This Month in Sewing: November Sewing Pattern Projects and Plans

This Month in Sewing: November Sewing Pattern Plans and Projects 2024

This Month in Sewing: November 2024

If you’re curious to see what sewing patterns I am going to be attempting and sewing this month, join me as I share This month in Sewing, for November 2024. I also share fabric ideas and some upcoming projects.

— Patterns Mentioned —
👗 Legato Jeans – Love Notions Sewing Patterns
👉 https://www.lovenotions.com/product/legatojeans?affiliates=928
Use code ‘10sewmegan45’ for an EXTRA 10% off!

👗 Bottlebrush Tank – Common Stitch Sewing Patterns
👉 https://www.commonstitch.com.au/products/bottlebrush-tank-digital-pattern

👗 Timbre Peasant Top – Love Notions Sewing Patterns
👉 https://www.lovenotions.com/product/timbre-peasant-top-dress?affiliates=928

👗 Allegro Bottoms – Love Notions Sewing Patterns
👉https://www.lovenotions.com/product/allegro?affiliates=928

👗 Playdate Romper – Peek A Boo Pattern Shop Sewing Patterns
👉https://peekaboopatternshop.com/playdate-romper-pattern/?ref=sewandtellau

— Tools & Resources —
(when available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission)

🔧 Sewing Kit & Tool Recommendations
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/sewing-resources/

— Freebies & Community —

👚FREE video guide on how to get a flawless fit in under 9 minutes
➡️https://sewandtell.com.au/fit-made-easy/

💻Want the confidence to finish more of your stretch sewing projects with professional finishes and a ready to wear look?
➡️ https://sewandtell.com.au/csfs/

🧵Tame your Serger/Overlocker in the Serger Sewing Essentials Course. No more tension or threading problems!
➡️ https://sewandtell.com.au/serger-sewing-essentials/

— This Month in Sewing: November ‘24 Sewing Patterns and Projects —

Join me as I dive into my sewing plans for November 2024, where I’ll be tackling some fun projects for myself, my kids, and even a few gifts! 🎄 From making my first pair of jeans to a festive tree skirt project using decorative threads on the serger, I’ve set some ambitious goals.

Alongside this, I’m creating tutorials, like the scrunchie project for Baby Lock Australia, and sewing up pieces from Copper Creek Patterns, Love Notions, and more. Plus, a special mention goes out to The Telarie fabric shop for their amazing selections—grab yours before they close!

I’ve also launched my new Facebook group, The Sewcial Lounge, a friendly community for all of us to share inspiration, tips, and sewing wins together.

Let’s sew up something amazing this November!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this video if you find it helpful. Your engagement helps us grow and continue providing great content. Happy sewing!

— Let’s Connect —

http://www.sewandtell.com.au
https://www.instagram.com/sewandtellau/
https://www.facebook.com/sewandtellaus
https://www.youtube.com/@sewandtellaustralia

What next?

The Ultimate easy and fun Sewing Class

Stitch Your Style – A sewing class that will have you walking away with a gorgeous, made for you tee in 5 easy lessons.

The Fabric I Almost Didn’t Cut—But Look What Happened!

Pattern: Meet You There | Tiered Dress & Top
Designer: Pattern Emporium
Fabrics: ‘Protea Magic’ in Twill Fabric from The Telarie
Skill level: Beginner
Size made: 16
Adjustments: Adding elastic to the waist band to give the dress more shape for my body shape.
Pros: Love Love Love this dress and how it fits and feels on me.
Cons: Woven’s take a little longer to sew well, but are worth it.

The Perfect Summer Dress for Women - With Bonus Tips for Sewing with Twill Fabric!

Follow along as I transform a gorgeous twill fabric into the perfect Summer Dress for Women. All for the Precious Fabric Challenge hosted by @TomKatStitchery !

👉 Check out the full sewing process, learn tips for working with woven fabrics, and get my thoughts on the finished dress. Plus, stick around to see the matching clutch I made using Swoon Patterns!

