Megan

  • Knit Basics – A Great Staple for your stash!

    If you’re looking for some staple fabrics to keep in your stash, the knit basics range from Wattle Hill is a great place to start.

    Get Ready to Feel the Love with Every Stitch!

    So, imagine this: a fabric that’s as soft as a cloud, stretches like your morning yoga routine, and feels like a warm hug. The European Knit Basics range is a dreamy collection that’s practically begging to be transformed into your next favorite outfit. That’s the magic of the Knit Basics range.

    European Knit Basics from Wattle Hill Fabrics are the ultimate sewist’s delight. These premium knit fabrics are sourced straight from Europe. Think of a fabric that’s not only soft against your skin but also stretches like a dream. 

    Pj’s and clothes that look a million bucks!

    I used the Teal/Petrol 1mm stripes to make my son some super comfy Pj’s and a basic pink to make my daughter a pair as well. Both loved them and couldn’t wait to wear them to bed. I finished off the waistbands with a super soft waistband elastic from Wattle Hill as well.

    You don’t have to just stick to PJ’s though, here are some other pattern ideas that every wardrobe needs.

    ~ Tshirts
    ~ Joggers
    ~ Tank Tops
    ~ Shorts
    ~ Baby’s wear

    The possibilities are endless!

    Make sure you check the range today. Don’t forget to see their range of matching ribbing as well. Perfect for neckbands, waistbands and cuffs. 

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  • Pattern Review of the Demi Raglan Tee

    Pattern: Demi Raglan
    Designer: Sinclair Patterns
    Fabrics: Cotton Lycra from Rubyjam
    Skill level: Beginner
    Size made: 18/20
    Adjustments: Only the grading
    Pros: Super easy for a beginner and great fitting.
    Cons: Making sure you mark your front and back notches is important.

    The Wrap Up

    When you are self conscious about your mum tum (like I am), it can sometimes be hard to find a tshirt pattern that doesn’t cling to all the wrong places. The Demi Raglan is one of my fave raglan style tees cause it doesn’t make me feel uncomfortable and is such a nice fit!

    Something I love about raglan sleeves is I think you have better colour blocking options. Having the sleeves form part of the neckline means you have a great opportunity to showcase fabric and patterns on the sleeves. This means options like a bold print paired with a solid work really well as they balance each other out and can look very cohesive.

    I wanted to use the feathers in this one as I didn’t have a huge amount left and I knew that pairing it with the black would look really effective. I also toyed with the idea of a mustard or teal, but ultimately I thought the black worked the best. The only thing I was a little worried about what that it then left the middle panel quite plain.

    I decided to use my new cutter, the Juliet cutter from Siser with some Siser Heat Transfer Vinyl in rainbow glitter to brighten up the front panel. I wanted to keep in the feather theme so I bought a feather file off Etsy that had a few options and then incorporated it into a horizontal group across the chest. It worked SO WELL!!

    I am super happy with how this one turned out and will definitely be making more Demi Raglans as it’s pretty much my goto raglan pattern!

    If sewing with stretch is intimidating to you, jump into my Stretch Confidence Course. Learn to sew stretch better and with less mistakes! Click Here to learn more.

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    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.

  • Tadah Patterns Turns 10!

    My Favourite Tadah Patterns

    If you haven’t seen, Tadah are having a massive 40% off site wide to celebrate their 10th birthday! Amazing!!

    Tadah were actually the very first PDF patterns I ever used. I had previously only used paper patterns from the big 4 and while I was a competent sewer, I found them lacking in instructions and often had trouble finding my size from the pattern draws at the craft store. After my friend Laura (@eveningseamstress) started using Tadah to sew for her daughters and gushed to me about how easy they were I decided to give these PDF patterns a go. I have never looked back!!

    My very first Tadah pattern was the Baby Tea Party in romper view and I had a very clear vision of how the fabrics would work and how it would look on Jemma who was then about 13 months old. They are honestly some of the best drafted patterns for kids (and adults!) and the instructions make it SO EASY to follow. 

    Tadah are still on high rotation in my garment making and I’ve now become quite good friends with Lauren who is such an incredible human with an absolutely beautiful soul. I just love how sewing brings together the most wonderful people ❤️

    It’s hard to choose a favourite but I’ve listed a couple below that are well worth adding to your pattern stash if you don’t already have them. Happy shopping and happy 10th birthday Tadah!

    *sale runs until midnight August 4th 

    Tea Party

    Without a doubt my most made Tadah pattern. I have made so many of these in all the different views and styles, I reckon I could do a the Tea Party with my eyes closed now haha. It was hard to choose only a few of my makes to share, but trust me you need to add this one to cart ASAP.

    Jaunty knit Dress

    The jaunty was one of my first forays into knit garments and what prompted me to buy my own overlocker as well. I had been borrowing my mums and realised they weren’t as scary as I initially thought🙈. I like the double skirt option and have done a few where I have added a tulle layer to great effect as well.

    Street Jacket

    I think this might have been one of the first patterns I helped test for Lauren. It is SUCH a cute style and works well with a variety of fabric styles. Im a fan of them in corduroy but it can work equally as well in a drill or even a cotton. I have some colourful leopard sitting there from The Telarie that is earmarked for a street jacket for Jemma 😍

    Everyday Overalls

    I LOVE overalls on kids. They are so cute and a great way to layer with fun tops and prints underneath as well. I originally got the Vintie Overalls from Tadah and made a few for Jemma but when Lauren was testing the Everyday overalls I put my hand straight up to test for Ted. It is definitely a more advanced pattern than the Vinties, so if you want a simpler first pattern, try the Vinties but get the everyday overalls at the same time cause they are too cute to pass up.

    Troop Shirt

    The Troop Shirt was the first pattern I made for Ted and I was so daunted by it. I was worried that if I had a by I wouldn’t have anything to make him, but I was so wrong. I also thought shirts were really hard, but they are actually really simple. As long as you go slow and follow the extremely easy instructions, your little one will have a smart looking shirt in no time. 

    Flexi Shorts & Seaside Romper, Dress & Top

    The Flexis were another firm fave of mine when Jemma was younger. The flat front hack with ruched legs by Tanya from Sewvolution was my fave thing to do and paired with a Seaside playsuit, I made many an adorable Tadah set. 

    The Seaside I liked as it wasn’t as fitted as tea party romper, but still so so cute. Perfect for younger kids who get their shirts all untucked, the playsuit option meant it was all tucked in and looked great.

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  • Pattern Review of the Bumblebee Romper

    Pattern: Bumblebee Bodysuit & Romper
    Designer: Peek A Boo Patterns
    Fabrics: Cotton Canvas from The Telarie
    Skill level: Advanced Beginner
    Size made: 0
    Adjustments: None
    Pros: The cutest little set for a new bubba, I adore the flutter detail on the sleeves. 
    Cons: There are a couple of extra steps that a beginner may find challenging. 

    The Wrap Up

    I have made a couple of these now, and they are just so cute! It’s one of my fave things to gift new girl bubbas.

    I like adding the flutter though I know for newbies it might be a bit of a challenge. My biggest piece of advice is to take it slowly. 

    Watch Our Latest Videos

    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 Kodiak Pullover

    Pattern: Kodiak Pullover
    Designer: Peek A Boo Pattern Shop
    Fabrics: Cotton Lycra and Sweater knit from Wattle Hill Fabrics
    Skill level:  Confident Beginner
    Size made: 4
    Adjustments: None
    Pros: Super cute and easy to colour block, I love this one to compliment your winter wardrobe.
    Cons: The placket can be a little tricky to get looking neat, but take your time and baste if you need to.

    Pattern Review Recap

    Let me tell you, the Kodiak Pullover is a perfect addition to any winter wardrobe! I sewed up a size 4 for my little one, and boy, oh boy, did it turn out amazing. I combined a super cute bear cotton lycra with an ochre/rust Jogging sweater knit to give it that extra pizzazz. It is a combo that made my heart melt and fall in love with making clothes for my kids all over again.

