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ISSUE 4 FEBRUARY 2018

THE FIRST DIGITAL MAGAZINE JUST FOR

SewyourStyle Join us at the Creative Craft Shows this spring/summer and show off your style!

Sew active • Vintage vibe Pdf Blouse PLUS FROM DESIGNER tips to sewing the perfect sweetheart WWW.THEPATTERNPAGES.COM FEATURING

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL OUR PRINTS IN KNIT! Hello Spring

We finally managed to get a photo of us together, which may sound a bit strange being a mother and daughter team, but we’re always heads down at our computers or at the , and there’s never any time for photos! When we started putting this issue together, we didn’t realise just how full of great things it would be! Ann Grose from Designer Stitch has been an absolute star and made the Synthia blouse for us to give away to our readers, free as a PDF download. Turn to page 48-49 to see what her pattern testers are saying about it – we love it and can’t wait to make it ourselves! We’re also thrilled to be working with the Creative Craft Shows over the summer, and in this issue, we help them launch the #SewYourStyle2018 competition. Do get involved, come along and see us in Birmingham and London at the shows until the end of the competition in June. The competition is your chance to show off your sewing style, check out pages 40 and 41 to see how to enter. This issue, activewear is a popular topic with sewers at the moment so we concentrate on keeping active. Mimi Goodwin from MimiGStyle shares her tips on working with suitable fabrics for this. The lovely Kim Collins from Ann Normandy is with us again, and she’s discussing one of her favourite topics – working with pre-loved fabrics. Of course, there’s all the regular good stuff including the latest fabrics, and if you have a hankering for wearing styles from the ISSUE 4 FEBRUARY 2018 past – we check out some of the vintage patterns.

So put your feet up and enjoy issue 4! FRONT COVER Our amazing

THE FIRST DIGITAL MAGAZINE JUST FOR DRESSMAKERS cover features Carmen Statham, Julie and Em one of Designer SewyourStyle Stitch’s pattern Julie Bonnar Join us at the Creative Craft Shows this spring/summer and testers in her Emily Bonnar show off your sewing style! version of the Synthia Blouse. THE PATTERN PAGES

www.thepatternpages.com Sew active • Vintage vibe Pdf Blouse Pattern Twitter: @ThePatternPages FROM Pinterest: www.pinterest/thepatternpages PLUS DESIGNER STITCH tips to sewing the Facebook: www.facebook.com/thepatternpages perfect sweetheart neckline Instagram: www.instagram.com/thepatternpages WWW.THEPATTERNPAGES.COM

The Pattern Pages is an independent digital dressmaking EDITORS DESIGNER magazine that’s full of , dressmaking, style and Julie Bonnar Sarah Barnes fun things to make Emily Bonnar [email protected] [email protected]

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CONTENTS REGULARS 50 shades of purple Spring edit…. Purple is Pantone’s hottest colour this36 Love those layers – perfect for getting 6 year and here’s how to incorporated it ready for warmer times! into your sewing GET INVOLVED On our radar Hot fabrics Things we thought you might like to 9 The latest fabric for this season’s sewing38 know…. Hooked on books Sew your style Pattern preview Sewing books that you’re going to want44 Enter the fabulous sewing competition40 New sewing patterns hot off the press22 to have on your bookshelf and show us your sewing style

60-minute make We heart Valentine Synthia Blouse Glam up an old sweatshirt with spring28 What sewing treat would you like 46 Designer Stitch is offering The Pattern48 florals this February? Pages readers the Syntha Blouse for free!

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46 TECHNICAL TALK Sew active Mimi G shares her tips to successfully14 MEET & GREET sewing your own activewear garments this 18 season Sew wearable fashion We chat to Megan Neilsen about how18 Printing patterns what’s not in her inspires her Simon King discusses how to print sewing20 pattern collections STYLISH SEWING patterns to the full

10 minutes with…. Sew the look – fitness Statements with Sarah Norwood from Ohhh Lulu 30 Get your wardrobe in shape and sew12 Ann Grose shares her technique for creating26 yourself some active wear! perfect shirring Style and substance Lucy Sinnot from Trend Patterns shares42 Sew the look – Vintage Vibe Sewing with pre-loved fabrics how she saw a gap in the pattern market Have a hankering for wearing styles from32 Kim Collins shares her tips for working34 with for high-end garments the past? wonderful vintage fabric finds

www.thepatternpages.com 5 Spring Edit 5 must-have patterns to make layering up a breeze – whatever spring weather throws your way!

Mimosa I AM Patterns

WRAP UP WARM Make this lightweight cape in the latest spring colours, it’s a handy item to throw on when travelling or at 8529 the weekend when you’re Simplicity feeling a bit cold. There’s a handy add-on pattern for WARM AND TOASTY! patch pockets too. The Toaster has been designed by Indie pattern company Sew House Seven. It features a drop shoulder and is slightly oversized so there’s a choice that’s right for you. There are lots of style options so you won’t want to stop at making just the one!

6 www.thepatternpages.com SPRING edit

Harrison Cashmerette For local stockist – click here

HOLD ON TO YOUR SHIRT The Harrison Shirt is designed with double for a curve- 6532 friendly fit and has all the features of Simplicity a classic shirt including a two-piece , yoke, and , separate BOXY , and buttoned cuffs. It We love this pattern pack has a good range of sizes that you of stylish separates including expect from this pattern brand so no blouse and flared but more gaping at the front. the pièce de résistance is the perfect box jacket with funnel neck, back and flared .

Rowan Megan Nielsen

SECOND SKIN This is the ultimate wardrobe building pattern featuring a figure hugging close fit tee with three neckline and options, and includes a comfy bodysuit shown here with the turtleneck and long sleeves www.thepatternpages.com 7 HOME OF PREMIUM HABERDASHERY, SEWING KITS, SEWING PATTERNS, FABRICS, ENGLISH PAPER PIECING, BOOKS AND MORE

WWW.HOUSEOFALISTAIR.COM On our radar Things we thought you might like to know......

Mmmm … the M Series

The new M Series from is packed with more power, stitches and New UK indie sewing accessories enabling you to sew with precision and confidence that’s needed to make professional looking clothes. The M Series QDC (-Décor-Couture) is pattern brand available in three models M50, M100 and M200, and this mid-range machine can just about cope with all that’s thrown at it! Prices start at £539. My Handmade Wardrobe Patterns has For more information, visit Janome website just launched its first collection of sewing patterns and includes a and tunic, activewear, frill sleeved and stylish shift dress plus a multi-pack of essential for every . The patterns have been designed to be practical, modern, and most importantly well fitting. All sewing patterns have clear and concise instructions, explanations of sewing techniques, clear photographs and diagrams, and are available as a printed paper pattern, with the option of downloadable as a PDF. Available from CraftySew&So

MADE UP

For those of you who love pattern, you’ll want to know that Marimekko has collaborated with Clinique. There’s now a gorgeous collection of lipsticks, nail varnishes and other beauty products, which combines the iconic, colourful patterns of Finnish design house Marimekko with Clinique’s everyday essentials. The range will be available in February from Clinique stockists such as Debenhams.

www.thepatternpages.com 9 Ready, steady, sew!

We love the new Stash ‘n’ Store – it’s the perfect gadget to keep your sewing and crafting within arm’s reach and ready to go! Easily store marking tools, , stilettos, rulers, even brushes and small rotary cutters, in an easy-to-grab upright position. The silicone pockets are smooth, offer a sturdy grip and is also simple to clean. Available in three colours, so you’ve want to collect them all! For your local Stash ‘n Store stockist click here

LOVE MIMI’S STYLE?

Did you know that Mimi Goodwin from Mimi G Style has her own collection of PDF sewing patterns with a shop print ready option. We love the Jasika with with criss-cross straps and the easy to make Lexi .

FREE AND FASHION-LED Are you a pattern designer? Net Printer is currently negotiating with a chain of retail Low on inspiration and outlets, which are interested in taking sewing patterns, looking for patterns with something they currently don’t stock. If this is successful, the WOW factor then take Net printer will be looking for designers to provide six to look at MoodSewciety free 10 designs to take into production. sewing patterns. Mood Fabrics has a fabulous “I don’t think this has been done selection of patterns,which guarantee a gorgeous before in this way but it’s very garment at the end! Make exciting! I’d welcome any thoughts or with fabric of your own ideas from the sewing community that choice and don’t forget they feel needs expanding through the to tag your project with #MadeWithMood for a medium of print,” chance to be featured on says Simon King, Managing Director of Net Printer. Moodsewciety website. We’re in love with the Geranium , which is Simon can be contacted on [email protected] or perfect for spring! visit the Net Printer website.

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FITNESSSew the look Get your wardrobe in shape and sew yourself some active wear!

Keeping fit needn’t be a chore when you do it in style with handmade sports wear that noboby else is going to be wearing!

SPORT SUPPORT Dunbar Top, Sewaholic Patterns sewaholicpatterns.com Sew a sports that looks as professional as ready-to-wear. There’s nothing a girl needs more when exercising than a perfect sports bra – this pattern is fully lined, has a powernet shelf for extra support, inner pockets for optional removable padding or bra cups. All adding up to giving you all the support you’ll need!

HIP & HANGING OUT UP YOUR ACTIVE GAME 3355 , Jalie Cedar top, Cashmerette Find your local stockist here cashmerette.com Cashemerette has just up their game with a collection of patterns for more This pattern pack is packed full of classic curvy girls. The Cedar top is part of the designs, which both men and women will activewear collection to go with the want to wear, and includes a sweatshirt, Belmont pants. This sleeveless workout with set-in sleeves, banded neck tank has an optional V or crew neckline, and cuffs, sweat pants with side decorative straps and princess seams. pocket, elastic ankle and . But if you’re not comfortable with Slogan tops are so popular at the wearing just the vest, layer it up with the moment and these tops are perfect for Dolman Top. This fantastic PDF pattern expressing how you feel! is available in sizes 12-28 and cup sizes C-H so you’re sure to get the right fit.

12 www.thepatternpages.com COMFORTABLY CLASSIC Ruby Joggers, Paprika Patterns paprikapatterns.com

These are sure to become your go-to pair of joggers at the end of a hard day at the office. We’re all guilty of throwing on some joggers but why not make them stylish too? The Ruby joggers come in two versions including cropped and full length version so your sure to find one you love wearing.

SPORTY STYLE -out back shirt, Burda Burdastyle.com This pattern is proof that sporty can be stylish and fun too. This yoga style top from the Time to Relax collection. is produced by BurdaStyle magazine. It features couture draping, a cool cut-out at the back, and long sleeves with a hole for the thumb.

EARN YOUR STRIPES 7634, McCalls sewdirect.com McCalls has brought the classic tracksuit right up to date and proves you can still look great in this duo. We love the cold shoulder sweatshirt dress, which is perfect for wearing as a day time outfit too. PILATES PRINCESS 8424, Simplicity simplicitynewlook.com It’s not all about baggy tracksuits and hiding your silhouette – what you wear can be pretty too. Be fashionable while you work out with this ‘6 in 1’ ballet style pattern from Simplicity. The pattern includes with tie ankle and tie waist versions plus lots of tiop options. Make in stretch knit fabrics such as jersey, spandex and activewear knits, and if you want to put your sewing skills to the test, try working with stretch velvet and mesh.

www.thepatternpages.com 13 SEW ACTIVE

Mimi G shares her tips to successfully sewing your own activewear garments this season

Over the last few years, wear has become very popular. It has been transformed from something you only wore to the gym into something you can wear for running errands or just hanging out with friends. When I designed my athletic wear pattern for Simplicity, I did so because I preferred a bit more coverage. As a home sewist, sewing gives us the ability to make clothing that we love with an exact fit, style, and in some cases performance. We have a lot more options as sewists because we can choose fabrics that aren’t always used in ready-to- wear athletic wear like large or small holed mesh, rib knits, jerseys and even merino wool. Finding activewear fabrics is thankfully a lot easier today and retailers and some specialty online fabric stores have now added many options to their stores. With activewear new challenges appear such as what fabrics are suitable, fabric weight, stretch factor, what needles are required, and how to sew it! It can all be very confusing, so here I do my best to demystify the sewing of athletic wear for you.

ORDERING AND CHOOSING FABRIC: The first thing you want to look at is the content of the fabric. Most activewear fabrics contain , nylon, Spandex, and Lycra, which gives the fabric good stretch and most importantly recovery. You also want it to have the ability to wick away moisture. Wicking fabric pulls moisture from the body to the outer part of the fabric where it can evaporate easily. Ordering fabric online can be tricky so knowing the content is vital. I suggest looking in your closet at your ready to wear clothing – I write down the content of clothing that feels good when I wear it so that when shopping online I can compare the fabric contents of my ready-to-wear leggings and sports to the fabric I plan to purchase and write down the content for reference. Another tip for ordering online is to order a swatch. Being able to get a sample that you can feel and stretch to check for recovery is important. The swatches can also be used to test needles and see how well it responds before ordering.

14 www.thepatternpages.com “I especially enjoy using fabrics with bold TYPES OF FABRIC: prints and colours that make me happy, Mesh, rib knits and jerseys are great for loose fitting tops, , and , which don’t need to have a and then I feel more motivated ton of stretch or recovery. to get out there and Power Mesh is perfect for your sports bras or even adding built bust cups. workout.” Supplex fabrics are breathable and dry fast. There are great colour options and won’t fade after many washes. I suggest searching for ‘supplex fabric by the yard’. Tactel fabrics are strong, lightweight and tend to be soft on the skin – unlike cotton, which takes a long time to dry and is often a bad choice for workout gear, Tactel dries fast. Try searching for ‘tactel jersey’. There a ton of really great athletic wear patterns in our sewing community, and Lycra or Spandex (one in the same) is a just like my #8392 Simplicity pattern the back of the envelope will give you lots synthetic fibre known for its exceptional of fabric recommendations. If you’re making leggings, you can assume that you’ll elasticity. It’s the one thing I always look need fabric with a high percentage of Spandex or Lycra, which have excellent for stretch and recovery. wicking properties. Merino Wool and Bamboo are not the first things you would think of when considering athletic wear but if you live in a colder climate merino wool is warm, breathable, and is a lot less scratchy than traditional wool. I use Merino wool jersey for my sweatshirts and hoodies for those chilly morning runs. Bamboo is a good choice for tanks and looser T-shirts. I enjoy the natural fibres, and it’s soft on your skin.

www.thepatternpages.com 15 PREPPING YOUR FABRIC AND CHOOSING THE RIGHT NEEDLES: Before using your fabric, pre-wash! This will remove shrinkage before cutting your pattern pieces out, so you don’t end up with a garment that is too small. You should use a sharp pair of scissors or rotary cutter with a fresh blade, any dullness will snag and stretch your fabric. Choose a polyester and a twin needle for topstitching. With active fabrics, the needle of choice should be a ballpoint or stretch needle. I have found that some fabrics respond better to a micro text needle or a twin needle. It’s important to test your swatch with different needles and threads to find the perfect combination.

CONSTRUCTION: BALLPOINT NEEDLES: A ballpoint needle is pretty much what Use an overlocker (serger) if you have one. The seams stretch it sounds like. The tip is rounded so that it pushes past the fabric with your fabric and will prevent you getting popped stitches threads instead of tearing. when pulling on your garment. Use your twin needle for topstitching and and for STRETCH NEEDLES: A stretch needle has a rounded point too, areas of stress like the crotch, I use a triple stitch, which but it also has a long indentation on the side called a . It helps can be found on most machines. create a longer thread loop, which produces a good stitch. Steaming is possible with Spandex/Lycra but keep the I use stretch needles on super stretchy fabric and very thin knits. iron on a synthetic setting and a press cloth is essential. Use a ! It will make your life so much TWIN NEEDLES: A twin needle is your best friend, easier and will prevent the underside of the fabric from especially if you don’t own a coverstitch machine. stretching as you sew. Having a good even feed is They’re only used for topstitching but give important to avoid wavy seams. you a professional finish and a stretchable . I hope after all of the tips and information above, it means you feel ready to tackle making your own athletic wear!

Mimi G Xoxo

Add design elements that work for you such as handy pockets for your smartphone so you can listen to your favourite tunes

Mimi G has developed her own line of products ranging from ready to wear collections to commercial sewing patterns. Check out her successful blog MimiStyle.com for more sewing and fashion advice.

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Sew wearable FASHION We chat to Megan Neilsen about how what’s not in her wardrobe inspires her pattern collections

Tell us a little bit about your background and when your ready-to-wear collections turned into sewing patterns? I launched my ready-to-wear clothing line early 2010 and quickly found myself in a very exciting time as a small indie brand with more demand than I could meet. As enjoyable as it was creating two collections a year, it was very difficult to manage the production aspects of a ready-to-wear line. At the same time, I’d often share tutorials on sewing techniques on my blog, and began getting an increasing number of requests for tutorials on how to recreate my designs. That’s when I decided to launch a line of sewing patterns based on the pieces I had designed already, and realised that I enjoyed sharing my designs with sewers. It’s been really satisfying to be able to Flint Darling and design clothing that’s stylish, wearable and empower other sewers ranges dress bodysuit to create their own garments!

Who helps you run your sewing pattern business? I feel really blessed that my team has grown over the years to include a group of amazing ladies. These days my team includes a pattern drafter, sample sewer, graphic designer and operations manager. Most of us are mothers of small children and split our time between working at my office and remotely at home. It makes me really happy to be able to offer such flexible arrangements and work with such a talented group of women.

How often do you launch new sewing patterns? We tend to launch new sewing patterns every 2-3 months. I like to apply careful focus to the development of each pattern and try hard not to rush this process. It takes anything from 6-12 months to take an idea and turn it into a sewing pattern, so we usually have a number of patterns in various stages of development at any one time. Right now we have 10 different patterns on the go! They won’t all be released at the same time, and some will be released next year.

Tell us about your latest sewing patterns and how you decide what to design? Since my brand is all about wearable fashion forward pieces, I always like to come to design ideas organically. I want my pieces to be the kind of wardrobe staples that people turn to every day, so I usually begin with items that I feel are missing from my own handmade wardrobe. I tend to ask myself constantly, what’s missing? What do I want to wear right now? I like to start with what I’m passionate about, then figure out how that garment could be a sewing pattern. I feel like

18 www.thepatternpages.com MAKERS in the spotlight

“I want my pieces to be wardrobe staples that people turn to everyday”

that maintains design integrity, and ensures I don’t lose focus. My next two sewing patterns are a real embodiment of that philosophy. They’re both wardrobe staples that not only pair well Matilda dress together, but could be used to create a capsule wardrobe.

Do you have a favourite pattern that you I never want my have designed? customers to feel like I honestly love them all as they all represent different design details they’re all on their own that I love and wear all the time. If I had to pick a favourite, the Flint and struggling through pants and shorts are currently my most worn and loved garments. a project. I’ve been there The pattern includes a hidden cross-over closure at the left pocket, myself, and it steals the and was really fun for me to work on! joy from your sewing I will also always have a soft spot for the Darling ranges dress as it journey. Sewing should was the pattern I launched my brand with, so is very near and be fun! dear to me. It really excites me to teach other people new What do you like to do when you get time off? sewing techniques and When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my family or doing projects, and I hope other creative projects around our home and garden. I’m not really that writing a lot of really the kind of person to TV, and I always feel lazy lying down, fantastic tutorials and sew- so I usually fill up my free time with activities and projects. These alongs encourages often include other arts and crafts like , and more people to sketching. One of my favourite things to do is sketch and paint native make their own Australian wildflowers. I recently finished doing a screenprinting clothing. course at a local art school for fun and am hoping to learn about ceramics next!

Who do you admire most in the industry? There are honestly so many amazing people I admire in the sewing industry! But if I had to pick just one it would be Jen of Grainline Studio. We’ve been friends since the days when we both had small indie ready-to-wear clothing lines, and I’ve always loved that we are there to give each other a pep talk when it’s needed. Jen is down to earth, kind and I think she brings so much to the sewing industry.

You have extensive online support for your patterns with sew-alongs and tutorials. Do you think it’s important to help dressmakers get good results? Contact Megan Nielsen It’s incredibly important to me to provide the best support to For UK stockist, click here dressmakers that I can, and this absolutely includes sew-alongs, tips and tutorials, as well as always being available to help via email and Karri dress social media.

www.thepatternpages.com 19 PATTERNS PRINTINGWhether you’re a pattern designer or home sewer, Simon King from Netprinter Sewing Services discusses how he came to print sewing patterns

Tell us how Netprinter got into printing sewing patterns? Netprinter has been pattern printing for six months now, and is operated by Blackfriars Contracts Ltd printers for more than 37 years. It all started when I received an email out of the blue from a lady who thanked me for our auto upload plan print service. She then went on to say that actually she had printed a sewing pattern, and would I mind if she told her friends. This turned out to be several thousand followers on Instagram, and this is how our sewing pattern service began.

What have you found out about the separate suppliers to fulfill one envelope. several times. This allows for the pattern sewing community? Last year, I went to the Great British to be folded and the identification to be Firstly, sewers are lovely people, and a Sewing Bee exhibition at Excel to find out uppermost whichever way it’s folded. pleasure to deal with. Once we explain what was required, and we can do it all! This helps the designer when receiving the service we offer sewers seem to Netprinter is growing fast because the bulk order, and when customers are love it, come back for more, and pass we’re talking to customers to find out storing the patterns too. our details onto friends. We seem to what they need and find a cost effective be providing the solution they’ve been solution. We’ve reduced the minimum You’ve started printing patterns for looking for. supply quantities, and they can have companies outside the UK. How is this a full-colour envelope in quantities as commercially viable? In terms of printing patterns – what can small as 50, which is perfect to trial a So far, we’ve found two designers in the you offer sewers who prefer not to print new design. US, one in Canada and one in Denmark, out their digital patterns at home? We offer a trade rate for patterns where it’s a lot cheaper for us to print We now have a dedicated section of our with quantities as little as 50 and we’re a complete monthly order in the UK website exclusively for sewing patterns happy to store created patterns allowing and send to distributors throughout and this offers the option of B/W and designers the ability to send an email Europe than it is for them to ship. In fact colour onto a specially sourced opaque 60 order stating pattern name and quantity for one US designer, we’re negotiating gram paper stock. The website has been required and we’ll dispatch back as the shipment back to the US – the low designed to upload patterns of various required. We also have started to do bulk pound rate and good shipping costs different sizes, and can take any size fulfilment for sending on to distributors, means that we can beat local pricing. We document. B/W A0 is £1.50 and colour is as well as a lot of workshop prints. love this side of the business, it’s fun and £4 and postage below 15 sheets is £3 and beating with tradition for us. above is £8.50 (overnight and tracked). Do you have any advice for designers We’re currently launching lots of new who’d love to start selling their own products such as single, double-sided Netprinter has started printing patterns brand of printed patterns? full colour, black and white envelopes, for a number of indie sewing pattern The most cost-effective pattern size is aswell as booklets in A5 and A4 and as companies. How has this become a A0, and it’s a myth that the longer the a whole range of other items – all in growing part of your business? pattern the more cost-effective it is! An the pipeline. A lot of designers have been badly served example of this is – 100 copies of A0 by my fellow printers, not given the pattern takes less than one minute to correct advice or forced into ordering fold each (1.6 hours) while a hundred quantities that aren’t necessary and make copies of 2.5 A0 length takes six minutes the whole printing process painful and to fold (10 hours). Who pays for folding? Contact Netprinter very expensive. Designers should also put their logo Netprinter.co.uk I met one poor lady that had to use six and pattern name onto every sheet

20 www.thepatternpages.com NETPRINTER PRINTING OVER THE INTERNET

Full Sewing Services

A0 patterns can be printed through our sewing services site. The patterns are printed on 60gsm paper and are £1.50 (+ vat). Bulk rates, envelopes printed in colour & black and white and instruction books A4/A5 all in the highest quality. Designers please contact me for a quote [email protected].

Postage starts from £3 standard UK delivery. Next day delivery is £8.50 and options for international users who can use the service to supply European distributors. NETPRINTER.CO.UK 01752 220451 [email protected]

Netprinter Sewing Services Netprinter2013 New sewing patterns hot off the press

MILA DUNGAREES, Tilly and the Dungarees are cute, practical and great for all seasons, and are a popular thing to wear. These ones will become a go- to wardrobe staple for weekends. The Mila is slim fitting on the hips and legs and has stylish side button openings and essential pockets. Wear with a T-shirt, button- down shirt or roll neck sweater for a gorgeously casual everyday look.

SUE SWEATSHIRT, Schnittchen Patterns We love this casual sweatshirt with diagonal STASIA DRESS seams in the front. It also Sew Liberated features a yoke in both the Stasia Dress is a knit front and back, dropped dress that feels really shoulders and dipped hem. MATCHA TOP, comfortable to wear To help you make it there’s Sew Liberated with options for a fab video sewing tutorial! Matcha Top is a swing, easy-to-sew top pockets, different with mandarin-inspired neckline. Both sleeve and length sleeve variations feature a one-of-a-kind options. The pattern shoulder construction that visually squares- also can be adapted off and balances your shoulders. to make a close- fitting tee, which is Click on the pattern company names or for perfect for layering. 22 www.thepatternpages.com Sew Liberated stockists click here SPRING/SUMMER ISSUE My Image magazine We’re a real fan of the Dutch magazine, My Image, and the spring summer edition has just come out. The magazine includes a pullout of stylish patterns including M1815 dress with button placket, which is great for the office and for smarter weekends.

PAPERBOY PLEATED TROUSERS Wardrobe By Me The Paperboy pleated trousers look like a tailored trouser, but have a secret back elastic, which makes them super comfortable. The pattern also feature a high-waist, single front , slanted pockets, faux front and cropped cuffed hem, and has been designed for knits fabrics such as Ponte, and French Terry.

ALL THE CUTE SKIRTS, My Handmade Wardrobe YATES COAT, A brand new pattern company for you – Grainline Studio My Handmade Wardrobe has created a For your local stockist – click here range of sewing patterns, which make up The stylish Yates Coat will instantly comfortable and stylish everyday essentials upgrade any cool weather outfit. It to get you excited about getting dressed has a sleek sihouette with inseam again! This pack of patterns gives pockets, hidden double-breasted snap you a good choice of lengths to your closure and chic oversized and personality and mood from pencil, A-line, mid-thigh length give the Yates gathered and pleated. a modern aesthetic.

www.thepatternpages.com 23 New patterns added every week! CLICK or TAP HERE

Pattern Finder … FREE pattern sourcing service…

filter by Fabric Type | Garment Type | Brand | Skill Level visit www.hantex.co.uk/pp4 What a sweetheart! As we get close to Valentine’s Day, we share tips for sewing the perfect sweetheart neckline for a romantic night out

WHAT IS A SWEETHEART NECKLINE? Simplicity 8259, This is a beautifully curved neckline, which features two curves simplicitynewlook.com over the bust, that drop and meet at the décolletage in a point and resembles a heart-shape. The sweetheart neckline is a really flattering but also very pretty neckline and bigger busted women, and is a much softer choice than a V-neckline, which doesn’t suit everyone. And is really easier to sew than it looks.

Styling and sewing tips to achieve the perfect neckline

Bear in mind that the sweetheart neckline results on some sewing patterns in showing a little more cleavage. If you want a less revealing look, then you may need to alter and make deeper.

When sewing, always make sure you clip seams into the curves so that the fabric lays as flat as possible. It also gets rid 2 of any bulky seam areas. To create a perfect sweetheart neckline you must press as you go. Start on the outer edges of each semi-circular cup and work inward towards the centre of the heart, rather than working from one side 3 seam to the other. Always measure correctly to make sure that the middle of the sweetheart neckline sits neatly at the cleavage for a perfect fit.

4 Understitching will prevent facings from showing and will also help you achieve a smoother professional neckline finish.

Rose dress, 5 sewladiddavintage.com The sweetheart neckline is meant to show off your curves especially when combined with a defined waistline and full skirt. Why not add some thicker straps for extra support for the bust. 6 www.thepatternpages.com 25 Tools for the technique

Gathering/ shirring foot The underside of this is designed so that only half of the foot makes contact with your machine’s and causes This ochre shirred top Shirring can be added the fabric to . from Miss Selfridge to give elasticity to shows how shirring your garments like this TIP: It’s advisable to set your is perfect for keeping bandeau from the machine’s tension and stitch length strapless tops in place! V collection by Very. to a slightly higher setting to help with the gathering affect.

Elastic thread Shirring elastic comes in standard black and white but now is available in lots of SHIRRING other colours too including silver and gold. It’s narrow but slightly thicker than regular thread. Back in style TIP: Shirring thread does What is shirring? Happening on the deteriorate over time so if you have Shirring is a sewing technique, which a reel buried in your sewing box it’s feature two or more rows of gathers, High Street a good idea to buy a new one. which add texture and additional Shirring used to be considered an old- elasticity to your garments. Use it to fashioned technique but it’s having a bit A quilter’s bar decorate skirts, trousers waistbands, of a comeback and appearing on ready The long quilting bar is used to ankles, , sleeves and yokes. to wear clothing. keep lines of quilting straight but also works well for keeping you on the straight and narrow while shirring. Check the box of Pattern accessories as this may come with picks your sewing machine.

Simflex gauge Two sewing This is another handy tool for patterns to measuring equal distances and show off your accurate spacing for shirring and shirring skills: other sewing techniques such as spacing between buttons. 6512 £22 from Guthrie & Ghani New Look Off the shoulder dress, tunic, with shirring The Staple Dress, detail that’s PDF Pattern from April Rhodes perfect for this spring season. Pattern This dress has a lot of through the also offers dress length, sleeve options bust and hip, with elastic shirring at the and other details such as button down waist to cinch it in. The waistline can front, tie for around the waist and be customised, adjusted up and down large front pockets, so you can make to accent the wearer’s natural waist it your own way! and has a dramatic drop hem.

26 www.thepatternpages.com Shirring success Ann Grose from Designer Stitch shares her technique for creating perfect shirring

Before sewing Take the time to mark your shirring 3lines with chalk or fabric marker before you begin to shirr. Stitching along Hand wind your shirring a marked line is much easier. Alternatively The shirring elastic thread is only used a quilters guide bar is a fabulous thing to 1in the and regular thread in the use. It may come as a standard accessory top. Thread the elastic end into the hole for your sewing machine or you can be of the bobbin long enough to give you a buy it separately. Here’s what the bar good anchor, and start winding the elastic looks like when in place at the back of onto the bobbin. a standard presser foot. It sits on the Wind the thread around the bobbin previous line of stitching making sure you so there’s a little bit of tension, but not are the same distant away on every line. too tight. Wind it around evenly through the whole length of the bobbin spindle. Don’t be tempted to overfill the bobbin. Begin shirring Place the bobbin into the case and Start your first row of sewing by back thread your machine as usual. 4stitching at the start of your row to secure the threads. This is important as when you stretch your fabric out after shirring the elastic will start to undo if you When you get to the last few rows it haven’t done this. 6gets a bit tricky but just take your time and make sure your fabric is pulled out flat and taut.

Finish by pressing your shirring. With 7the iron hovering over the stitching, gently steam. Stitches will appear to shrink and pull up tighter.

Ann Grose has worked as a designer for more than 30 Sewing machine settings Continue stitching across the width. years developing Depending on your sewing machine, 5The first row of shirring may not look clothing ranges for a 2the stitch length may have to be very gathered but as the more rows you number of women’s lengthened slightly. On a scrap piece of complete the more the fabric will draw wear companies in the fabric, try a stitch length of 3 to see up. Continue your rows of stitching Australia. She has her own sewing pattern what is the ideal length. If the stitches ensuring you back stitch at the beginning company Designer Stitch, and also runs a are too loose, you’ll need to tighten your and end of each row and stretching the successful fashion school. tension to 4. fabric out flat as you sew. To find out more visit Designer Stitch.

www.thepatternpages.com 27 60-minute make Sweatshirts are a big Update trend this season but they needn’t be boring! a plain Refashion a plain sweatshirt with the sweatshirt latest mix & match trend. It’s a great way with some of using up leftover fabric pieces or flirty florals smaller quantities of the latest fabric collection releases.

28 www.thepatternpages.com 60 minute make

Materials Steps to sew Grab and pull through Fabric – ¾ m of floral fabric to the right side and press. Plain sweatshirt SLEEVE Matching thread 8 With right sides together, Steps to prepare machine stitch the long sides of the new sleeve POCKET pieces and press the seams. Try on the sweatshirt and on 5 Cut one rectangle from both arms, mark with a chalk the floral fabric measuring 1 pencil just below the elbow. 9 12cm x 14cm On the pocket piece, mark 2.5cm down from the pocket top and fold, press to the wrong side and 10 in place.

On the other three sides press a 1cm . Draw a line across the sleeve at this measurement Turn the new sleeve the 11 above, and cut the sleeve right way round, and off with a sharp pair of the cuff that you put aside Try on your sweatshirt scissors. earlier to the end of the and pin your pocket 2 new sleeve with right sides where you’d like it to 6 of sleeve and cuff together. be and machine sew On both sleeves, detach the Machine-sew in place. in place. ribbed cuffs carefully with Repeat for the other sleeve. 12 a and set them 3 aside for later. Where can I buy

The fabric used is Blooming Soul Plum IBH-74206 from the Boheme Indie collection designed by Pat Bravo for Art Gallery Fabrics.

Turn the new sleeve inside For Art Gallery Fabrics stockist With your floral fabric folded out and feed the cuff end information click here in half, use the sleeve pieces over the sweatshirt sleeve as a pattern piece to cut out so that the two sleeve 4 new sleeve pieces – pieces come together with 2 fronts and 2 backs. right sides . Pin and 4 7 machine stitch together.

www.thepatternpages.com 29 10 minutes with... Sarah Norwood from Ohhh Lulu

Tell us a bit about yourself and patterns is so interesting! I the Ohhh Lulu brand? love seeing the fabrics that I’ve been running Ohhh Lulu people select or the subtle since 2010 and create made- tweaks they make. to-order , as well as The other great thing about PDF (and a few printed) sewing sharing my designs with patterns. I love making lingerie, others that sew, is the learning and teaching others how to sew experience. I’m n experienced them, it has been so fulfilling. sewer and designer, but I never stop learning! The What made you decide to online sewing community is design lingerie? so great in that way. The thing I love most about sewing is all of the details. What is your most loved Lingerie lets you experiment pattern and why? with so many techniques, from I would have to say, appliqué to lacework to working definitely Jasmine – it’s with delicate and finer fabrics, and at the my favourite bra. There same time offering a challenge. are unlimited ways I also just love really nice underwear! to style it. Add a long Being petite but curvy always poses a line band, deepen the problem when looking for great fitting sweetheart neckline, lingerie for myself, so I found that making my sew it in , and add own was the best solution! some trendy strapping. It’s so comfortable, just What is your favourite supportive enough, part of designing easy-to-sew, and patterns? there are endless Seeing my design come possibilities! to life is so rewarding. I try to create garments Are there any new patterns in the pipeline that evoke a feeling, for Ohhh Lulu? whether it be the way I’m working on some pattern add-ons for my you feel on a lazy Sunday, Romy Bra, as well as a lacy harness, which can bed headed and with sun be worn over the top of a bra to add a sexy, streaming through your high neck look. bedroom window, or It’s a great way of layering pieces so you can that effortlessly beautiful get even more out of your lingerie wardrobe. feeling you get when you spend your days barefoot out in nature. When I can communicate that through a garment, it feels amazing! Seeing how others Contact interpret my designs Ohhh Lulu through my sewing Ohhlululingerie.com

30 www.thepatternpages.com Simplicity is celebrating 90 years and still producing inspiring sewing patterns that celebrate history, heritage and embraces the of the past. Head back to your favourite decade with patterns from the archives – some of which feature replicas of the original primer (sewing instructions).

Simplicity patterns are available nationwide. For local stockist information call 0161 480 8734 or browse and buy online at www.simplicitynewlook.com

simplicitypins sewsimplicity simplicitynewlook SimplicityVideo Sew the look VINTAGE VIBE Have a hankering for wearing styles from the past?

SWING COAT, £15.99 To find your local Folkwear Patterns’ stockist – click here

Folkwear design sewing patterns, which are based on authentic ethnic and vintage garments collected during travels to other countries, and are flexible enough to be used for costuming as well as making unique every-day-wear. We love this swing coat as it’s easy to make with just four main pattern pieces. The front pieces have neck extensions that stitch together at centre-back to form the collar, while the back is stitched into a back yoke and features a deep pleat for maximum swing. With narrow sleeves at the wrist, you can push them up for a casual look, and they’ll stay put. The pattern also offers two pocket styles – side-seam and patch.

“Fashion and trends have a tendency to repeat themselves every 20 years or so but why do we love vintage styling so much? Whether it’s sentiment or just good styling, we look at a few of our favourite sewing patterns inspired by eras gone by.”

9280, £15, VOGUE sewdirect.com

This fit-and-flare dress has been inspired from designs around 1948. It’s stylish and the pattern consists of a close fitting coat-style dress with front princess seams, inverted pleat at centre back and detachable collar and sleeve facing.

32 www.thepatternpages.com 8447, £8.95 SIMPLICITY simplicitynewlook.com

Straight from Simplicity’s vintage pattern vault, you can create this ’40s Rosie the Riveter’ inspired pattern. The pattern includes trousers, dungaree- style overalls, blouse and blouse with . The pattern suits fabrics such as chino, cottons, , gabardine, linen and twill.

BUTTERFLY BLOUSE, $12, DECADES OF STYLE decadesofstyle.com

This ’30s inspired blouse is really pretty and wouldn’t be out of place with a pair of today. This blouse has a saddle yoke at the shoulder and wonderful full elbow-length sleeves. There’s some shirring at the front of the shoulders and is finished with a waist-clinching tie that wrap around the back and meets in the front. It looks best made in drapey fabrics such as , voile, rayon, gauze and . It’s available as a PDF pattern for UK readers.

BETTY JEAN CATSUIT, £18, SEW LA DI DA VINTAGE sewladidavintage.com

The Betty Jean pattern is fun loving and feisty at the same time and you make the rules to how it turns out. Sew it in a ¾-length or as a pair of cheeky shorts, add a halter-neck or why not sport a crossover?

www.thepatternpages.com 33 SEWING WITH pre-loved fabrics Ever found a gorgeous piece of pre-used fabric but not sure how to use it? Kim Collins from Ann Normandy Design shares her tips for working with these wonderful vintage fabric finds

Whether it’s a flea market score of a bolt of dead stock fabric or bringing STAY ORGANISED out your inner Scarlet O’Hara and repurposing fabric from drapes – Have a pattern already and are on the vintage are a great way to hunt for fabric? create a garment that’s unique and  Use your mobile phone to keep the eco-friendly. fabric requirements handy  Bookmark any designer’s fabric HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR recommendations, as well as equirements YOUR NEXT PROJECT: for their sewing patterns. Some designers have apps with all that information.  Take photos of the front and back of vintage patterns, with all the information you need to make sure you will have enough fabric.  Keep a handy. I usually keep one in my . I never know when I might make an unplanned stop!

KNOW YOUR FABRICS Is vintage fabric, the right for your piece. How will it drape with the pattern? Make sure there’s enough fabric for matching the prints and working around flaws. When repurposing material, make sure it’s an appropriate fit for the garment. Unfortunately a gorgeous on a tablecloth may still look like a tablecloth as a garment! USING LINEN WHERE TO FIND FABRIC LOOK FOR FUN ACCENTS Antique and vintage 100 per cent Thrift shops, estate sales, flea markets linen sheets make amazing blouses and buying online from sites such Consider using small and lighter weight . Consider as Etsy and Ebay are great places to laying out the pattern to use any start. If buying online, make sure you pieces of vintage details such as ladder work on ask specific questions regarding the fabric, such as tightly sleeves or as a hem. Find a piece textile’s condition before you commit of fabric that has a neat selvedge? to buying and don’t be afraid to ask woven organza or a Layout and cut the pattern crosswise for photos. Your idea of minor flaws lightweight cotton lawn and don’t hem. Vintage cotton sheets may be very different from for seams. are great for making muslins or shirts the seller’s. and blouses.

34 www.thepatternpages.com CHECK THE CONDITION OF THE FABRIC THOROUGHLY PREWASH, JUST AS YOU WOULD NEW TEXTILES, BUT WITH CARE

Some fibres, especially fine cotton and silk will deteriorate with age. I would suggest hand washing – gentler the better at first. Avoid wringing and squeezing fabric; gently roll the rinsed material in a clean towel to absorb excess water and air dry on a drying rack or line. If you’re treating a stain, avoid rubbing and don’t use bleach. Bleach will break Look not only for rips, tears, pulls, stains down even the most durable of fibres. but also areas that are compromised or Stains will come out with a little worn. You may be able to work around patience and care, but it’s not defects. Evaluate if you have enough guaranteed. It’s always best to use less before you buy, or that you’ll be able to detergent and cold water. Also, not work around or hide the flaws within the all detergents and soaps are construction of a seam or pocket. It’s best created equal. Some work well with cotton to avoid fabric with large stains or flaws in and linen fabrics, such as oxygenated the centre of the fabric. detergents, but not with wool or silk. Read the label on your laundry detergent before using. Consult your dry cleaner first for wools and velvet.

START TO SEW

Take it slow while sewing with old fabrics. WHAT’S THE FIBRE? Consider sewing finely woven fabrics Knowing what fibre your fabric contains with tissue paper to prevent bunching and how to care for it once you have while sewing. Protect the delicate found may be a bit of a challenge. raw edges of a seam or hem with an Although it’s impossible to know 100 enclosed finish. per cent what the fibre content is, the best way to have a better understanding of the fabric’s fibre is to do a burn test. There are many burn test fibre charts ACCESSORISE THREAD SELECTION available online, such as The Sewing and Craft Alliance’s Guideline, which walks Be on the lookout for vintage and antique Always pick a thread you through and help identify the fibres in notions such as buttons, snaps, and slides your textile. on thrift shop and clothing to add the made of the same perfect finishing touches to your creation. fabric fibres. REMOVING RUST STAINS

Rust is a fibre’s enemy, it will erode and create a hole, especially with REMOVING ODOURS Kim Collins lives just outside of Detroit, woven fabrics. I would work around MI, in the US with her husband, a large stain on delicate threads. But, 13-year-old son and their St. Bernard, if it’s a minor stain on linen, they can Musty and mildew smells are Bode. It doesn’t get any better than be removed with a little care. Many notorious with vintage fabrics. to bring together constant lifetime stain removers will remove rust, but Air-drying them outside for at least passions to create a women’s apparel they’re very harsh and could damage 24 hours will help with eliminate sewing pattern collection. Kim Collins’ the fabric. Instead, use steam from the odours, as well as soaking journey in clothing design started early water boiled in a saucepan, with a paste durable wovens, such as linen in an in life while being taught how to sew made of lemon juice and salt. This will oxygenated detergent and then using by her grandmother. remove rust stains but you may require a vinegar rinse. Kim Collins, designer and owner Ann several attempts. Normandy Design, ann-normandy.com.

www.thepatternpages.com 35 (c)Orageuse 2018 - Photo: A. LamachËre

Pair in purple Gutermann has a large range of threads to pair with your new-found passion for purple. Sew-All threads offer a premium thread that will sew pratically every type of fabric and comes in a huge colour range to ensure your stitching matches your fabric every time! We particularly like these two shades. Dahlia and Purple. 500m spool, £5.18 Chic pattern Orageuse offers contemporary patterns in minimalist styles, so you can develop your own relationship with fashion. The latest Prague blouse is a sophisticated straight cut blouse, which falls to the hip line. The pattern comes in two different neckline variations, and features long sleeves that are gathered at the cuff and with all fastened with three buttons and tab. Doesn’t it look great in this colour? €8.50, Orageuse 50 shades of PURPLE Ultra violet is Pantone’s colour of the year! Put the feel of luxury, power and ambition into your sewing with shades of purple

Blackcurrant walk Trinket tidy These super girlie pumps are sure to spruce up If you’re like us, you’re always looking any sporty or casual outfit this season. for somewhere safe to stash buttons, Bea knot detail pumps and needles. This little trinket pot £20, Simply Be is perfect for just that, as well as adding a little glamour and this year’s colour to your sewing room. Purple glass trinket pot £10.50, The Contemporary Home

Colour-loaded The wonderful boxes of fabrics from Art Gallery Fabrics includes Vibrant Violet, which has all the purple fabrics you’ll need to create something really beautiful this season. Each box features either 10 half-yard or fat quarter fabrics showcased in a collectable box. The Colour Master Box 10 half-yard (£81) fat quarters (£40.48) For your local stockist, click here

36 www.thepatternpages.com ToTo findfind youryour localllocalocal stockiststockiststockist contactcontact contact EQSEQS EQS Ltd.Ltd. Ltd. atatatwww.eqsuk.comwww.eqsuk.com or or callcallcall 01160116 271271 003300033033

Endless imagination. And the thread for it.

®® 100100 % % Polyester Polyester Thread, colour, imagination.imagination. The creative se seamstressamstress kno knowsws thatthat Amann Amann GroupGroup MettlerMettler has has it it all. all. High-quality High-quality threads threads for for allall requirements an andd needs. A wide array of co colours.lours. And imaginationimagination fuelledfuelled by the the endless po possibilities possibilitiesssibilities of Amann Group Mettler threads.

The Amann Group Mettler product range cocontainsntains everything thatthat you you needneed forfor sewing, sewing, quilting, quilting, embroidery embroidery andan andd overlocking.overlocking. These specialist threads are availableavailable in a diverse range of colours, surfacesurface finishes, looks and effects. The product range contains, for example, SERALON®, the universal thread which is ideal for useuse on cotton,cotton, synthetics,synthetics, mixed fabrics, linen or silk. Or POLY SHEEN®, the charmingcharming 100100 % % SILK SILK , which impresses through its incredible brilliance of colour. Or AMANDA, ideallyideally suited to and closingclosing seamsseams and forfor decorativedecorative hand and machine embroidery on silk fabrics.