— Patterns Mentioned —

👗 Meet You There | Tiered Dress & Top Sewing Pattern by Pattern Emporium
👉 https://patternemporium.com/products/meet-you-there-tiered-dress-top-sewing-pattern-woven-fabrics?aff=133

👗 Heidi Fold Over Clutch
👉 https://swoonpatterns.com/heidi-foldover-clutch-wristlet-4.html

— Recommended Videos —

📹 An updated review of Projector Sewing
👉 https://youtu.be/SU9GhkEdZgk

📹 Overview of Projector Sewing
👉 https://youtu.be/1YSofsnYZdM

📹 How to Gather with an Overlocker/Serger
👉 https://youtu.be/oNawPymJCHc

— Tools & Resources —
(when available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission)

🔧 Fabric is from The Telarie and called ‘Protea Magic’ in Twill
👉 https://www.thetelarie.com/products/protea-magic-pre-order

🔧 Sewing Kit & Tool Recommendations
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/sewing-resources/

— Chapters —

00:00 – The Perfect Summer Dress for Women – With Bonus Tips for Sewing with Twill Fabric!
00:13 – Why I’m participating in the Precious Fabric Challenge
01:09 – Using a muslin to test the fit before cutting into your fabric
01:52 – How to set up your pattern pieces for projector sewing
03:11 – Cutting my Gingham Dress Fabric with my sewing projector
03:51 – Stay-stitching tips for woven fabrics
04:18 – Reviewing the fit of my musling gingham dress
04:47 – Gathering the dress and final touches on the muslin gingham dress
05:35 – Review of the muslin Gingham Dress and fitting thoughts
08:08 – Final Dress Reveal of my Perfect Summer Dress for Women and thoughts!

— Freebies & Community —

📕FREE guide on How to improve your stretch fabric sewing in 30 minutes or less:
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/improve-your-stretch-fabric-sewing/

💻Ready to boost your stretch sewing skills and gain the expertise and confidence you need to tackle stretch fabrics with ease? Join Conquer Stretch Fabric Sewing here.
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/csfs/

🧵 Want to get to know your Serger and make less mistakes? Join Serger Sewing Essentials here.
👉https://sewandtell.com.au/serger-sewing-essentials/

— The Perfect Summer Dress for Women – With Bonus Tips for Sewing with Twill Fabric! —

Join me as I sew a dress for the Precious Fabric Challenge using a stunning twill fabric from The Telarie. I’ll take you through the full process—from starting with a muslin to get the fit just right, to using a projector to cut the pattern pieces perfectly. You’ll learn helpful techniques like stay-stitching for wovens and tips for handling balloon sleeves and gathering. If you’ve ever felt nervous about cutting into your precious fabrics, this video will give you the confidence to do it!

You’ll also find helpful tips for:
– Setting up and using projector sewing
– Why you should always start with a muslin
– Being careful to understand fabric charts and requirements
– Stay-stitching your neckline and armholes
– Managing fabric gathering

Don’t forget to like, comment, and share if you find these tips useful. Your support helps us keep creating more sewing content. Happy sewing!

— Let’s Connect —

http://www.sewandtell.com.au
https://www.instagram.com/sewandtellau/
https://www.facebook.com/sewandtellaus
https://www.tiktok.com/@sewandtellaustralia
https://www.youtube.com/@sewandtellaustralia
https://au.pinterest.com/sewandtellau/

DISCLOSURE: We often review or link to products & services we regularly use and think you might find helpful. To support the channel, where possible, Sew & Tell Australia registers for affiliates for the patterns, tools and resources we love. Several links on this page are affiliate links. Clicking on these links and making a purchase may earn us a commission, with no extra cost to you. Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

What next?

Stop wasting fabric and time on projects that don't fit right.

Learn to sew with confidence and let me guide you to more sewing success.

Top stitching with a twin needle, the secret hack to hemming pants, dresses and more

Discover the secret sewing hacks of Top Stitching with twin needle sewing needles. Make hemming pants, dresses, t shirts easy and give your garments a more professional finished look.

