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WIN £1,200 OF PRIZES l ELNA SEWING MACHINE! 50% OFFPATTERNS!
See p31
Feb 2014 Issue 56 £5.99l Alterations for all skill
levels l Dressmaking advice l Interiortrends lTop sewing machine picks
Make it, share it
Stitch for you!
EASYAPPLIQUÉ
PAPER-CUT STYLE
EMBROIDEREDTOKENS
Plus...
OURPATCHWORK
PROMISE• ADVICE•QUILTS
•PRODUCTS
GREAT NO-PATTERN
MAKE!
Inside!Quick HomeUpdates
SE
W M
AG
AZ
INE
FE
BR
UA
RY
2014
ISS
UE
56 £
5.99
Liberty Beginner’s Quilt
Stitch aSewing
Bee dress
Home&StyleDressmakingMadeEASYWith your BONUS patterns
SEW Cover 56 qx V3_Layout 1 19/12/2013 14:52 Page 1
Free Lesson with Every Sewing Machine PurchasedHands On Demonstrations Available
Software Horn CabinetsFabrics & Haberdashery
Brother Bernina Janome Husqvarna
Newport Sewing CentreNewport Sewing CentreNewport Sewing CentreNewport Sewing CentreNewport Sewing Centre
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Newport Sewing CentreNewport Sewing Centre
SALESALENow On!Now On!SALESALENow On!Now On!SALENow On!
Established 1961
The UK’s Only PE Design Next Training Centre
Brother Authorised
Training Centre
Internet Prices
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Newport Sewing Centre, J&B House, Curlew Close, Queensway Meadows, Newport NP19 4SY
Telephone: 01633 284646 - Email: [email protected]
www.jbsewing.com
01633 284646
Newport_Layout 1 19/12/2013 12:17 Page 1
Get in touch!
sew
LAUREN GUTHRIEOur columnist offers adviceon altering patterns to fityour shape. See page 106.
meetthesewteam
meetourexperts
Welcome to our February issue, whichis filled with makes you’ll love to stitch,whether for someone special oryourself! If you’re in the mood forromance, our lavender-filled decs
will set hearts aflutter (p46),and in Home this month we have an appliqué quilt to stitch from gorgeousLiberty fabrics (p61), plus cosy heart pillows (p69)to snuggle up with.
If you want to try dressmaking, we have alimited edition dress pattern from the makers of The Great British Sewing Bee (p15). Available todownload until 14th February, make it in a print ofyour choice and wear it whenthe weather warms up (or witha cardigan right now)! We alsohave a gorgeous no-patterndress to stitch by the talentedAmy Butler on p32.
Our gift to you this month isa fat quarter of our exclusiveTilly fabric, plus bonusproject sheet. Don’tforget to show us whatyou make!
Your FREEgift this monthis a 100% Tillyfat quarterplus bonusproject sheet.
All the templates for this issue can be found on
our website – plus video demos, free projects and a friendly
forum www.sewmag.co.uk
STEPH DURRANT,Deputy Editor"This month... I am lovingCorinne Bradd’s quilt – I adore Liberty prints! (p61)
ALISON SMITH MBEDressmaking guru AlisonSmith advises on makingalterations on p22.
Get online
welcome
ROSIE SAVAGE,Editorial Assistant"This month... I amlooking forward tostitching a gardeningapron for my mum (p80).
Check out our fantasticsubscription offer on page 72!
Subscribe today!
Join us on Twitter @sewhq, follow us on Pinterest pinterest.com/sewhq.Like us on Facebook facebook.com/sewhqor email us at [email protected] your comments and pictures. Alternatively, call 01206 505420.
sewmag.co.uk l 3
Join the world’s busiest onlinecrafting community today! Withover 28,000 projects to inspire you,plus more than 9,000 members tomeet, there’s loads to discover. Joinfor FREE at www.busymitts.com
LorraineLorraine Luximon, Editor
We love!♥Inspirational
cross stitchideas, p96
1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road,Colchester, Essex,
CO2 8JY
EditorLorraine Luximon
Deputy EditorSteph Durrant
[email protected] Assistant
Rosie [email protected]
Group EditorLynn Martin
01206 505980
Publishing DirectorHelen Tudor
Advertising ManagerJo Scott
[email protected] 506250
Advertisement SalesClare Dance
[email protected] 505495
Sarah Collins, Jackie Weddell, Jo Bluck
Art DirectorPhil Dunham
DesignersRick Allen, Chris Ashworth,
James Tuthill
Ad ProductionClare Brasier
PhotographyCliQQ Photography www.cliqq.co.uk
AccountsDenise Bubb
01206 505958
Subscription Enquiries/ Back Issues
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Website [email protected]
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PromotionsEmma Ham
Subscriptions Executive Maria Doyle
Published By Aceville Publications Ltd 2014
21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester,
Essex CO2 8JY © Aceville Publications Ltd
All projects from this issue and the FREE online patterns are for personal
home use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. All
patterns that are featured in Sew arereproduced in good faith that they do
not infringe any copyright.
The publishers are not responsible for any safety issues arising from any
items created from projects containedwithin Sew magazine.
On the cover...Garment:
Amy Butler
Leader56_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:43 Page 1
LivingIn Every Issue DressmakingFree Gift
03 WelcomeSay hello to the Sew team.
06 The Hot ListFour pages of the best news,products, shows and events for February.
10 Dear SewTake a look at our latest readermakes and find out how you canwin stitching goodies.
72 SubscriptionsNever miss an issue of Sew– subscribe today for exclusiveoffers, gifts and more.
92 GiveawaysEnter today for your chance towin prizes worth over £1,200!
94 March previewNext month we have a FREESimplicity 1549 toy pattern forevery reader, from which you canmake a raccoon, fox, bunny, owland deer! We also have agorgeous skirt to make from TheGreat British Sewing Bee, ideasfor the home, plus inspiration forMother’s Day.
96 Cross stitchCollect and keep ourinspirational messages andValentine’s Day motifs.
97 EssentialsGet the practical information andadvice you need on all aspects of needlework.
15 The Great BritishSewing Bee summer dressDownload your FREE The GreatBritish Sewing Bee summer dresspattern. Make up in bright printsfor a knock-out look.
31 Reader offer50% off all Simplicity patterns forevery reader.*Just pay postage
Tilly fat quarter andproject sheet Every reader gets a FREE fatquarter of fabric and projectbook, full of inspiration forgetting creative with your new,pretty print.
20 Pattern picksWe choose the best day dress patterns.
22 Dressmaking SOSOur experts answer yourquestions on fitting andalterations.
24 Dressmaking fabricshoppingThink pretty with our favouritepink fabric picks.
27 Custom madeAdd lace to your look for anelegant finish.
28 Laced in historyWe explore the historic art of lace making.
32 Drawstring dressCreate your own pattern with this breezy frock.
36 Machine spotlightWe review the best overlockermodels on the market.
38 My sewing roomWe talk to sewing and styleblogger, Ami Lowden, a.k.a TheLittle Tailoress, about stitchingher own wardrobe.
contentsFebruary 2014
Subscribe to sew at www.sew m
66 Click & stitchCheck out the best love-themedwebsites and finds.
74 Business biteWe chat to Sew Over It’s veryown Lisa Comfort.
106 The busy bee The Sewing Bee’s Lauren Guthriediscusses altering patterns.
FREECath Kidstonbuttons when you subscribe.
See p72
50% offSimplicity
patterns
Contents_Contents 19/12/2013 16:23 Page 2
Gifts
41 Wedding ring pillowMake someone’s weddingunique with a personal touch.
46 Valentine tokensShow your love with theseembroidered beauties.
Fashion HomeKids
Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sewhq, @sewhq on Twitter or pinterest.com/sewhq
Visit www.sewmag.co.ukFOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT, DOWNLOADABLE PATTERNS,FREE TEMPLATES, PROJECTS, COMPETITIONS, OURFRIENDLY SEWING FORUM AND MORE
44 Button jewelleryGive your outfit a flirty,feminine touch with thisbutton necklace.
87 Yo yo bagMake a little girl smile with anembellished tote.
89 Baby stacking ringsLet children learn and play withthese colourful toys.
52 Home fabric shoppingUse cool monochrome in yourhome for a contemporary aesthetic.
54 Home trendsLet your home exude style with agrey and yellow colour palette.
56 Quilter’s corner Get the latest patchwork and quiltnews and products.
61 Liberty quiltShow some love with this gorgeous,romantic throw.
64 Flower cushionExplore a new craft technique with our wool felt design.
67 Felt wreathAdd some colour to your home withthis funky wall hanging.
69 Heart pillowsUse pretty prints to create thesestylish accessories.
75 Make yourself at homeReinvent your living space with ourselection of home update ideas.
80 Pocket apronMake household tasks easy withthis practical, pretty pinny.
82 Vintage cushionsAdd a sophisticated flourish to yourabode with these lovely pillows.
85 Cat plushExperiment with your embroideryskills to make this cute feline friend.
w mag .co.uk or call 0844 826 7378
Get your FREE Simplicity1549 toy pattern
ComingNEXTMONTH...