To find your locallocal stockiststockist contact EQS Ltd. at www.eqsuk.com or call 0116 271 0033

®® TRILOBALTRILOBAL POLYESTER POLYESTER Shwe Shwe Shwe Shwe

Ankara Ankara

AFRICAN STATEMENT Urbanstax aims to give sewers a wide range of interesting African textiles Shwe Shwe including prints and batiks, which are manufactured in Africa – many of which have some lovely stories behind them too. Shown here is a beautiful floral original Shwe Shwe fabric from South Africa and the Ankara large abstract print fabric from Ghana, West Africa, both are printed on 100% cotton. Both would make a statement on any handmade garment. HOT Urbanstax Fabrics Latest fabrics for sewing this spring

A FEAST OF FLORALS Flower Child designed by Maureen Cracknell is one of the new fabric ranges from Art Gallery Fabrics, and features designs reminiscent of lush meadows, wild bouquets and the spirit of the flower child painted with fuchsia, pink and teal. It will be available at the end of April To find your local stockist click here

ON CLOUD NINE

ORGANIC KNITS These gorgeous interlock organic knits by Cloud9 fabrics are soft and silky and come in an amazing 19 designs. Bold colours and textured prints make up this playful collection of knits, with florals, stripes and geometrics so the options are endless. The collection is ideal for making all kinds of garments from dresses to causal wear. To find your local stockist click here

*The T-shirt and skirt illustrations are to showcase the fabrics and are not to scale.

38 www.thepatternpages.com BOHEMIAN GARDEN Designed by Clairice & Gifford – this beautiful range combines lush florals, textured geometrics and a hint of the boho sixties to create an eclectic, nature-inspired collection. The range is printed on DESIGNED 100% organic quilter’s weight cotton, and the rich IN NATURE colours, blooming flora and a graphic vintage feel are sure to inspire your next project.. To view more designs from the collection To find your local stockist click here and find out where you buy click here

Michael Miller’s licensed designers have joined together to create a collection of gorgeous patterns inspired by nature and all its beauty. Designed in a soft palette ranging from lavenders to pinks and corals to leafy greens, robin egg blues and foggy greys. Project Dovetail brings to mind a walk in the park on a misty day. Each artist has designed one pattern in two colourways with 24 pieces in all to dovetail together and suitable for any project. To find your local stockist click here

BELLISSIMO TESSUTO Ponte Roma Jersey is a soft double knit poly/viscose, and is perfect for dresses, tunics and skirts. Now with new colours including dusty blue, teal, rust, burgundy, red and fuchsia, this fabric is more beautiful than ever. To find your local stockist click here

LIBERTY’S THE COTTAGE GARDEN To view more designs from the collection and find out where you buy click here

The inspiration for the Cottage Garden collection comes from the beautiful villages of Buckinghamshire. This English countryside is where Arthur Liberty, escaped from his London city life. Designs such as the thatched cottage gardens burst with colourful floral displays filling the winding roads with charm and delight. Flowers featured in the prints include forget-me-nots, bluebells and anemones, drawn in the London design studio and taking inspiration from the Liberty rich textile archives. The colour palettes include warm dusty pink and coral tones, mixed with lavender, denim and cornflower blues. The base quality ‘Lasenby’ is 100% cotton is specifically woven with sewers in mind.

www.thepatternpages.com 39 40 www.thepatternpages.com The Creative Craft Show is launching a brand new competition to celebrate all the budding dressmakers out there! Sew Your Style is brought to you in association with The Pattern Pages and is a chance for you to show us your unique style, flair and creativity.

CATEGORIES: SEW YOUR STYLE • Vintage SPONSORS • All in the Detail • Refashion • Accessorise

A panel of sewing industry judges will cast their votes in the lead up to the show. Don’t miss the ‘Sew Your Style’ gallery where all entries will be displayed on a photo gallery at the Creative Craft Show in Birmingham (Friday 29th June - Sunday 1st July, 2018). We’ll also have a special display of the winners of each category for visitors to admire!

CLICKING FOR MORE DETAILS ON HOW TO ENTER VISIT ICHF EVENTS COMPETITION PAGE BY HERE

www.thepatternpages.com 41 Style& Substance Lucy Sinnot from Trend Patterns shares how she saw a gap in the pattern market for high-end garments

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got into designing sewing patterns? I started sewing at a really young age and went on to study fashion at university, where I learned a lot of sewing techniques covering various topics. It was while studying that I fell in love with the pattern cutting process, and my career in fashion took off from there.

When did you launch Trend Patterns? I launched my company, Trend Patterns in 2016. I felt there was a gap in the sewing pattern market and was inspired to create patterns with a high-end fashion niche.

How often do you release new sewing patterns? I like to follow along with the seasons, and produce a summer and winter collection, which track and keep up with the catwalk trends.

Where do you get your ideas for new patterns? The whole brand concept is to follow closely what’s happening on the catwalk. Each season, I look carefully at the fashion shows, pick out the trends and use the most interesting pieces as inspiration. Sometimes, I’ll find two or three pieces that I’ll merge or take elements from to put a collection from.

42 www.thepatternpages.com MAKERS in the spotlight

Tell us about what sewing patterns are Who or what has been currently available? your biggest inspiration To date, Trend Patterns has produced two winter collections and a to your style? summer collection, and we’re currently working on spring There are a few key designers I’m summer 2018. drawn more towards, and I like Within each collection we create a range of following the fashion editors basics and a main collection, which features a from Vogue and Elle magazines more complex line of patterns. They vary from to see the way they style skirts, tops, dresses and jackets. their outfits.

Do you have any favourite pattern Who do you feel you’ve designed so far and why? your patterns I don’t really have an overall favourite, but I appeal to? think I’ve made the Oversized Sleeve Top and the I’ve found that we don’t have a definitive customer. Bomber Jacket the most so far. I guess because we produce something for There are a few I’m desperate to make but everyone, sewists come to us when they haven’t had time yet, the Drape Hem Skirt want to make something a little different, is next on the sewing list. and perhaps is also a bit of a challenge.

Have you got any new patterns on the horizon? Any secrets we can share with our readers? I’m currently working on spring summer 18. I’m planning to expand our ranges this year, but I don’t want to give any more away than that.

Contact Trend Patterns trendpatterns.co.uk

www.thepatternpages.com 43 The latest sewing books that you’re going to want to have on your sewing room bookshelf on books Sewing with Knitted Fabrics By Wendy Ward 978-1-78249-468-3 Make 20 essential garments from stretch knit fabrics following Wendy’s step-by-step tutorials, along with ideas to easily adapt them for everyday wear. Both beginners and more experienced dressmakers often avoid using knitted fabrics, but Wendy shows you how to The Art of Stripes successfully sew them with just a regular Over 30 ways to wear stripes sewing machine. Core wardrobe basics By Libby VanderPloeg include T-shirts, wide-leg trousers, 978-17824881511 Sew Your Own Activewear lounge pants, tank tops, cardigans, From the Parisian chic of the Breton top By Melissa Fehr skirts and dresses with styling and fabric to the sleek menswear-inspired pinstripe, 9781446376362 selection to dress them up or down. print is a perennial favourite for a reason. Make your own Activewear features 13 Techniques include a guide to all A staple of collections different designs including yoga pants, the different types of knitted fabrics, such as Yves Saint Laurent and Comme crops top and running leggings designed what they’re like to work with and wear des Garçons, and the shelves of high- by activewear sewing expert Melissa and how to choose the best fabric for street favourites like Topshop, the stripe Fehr. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist or your project, a knitted fabric shopping is here to stay. In The Art of Stripes, gym bunny or just looking for the perfect checklist and how to prepare knits for learn how to style your stripes and pair pair of slouchy leggings for lounging making clothes including washing, patterns like a pro. Go nautical with navy around, this collection of sewing patterns drying, laying out and cutting. Also or clash with checks and florals. For will have something for you. Learn how there’s how to set up your sewing androgyny with a twist, wear a pinstriped to choose the correct fabric for this type machine to sew knits, which needles shirt backwards or tied around yourself of sewing and discover tips on working you need, how to sew seams, hems for a softer look. Take on the colour- with performance fabrics like Lycra and and finish edges in knits on your regular blocking trend with techni-colour Spandex. Before you know it, you’ll have sewing machine as well as special stripes, and make an impact with leg- a truly wonderful workout wardrobe treatments for knits including different lengthening vertically striped trousers. ensuring you look super cool while you ways to use elastic and taping seams and Featuring profiles on iconic stripe work up a sweat. a glossary of knitted fabrics and fibres. wearers such as Jean Seberg, Alexa Melissa Fehr is a pattern designer, Three pullout, full-scale, multi-sized Chung and Brigitte Bardot, you’ll never marathon runner, magazine contributor pattern sheets come with this book and be short of inspiration. This book has and blogger with over 10 years’ each pattern features 20 different sizes been beautifully illustrated and makes experience in the activewear market, and with bust 80-121cm, waist 64-105cm the perfect gift for any fashionista who has worked on the BBC’s Great British and hips 88-129cm. want to earn their stripes! Sewing Bee as a sewing advisor. Where to buy Where to buy Where to buy Published by CICO Books – available Published by Hardie Grant Books – Published by SewandSo – available for £9.55 (normally £12.99) from available to pre-order for £9.55 from for £15.18 from Amazon. Amazon. Amazon.

44 www.thepatternpages.com THE FIRST DIGITAL MAGAZINE JUST FOR DRESSMAKERS

Work with The Pattern Pages

Are you an up-and-coming Downloads pattern designer, fabric shop Issue 1 Summer or sewing expert? We’d love 6133 downloads* to hear from you! Issue 2 Autumn 5700 downloads*

We’re looking for sewing *Still being enthusiasts like yourself downloaded daily to contribute to our ever growing digital magazine. We’ve lots of opportunities to get involved in from writing expert technical pages, interviews to full-page adverts showcasing your amazing sewing companies.

Contact [email protected]

30 www.thepatternpages.comWWW.THEPATTERNPAGES.COM Fashionista biscuit collection 6 red heart buttons £42.50 from Biscuiteers £2.95 from Dotcomgiftshop Not got a date? Get the ladies round for a girlie night of sewing this Valentine’s. It’s Prosecco and stylish biscuits all the way! Add a little TLC to one of your latest makes with these cute heart buttons.

Heart-shaped pins £1.95 from Sew Lets Stitch Show your garments some love with these red and pink heart-shaped pins.

Valentine’s Day Turn the heat up in your sewing room, it’s all about sharing the love

Everlasting trainers £80 from Dune Step into style this February, and pair with your latest make with these heart motif trainers from Dune.

Gorgeous mug £9 from Paperchase Bella Knicker pattern Made from fine porcelain, this £6.60 from Evie La Luve (digital download) romantic mug is the ideal gift for Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be the same without some lacy your significant other, or perfect underwear. Make these gorgeous Bella knickers from for little tea breaks throughout Evie La Luve to spice things up! your sewing day.

46 www.thepatternpages.com esigner DStitch .com

Use the code winterpages10 and get 10% off all Designer Stitch patterns

Designer Stitch design sewing patterns that are stylish, easy-to-wear and on-trend. All patterns are simple to construct, and true to size with a wide range of patterns from trousers and tops to dresses, playsuits and more! Ruffles are a big trend right now but this blouse’s ruffles are pretty special! The construction is unusual, and is easy to sew whatever your sewing level. SYNTHIA The pattern comes with great instructions, guidance on fit, and separate pattern pieces for with compliments different bust cup sizes. Ann Grose from Designer Stitch has just released the Synthia blouse sewing pattern, and we’re delighted that she’s offering it first to The Pattern Pages readers free to download! Synthia Blouse Gallery

Here’s what the pattern testers have to say! Click on the pattern testers name to find our more about them.

CASEY BRAY “I love the soft feminine flounce of the Synthia top. It’s well worth sewing just to learn the genius invisible technique method. Thankfully, the extra cup sizes took the guesswork out of any adjustments. I’m planning to wear this one with jeans and heels out for dinner, and I love that it’s also versatile enough to be worn with a skirt for a corporate look.”

RACHEL REECE JENNIE LINDSTROM “I feel so feminine in the Synthia top “The Synthia ruffle top is such a beautiful from Designer Stitch, it’s one of a kind. and feminine pattern, and gave me the I’ve been looking for a pattern like this opportunity to try out some sewing for a while and the fit is spectacular. I’m techniques that were new to me. The not a usual ruffle girl, but since this isn’t construction of the ruffle, and how it attached too much frill its just the perfect!” to the was really intriguing and I know that I’ll use this pattern again!”

CARMEN STATHAM MEGHAN CUNHA “The Synthia top is a “The Synthia top was a fun to showstopper, and the key to this make, quick to sew, and ends spectacular pattern is a fluid in gorgeous results. I decided drape. It features a romantic to use a bright, funky print to ruffle of genius design, which make it fun and flirty but it circles the neckline and arm would look so romantic in a holes in graceful folds. The more delicate print or a solid. large floral fabric from Joann I love that I can choose from Fabrics and Crafts by Cape May two different lengths, and as is a polyester, spandex blend it’s slightly fitted at the bust and drapes beautifully, and the and comfortable at the waist. colours are phenomenal. The It’s a great top for everyday or bust darts offer a tailored shape can be dressed up for a special to the bodice.” night out.” 48 www.thepatternpages.com KATIE KENNEDY “I’m thrilled with my two versions of the KRISHA CHUI Synthia Blouse. The shell is so simple and “ I’ve been calling Synthia, my Valentine’s Day easy to wear, and works for so many different top because it makes the perfect date night top. fabrics. I can see myself making this in a SHALINI MUNJAL The ruffles are so fun and flirty, and I love that I basic chambray as well as a host of solids “I used a grey chiffon fabric for my top, and absolutely can be dress it up or down. We’re pretty casual to boost my wardrobe. The ruffle addition love the light feel of the fabric. The ruffles are what here in the Seattle, so I like to wear it with is just a cherry on top – a really special and attracted me to the pattern and Ann’s drafting is the jeans and some cute heels. This was a lovely feminine detail when the need for a more best. This top goes great with skirts, jeans and shorts, pattern to work with, and the way the ruffles dressed up option arises.” and is a perfect addition to any wardrobe!” come together is pretty amazing.”

ILSE LEMMENS “I immediately fell in love with JOHANNA ALI the Synthia blouse. The design CAROLINE MOORE “I’m so in love with my Synthia top. Ruffles are has everything you could want “I used a polyester chiffon fabric and even though everywhere right now, and this top is perfect and from a top – it’s both feminine and it was tricky to sew with I think it was perfect for right on trend. The construction of this top is genius, flattering. The ruffle gives it such a the style, and I love the way the ruffles have turned and I would have never thought to have sewn this top romantic look. I used a white sheer out. The pattern worked straight away with no together like this. I think the Synthia top is one of my crepe for a beuatiful drape. I love adjustments needed! This top can be worn lots of favorites from designer Stitch so far. I will definitely this blouse in a plain colour best as different ways.” be making more of these.” it shows off the ruffles.”

AIME WILSON DIANE CULLUM “I used a poly fabric with a “When I saw the drawings slight sheen. My grandmother of the Synthia, I loved the passed about a year and a simplicity of the blouse half ago, and this is one of with the circle type of ruffle. her fabrics from her stash. I I really like how it drapes love the flounce that goes down the arms, creating around the neckline and the a very different look. It’s arms, it’s genius how it goes romantic and flirty, floaty together and looks way more and fun. Since I love sewing complicated than it is. The with woven fabric, and this relaxed fit is easy to wear and blouse can be dressed up or very comfortable.” worn casual.”

To get your FREE Synthia blouse PDF download: CLICK HERE on Designer Stitch and enter the following code at checkout: PATTERNSYNTHIA

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