer, about calf length. But it is almost this same color.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I love reading other hijab fashion blogs. I don't really intend for this blog to be like them, though. For one thing, I don't consider myself all that fashionable! Instead, I intend to share DIY ideas/tutorials for expanding your hijabi wardrobe. And have it be a place for plus-sized sisters to get ideas and tips. As well as recipes, other crafts, my jewelry creations, etc. Posts I have planned (insh'Allah):</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/09/diy-sewing-french-jilbab.html" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">French jilbab DIY</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">More recipes</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Learning to bake bread Albanian style</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">From abaya to tunic: refashioning clothes you're bored with DIY</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/10/refashion-from-abaya-to-jilbab.html" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">From abaya to jilbab DIY</a></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Turkish oya with DIY</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Amal bracelets</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Buying scarves on eBay</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Kosovar crochet</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Dhikr bracelet DIY</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">No sew arm covers DIY</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Lengthening clothing for modesty DIY</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Repainting hijab pins DIY</span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And that is only about half of the ideas I have! Insh'Allah this will turn out to be a great blog. :) Please leave comments letting me know what you think so far and what you'd like to see in the future, insh'Allah.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Also, all of my thoughts here are my own and my own research. Any mistakes are mine. Allah knows best.</span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-45114779433919779382014-08-20T13:13:00.002-05:002017-03-10T12:48:20.936-06:00Kufi, Kapuç, Hat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Kufi</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">(AKA <i>Kapuç</i> pronounced kah-<i>pooch</i>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Finally, an artsy fartsy type post! Though I guess cooking is still very creative. Anyway, here are two <i>kufis </i>I made, one for Sadik and one for Blenard. Blenard is the grandson of some very good friend</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">s of ours. They are originally from Kosovo as well and came here at the same time that Sadik did. Blenard is the first generation in this family that has been born in America. He was very proud of his new kufi! He likes to go to the <i>Xhamia </i></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">(the Albanian word for the Mosque) </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">with his grandparents.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">kufi </i><span style="font-size: large;">is a beanie style hat that Muslim men wear. Some wear one all the time to show that they are Muslim. Others choose to only wear them to the </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">Xhamia</i><span style="font-size: large;"> . Some don't wear one at all. It is more of a Muslim cultural thing than a requirement, though covering your head does show your respect for God.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The style of a </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">kufi </i><span style="font-size: large;">is open to interpretation. Most are crocheted, but they can also be knit or sewn. Sewn ones with beautiful embroidery are common in hotter climates like Africa. They can be the beanie style or there is a flat topped style that I have no idea what it is called. The color and shape are usually cultural. In America the white crocheted ones seem to be the most popular. They are also the easiest to make (and therefore the cheapest to buy.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9tZMLZdZUmK__0fNLtli_3PEyzmmgLRXRf1YvadRnZzFKQUYXnSUBAyFcn1FUgSl_IpJMyER7h_Rz6ytZ2zBvjL4rxpeVtKY8f66-HY9awoFtgdG18YIe-AL0c_Ab0m5Bu92TU0mh9k/s1600/cotton-kufi-skull-cap3.jpg" /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNi7Q_2_HrocCGP7xM5U2LrkQvniciJLRIHHrBaH77LxLlZyXfPUib1V-FlwFaIGuqXA70Rs4iFOjYlVUj_gb8eIOWgF0Rw-2aywzjE1-kqywzB8cLmeDsR7OIBxvXaKtmz9Pv2eGvCGU/s375/Kufi+Hat+03.jpg" target="_blank"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here is a crocheted one</span></i></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img src="http://www.muslimclothing.com/hameedcreations/images/kufi_gallery/TheKufiModel_03.jpg" /></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.muslimclothing.com/hameedcreations/images/kufi_gallery/TheKufiModel_03.jpg" target="_blank"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">a beautiful fabric one</span></i></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://amatulla.blogspot.com/2011/12/kufi-knitting-pattern.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">a knit one. follow the link for the free pattern</span></a></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first <i>kufi </i>I made Sadik was from a natural colored #10 crochet cotton. It was knit and followed this <a href="http://www.yarnover.net/patterns/doilies/dillmont/b66dillmont1.html" target="_blank">pattern</a>. When I got to the right diameter for his head, I stopped increasing, making it curve. Worked perfectly. Unfortunately it has been since lost and and so were the pictures. So sad. It was nice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The second was knit from worsted wool. It is the flat topped style. Here is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/keppie---kippah-kufi-or-cap" target="_blank">pattern</a>. Unfortunately for this one, it is too big for him. Mostly because he doesn't really have hair, LOL! Otherwise, I think it turned out beautifully. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The third is a natural colored crocheted version. Here is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/swirl-cap-kufi" target="_blank">pattern</a>. I used a fingering weight wool. Blenard's is the same pattern, only a bit smaller though I did make it a bit big for him so he can grow into it. His is a fingering weight white cotton. I used a D hook for both.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sadik's</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blenard's</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sorry I don't have a better pic of him wearing it. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It is hard enough to make an 8 year old pose for one shot!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is the <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20071130071847/www.knitlist.com/99gift/kufi.htm" target="_blank">pattern</a> I plan to use next. (See pics <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kufi-style-hat/people" target="_blank">here</a>.) It is a nice knit version. I also hope to create my own crocheted pattern in the future, insh'Allah.</span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-19629106828585305772014-08-18T19:54:00.003-05:002017-03-10T12:48:42.776-06:00Speca te mbushura (AKA Stuffed Peppers)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Speca te mbushura</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18.2px;">(AKA Stuffed Peppers)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">So last night, for the first time in a while, I cooked a REAL meal. In the continuing theme of the abundant pepper harvest, I made stuffed peppers. SO easy!</span><br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">PLEASE do not judge this recipe by this horrible picture! I need to learn more about taking pictures of food.</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18.2px;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">6-8 green (or other colors) bell peppers (less if they are large ones. Mine were half the size of store bought.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">1 1/2 pounds ground beef (next time I think I am going to try these with ground turkey)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">1/2 minced onion</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">1/3 cup rice</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">1/2 </span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">teaspoon </span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">+ 1/2 teaspoon</span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"> Vegata (optional and see note below)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">1 teaspoon paprika</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">1/4 teaspoon black pepper</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18.2px;">2-3 Tablespoons olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Remove the tops and the insides from the peppers. Set aside. </span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Mince the onion finely. </span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">Mix all the ingredients EXCEPT the peppers, 1/2 teaspoon</span><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"> Vegata and the water. Stuff the mixture into the hollow peppers. Place the peppers in a baking pan. Add the vegata and a bit of water to cover the bottom. Cover with foil. Bake for 1/2 hour, then remove foil and bake until done. That's it!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i style="background-color: white;">Vegata: This is a common seasoning used in the Balkans. It is basically a dried vegetable seasoning used in place of all or some of the salt in a recipe. Use it carefully as it tastes (to me) saltier than an equivalent amount of salt. And as I said, this has salt in it, it is NOT a salt substitute. You can find it online or a at a local ethnic food store that carries European foods.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another bad picture. But it was really yummy!</span></i></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-19915711228624158262014-08-17T01:11:00.000-05:002017-03-10T12:49:25.820-06:00Refrigerator Turshi (AKA pickled peppers)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: xx-large;">Refrigerator <i>Tursli</i> </b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>(</b></span><b style="font-size: xx-large;">AKA pickled peppers)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I meant to start this blog off with more "artsy fartsy" stuff, but I guess we are starting with cooking. :) Today I made <i><b>turshi</b></i>, AKA <b>pickled peppers.</b> I FINALLY know what that nursery rhyme was talking about! (<i>How pickled peppers did Peter Pepper pick?</i>) We never ate pickled peppers when I was growing up. Just cucumber pickles, called simply "pickles". So I thought pickled peppers were some weird amalgamation of cucumber pickles with jalapenos (the only pepper I was familiar with, because who really thinks of green peppers as peppers?) Now I know what I was missing! They are really good! The perfect accompaniment for <b>Albanian</b> dishes. Often served as a side at a meal. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;">I know it is putting the cart before the horse to post a side dish before posting any recipes for REAL food. Sorry about that. I will rectify that shortly, inshAllah (</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">God willing</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;">). Until I do, let me direct you to a wonderful blog called </span><a href="http://momwhats4dinner.com/" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Mom, What's for Dinner? </a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;"> The author is half-Albanian living in Canada and has many wonderful Albanian recipes on her site. She was one of the first places I found to learn how to cook this wonderful cuisine. And she also has lots of other wonderful recipes!</span><br />
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So, this afternoon, burdened by <i>way</i> too many peppers from Sadik's amazing garden, I pickled peppers. And here is the recipe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The original recipe I used called for 2 pounds of peppers. I had more. So I just tripled the recipe for the brine. In canning (though this isn't really canning, these are refrigerator pickles), keeping the ratio of water, vinegar, and salt and/or sugar the same is the important part. The ratio of those ingredients is necessary to keep the food from spoiling. So <i>never </i>alter the ratio and always follow trusted recipes.</span><br />
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OK, about the peppers. I used a <i>Sweet Hungarian Banana</i> pepper (see the long, yellow ones in the pics. I didn't use any of the green ones.) Not hot at all. Sadik doesn't do spicy. There is also a <i>Hot Hungarian</i> variety (that looks almost exactly the same) if you like some heat. They are mild on the pepper scale. If you aren't growing your own, farmer's markets are a great place to get peppers cheap. The long varieties are normally what is used, as opposed to bell peppers. I am not sure why. Maybe it is because they fit in a jar better. Though I did see an Albanian video of a woman stuffing a slice of tomato in an orange bell pepper with some onion (I think)<i> (update 1/6/15: I found out that it wasn't onion, it is normally a wedge of cabbage.) </i>and then preserving those. I am interested in trying that one!</span><br />
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Anyway, any long peppers will do. If you must buy from the grocery store, the bags of the colored mini peppers work well. I have used them in the past. The best deal I find for those is often at Aldi.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Ingredients:</span></b></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Pounds peppers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 cups water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup white vinegar (though you could substitute other kinds if you don't mind a color and taste difference)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 tablespoons pickling salt (MUST be pickling. The iodine in the other salt does funky things when preserving.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cut and gut your peppers. I remove the top, then cut them open on one side to the tip. Open them up and remove all the "guts". ;P Then spread them as flat as you can, breaking them a bit as necessary. This will help you fit more in a jar. If you want them to look prettier in your jar, only remove the top and pull out the seeds. You won't fit as many, but it will look nicer. If you really want to be old-school, don't cut off anything. But prick the pepper several times deeply to allow the vinegar to seep inside the pepper. When people eat them, they pull off the top and out the seeds. Many are sold this way. I find this way only works better for actually canning, than for refrigerator pickles. The finally processing phase seems to drive the brine deeper into the peppers. Refrigerator pickles are missing that phase and don't seem to absorb the brine as well without it. So I don't recommend it. InshAllah, soon I will be posting a recipe for actually hot-water-bath canned pickled peppers (try saying that fast!)</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">removing the top</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">See the "guts"? Rip them out!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Flatten them.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lots o' flat ones.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rinse off any remaining seeds. Now gather a stack of the tallest ones in your hand and stuff them in the jar. Then keep fitting them in until your jar is totally full, but none of them stick up past the bottom of the rim. They need to be all submerged under the brine or they will spoil. Air is your enemy in preserving.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gather them in your hand...</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now heat your brine. May sure you use a non-reactive pot (enameled or stainless steel). If you aren't sure if your pot is non-reactive, look on the bottom to see what it is made of. Most say. If it doesn't and you don't know, assume it is reactive to be safe. If it is enameled or stainless steel, you are good to go. Here is a good <a href="http://foodinjars.com/2010/09/canning-101-why-you-cant-cook-acidic-foods-in-reactive-pots/" target="_blank">article</a> about why you can't can in reactive pots.</span><br />
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This is not only the rule for pots! You must be sure to not use any metal utensils as well that can react with the vinegar. I use bamboo spoons and skewers.</span><br />
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Remember to keep your ratio the same! What I do is decide how much I am going to increase my recipe (let's say double it). Then I just multiply all the amounts by two. Easy peasy.</span><br />
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Now your brine (that is the term for the water/vinegar/salt mixture you have made) is boiling. Remove it from the heat. With a ladle (plastic), spoon the brine carefully into the jars. All the way to the bottom of where the lid screws on. Now take a long bamboo skewer (or chopstick) and poke down carefully all along the sides and in the middle to release any air bubbles. Your carefully laid peppers <i>will get disrupted</i>. It is OK. You can settle them back down when you are done.</span><br />
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Which is now. Make sure all the peppers are completely beneath the brine. Let the jars sit open until they have cooled or they could explode! Then put their lid on and let them sit on the kitchen counter overnight. After that, store them in the fridge. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now the recipe says they are only good for 2 weeks, but I have to tell you that I have kept them much longer than that and they are fine. I like to put them in the back of the fridge where it is colder. Other than that, keep them clean. Use clean (non-reactive) utensils when removing the peppers from the jar and they can keep for weeks, if not months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A note about jars. I recommend only using pyrex jars. Jars meant for canning. Such jars can take the heat and survive. Old mayonnaise jars, etc. maybe good a few times, but you never know when one will shatter. I do use a gallon jar that I originally bought <i>turshi</i> in before I knew how to make it. I trust that jar a bit more, even though it is reused, because it had peppers in it. But I fully expect it to break sooner than a canning jar. But where do you find those gallon sized? As for lids. Do not use a ring and canning top unless you have nothing else and no money to buy anything else. Walmart (and I am sure other places that sell canning supplies) sell these nifty plastic lids that fit mason jars. They even have wide-mouth <i>and</i> regular! And they are not expensive. You can see the one I used in the pic (the white one).</span><br />
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Soon, inshAllah, I will be posting a recipe for <i>pite</i>, a dish that is traditionally eaten with these peppers. Enjoy!</span><br />
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1398814999779790572.post-36822326015685020092014-08-14T23:59:00.002-05:002017-03-10T12:49:53.118-06:00Asalaam alikum, Mirëseerdhët, Welcome!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Asalaam alikum, Mirëseerdhët, Welcome!</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As this is my first post, I will do the perfunctory "getting to know me and my blog" stuff. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2px;">My name is Heather. I am 41 years old. I live in a small town in NorthEastern Wisconsin. My day job is as a church secretary for a UCC church. I love my job, but I <i>do not</i> go to church there. Actually, about 11 years ago I converted to be Muslim. <strike> Soon I will be getting </strike> (I am as of January 3, 2015!!!) married to a man originally from Kosovo, who is Muslim as well. He is an ethnic Albanian and speaks Albanian. Learning his language and culture has become a huge focus of my life, which is why there are Albanian words used here as well.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 25.200000762939453px;"><i>Sadik, the </i></span><span style="line-height: 15.600000381469727px;"><i><strike>fiancé</strike> husband</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2px;">The intent of this blog is varied. I wish to use it as a place to post my ideas and how-to's. Tutorials and the like. I also will have essays about my life or things that are important to me. I will be posting items I have for sale. Mostly treasures I find and wish to resell, but sometimes things I make myself. Knitted, crocheted, embroidered, painted, dyed, etc.! I am also a trained fine jeweler and plan to post pics of my work, perhaps items for sale. I have had my own small business for about 16 years, but the last few years I had really taken a break from it. Now seems like the time to get back to work.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2px;">I am very interested in Islam, Albanian culture and cooking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, jewelry making (fine and fun), hand embroidery, hijabi fashion, small business, gardening, preserving, and general philosophical stuff.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2px;">I have been considering this blog for a long time and now seems like the time to dive in. I hope you find a lot to keep you interested and coming back. Here are a list of tags I intend to post about, so you can have an idea about what I have planned.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Islam, hijab, Albanian culture, Albanian cooking, knitting, crocheting, sewing, jewelry tutorials, hand embroidery, small business, gardening, preserving, general cooking, general rants, my art, deep thoughts</i>, and more!!!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2px;">And because a blog called "artsy fartsy" wouldn't be complete without some art, here are a few pics of stuff I have made.</span></div>
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<i style="line-height: 25.2000007629395px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My sweetheart bookmark (crocheted). <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/suzies-heart-bookmark" target="_blank">Link</a> to free Ravelry pattern.</span></i><br />
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<i style="line-height: 25.2000007629395px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A men's cast ring I made.</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 25.200000762939453px;">Please look for me on </span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/" style="line-height: 25.2000007629395px;" target="_blank">Ravelry</a><span style="line-height: 25.200000762939453px;"> (<i>AFMuslimah)</i></span><span style="line-height: 25.200000762939453px;">. I will be posting links for facebook and twitter soon. I am also working on a storenvy site, which will, insh'Allah, be up soon.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2px;">Thanks for reading! <i>Salaam! Mirupafshim! Bye!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 25.2000007629395px;"><i style="background-color: white;">P.S. I am planning, insh'Allah, that my next post will be a <a href="http://artsyfartsymuslimah.blogspot.com/2014/08/glossary-here-are-meanings-of-all.html">glossary</a> so you can keep track of and understand all these new words I am using!</i></span></div>
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Artsy Fartsy Muslimahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14025994556386099501noreply@blogger.com0