Megan

  • Pattern Review of the Margot Peplum

    Pattern: Margot Peplum
    Designer: Love Notions
    Fabrics: Cotton Lycra from Sew Unique Fabrics
    Skill level: Beginner
    Measurements: Chest: 44″; Waist 40″; Hips 47″
    Size made: XL/2XL
    Adjustments: Grading and shortening bodice to Empire waistline
    Pros: I love princess seams on my shape and the option of skirts is a bonus. Also has full bust adjusted pieces already.
    Cons: Not a fan of it sitting on my natural waist but I shortened to Empire waist. See my YouTube review for instructions.

    The Wrap Up

    I hadn’t made this one before but it’s been on my list to try for a while. 

    I had originally planned to try the pleated skirt but I didn’t have enough fabric so I ended up going for the swing style. I love the result but think I will try the pleated next time, some of the tester photos were so pretty.

    I also shortened the bodice to be more Empire style as I find that suits my shape much better. I am so happy with the final look now and absolutely LOVE how this sits on my body now.

    I made mine from a cotton lycra but I think this would look really nice in a scuba or ponte as well so I would be keen to try that next time as well.

    Love Notions is one of my fave for pre done full bust adjusted pieces as well. It makes it so much easier for bigger busted women to be able to just use the already adjusted pieces. 

    Excited to be wearing this one around!

    PS. use code sewandtellau10 for an EXTRA 10% off at the checkout.

    Video Review

    Watch my detailed review of the Margot Peplum on YouTube. Includes bonus tutorial on how to shorten a Natural Waistline to an Empire Waistline.

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  • Pattern Review of the Sicily Swing Dress/Top

    Pattern: Sicily Swing Dress/Top
    Designer: Peek A Boo Pattern Shop
    Fabrics: Bamboo Lycra from Clover & Co. Fabrics
    Skill level: Beginner
    Measurements: Chest: 45″; Waist 40″; Hips 47″
    Size made: 2XL graded to 3XL
    Adjustments: Just the grading
    Pros: SUPER comfy and easy to wear. Also has nursing option
    Cons: Needs updated sizing

    The Wrap Up:

    I think this was one of the first patterns I ever tried of Peek a Boo as it had the nursing option and I loved it straight away.

    The fit and flare style really suits me and I love that their are a couple of different neckline options. Especially over the fringe months, I really enjoy a cowl neck for that little bit of added warmth, without having to carry a scarf around. 

    Like I mentioned as well, this has the option of nursing which is so nice to see. When I was feeding my son I had such limited choices in Ready to Wear clothing and it was kind of what sparked me to really give clothes for myself another go, so to be able to make stylish feeding friendly tops was amazing!

    The fabric I made my latest from is a pre order I did with Clover and Co in Bamboo Lycra. I like that this fabric design and pattern can be paired well with both leggings and jeans, making it easy to dress up or down. Put a little crop jacket it with it and a pair of heels if you’re going out, or straight cut jeans and a pair of white sneakers and you’re day ready.

    I 1000000% will be getting more of Clover’s bamboo lycra as well. It is DIVINE!!! SO soft and drapey to wear. I want all the bamboo lycra now.

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  • Pattern Review of the Endless Summer Tee

    Pattern: Endless Summer Tee
    Designer: Pattern Emporium
    Fabrics: Cotton Lycra from Wattle Hill Fabrics
    Skill level: Beginner
    Measurements: Chest: 44″; Waist 40″; Hips 47″
    Size made: 20/22
    Adjustments: Grading and I ended up taking it in under the arms another 1″ on both sides.
    Pros: I love the neckline on this and feminine flutters.
    Cons: The sizing hasn’t been updated on this pattern yet so its only to a 24 (US20). 

    The Wrap Up

    I am a big fan of scoop neck patterns and this one was no exception. However, there are also 4 other necklines to choose from which is something I love when patterns include different necklines. I also instantly knew I wanted to put the flutters on. I love how feminine they are and just add an extra detail that draws the eye up, which for me I like cause it takes away from my tummy! haha.

    I used a super soft Cotton Elastane from Wattle Hill Fabrics in an olive with small black dots, which paired perfectly with the Olive Faux Denim Cotton Elastane I used for my Sonia Estep Iris shorts. I have previously written about the Iris Shorts which I will link here. The fabric was a dream to sew with and I love wearing it as its so soft and light on my skin.

    You can leave the flutters unhemmed as its a knit so won’t fray, but I chose to do a rolled hem on mine. I used the rolled hem feature on my Baby Lock Acclaim Overlocker/Serger and it did the most BEAUTIFUL rolled hem I think I’ve ever seen. I see lots more rolled hems in my future. Not to mention more Endless Summer Tee’s!

    Definitely a quick and easy one to sew up and recommend giving it a go.

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  • February – 52 Week Sewing Challenge Monthly Review

    Week 6 Aussie Pattern

    Well, another month completed in the 2023 Australian 52 Week Sewing Challenge! Only just scraped in for this month and nearly had to submit a reject for pleat week, but then I managed to get a Vivace Dolman sewn with the front pleat so I was able to use that. Phew!

    Lets take a look at each of the weeks.

    Week 6: Aussie Pattern

    I chose to use a Pattern Emporium one for the Aussie Pattern. Kate is up in Qld and is an incredible pattern maker. I have made a few of hers and am about to test a new one for her as well. Highly recommend!

    I made the Best Friends Tee in tank with square neckline. I used the last of my Sprinkle fabric to match with the kids set I made from Rubyjam Fabrics.

    Week 7: Pleats

    I was a little stumped by this one to start with and was going to enter a reject. Then I decided to make a Vivace Dolman from Love Notions and was stoked it had the front pleat to get me over the line for Pleat week!

    I have written a full pattern review on the Vivace Dolman which I’ll link here.

    I used a beautiful cotton elastane from Wattle Hill Fabrics and I can’t wait to wear this one A LOT more.

    Week 8: Autumn

    Another Love Notions sew for this week and one that I was absolutely stoked with how it turned out.

    This is the Whistler pullover and hoodie. I chose to make the shawl collar option and I made tunic length and gathered front. The full review is here and there is also a YouTube Pattern Review here.

    Fabric from Lush Fabrics Australia.

    Week 9: Kids & Pets

    A bit of an easy one for week 9. I’ve got 2 gorgeous kiddos I constantly sew for! 

    The kids love matchy match pjs and this was a great way to match but still make them personlalised to each child. Ted will often refuse to even get changed out of his ice cream pjs so they become daywear as well haha. I’m not even mad.

    The tops are the kids Essential Tee from Peek A Boo Patterns and the shorts are the Jordan Joggers.

    Fabric from Rubjam.

    Bring on March!

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  • Pattern Review of the Vivace Dolman

    Pattern: Vivace Dolman
    Designer: Love Notions
    Fabrics: Cotton Lycra from Wattle Hill Fabrics
    Skill level: Confident Beginner
    Size made: XL/2XL
    Adjustments: Just the grading
    Pros: This is a very flattering top and can be made from both Knits and Wovens.
    Cons: I had to unpick the pleat about 4 times cause I didn’t read the pattern right. I also didn’t get the corners right on the collar.

    The Wrap up

    First time making this one and I love the way it fits and flatters the body.

    I chose to make the tunic length but probably could have done the shirt version quite comfortably as well. I feel like it flatters my body really well and goes well with leggings and I think it would look equally as good with jeans.

    I didn’t read the instructions properly at the start so I had to unpick the pleat 4 times, doh. I also had some troubles getting the collar to sit properly with the corner, but I took it slow and eventually got it looking nice. My advice is to take it slow and baste it in first! Don’t forget to interface the collar as well, I think this is a big reason it sits nicely.

    I definitely recommend making this one, I’ve already had requests from my family to make some for them.

    Use code: sewandtell10 for an extra 10% off

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  • Pattern Review of the Whistler Pullover

    Pattern: Whistler Puller & Hoodie
    Designer: Love Notions
    Fabrics: Waffle Knit from Lush Fabrics
    Skill level: Intermediate
    Size made: XL graded to 2XL
    Adjustments: Simple grading
    Pros: Great for Winter and fringe seasons. Can be made into maternity and can be used for feeding mamas’ as well.
    Cons: Not a con, but there is a tricky construction part. It is fully detailed in the Love Notions blog though!

    The Wrap Up

    This was my first time making the Whistler pullover, but it will be far from my last! I loved the look of this one and the multiple options made it really easy to customise to suit what I was looking for. 

    I chose to make the shawl collar in tunic length with gathered front and curved hem. I knew that I would want to pair this with a pair of leggings and something like boots to dress it up or I could wear sneakers to dress it down. I decided that making it in a solid colour would make it a little more versatile to style, but I think this can look equally as good in a print as well.

    It does say that it’s aimed at an intermediate sewist, but there is a full tutorial that Love Notions has put together, helping you understand. I really think anyone who is willing to give it a go and has some very basic pattern construction knowledge should be able to make one.

    The fit was great. The XL/2XL fit well in the bust and hip areas without being too tight or too loose. I really enjoyed making the Love Notions Whistler Pullover and Hoodie. The end result is a comfortable and stylish top that I will definitely be wearing a lot.

    Pattern Review of the Whistler Pullover

    How to Sew the Whistler Pullover

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  • Pattern Review of the Pelican Tote Bag

    Pattern: Pelican Tote
    Designer: Bagstock Designs
    Fabrics: Accent Vinyl from Clover & Co. Fabrics, Solid colour from Dreamy Bag Hardware
    Skill level: Beginner
    Measurements: 15″ x 12″ x 3″
    Adjustments: I made the recessed zipper with fancy straps version
    Pros: This is such a fun bag pattern to make. I absolutely love the options and even better, IT IS FREE
    Cons: None really. If you have basic skills, you could make this bag

    The Wrap up

    From the minute I had the concept for this bag I just KNEW it was going to be amazing. The muted but moody floral paired with the latté Litchi leather and gold hardware was the perfect combo to create an incredible look. 

    If you have never attempted a bag before, I highly recommend giving this one a go, especially as it is a FREE pattern! 

    I made mine from vinyl, but you can also make it from other woven materials. Mixing and matches patterns and solids really gives you endless options on how cool this bag can be. 

    The construction is fairly simple and I love that I can customise the zips I want to put in it as well. All in all I am so happy with how this one turned out!

    If you want a detailed step by step guide on how to put this bag together, make sure you join The Sewing Corner where I have put together an incredible tutorial to help step you through it.

    You can also check out my detailed pattern video review below.

    Video Pattern Review

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  • How to organise your Sewing Space

    If you are anything like me, being able to step into a space to create makes such a difference to my mindset and actual amount of work I get done.

    Now, I know that I am extremely fortunate enough to have a whole room for my sewing and crafting, but I too have had dark corners of the house or the end of kitchen tables to sew in before as well. So I know saving space in a small area can be a challenge. However, with some creative thinking and smart organising, it’s possible to maximise the available space and make your crafting environment feel more spacious.

    Here are some of my top tips to help you save space in a small area:

    Get rid of clutter: The first step in saving space is to declutter your environment. Get rid of items that you don’t need or use regularly. This will free up a lot of space and make the area feel less cluttered and cramped. It also gives you a fresh slate to look at the space and see how you can organise it.

    Measure out your space and draw a mud map: A mud map is a rough sketch or where you think things will fit best. You can also mark it out on the floor with masking tape to see if it will fit in the space you are thinking.

    Use multi-functional furniture: Invest in furniture that serves more than one purpose. For example, a coffee table with storage space inside, a bed with drawers underneath, or for those who have ultra limited space, look at something like Horn Furniture Australia. I have written a great blog article on the Ebony Craft Australia website, who are stockists of Horn Furniture Australia. Multipurpose furniture can help you save space and make better use of the available area.

    Use wall space: Make use of the walls in your small area. You can install shelves, hang cabinets, or put up hooks to store items and free up floor space. This can be especially useful in a small kitchen or bathroom.

    Opt for compact appliances: If you’re living in a small space, it’s important to choose appliances that are compact and take up less space. A mini-fridge, for example, can save you a lot of space compared to a full-sized refrigerator.

    Make use of under-bed storage: Make the most of the space under your bed by using under-bed storage containers. This is a great place to store items that you don’t use often, such as out-of-season clothing or extra bedding.

    Use vertical space: In a small area, vertical space can be just as valuable as horizontal space. Use tall shelves or hanging baskets to store items vertically, freeing up floor space.

    Invest in clever storage solutions: There are many clever storage solutions available, such as stacking containers, expandable shelves, and adjustable hooks, that can help you save space in a small area.

    By following these tips, you can save space in a small area and make your living or working environment feel more spacious. Remember, the key is to be creative, think outside the box, and make the most of the available space.

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  • Pattern Review of the Metra Blazer

    Pattern: Metra Blazer
    Designer: Love Notions
    Fabrics: Double knit from Spotlight Stores
    Skill level: Intermediate
    Size made: Large
    Adjustments: None
    Pros: This is such a classy jacket that can be done with either the lapel or shawl option.
    Cons: It is a little more involved, but if you take your time, I think even an adventurous beginner could try this.

    The Wrap Up:

    I made my first Metra Blazer about a year ago, and it is such a beautiful make. I used a houndstooth double knit I got as a remnant from Spotlight and it came together fairly well. I think one of the only problems I had with it was that I ran out of black knit interfacing when doing the pockets so I had to use white instead. It wasn’t a problem per say, but if the pockets pop open when I move, you can see a hint of the white in there.

    One thing I really love about this jacket is the ability to dress it up or down. I trialed pairing it with some black slacks and heels for a dressy look and then switched to skinny cut jeans and sneakers for a more casual look. It switched between the two effortlessly. Which I think could easily be replicated with other printed fabrics as well.

    The pattern does say it is for an intermediate sewer, however I really think that if you are willing to give it a go, an adventurous beginner could learn a lot and produce a decent jacket themselves.

    If you need a little help...

    Like I mentioned above, I really think that anyone could give this a go, PLUS, Love Notions have just released a Metra Jacket course to go with it! 

    This on-demand course can be watched on YOUR time. No limits, no expirations. Binge it or watch it in chunks. Replay the tricky spots until it clicks for you. Tami walks you through each every step the way. Tami takes the mystery out of intimidating subjects like size, notions needed, sewing the welt pockets, using the burrito method to enclose the seams and more.

    I highly recommend purchasing this add on if you feel you need a little extra hand holding. It is also on sale for this weekend only, so don’t wait and check it out.

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  • Pattern Review of the Momentum Shorts

    Pattern: Momentum Shorts
    Designer: Peek A Boo Pattern Shop
    Fabrics: French Terry from Clover & Co. Fabrics
    Yellow Rib Knit from Frankie Bear Fabrics
    Skill level: Intermediate
    Size made: 5 width/6 Height
    Adjustments: Just the custom fit
    Pros: I love the knit binding detail on this one, though it can be made without it as well.
    Cons: The binding can be a bit tricky, but if you take your time, it comes together well.

    The Review:

    I have had this Lemon French Terry in my stash for a little while and I wasn’t 100% sure what I was going to make, but when I saw this shorts pattern, I knew it would look so good with a bit of white trim. This make came together so well, I am just itching to make about 10 more pairs of these super cute and functional shorts.

    I like that it has a few different options, like the ability to have the leggings inbuilt into the shorts for a little more comfort underneath.

    There was a little bit of fiddling with the knit binding, but I think the next time I make it I would be quicker again as I know what I’m doing this time. You can also omit the pockets if you want to save a little bit of time. If you are anything like me though, there is ALWAYS time for pockets haha.

    I also like that the waistband is enclosed making it nice and soft of Miss J’s tummy.

    This one got a HUGE thumbs up and grin when she saw the finished outfit. I used the Kids Essential Tee in tank version in a lusciously soft Rib Knit from Frankie Bear Fabrics to complete the look.

    Click the links below to shop the look:

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