    I enjoyed every moment of creating this pullover and I’d gladly do it all over again. Here’s a nifty trick I used as well: since the cotton lycra was a tad thin, I decided to cut the pattern pieces from both fabrics for the front and back bottom piece and treat them as one during assembly. It gave it extra warmth and you can’t even tell they are separate pieces!

    Now, let’s talk about the placket. It may look a bit daunting at first glance, but fear not! With a little patience and taking your time, you can make it look absolutely fabulous. If you need a little extra help, go ahead and baste stitch it together first. Trust me, it’ll make your life so much easier.

    In summary, the Kodiak Pullover is a winner in my book. The pattern is a joy to work with, the fabric choices are endless, and the final product is simply heart-melting. 

    Definitely a ‘Beary’ cute garment 😉 

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    What next?

    CONQUER SEWING STRUGGLES!

    Stop wasting fabric on ill-fitting disasters. Discover the secrets to sewing with confidence. Let me guide you to sewing success!

  • Reignite Your Sewing Mojo: Finding Inspiration for Your Next Project

    Sewing is such a great way to unleash our creativity and create unique and personalised items. However, even the most passionate sewers can occasionally find themselves in a rut, struggling to find inspiration for their next project. Let’s take a look at these 4 tips to help get you back in the sewing chair. 

    1. Jump on social media for inspiration.

    Sometimes having a browse on dedicated sewing facebook groups or instagram sewing accounts can be a great way to kick start your creative streak. Seeing what others are doing and being inspired by real people, can help give you that little nudge to try what you’re seeing

    2. Shop your stash

    If you find yourself not knowing what to do next, sometimes going and having a look through your fabric stash can really help spark ideas for projects to do. You don’t just have to shop your fabric stash either. Looking through your pattern stash (let’s be honest, patterns can also be ‘stashed’ haha) is another way to be inspired to jump back into sewing. 

    3. Remake an old favourite

    If you have a pattern that is your absolute favourite, go back and make it again. Being able to just cut the pattern out, sew it up and know that it’s going to fit and feel good on you can be a big motivator. And who doesn’t love your favourite tee pattern in 5 different bases when you know you’re going to look fab in it!

    4. Go for a quick win

    Sometimes you just need a quick win to get you over the hump of being in a sewing slump. Make a pillowcase, sew up a new cushion cover for the couch or some other quick easy project and watch your creativity come back. You don’t always have to be going for the big projects for sewing time to be worthwile.

    Finding yourself in a sewing rut is normal, even for the most experienced sewers. Remember that inspiration can be found in unexpected places. By reflecting on past projects, engaging with sewing communities,shopping from your stash and trying some quick win projects, you can reignite your sewing mojo and get back to creating beautiful items in no time. Embrace the journey of rediscovering your sewjo, and enjoy the process of bringing your creative visions to life!

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  • Christmas Pre Order with Frankie Bear Fabric

    Who doesn't love Christmas?!

    Jingle bells, jingle bells, let’s prepare to deck the halls!

    It might not be Christmas yet, but what better way to prepare to get into the holly-jolly groove than by diving into a world of enchanting fabrics? Brace yourselves, because Frankie Bear Fabric is bringing you an exclusive collection of Christmas-themed fabric that will make your heart skip a beat. Your favorite designs will be available to pre-order on your preferred fabric base, making it easier than ever to get exactly what you want for Christmas! You need to hurry though, the pre-order window is open until July 12th 2023, with a delivery set for September, giving you plenty of time to sew up merry creations!

    Frankie Bear Fabric’s Christmas collection is brimming with whimsical designs perfect for all your christmas creations. I got to sew up some ROAR-some christmas dinos, the most delightful soft Christmas tree’s, festively fun Christmas Characters and a gorgeous decoration inspired print. With these enchanting designs, your imagination can roam free and create holiday magic like never before.

    Curious to see what wonders await you? Frankie Bear Fabric has brought their Christmas fabrics to life with a sprinkle of creativity! Head over to their website or join their social media channels to see lots of festive inspiration sewn up for you to be inspired. Check out all the fun fabrics I got to work with below and let your imagine start to explore the possibilities.

