Pattern review

A message to you, Judy: the Fibre Mood Judy dress

At a glance, the Judy Dress from Fibre Mood book 22 looks like just another floaty dress. But with some subtle details, Judy packs a little extra oomph than the slew of dresses that followed the success of ‘that’ Zara dress.

I made this dress at the request of my very wonderful friend for her birthday. In the name of thriftiness it made sense to buy the whole magazine rather than the individual pattern. I’ve not bought a Fibre Mood magazine before but it’s really good value for money. For £18 you get 12 sewing patterns. Yes, you have to trace them all, but tracing really doesn’t deserve its bad rep. It’s slow, methodical, and satisfying. Just make sure to ADD THE SEAM ALLOWANCE.

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This shirt gives you wings: I AM Barbara

Pattern review, Sewing ideas

I AM Barbara is a classic shirt pattern with an added dose of bonkers. With three flounce variations and the option to ditch the flounce altogether and stick with the classic shirt, you can tailor this to your preferred level of quirkiness. I’ve never seen a design like this, and with so many shirt sewing patterns out there, I was really excited to see something new and unique on the home sewing market. Plus it’s fun. And who doesn’t need a bit of fun in their wardrobe?

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Finally succumbing to the lure of pyjamas

Home sewn, Pattern review, Sewing ideas

I have always professed to have little to no interest in pyjamas or loungewear, so although they look great, those comfy hoodie, jogger and pyjama sewing patterns have never been on my sewing list. It took an almighty convergence of circumstances (and fabric) to bring handmade PJs into my life, but I’m sold, friends. Fully sold. Who knew pyjamas were so awesome?

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Go shorty: Nina Lee Portobello Trousers-come-shorts

Home sewn, Pattern review, Sewing ideas

The Portobello Trousers by Nina Lee is a pattern I’ve had for ages but for some reason never got round to making. I’ve been getting more into trousers and separates, so the time was finally nigh to make some Portobellos!

I’ve always struggled to get trousers to fit (maybe the real reason behind the Portobello-avoidance is coming to light), so I decided to toile these and make a pair of shorts to begin with.

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The Wilder Gown and the joy of a home sewn gift

Home sewn, Pattern review

As you may have seen from the Ilford Jacket saga, handmade gifts are not my forte. Truth be told, I just prefer sewing for myself. However, my best mate’s birthday was nearing and she sent me this photo from the Esska shoes Instagram page. Of course, my sewist mind instantly jumped to the Wilder Gown and I before I knew it, I was saying “I could make you that”: