Search Results for: denim

The Heather Blazer – Friday Pattern Co.

Buy the Heather Blazer sewing pattern from Friday Pattern Company. The Heather is an unstructured, modern blazer. This comfortable and stylish jacket has a slightly oversized fit and can be worn in all seasons. It is the perfect editorial layering piece. This pattern is designed to be approachable for the beginner sewist. If you have always wanted to dip your toe into making outerwear but have felt intimidated, this is a great place to start.

The Heather Blazer is fully lined and features a two-piece sleeve, single button closure, front patch pockets and lapel collar.

MAIN FABRIC: Any woven fabric with a bit of weight to it is great. Linen, suiting, twill, denim, canvas. Avoid fabrics that can’t take a press since there is a fair amount of fusible interfacing involved in this project.

LINING FABRIC: Typically you want to line your jacket with something that will easily slide on and off over other fabrics. Anything a little bit slippery would work. Rayon, silk, a cotton with a tight weave.

WOVEN INTERFACING: You want the type that looks like fabric (not the papery kind) and is fusible. The papery kind will work in a pinch but it is worth investing in the woven stuff as it will really give your blazer a nicer feel.

KNIT INTERFACING: This interfacing also looks like fabric but has stretch. It will reinforce the collar and lapel without making them too stiff!

Fabric requirements: You may need to purchase extra fabric if your fabric has a heavy nap, is directional, striped, or has an obvious repeat.

MAIN FABRIC: 45″ (114 cm) wide fabric: 2.4 – 3.6 yd (2.2 – 3.3 m) // 54″-60″ (137-162 cm) wide fabric: 1.9 – 3.1 yd (1.7 – 2.8 m).

LINING FABRIC: 45″ (114 cm) wide fabric: 1.8 – 3 yd (1.6 – 2.7 m) // 54″-60″ (137-162 cm) wide fabric: 1.6 – 2.4 yd (1.5 – 2.2 m).

WOVEN INTERFACING: 45″ (114 cm) wide fabric: 0.9 – 1.4 yd (0.8 – 1.3 m).

KNIT INTERFACING: 45″ (114 cm) wide fabric: 0.9 – 1.1 yd (0.8 – 1 m).

Sizing: XS – 7X (approx. UK 6 – 34). Please check the size chart and finished garment measurements.

The Heather Blazer has a slightly oversized fit. Its simple silhouette is designed to give it a modern look while also being easy to sew. This pattern was drafted using sample measurements for a height of 5’6”. The straight sizes (XS-XXL) are designed off of a block with a B/C cup size. The plus sizes (1X-7X) are designed off of a block with a C/D cup size.

Notions: One 3/4″-1″ button; matching thread; hand sewing needle.

Sew House Seven – Nehalem Pant & Skirt Pattern

The Nehalem is based on the traditional Thai fisherman’s pants worn by fishermen in Eastern Asia. The traditional pant is a one-size-fits-all, very baggy, loose-fitting pant that is wrapped and tied to fit. While still a loose-fitting wrap, the Nehalem has been slimmed down a bit and has been graded to better fit your size. The back rise of the pant is not as baggy as a traditional fisherman pant as it has a bit of a curve to its rise – for a more attractive and fitted back view.

The Nehalem skirt is a take on the fisherman pant as well. It also wraps and ties to make for an easy fitting, easy to wear piece. It features oversized side patch pockets, vertical front and back seaming and a wide waistband that can be folded down or worn upright and tied. The skirts feature an above the knee version and a tea length version. No closures to sew.

The Nehalem pants feature oversized side patch pockets, vertical back seaming and a wide waistband that can be worn upright or folded down and tied. The pants feature cropped and long versions. No closures to sew.

All versions have 2 options for the waistband construction. There is a double layered, more finished waistband construction (option #1) or a single layer, longer (option #2) that is less bulky.

Make any view up in a luxurious fabric and wear it with heels for a dressed up look, try lightweight denim for a new take on jeans or sew it in funky printed cotton and it just may become your favorite loungewear piece. The pants are less bulky and a bit more slimming if sewn in a fabric with some drape such as denim Tencel. The skirt, on the other hand, works great in a fabric with more body. However you make your Nehalem, the creative dressing options are endless with this pattern.

This is a beginner level pattern sizes XS – XXL

Recommended fabrics

Light to mid-weight woven fabrics that are not too sheer such as chambray, denim (that’s not too stiff), Tencel, rayon challis, linen and most cotton wovens. Some drape in the fabric is advised for the trousers. Quilting cotton for the loungewear – pyjama look.