    Pre-Order Details:
    Santa may check his list twice, but you only have until July 12th, 2023, to secure your fave designs and bases in the Christmas fabric extravaganza! By pre-ordering now, you’ll be at the front of the line to receive your delightful fabrics come September 2023. Don’t let the holiday rush catch you off guard—be the smart elf who plans ahead and ensures a stress-free season of creativity. So, grab your hot cocoa, cozy up by the fire, and pre-order your favorite designs before the clock strikes midnight on July 12th!

    Dino Sweater - Tadah Slim Fit Tee

    For the Dino Sweater fabric I sewed up, I made a super cute tee for Ted. He thought it was ROAR-some.

    Christmas Tree's - Sibling Set

    I absolutely loved how this sibling set turned out! Jemma is wearing a Little Lizard King Cannes dress and Ted is wearing the Tadah Troop Shirt.​

    Santa Squad - Sibling Pj's

    Is there anything cuter than matching pj’s on xmas eve?! I had the best time sewing up this adorable set. You will not be disappointed with this print.

    Both kids are wearing the Peek A Boo Pattern Shop Night Owl Pj’s

    Decorations - Margot Peplum

    The kids didn’t get all the fun in this sew up, I got to have my fun with this gorgeous Margot Peplum from Love Notions. I have written about this one before and love shortening the bodice to give it a more empire waistline to better suit my shape. ​

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  • Anatomy of a Needle

    Have you ever wondered what all the markings are on your Schmetz Needles? Lets dive in and take a look!

    The top part of a sewing machine needle is called the shank, and most domestic sewing machine needles have a flat shank, while industrial and some older domestic machines have a round shank. Having a flat shank means your needle will always be in the right position and won’t go in the wrong way. Plus, the beveled butt of the needle makes it super easy to insert into the needle bar.

    Now let’s take a look at those Schmetz specific colour markings. They’re like little helpers that let you know the needle type and size with just a quick glance. No more confusion or wasting time searching for the right needle.

    The long groove on the front of the needle is there to protect your thread as it travels through the fabric. It helps to minimise any damage as it goes up and down.

    The scarf on the back of the needle is like a space creator for the hook. It makes it easier for the loop to catch and form a perfect stitch.

    The eye of the needle is where your top thread is inserted. The size of the eye depends on the size of the needle.

    The shape of the needle point and tip varies depending on the type of needle you’re using. Schmetz has a huge range of types of needles including Universal, Jersey, Stretch, Jeans and Microtex just to name a few.

    Now, let’s dive into some needle numbers. The NM number is calculated by multiplying the diameter of the needle blade by 100. For example, a needle with a blade diameter of 0.75 mm corresponds to NM 75. 

    When you look at a needle and it says its a 90/14, those 2 numbers actually indicate the same thing, just different numbering systems.

    The European metric sizing system for sewing machine needles is numbered from 60 to 110 and was developed by Singer. The American sizing system is numbered from 8 to 18. For both sizing systems, the lower the number the finer the needle and the higher the number the larger the needle.

    Most needle companies show both sizes on the package.

    I hope you learnt a little more about Needles to help you when you use them next!

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  • Essential Sewing Tools

    When it comes to sewing, having the right tools can make a world of difference in the quality and ease of your projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, there are a few essential tools that should be a part of every sewing toolkit. In this blog post, we will explore the must-have sewing tools that will help you achieve professional results and enhance your sewing experience.

    Sewing Machine:
    A reliable sewing machine is the backbone of any sewing toolkit. Choose a machine that suits your skill level and project requirements. Look for features such as different stitch options, adjustable speed control, and a variety of presser feet. Remember to maintain and service your sewing machine regularly to keep it in optimal working condition.

    Fabric Scissors:
    Investing in a good pair of fabric scissors is crucial for clean and precise cutting. Choose scissors specifically designed for fabric, with sharp blades that glide smoothly through different types of fabrics. Reserve these scissors solely for fabric cutting to maintain their sharpness.

    Seam Ripper:
    Even the most skilled sewists make mistakes, and that’s where a seam ripper comes to the rescue. This small tool helps you easily remove stitches and correct errors without damaging your fabric. Look for a seam ripper with a sharp point and a comfortable handle for easy maneuvering.

    Measuring Tape:
    Accurate measurements are essential for successful sewing projects. A flexible measuring tape allows you to measure the body, fabric, and patterns accurately. Look for a tape with both inches and centimeters marked clearly for versatility.

    Pins and Clips:
    Pins and clips are indispensable tools for holding fabric layers together. Choose sharp and sturdy pins that won’t damage your fabric, and I tend you use clips on fabrics that pins would otherwise mark.

    Thread:
    High-quality threads in various colors are a must-have for any sewist. Invest in threads that are suitable for your fabric type and project requirements. Having a good selection of thread colors will ensure that your stitches blend seamlessly with the fabric.

    Bobbins:
    Bobbins hold the lower thread in your sewing machine and are essential for smooth and even stitching. Make sure to have an adequate supply of bobbins that are compatible with your sewing machine model.

    Iron and Ironing Board:
    Pressing and ironing your fabric is crucial for achieving professional-looking results. An iron and ironing board are indispensable tools for removing wrinkles, setting seams, and creating crisp edges.

    Marking Tools:
    Marking tools such as chalk, fabric markers, and tracing paper are essential for transferring pattern markings and other guidelines onto your fabric accurately. Choose marking tools that are easily visible and removable, without leaving any permanent marks.

    Storage & Organisation:
    Keeping your sewing tools organized is key to a stress-free sewing experience. Invest in storage solutions like sewing boxes, drawers, or wall organizers to keep your tools easily accessible and well-maintained.

    Equipping yourself with these essential sewing tools will set you up for success in your sewing journey. Remember to invest in high-quality tools that will stand the test of time and enhance your sewing experience. As you build your toolkit, add specialized tools based on your specific sewing interests and projects. With the right tools at your disposal, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful and professional-looking garments and projects.

    Happy sewing!

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  • Find Your Perfect Sewing Machine for Flawless Stitches and Creative Sewing!

    Are you ready to take your sewing skills to the next level? Choosing the right sewing machine is essential for achieving professional-quality results and enjoying your sewing journey. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced sewist, this guide will help you find the perfect sewing machine that suits your needs.

    Understanding Your Needs:
    Before diving into the vast sea of sewing machines, it’s crucial to assess your requirements. Beginners may prefer user-friendly machines with basic features, while intermediate and advanced sewists might seek more advanced options. Consider your skill level and the type of projects you plan to undertake.

    Exploring Key Features:
    Sewing machines come with a range of features designed to make your sewing experience more enjoyable and efficient. From automatic threading to a variety of built-in stitches, understanding these features will help you make an informed decision. Look for machines with features that align with your specific sewing goals.

    Comparing Top Brands:
    With numerous sewing machine brands available in the market, it’s essential to choose a reputable and reliable one. Research and compare different brands to understand their strengths, reputations, and offerings. Consider factors such as durability, customer support, and available accessories.

    Reading Customer Reviews:
    Real-life experiences from fellow sewists can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of sewing machines. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gather feedback on various machines. Consider the pros, cons, and overall satisfaction expressed by users to make an informed choice.

    Budget-Friendly Options:
    Budget plays a significant role in choosing a sewing machine. Fortunately, there are excellent options available that offer great value for your money. Consider your budget and look for machines that provide the features you need within your price range. Remember, a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee the best machine for your specific requirements.

    I would encourage you to look at the best machine you can afford however. Don’t get caught in the trap of buying a cheaper machine while you ‘learn’. You may find you become frustrated with its lack of features, inhibiting your learning journey or making it an overly discouraging learning experience.

    Take The Machines For A Test Drive:
    Many sewing machine sales centres will have a large range of sewing machines on display that you can take for a test drive. Call your local centre to book a time and go in and have a play. Take samples of the fabric you intend to sew the most so you can see how the machine handles it.

    Finding the perfect sewing machine is an exciting step in your sewing journey. By understanding your needs, exploring key features, comparing top brands, reading customer reviews, and considering your budget, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Happy stitching and enjoy the process of finding the sewing machine that best fits your unique needs!

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