— Recommended Videos —

📹 What is the difference between Stretch Fabric and woven fabric? 👉 https://youtu.be/Dr7rH5ogQuI?si=5pcHPcV2t8Y_oDVp

— Tools & Resources —
(when available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission)

🔧 Sewing Kit & Tool Recommendations
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/sewing-resources/

🔧 Conquer Stretch Fabric Sewing Course
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/csfs/

— Freebies & Community —

📕FREE guide on How to improve your stretch fabric sewing in 30 minutes or less:
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/improve-your-stretch-fabric-sewing/
💻Ready to boost your stretch sewing skills and gain the expertise and confidence you need to tackle stretch fabrics with ease? Join Conquer Stretch Fabric Sewing here.
👉 https://sewandtell.com.au/csfs/
🖥 Join a supportive community of other sewists in The Sewing Corner. An exclusive membership offering detailed tutorials and expert guidance to help sewists enhance their skills.
👉https://sewandtell.com.au/the-sewing-corner/

— Chapters —

00:00 Top stitching with a twin needle, the secret hack to hemming pants, dresses and more
01:09 What are Twin Needle Sewing Needles – a detailed explanation
01:59 How to install your twin needle sewing needles in your sewing machine
02:37 How to thread your twin needle sewing needles in your sewing machine
04:46 What settings to use with your twin needle sewing needles
05:36 Sewing a hem with your twin needle sewing needles
06:54 Troubleshooting the tension of your twin needle sewing needles
07:57 Understanding and troubleshooting tunneling with your twin needle sewing needles
05:56 The final garment after you’ve finished with your twin needle sewing needles

— Top stitching with a twin needle, the secret hack to hemming pants, dresses and more —

Discover the secret sewing hacks of Top Stitching with twin needle sewing needles. Make hemming pants, dresses, t shirts easy and give your garments a more professional finished look.

If you’ve ever looked at store bought clothing and thought how do they get it looking so neat and beautiful, I’m here to share my tips and tricks for using twin needle sewing needles that can be used in your normal domestic machine. Taking that extra step to top stitch your necklines and hems goes such a long way in the final look of your garment.

Troubleshoot issues such as
– Twin needle tunneling
– Twin needle tension settings
– How to install your twin needle sewing needles

Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this video if you find it helpful. Your engagement helps us grow and continue providing great content. Happy sewing!

— Let’s Connect —

http://www.sewandtell.com.au
https://www.instagram.com/sewandtellau/
https://www.facebook.com/sewandtellaus
https://www.tiktok.com/@sewandtellaustralia
https://www.youtube.com/@sewandtellaustralia

DISCLOSURE: We often review or link to products & services we regularly use and think you might find helpful. To support the channel, where possible, Sew & Tell Australia registers for affiliates for the patterns, tools and resources we love. Several links on this page are affiliate links. Clicking on these links and making a purchase may earn us a commission, with no extra cost to you. Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

7 Myths About Sewing with Stretch Fabrics

Exploring the world of stretch fabric sewing can lead to endless sewing opportunities. Particularly as stretch fabrics are used to make a large number of the ready-to-wear items that you see in stores. Their comfort and adaptability make them incredibly popular to wear. However, many people are afraid to get started with sewing stretch fabric sewing for fear of making mistakes.

Read the 7 myths below to learn why you no longer need to be afraid of sewing with stretch fabrics. You will quickly learn that stretch fabrics aren’t hard, they are just different.

Myth #1: You Need a Special Sewing Machine

Reality: There’s a common belief that you need a Serger (otherwise known as an Overlocker) to tackle stretch fabrics. However, this isn’t the case! Your conventional, normal domestic sewing machine is all you need to start sewing with stretch cotton. Getting to understand how your machine works, including what settings and needles to use with stretch fabrics is a game changer!

Myth #2: Stretch Fabrics Are Too Unpredictable

Reality: While stretch fabrics are celebrated for their elasticity and adaptability, these characteristics should not be viewed as barriers. With the right skills and knowledge, you can master stretch cotton lycra and create garments that are comfortable, stylish and perfect for the whole family.

Myth #3: All Stretch Fabrics Are the Same

Reality: There are an infinite number of styles, colors, and types of stretch fabrics, each with unique properties and applications. Examining various styles, like as interlock, rib knit, and jersey, will significantly boost the range and quality of your work. Understanding the variety of stretch materials is a first step in becoming successful with their use.

Myth #4: Quality Stretch Fabric is Expensive

Reality: High quality doesn’t necessarily come with a high price tag. There are plenty of affordable stretch fabric options that don’t skimp on quality. Doing some basic research and with a little fabric know-how, you can uncover the ideal stretch fabric for your project without stretching your budget.