Tilly And The Buttons Jessa Pattern

Ultra cool with a seventies twist, the Jessa trousers or shorts will soon become your faves. With wide, gently flared legs on the full-length trousers or turn-up hems on the shorts, they close with a concealed front zip fly.

The high waist, curved waistband and back darts will flatter your bum, while the triangle tab fastening, deep patch pockets and faux pocket flap will have you swooning while you sew.

Jessa includes jargon-busting instructions, helpful sewing tips, and colour photos showing you each step – making it easy for you to create gorgeous clothes you can be proud to say you made yourself.

SKILL LEVEL – Improvers

FABRIC SUGGESTIONS – Medium-weight woven fabrics such as denim, corduroy, cotton drill, linen or triple crepe. Stretch isn’t required but a small amount of elastane will make them extra comfy.

Tilly And The Buttons Bobbi Pattern

Say hello to Bobbi, a button-down skirt or pinafore that’s both classic and bang on trend. Endlessly versatile, it looks so different depending on the fabric you pick and the details you add. Go utility chic with a choice of three pockets, optional flaps and belt loops – or leave them off for an understated look.

It has a flattering shape thanks to the curved fitted waistband, princess seams at the back and slim-look bib on the pinafore. Bobbi will be a go-to garment in your me-made wardrobe.

Bobbi includes jargon-busting instructions, helpful sewing tips, and colour photos showing you each step – making it easy for you to create gorgeous clothes you can be proud to say you made yourself.

SKILL LEVEL – Confident beginners

FABRIC SUGGESTIONS – Medium- to heavy-weight woven fabrics that hold their shape such as denim, corduroy, cotton canvas, drill, gobelin (tapestry), or velvet.

Learn to Sew a Dungaree Dress

Our Learn to Sew a Dugaree/Pinafore Dress class for dressmaking beginners is the perfect class for people who want to start sewing their own clothes but don’t know where to start. The Cleo dress is an on-trend dungaree/pinafore dress with either buckles or buttons on the straps and two length options and is a great first project to get you started on your handmade wardrobe.

Our sewing classes are relaxed and friendly, taking place at our beautiful studio at Holme Grange Craft Village in Wokingham, Berkshire. You’ll get to use our brand new digital Janome sewing machines and class sizes are capped at five to ensure everyone gets the time and attention they need.

Please note we are a Covid-19 Secure Further Education venue and have implemented all government guidelines. Please see our FAQ’s page for further information.

You will learn

  • Measuring yourself and choosing the correct pattern size
  • Understanding a sewing pattern
  • Cutting out your pattern & fabric accurately
  • Sewing and finishing seams
  • Perfecting top stitching for a professional finish
  • Adding patch pockets
  • Button holes or attaching buckles and jeans buttons depending on whether you’d like a pinafore or dungaree style dress
  • How to hem your dress

WHAT’S INCLUDED

The class includes expert instruction, use of the Janome machines, tools, threads etc, your own copy of the Cleo pattern so you can make again at home plus tea, coffee and biscuits!

YOU NEED TO BRING

  • 1.3m – 1.9m of medium to heavy weight fabric. We suggest 10oz denim, corduroy, canvas or even furnishing weight fabric – you want something that will hold its shape. (Please check size chart in photo gallery for info on how much fabric to bring and fabric recommendations. If you aren’t sure, please contact us)
  • 0.5m fusible interfacing (you can purchase this on the day or online here)
  • Matching thread – we provide a wide choice of coloured threads to use during the class but if there is a specific colour match or top-stitching colour you would like, we recommend bringing your own
  • Dungaree buckles & jean buttons (you can purchase these on the day) OR 2 buttons of your choice.

Pattern Sizing

  • The Cleo pattern is UK 6 – 20, you can see the body measurements in the photo gallery. If you fall outside of these measurements please contact us prior to booking as we may be able to grade the pattern for you.

SKILL LEVEL

Newcomer (2)

TEACHER

Various

More questions? Take a look at our Class FAQs, these also cover our Class Cancellation Policy.

Our classes are non-refundable so please make sure you’ve checked your diary carefully and read our Class FAQs before booking. These also cover lots of other questions so please do read them!

Please note you’ll receive a confirmation email upon booking and you’ll also receive a reminder email the week before your class. If you don’t receive these, please check your junk/spam folder.

 

 

 

Oliver + S – Singles Shirt Pattern

Description

A wardrobe staple, for boys and girls, this shirt is both versatile and polished. The pattern features many professional details like separate button-down collar and collar band, tower sleeve placket, and collar and cuff facings to help you sew great looking shirts with a comfortable, relaxed fit. View A includes a continuous (cut-on) placket and classic chest pocket. View B features a separate (set-in) placket and workshirt-style pockets with concealed button flaps.

Sizes

3 – 12 years

Skills Used

Each of our patterns calls on a unique set of sewing skills. Haven’t ever done one of these things before? Don’t worry. We’ll walk you through it, step by step.

After successfully sewing this pattern, you will have developed the following skills: buttonholes, curved seam, collar, flat-set sleeves, patch pockets, and placket.

Suggested Fabrics

Suitable for a variety of light- to medium-weight woven fabrics including quilting cotton, voile, lawn, shirting, poplin, broadcloth, denim, linen, and flannel.

Notions

Coordinating thread, featherweight interfacing (fusible or sew-in), 3/8″ buttons (View A: 10 for sizes 3T–8, 11 for sizes 10–12; View B: 12 for sizes 3T–8, 13 for sizes 10–12).

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Top five sewing patterns for beginners

Taking the first step to sewing your very own me-made workshop can sometimes be confusing. There are so many patterns out there from the independent brands as well as the ‘big’ and ‘scary’ top four. So if you’re thinking of taking the leap and joining the community, never fear, we have your back. Read on for our top five beginner patterns.

1. Tilly and the Buttons – Cleo

Great for: Easy to follow instructions

Sew in: Woven fabrics, including denim, cord or even upholstery fabrics

Cleo is our go-to pattern for all seasons, from cosy corduroys and knits in the winter to denim layered over t-shirts in the summer.  We love Tilly’s patterns for a range of reasons, from the simple to follow instructions to the easy to use measuring charts; you really can’t go wrong. This on trend, style has no fiddly zips or buttons to contend with and the dungaree clips are super simple to use, in fact, the only difficult thing about this pattern is choosing how many versions to make!

2. Grainline Studios – Scout Tee

Great for: A quick, simple sew

Sew in: Lightweight to medium fabrics including cotton lawn, linen and denim

Sometimes it’s hard to believe the perfect top exists, but we think the scout tee comes pretty close. A great, quick sew, this top has no darts or pleats but does show you how to handle bias binding on the flattering neckline. This top is one that suits all body shapes, which we love and can be made again and again in so many different prints and colours that your closet will be packed with them before you know it!

 

3. Leisl & Co – Everyday Skirt

Great for: A well-drafted, wardrobe staple

Sew in: Medium weight cotton, needlecord or flannel

We LOVE the everyday skirt – so many variations, so little time. This A-line, classic shape has a flat front, with elasticated back, which sits perfectly on the hips of any body shape. There are no zips and fastenings which is great, but you can get to grips with adding pockets (who doesn’t love pockets) and also adding elastic to a garment. This is sophisticated, simple sew which you’ll be swishing around in forever.

4. Tilly And The Buttons – Coco

Great for: Getting to grips with sewing jersey

Sew in: Medium weight jersey including Ponte Roma or double knit

Another favourite from Tilly And The buttons, the Coco is the ultimate jersey top AND dress all in one pretty package. Crying out to be sewn in a classic Breton stripe, the super clear instructions strike again, not only that, the handy guide shows beginners how to sew stretch without the use of an overlocker if you aren’t quite ready to take that leap just yet. Sewing with jersey may seem scary, but this will most definitely help you along on your ‘jersey journey’ – thanks Tilly!

Sew Over It - Ultimate Shift Dress

5. Sew Over It – The Ultimate Shift dress

Great for: A simple dress with lots of variations

Sew in: Cotton, viscose or crepe

Last, but by no means least, the ultimate shift dress is a wonderland of sewspiration, from the long-sleeves to short, ruffled ones and even a top variation – it really does have something for everyone. Again, there are no zips but this pattern will help you to get to grips with bust darts and neck facings, in a simple, easy to follow way. This one is great for showcasing bold prints and if you feel like ‘stepping it up’, try stitching something in drapier fabrics for a challenge.

So there you have it, our top five patterns for beginner sewists, we love the variation of all of these and the great thing is, you can add your own flare once you really get going on your sewing journey.

Ready to begin but still a bit overwhelmed? Don’t panic, we’ve covered all basis, check out our gorgeous kits for each of the patterns which contain everything but the sewing machine! From a perfectly paired Cleo/stripe combo to dreamy denim ready to be made into dungarees, we have plenty to choose from, so what are you waiting for? Shop the kits here.

To see Sheona talk in more detail about her favourite beginner patterns watch the vlog below:

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Goldhawk Road Fabric Shopping Tips

I might own a fabric shop myself but it doesn’t mean I’m immune to the wonders of Goldhawk Road! I thought I’d just take five to tell you briefly about my last trip and give you some tips I’ve picked up on previous visits.

Goldhawk Road fabric, fabric shopping, Goldhawk fabric
I’m sure if you’re here reading this you’ll know all about the fabric mecca that is this little London street. Just in case you’ve not heard of it, it’s right next to Shepherds Bush market and of course Goldhawk Road tube.

There are approximately 10/15 fabric shops spread across both sides of the street and there are some amazing gems to be had. A lot of the shops have different products, some specialising in certain things like silks & lace but most with a wide range of fabrics. It really is a fabric lovers paradise!

Goldhawk Road, Goldhawk Road fabric, fabric shops, fabric shopping, Goldhawk fabrics
Goldhawk Road

Now I’ve visited a handful of times I thought I’d let you know some tips I hope you’ll find useful.

* If you arrive by tube the main bulk of shops are on your right as you come out of the station. On my last visit we decided to drive up and used JustPark.com to find a space. This was brilliant for us as we drove in from Surrey in less than an hour and the space we rented was only one street away from Goldhawk Rd. This meant we didn’t have to lug all our many purchase back on the tube and train, and it was a lot cheaper! There are lots of sites where people rent their parking spaces so I’d recommend having a look.

Searching for fabric gems…

* I’ve only been on a weekend once and it was much busier than in the week. I know it’s not always possible but you’ll find it a lot less crowded and easier to see everything on a weekday.

*  Take your time to look around as many of the shops as you can before choosing where to go back and buy from. Some shops have the same fabric at vastly different prices, for example one shop had Liberty fleece for £18pm (£40pm from Liberty) and another had the exact same fleece in the same colourway for £10pm! I also picked up some Ponte de Roma for £8pm that was in another shop at £12pm.

Fabric house, scuba fabric, Goldhawk Road
Fabulous scuba from Fabric House

* Some of the shops often seem to have quite a lot of staff, and it’s quite common for them to follow you around whilst you are browsing. The first time I went it was quite off-putting but now I just smile and say hello. The shops are their livelihood and understandably they want to make sure no one is putting mucky fingers on their stock, plus they want a sale so are keen to be attentive! Take your time and don’t be put off asking questions, I’ve found almost everyone to be very friendly.

Fabric world, Goldhawk Road, Goldhawk Road guide
Checking out some Liberty in Fabric World

* It’s OK to haggle! Being a stereotypical Brit I never haggle but have tried the last couple of times after hearing other people do it and sometimes it does work! Always be polite and friendly and ask for a realistic discount, they’re not going to cut the price in half for you! I’ve done it when there’s been a fabric I quite liked but didn’t want to pay £10pm for, I offered £7pm and we agreed on £8pm. Also when I’ve bought large quantities I’ve asked for a discount – I got 4 metres of one fabric for £4pm instead of £4.50pm. You could also ask if you’ve seen it cheaper elsewhere, as long as you’re polite and respect if they say no then I don’t think anyone minds. Again I think this is likelier to work on a weekday when the shops are quieter.

* Carry cash. A lot of the shops take card but there are still a few that don’t. There are cash machines by the Sainsbury and Tesco and possibly some further down.

* If you’re anything like me and love a good rummage then make sure you don’t have a cumbersome handbag to lug around! Much easier to hunt down fabric bargains with your hands free!

* Be aware that a lot of the stock  is seconds, this means it could just be a print that the colour match was slightly different to their previous batch, or it could be a misprint or small snags etc. Make sure you take a good look at the fabric before it is cut and again, if there are any issues, use it as an opportunity to haggle.

* Oh and if you need the loo, there’s a Costa on the corner by the tube station. You’ll need to buy something to get the code for the door.

There are too many shops to mention individually (isn’t it wonderful!) but a few of my favourites are;

Fabric House, second or third one down from the market. The owner is always really friendly, the stock is super cheap and I’ve picked up some real gems especially jersey and scuba.

Classic Textiles, next to Fabric House. They have a great selection of Liberty with some silks as little as £13pm! I actually found a design I’d been searching for for over a year here for £25pm instead of £50pm.

Liberty Emerald Bay
Liberty Silk, from Classic Textiles

Fabric World (third down from the tube) has a great selection of fabrics, including a good selection of Liberty if you love it as much as I do!

Misan is further towards the other end of the street and stocks lots of lovely designer fabrics. It is more expensive but they’ve got some amazing stuff and if you go upstairs there’s the possibility of bagging a bargain with their bolt ends or remnants.

Goldhawk Road fabric
My recent Goldhawk Road fabric haul

I hope all that gives you a better idea of what to expect and that you find it useful. Have you been to Goldhawk Road? Please let me know what your tips & recommendations are, or let me know if you’re planning a trip.