Skip to content

BLOG

Red black plaid and gray houndstooth hooded coat with patch pockets, ideal for sewing apparel projects

Reversible Jacket — Butterick 6863

Wanting something warm to wear, I decided it would be fun to try my hoodie pattern Butterick 6863 in flannel. The pattern is oversized so this continues my experiment with making this ‘designed for stretch knits’ in a woven.

Learn more
Two abstract print dresses: one colorful geometric, one black white textured — ideal for creative sewing projects.

The Puzzle Dress — Vogue 1860

The studio working name for Vogue 1860 is The Puzzle Dress because it gets its unique asymmetrical design from shaped pattern pieces that go together like the pieces in a puzzle.

Learn more
Polka dot and abstract print long-sleeve tops on mannequins, ideal for sewing apparel with knit fabrics

The Hem Band Tunic — Vogue 1846

Sculptural swingy tunic features a subtle bell shape defined by a band at the hem that adds a bit of weight and subtle movement.

Learn more
Woman viewing large abstract painting with bold brushstrokes in yellow, blue, and purple at art gallery

The Art

A whirlwind of museum shows, walking, wandering, a bit of shopping and eating. That’s what this trip to Paris has been about. Seeing what is new, what is gone, what is happening. A bit of napping sneaks in as well but the largest impact for me has been the art.

Learn more
Two mannequins display long-sleeve patchwork tunics with abstract, animal print, and striped patterns in black, white, and bold colors.

A Couple of Cool Combinations — Butterick 6817

Combining prints is totally on trend and also terrific play. Play is so good for the soul and sewing play provides the perfect entertainment for those of us enamored with the craft.

Learn more
Dark green abstract print tunic with button front, asymmetrical hem, and cuffed sleeves on mannequin

Fooling Around With Flannel Jacket — Butterick 6521

Here’s another version of B6521 — my current BFF shirt pattern — in flannel. I alliterate the feel of flannel with the flattering fit of this shirt. There is nothing like a flannel shirt when the seasons turn into cooler weather.

Learn more
Leaf print button-up tunic top in dark tones, front and back views on mannequin

Autumn Leaves Jacket — Vogue 1817

Hard to believe, but this is the 6th rendition of this pattern that I’ve made! The minute I tried on the finished garment I breathed a sigh of happiness. It feels like a second skin, feels great, soft and smooth, has the vibe of a sweater, is flattering, hangs close to the body and will work as an indoor garment or an outer layer. Makes a good layering piece too, can slide a thin vest under the jacket and could slip a coat over it. The print adds a quiet wash of color and will work with all my black basics, so I know this will become a cool weather at home, out and about and travel basic. Does not show spots or wrinkle either.

Learn more
Abstract printed fabric with bold green, black, and white geometric patterns for apparel sewing

Inside and Outside Curves — Simplified

Here is a simple technique for sewing concave and convex curves together. I'm working with lining; two opposite sides to sew together. It could be frustrating, but super simple if you know the tricks of the trade. Please leave me a comment and let me know if you tried it.

Learn more
Blue abstract floral and geometric print shirt dress on mannequin, ideal for sewing apparel or quilting projects

Free Reign With Liberty — Butterick 6521

The feel of silk with the breath of cotton —much to love — that’s Liberty Tana Lawn for you. Plus a myriad of colors and patterns to choose from. I love my jeans (or black pants for a little dress-up) so blue is always a good choice for me, especially if there’s a little black thrown in. I chose 4 Liberty fabrics — Felicity, Emily, Carlisle and Portsmouth Liberty Cotton Woven and used one yard of each (2 units).

Learn more