Myth #5: Sewing with Stretch Fabrics is Only for people who have being sewing for a long time and mastered non stretch fabrics

Reality: The misunderstanding may deter beginners in particular. However, the reality is that even novices can become excellent stretch fabric makers with the correct guidance and a willingness to learn. The key is to begin with basic methods and work your way up to more complex ones as you gain confidence and skills.

Myth #6: Stretch Fabrics Stretch Out and Lose Shape Easily

Reality: A stretch fabric garment’s longevity and ability to maintain its shape are primarily determined by the stitching technique used. Making use of the right stitch types and finishes—such as using a serger for seams or your sewing machine’s proper stretch stitch—guarantees that your items will hold their shape and fit over time.

Myth #7: You Can’t Achieve Professional Finishes with Stretch Fabrics

Reality: A common misconception is that garments made from stretch fabric are bound to look homemade. However, techniques like twin needling, coverstitching, and careful topstitching can really boost the finished look of your stretch fabric projects. These finishing touches not only increase durability but also give a professional look to your sewing projects.

Stretch fabrics open a whole new world of fun and gorgeous sewing projects, all you have to do is start!

Hopefully by busting these seven myths, I have encouraged you to give stretch fabrics a go and begin to discover the joy of sewing with stretch fabrics.

Never let mistaken beliefs prevent you from discovering all of the possibilities that your sewing projects might achieve.

With the right guidance and techniques, the universe of stretch fabrics is yours to explore!

What next?

Do you want to sew stretch fabric more confidently?

Join a community of like minded sewists who share knowledge, advice and encouragement. All supported by step by step Masterclasses and exclusive content.

How to Pattern Draft: My tips for books that will be your best friend

If you have ever wanted to draft your own patterns, you might have been a little bit overwhelmed at what needs to be done to get those beautiful finished pieces.

To help you understand how to get started, I am going to share my top 2 books that really help you get a solid foundation to build from.

1. Winifred Aldrich's - "Metric Pattern Cutting for Women’s Wear"

This is the number 1 book I use when I am creating any blocks/slopers. For those that don’t know, a ‘block’ or ‘sloper’ is the base of any pattern piece. This is created to your exact measurements and if you made it up, would be like a second skin.

Once you have your block, that is when you add your seam allowance and start to design the pattern you want to make. All patterns are drafted from a block. Most pattern companies and even clothes manufacturers have their own set of blocks in different sizes that they base all their clothes off. It’s a big reason why there is such a difference in sizes across the world. Everyone uses their own set of blocks to start with.

The ‘Metric Pattern Cutting for Women’s Wear’ is like the bible for how to create a block in your or your model’s measurements. Winnifred goes into detail about how to measure, draft and create your block, as well as how to turn your blocks into some basic patterns once you’ve created them.

On its own it can be a little confusing to get your head around how to do all the measurements. I suggest watching a tutorial that uses Winifred’s methods as a companion piece to the book to help you better understand what you need to do.

My very first block was made from this book and it turned out great. Remember though, practice makes perfect, and every ‘body’ is different, so you will still need to make toile’s/muslin’s (practice garments) to get your pattern right before you cut into your good fashion fabric.

Buy Metric Pattern Cutting for Women’s Wear Here

2. "How Patterns Work" – Your Pattern Whisperer:

“How Patterns Work” is a pattern making book that takes a refreshing back-to-basics approach, making it an ideal starting point for total beginners. It simplifies the complex world of pattern making by focusing on fundamental principles rather than overwhelming measurements and ratios. This book serves as a prequel, perfect for those new to sewing or home sewers looking to transition into making pattern adjustments. It is equally beneficial for fashion design students, offering key terms, concepts, and basic pattern changes to boost confidence in creating unique designs. Even fashion professionals can find value, especially when faced with complex alterations or creative experiments.

The 2D to 3D approach is a highlight, emphasising the translation of body curves into a 2D blueprint, a crucial concept in pattern making. Rather than drowning readers in measurements, the book acts as a pattern making companion, explaining common terms, ensuring accurate communication, and providing simple pattern alterations. The second half introduces a range of pattern changes through various methods, allowing readers to see the impact on fabric without getting bogged down by specific garment shapes.

Forget about endless tables of measurements – this book focuses on the logic behind pattern changes, designed to help concepts ‘click’ for the reader. It builds pattern confidence by teaching the ‘why’ behind pattern changes, empowering individuals to apply these principles independently. In essence, “How Patterns Work” serves as a guide to understanding the mechanics of pattern and fabric interactions, equipping readers with the skills to make changes confidently without relying solely on specific pattern recipes.

Pro Tip: When diving into pattern making, arm yourself with a flexible tape measure. It’s the unsung hero of accurate measurements! It also helps to have pattern paper, a set square and french curve ruler for pattern drafting. I’ve listed my faves here.

Putting Your Knowledge into Practice:

Pattern drafting is a skill that with time and practice, can be so worth the effort of investing in. Being able to create patterns to your measurements from the start is very satisfying and ensures you get the right fit.

I won’t lie though, I personally find pattern drafting a challenge and generally opt to adapt someone else’s pattern rather than make my own. However, I understand the basics of pattern drafting so it makes it much easier to be able to adapt patterns and also if I needed to make my own pattern, I know I could. I certainly have in the past and it is so satisfying.

So now you know where to start, grab these books and get started creating the patterns of your dreams!

What next?

Stop wasting fabric and time on projects that don't fit right.

Learn to sew with confidence and let me guide you to more sewing success.

Pattern Review of the Palazzo Pants

Pattern: Palazzo Pants
Designer: Pattern Emporium
Fabrics: EcoVero Viscose Elastane Jersey Fabric Black -Spotlight Stores
Measurements: Waist 39″; Hips 47″
Size made: 18
Adjustments: I took in the elastic to sit higher on my waist
Pros: I adore these pants and they are SO comfy! I love the high waisted look
Cons: SUPER fabric hungry, and these were only the subtle flare.

Chic Elegance: Where comfort meets style

I always feel a little scared whenever I sew pants. They are notoriously hard to get right and I’ve had my fair share of fails in the past (and I’m sure I still will in the future as well 🙈). However, these pants were a dream and they fit and feel SO good!

The thing I like about Pattern Emporium patterns is that Kate is so detailed in her fitting instructions. She makes sure the finished garment size is included and also talks quite extensively as to how the garment should fit. I made sure I read the instructions very well before I chose my size and I actually ended up making a straight 18.

When I first tried them on, I had them sitting lower on my hips, and they were comfortable, but I had made the high waisted option, so I pulled them up higher and instantly loved them more.

Thankfully it wasn’t too hard to unpick a small section of the waistband to make the elastic smaller, and then stitch it back up.

I made mine out of a EcoVero Viscose Elastane, which is basically a rayon spandex, and I think this is what gives them such a dreamy look. I chose the subtle flare and because it is such a drapey fabric, it just swirls around your legs and feels so good against your skin. It almost has a faux maxi skirt look until you walk and can see the 2 legs.

I definitely think I will make these again, the only downfall is they are so fabric hungry. Even though I made the subtle flare, I still went through about 2m of fabric as I could only get 1 leg per metre, and I’d hate think what I would need for the dramatic flare 🙈.

What next?

Stop wasting fabric and time on projects that don't fit right.

Learn to sew with confidence and let me guide you to more sewing success.

The Two Faces of Stretch: Manufactured Stretch (Elastane) vs. Inherent Stretch (Natural).

Stretch and Recovery Explained

Have you ever slipped into your favorite stretchy pants and marveled at how they effortlessly hug your curves while maintaining their shape?

Understanding the magic behind stretch fabrics, like those in your beloved leggings, opens up a world of possibilities in the realm of sewing and fashion. Let’s talk about the secrets of stretch and recovery to help guide you through the maze of stretch fabrics with confidence.

Diving into the world of stretch fabrics, commonly known as knit fabric, is best done when you have a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts of stretch and recovery. These two cornerstones play a pivotal role in determining whether a fabric is suitable for your chosen pattern and how it will conform to your body.

The Two Faces of Stretch Fabrics:

Within the category of ‘stretch’, your fabric can be further broken down into one of two sub categories.

1. Stretch Fabrics with Elastane: The Ultimate Stretch Duo

This category includes stretch fabrics that owe their stretchiness to elastane fibers, also known as spandex or lycra. Elastane is introduced during the manufacturing process to excellent and controlled stretch, making it the ideal choice for form-fitting and comfortable clothing.

2. Stretch Fabrics with Inherent Stretch: Naturally Comfortable

The second category includes stretch fabrics designed for inherent stretch, achieved through specific knitting techniques. Unlike fabrics manufactured with elastane, these fabrics are engineered to have natural mechanical stretch in their structure, offering comfort in diverse applications.

Think of it as hand knitting – where the yarn is strategically knitted to possess inherent stretch, eliminating the need for added elastane. Both categories boast unique characteristics, catering to various sewing and fashion needs.

Choosing the Right Fabric for the Project:

Understanding these two categories is crucial for selecting the right stretch fabric for your sewing and fashion projects. Fabrics with elastane are ideal for garments demanding controlled and substantial stretch, ensuring flexibility and a snug fit.

On the other hand, fabrics with inherent stretch find applications in various styles, such as sweater knits, cable knits, and even some waffle knits, providing comfort in a myriad of clothing and textile items.

Beyond Composition: Unraveling the Fabric Mystery:
Crucially, even if two stretch fabrics share identical compositions – say, 95 percent cotton, 5 percent elastane – several manufacturing factors can lead to variations in stretch percentage and recovery properties. Elements such as knitting structure, fabric weight, spandex quality, tension, finish, weave density, fiber quality, and pre-shrinking processes all play roles in determining how fabrics behave.

Ready to Dive Deeper into the World of Stretch Fabrics?

Join me in my Conquer Stretch Sewing Course if this look into the finer points of stretch and recovery has sparked your interest and you’re ready to become an expert sewer of stretch materials. Explore these fabric secrets and others, giving you the confidence and information you need to sew all your future stretch projects with ease.

How to Secure Your Serged Seams – Three Easy Ways to Finish Off Overlocked/Serged Seams

An important rule to follow in sewing is that you must finish your overlocked/serged seams. If you don’t, the seams can quickly unravel and fall apart, wasting all that hard work you just put into making your project. Learning exactly HOW to finish the ends of your overlocked or serged seams and threads however can be a bit tricky when you first start. I actually used to just cut them straight off! whoops!

In this easy to follow blog, I’ll guide you through three simple methods to finish off your overlocked seams, ensuring a neat and secure outcome. Whether you’re working with knit or woven fabrics, these techniques will help prevent unraveling and keep your projects in top shape.

Method 1: Sew back over your threads

This method is a bit different from the start and the finish. At the start by ensure you have a tail of thread. Sew a few stitches in, lift the presser foot, and loop the thread back around itself. You will then stitch the thread down for a few stitches before cutting the thread off as you continue sewing as normal.

Once you reach the end, stitch just past the end of the seam, lift the presser foot, wiggle the stitches off the stitch fingers very gently, flip and turn your project so you start to sew back up the seam you just sewed, and sew back a bit before gently tapering off.

This method ensures a sealed edge that prevents unraveling, keeping your garment intact.

Method 2: Needle Threader or Crochet Hook Finish

After sewing your fabric, use a needle threader or use a crochet hook to insert it along a couple of lines of the overlock. Thread your tail through the needle threader and pull it back through, securing it in the seam. Trim the excess, and you’re left with a secure finish. Needle threaders are easy to find at most sewing/craft shops or you can find them here.

Method 3: Tying Off the Ends

This is probably my favourite way and I think the easiest way to secure your serged ends.

You start by sewing your fabric together and, once finished, grab your tail. Use an unpicker or seam ripper to choose one thread to pull through, allowing the tail to unravel.

Seperate the threads and then tie off the threads two or three times for a tight finish. Trim the excess, and your seam is secure!

Do I need to tie off EVERY thread?

The short answer is no.

My rule of thumb is, if the seam is going to be finished some other way, for example, folded up into a hem or sewn into another seam etc, I don’t tie off my ends.

It is only for when you have an open seam, which is prone to unraveling such as linings and sleeves that you should be tieing off your threads.

If you found this tutorial helpful, there is a full video demonstration inside my membership, The Sewing Corner. You can find out more and how to join here.

Pattern Review of the Dockside and Driftwood Polo

Pattern: Dockside & Driftwood Polo
Designer: Love Notions
Fabrics: Cotton Lycra from Frankie Bear Fabrics
Skill level: Advanced Beginner
Size made: Large for my husband and size 4 for my son
Adjustments: None
Pros: I love a polo, it really takes a t shirt from casual to dressy, without being over the top. I also love being able to add things like the pocket and use different fabrics for the collars and binding.
Cons: The binding option is a little tricky if you haven’t done a placket before. You can skip it if it’s your first time.

Double the Polo Fun: Sewing Stylish Sets for Him and Mini-Me with Sewing Tips!

I get accused all the time by my husband of never making him anything, so I was happy to be able to make not one, but TWO new polos for him this week haha. Hopefully less complaining for a while!

The Dockside & Driftwood Polo is such a cute pattern, and perfect to make matchy match sets for the whole family. My husband is, in my words, boring with his fabric choices, hahaha, so I did his mainly black and had a pop of colour with the pocket. Using a gorgeous cotton lycra from Frankie Bear Fabrics. I also snuck in some colour in the binding on the neckline. Hehe. To compliment, I did the opposite on my son’s version, who absolutely LOVES colour. So it was a win win for all.

For those that don’t know, the button up part of the polo t shirt is called a ‘placket’. The placket can be quite intimidating and a bit tricky to get right. It requires precise stitching and cutting. With a bit of practice however, you can get some really crisp and professional looking plackets on your polo’s.

To help you get a smart looking button placket, I outlined my easy sewing tips for a perfect polo t shirt placket every time, in my latest episode of Sewcial Moments with Megan. These 5 simple tips will help you get a beautiful result and are so quick to watch!

Grab both patterns while they are on sale $5usd each for the next 24hrs. Use code ‘Lovemegan’ at the checkout for an EXTRA 10% off.

Also, as part of my role as a Ambassador for Love Notions, I filmed a step by step tutorial over on their YouTube channel if you still want some extra help after watching my 5 quick tips on Sewcial Moments with Megan.

What next?

Say Goodbye to Confusion and Frustration...

…and hello to pride and confidence! Learn to sew stretch fabrics with ease. Enjoy showing your creations proudly to your family and friends!

Pattern Review of the Adult Essential Dolman

Pattern: Adult Essential Dolman Dress
Designer: Ellie & Mac
Fabrics: Organic Viscose from Spotlight
Skill level: Beginner
Size made: XL/XXL
Adjustments: Grading from the bust to waist. I also did a whoopsie empire waist adjustment, read below for more details.
Pros: Great to compliment your shape and lots of options for skirt length and sleeves.
Cons: Because its a dolman style, it is very fabric hungry!

Sewing Summer Vibes: A Slinky Success Story with Ellie & Mac's Weekly Sale Pick

This one has been on my to make list for such a long time, and I’m glad I finally got around to making it. Even better, it’s part of the Weekly Sales over at Ellie & Mac this week.

This pattern has a boat neck and scoop neck and while I thought about doing the boat neck, I really love a scoop neck on me, so I went with that. It also has a few sleeve options and skirt lengths, but I liked the short sleeves and mid thigh for the skirt. Being summer I figured I’d get good use out of it and could also put leggings underneath when it starts to cool down.

Unfortunately I didn’t read the pattern right and ended up taking about 3 inches out of the waist, whoops! BUT, I am really happy with the end result, I would probably just end up adding that to the skirt next time as its *quite* short. haha. Instead of cutting the actual waist measurement, I cut the height adjustment line instead. But as I said, I love the result of this ‘mistake’.

Using a really slinky fabric like the organic viscose meant it drapes so beautifully and its super soft against my skin. There is heaps of ease so I didn’t feel constricted and having the elasticated waist adds definition to my waistline, without emphasizing my stomach, which I am still self conscious about.

All in all, I’m very happy with this one and can see it getting a lot of wear both for the rest of summer and well into the Autumn/Fall months!

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Learn to sew with confidence and let me guide you to more sewing success.

Megan

This Month in Sewing: November Sewing Pattern Plans and Projects 2024

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