PatchworkPROMISE
THIS MONTH! FREETilly fat quarter and project sheet
Be inspired by your bonus project book and discover exciting ways to use your FREE, pretty
print. Make a clutch bag, plush toys, a cushion orsomething of your own design. Everyone loves
beautiful fabric and we hope this one gives you plenty of ideas for
future projects.
Contents_Contents 19/12/2013 16:24 Page 3
What’s new in the worldof stitching
6 l sewmag.co.uk
Mid-century modernDare to be different with the Diva range of fabrics andcoordinating wallcoverings by Prestigious Textiles. Inspired by the Pop Art movement and using iconic archive imagery, thevibrant designs vary from distinctive Warhol-style faces totropical montages. All printed onto 100% cotton, they’re suitablefor home décor and accessories. Priced £16.99 per metre, visitwww.prestigious.co.uk or call 01274 688448.
Romantic ribbonsGive your handmade love tokens an extra-special touchwith Berisfords’ Natural Charms Romance ribboncollection. Choose from five designs featuring sentimentsincluding ‘All My Love’ and ‘Under Your Spell’ incontemporary red, cream, grey, and black. Priced from70p per metre, visit www.berisfords-ribbons.co.ukor call 01453 883581.
Cosy cushionsHandmade from France, thesescrumptious cushions are fromchildren’s brand Muusa, which means‘cosy’ in Swedish. We adore the use oftactile wool felt, leather, linen, andpretty Liberty cotton prints. Visit www.muusa.fr
thehotlist
Pattern paradeOnline sewing store Backstitch has launched a new downloadable sewingpattern category where dressmakers can pick from a fantastic range of digitalpatterns. Designs by popular brands including Oliver + S, Victory Patterns andMade by Rae can be downloaded as PDFs in seconds meaning you can startstitching straight away, plus you can print them out as many times as you like.www.backstitch.co.uk
the hot list_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:24 Page 2
Do you love our bonus cross stitchmotifs on page 96? Dont forget that these,plus a whole host ofcharts, patterns andproject ideas areavailable for FREE onour website atwww.sewmag.co.uk
For more fantastic productreviews, stitchy gossip and to take a look behind thescenes here at Sew HQ, like us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/sewhq follow us on Twitter @sewhq or visitwww.pinterest.com/sewhq
GETTHE
LOOK!
REX
French fanciesTransform your humble abodeinto an elegant château withthe latest fabric collectionfrom Gütermann. FrenchCottage is a delectable range of 36 Toile de Jouy designsconsisting of numerouscoordinating prints to mix andmatch. Priced from £19.95 permetre. For stockists [email protected] or call 01453 883581.
sewmag.co.uk l 7
SEW NEWS
Street styleLondon street artist Malarky
has joined forces with organickidswear brand Boys&Girls to
create a limited edition range forspring/summer 2014. The collection
has an urban beach theme and consists of two long-sleeve raglan T-shirts (£16),
a vest top with contrasting trim (£12),and a hooded sweat top (£28) all
featuring eco-friendly prints.www.boysandgirlsshop.com
Innovation stationThe Sew team was very excited to be present at the
launch of Brother’s brand-new ScanNCutmachine. The innovative machine cuts though
varying thicknesses of fabric and features aspeedy high resolution scanner, so you cancreate your own appliqué designs. Ideal forpatchwork and quilting, there are also 600
ready-to-use designs including 100 quiltpatterns which can be selected and edited on the LCD screen.
Available exclusively fromwww.createandcraft.tv
fashion file: OVER-SIZED COATS
Usually known for showing off her curves, here KimKardashian works this winter’s hottest, or should we say
cosiest, cover-up trend – the oversized coat. In a longlength with softly curving shoulders, it’s sure to see you
through the last of the big freeze. The reality star gets extrastyle points by working it in a rich mustard shade too.
Burda pattern 7275 features two striking coat designs andis only a level two in difficulty. Similar to Kim’s, Style A has
lapped seams and a broad, flowing collar to be sewn infulled fabrics. Available in sizes 10-24,
www.simplicitynewlook.com, 0161 480 8734.
the hot list_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:24 Page 3
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Our rundown of the best workshops and events...
StitchtopiaWyboston Lakes, Bedfordshire17th - 20th FebruaryTake a break at Stitchtopia, a five-dayfestival which promises to be a craft-lover’sheaven. Delve into the world of stitchingand surround yourself with industryexperts including The Great British SewingBee’s Stuart Hillard who will be runningpatchwork and appliqué sessions. Set in350 acres of rural landscape withaccommodation in the stylish WillowsHotel, visit www.arenatravel.comto find out more.
Knit & Stitch ItFive, Farnborough28th February - 2nd MarchJoin the South’s largest craft weekend forthe Knit & Stitch It show. At the three-day
event, visitors will have access to allthe latest fabrics and stitchingtools, along with a first peek at thenew season’s product ranges.There’s also a full programme of workshops including ‘make andtakes’ where you can meet like-minded crafters and complete a project to take home. Visitwww.knitandstitch-it.org.uk
Creative Stitches &Hobbycrafts
EvenCity, Manchester6th - 8th February
As well as access to the latest supplies, ideas andinnovation in the crafting world, the Creative
Stitches & Hobbycrafts show has a plethora ofinspiring features on offer. There’s an extensiveprogramme of free workshops, demonstrations
and talks by experts including author andprevious Sew editor Laura Strutt. Visitors canalso view the winning entries for the Madeira
Embroidery Competition. Visitwww.stitchandhobby.co.uk for tickets.
The CorsetSchool of Sewing, Leicestershire
26th - 27th FebruaryOn this two-day workshop you will join
Alison Smith MBE to make an authenticVictorian corset using an original patternfrom around 1860 using authentic fabrics
and including a waist stay and spiralboning techniques. You can make the
basic corset or those with moreexperience can choose an alternative
pattern. Book now atwww.schoolofsewing.co.uk
DAYbyDAY
Exercise bookIf you’re looking to improveyour dressmaking skillsthen take a look at AFashion Sewers Notebook by Colleen G Lea. Split intonine chapters, thedownloadable notebookguides you through simpleyet effective exercisesdesigned to help developyour creative skills andchallenge your approach to future sewing projects.Priced £9.95, visitwww.fashionsewingblog.com
Starting outIf you’ve got a friend who wants to start sewing, but doesn’t knowwhere to begin, then Seek It Out has come up with a great rangeof kits to help. Aimed at beginners, the sets are designed byShropshire couple Frank Wagstaffe and Rosie Beswick andcontain everything you need. There are three designs to choosefrom including a quilted knit pin wrap, a jewellery roll and asewing set, and each comes packaged in a reusable oilcloth bag.www.seekitout.co.uk
Sort it outBeads, buttons, needles and pinsrattling loose in your sewing box?Get them organised with this setof pretty floral storage tins fromBlott. They’re not only practical,but they’re pretty enough todisplay too. Priced £7.50 per set of three,www.blottshop.comWIN
TICKETS!Turn to page 92
the hot list_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:24 Page 4
Sewing essentials for the one you love
3 of the best... HEART-SHAPEDHABBY
sewmag.co.uk l 9
SEW NEWS
Pack of six red heart buttons, £2.95,www.dotcomgiftshop.com
Cath Kidston heart pincushion, £8,www.johnlewis.com
Heart pin wheel, 75p,www.trixielixie.co.uk
DON’T MISS OUT! Subscribe to Sew todayand receive a CathKidston Button Factorykit. See page 72.
His ’n’ hersGet sewing for your señor with
Colette Patterns’ new specialitymenswear and
unisex line, Walden.Prepare for outdoor
adventures withAlbion, a duffle coatwith two variations:a flannel-lined coat
and an unlinedjacket. Accessorise
with Cooper, aversatile bag in
three styles anddon’t miss Negroni, a retro shirt in
sizes XS to XXL. We love the newlay-flat packaging, too!
www.coletterie.com
Pucker upCreate a unique gift for yourValentine this February 14thwith this fun Flaming LipsChocolate Box sewing patternfrom Fairyfox. Available as adownloadable PDF, you canstitch a lip-shaped box with four(almost) good enough to eatchocolates from felt andtrimmings. Priced £3.75,www.etsy.com
Simply does itIntroducing Simple Sew Patterns,
an independent British patterncompany with a beautiful range of
easy-to-sew designs for all abilities.There are seven styles to choose
from including dresses, skirts, a blouse, and classic trousers,
all priced at just £7.50 fromwww.simplesewpatterns.com.What’s more, full email support is
provided, so if you get stuck or have a question, the Simple Sew team
will be happy to help.
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dearStar Letter
Chat with us... on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/sewhq
Get in touch... on Twitter at @sewhq
Get togetherI wanted to share with you my latestproject, which is a sewing course formy fabulous Women’s Institute. I started the group as a way to makefriends after moving to a new area.Two years later we have produced alike-minded, fun group of girls withapproximately 40 members. Themajority are young mums embracing the ‘make do and mend’lifestyle. I have been sewing for over twenty years and it turnedout that a huge proportion of our members wanted to developtheir skills, so I organised a variety of sewing classes. We meet in a local pub and are working on a variety of different projects.Many members buy your magazine and I’m excited to share a littlebit of what we are doing. This is a photo of my current art quilt.Gemma White, via emailYour WI sounds like so much fun! Sewing is such a great hobby to do as a group. Keep stitching!
What’s new on Pinterest?Check out our Valentine’s board for lots of inspiration! Ahandmade present is often seen as more thoughtful thanshop-bought and you know your gift will be treasured for years.If you’re struggling to think what to make though, why not visitour Pinterest board for ideas? From fabric roses to romantic crossstitch messages, there’s plenty to get your creative juices flowing.
Check us out... on Pinterest atwww.pinterest.com/sewhq
I’ve been quilting!!Wowsie Baldwin
I’ve been making memoryfriends for little people andtheir families to rememberthose special first outfits.Amanda Barker
★
★★
Share your crafty makesand stories with us to be in with the chance ofwinning a fantastic prize!
Facebook profileWe asked you what you’vebeen making this month,and this is what you told us
I’ve been makingfelt brooches.Debra Mackenzie
I’m stitching clothing setswith hand-sewn appliqué.Perfect for our Queensland,Australian summer. Obbie Dobbie
Rose tintedHere is some of my homemadebunting. I’ve been sewing for ayear now and love it! I’m also justabout to start sewing lessonswhich is very exciting! This is apersonalised new baby design fora lucky little girl called Rosie. I’veused a variety of pink prints,decorated with flowers, buttons and pretty trim.Bekki Tomkins, via emailThis is beautiful, and we absolutely love the flower embellishments.This make is a particular favourite of Editorial Assistant, Rosie!
DearSew_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:27 Page 2
SEWYOU
sewmag.co.uk l 11
Write in and share your creations, tips and viewsEmail [email protected] or write to Dear Sew, Sew Magazine, 1 Phoenix Court,Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY.
Jolly rogerI have been super busy the lastfew months, making cushionsand various other accessoriesfor my daughter’s newapartment, and I thought youmight like to see! I have alsomade some bits for my niece,whose 12th birthday is comingup. On top of that, I’m in theprocess of just finishing off avintage-style apron, also formy daughter!Yvette Whittaker, via emailYour daughter’s very lucky and herapartment’s going to look beautiful!We love these funky oven gloves.
Sweet memoriesI thought you might like to see thequilt I researched, designed andmade for my daughter Caity for her18th birthday. I wanted her toremember every year of her life,just as I have, so each blockdocuments something special to herin that year. I used photo printablefabric for pictures I wanted toinclude, and I scoured the internetfor other embellishments, such asthe Vegas badges from America. Inall, it took me seven months tocomplete. She was speechless.Lee-ann Brereton, via emailWhat a fantastic idea! It would belovely if she added to it every yearto commemorate special occasions.
Twitter feedYour best tweets andlatest sewing projects
@sallybeemakes@SewHQ I madeNew Look 6202for my daughter’sbirthday
Stitch idolsCatch up ontweets from yourfavourite crafters
Lauren Guthrie@GuthrieGhaniNote to self...staying up till1am is a bad idea on a week night#addictedtosewing
GabrielleBlackman@CushionCrisisIn my attempt atmulti-taskingI have managed tofail at all of my
tasks this morning... but Iam on the right train
Lisa Comfort@sewoveritOur shift kitshave apparentlyrun out at JohnLewis online!
This month ourStar Letter winner willreceive a bumper Sewgoodie bag worth £50.We also have stitchygifts worth £10 for therunners up.
Win!Star Prize
@charlenedg @SewHQ I just
finished thistote bag
@LauraCapesReed@SewHQ I have asewing problem
@trimmyg@SewHQ Just
completed thisjacket for my
daughter, veryhappy with
the result!
Hear morefrom LisaComfort
on p74
ReadLauren’s
column onp106
Get tipsfrom
Gabrielleon p78
DearSew_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:28 Page 3
There’s no better time to enhance your enjoyment of sewing and there’s no better machine to have by your side than a Singer. Our range of contemporary sewing machines draws on 160 years of heritage to help you produce perfect projects every time. Now that’s got to be worth singing about.
TraditionFor further details and information on your nearest stockist, please call 020 7336 7986,
email [email protected] or visit www.singerco.co.uk
Also available models: 2259 with 19 stitches & 2273 with 23 stitches and 1-step buttonhole
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A New Yearand a new
creative you
sewmag.co.uk l 13
dressmakingWe’ve got 24pagesof style & inspiration
Top summerdress patterns
“Get stitching ahead for summer with yourFREE empire-line dress pattern download,which featured on The Great British Sewing Bee.Made up in a gorgeous print, this versatile dresswill flatter every figure. Featuring a shapedbodice, pleated skirt and a midriff band, it is best suited to an experienced sewer.
We've also got a fabulous no-patterndrawstring dress to try, and we go loopy for laceas we delve into the history of this intricatehandmade textile, along with great ways ofcustomising your clothes with lace panels.”Steph Durrant, Sew Deputy Editor
DRESSMAKING
freeyour
pattern
Customise yourlook with lace
PAGE
27
PAGE
20
PAGE
15
No-pattern DrawstringsSmockingAdding alining
PAGE
32Stitch anAmy Butlerdress
ww
w.m
andc
o.co
m
Dressmaking intro_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:42 Page 1
THREADING IS A WITH
To find your nearest dealer :www.juki-uk.com or Tel 01206 563955/574758
• Air Threaded Loopers
• Automatic Needle Threader
• Produces beautiful sharp curves fornecklines and sleeves
• Use 2, 3 or 4 threads to produce 7different finishes including rolled hem
• Wide Throat Area givesexcellent visibility of thefabric whilst overlocking
• Adjustable DifferentialFeed gives a professionalfinish even on stretchy orknit fabrics
THE NEW MO-1000 AIR
Juki_Layout 1 19/12/2013 11:46 Page 1
DRESSMAKING
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 15
Put your dressmakingskills to the test with our
summerdress
This empire-line dress fromSimplicity was made by Stuart Hillard
on series one of The Great BritishSewing Bee. It features a shaped bodice
and a pleated skirt with pockets,making it suited for a more experienced
sewer. Cut flatteringly to fit only aroundthe neckline and midriff band, the pleated
skirt skims obligingly over the hips andfalls to an elegant straight hem.
DownloadPATTERN
ONLINE
Limite
dEdit
ionAvaliableto14 thFebruary!
Vie garment_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:49 Page 1
16 l sewmag.co.uk
essentialsFabric: cotton, mediumweight, printed, 2.8m, atleast 115cm wide; cotton,lightweight, plain, 90cm, at least 112cm wideInterfacing, fusible,lightweight, 15cm x 60cmZip, matching, 35cm longThread, sewing, matching
DIMENSIONS:UK sizes 8, 10, 12, 14, 16
sew a summer dress1Download the pattern from
www.sewmag.co.uk, print it outand piece together. Press the fabricthoroughly, then follow the cuttingguide to cut out the pieces. With rightsides together, place the bodice backsto the bodice front at the shoulderseams. Stitch with a 1.5cm seamallowance throughout (Fig. 1). Pressthe shoulder seams open. Repeat withthe front and back bodice lining.
2With right sides together, pin thebodice lining to the bodice, matching
the shoulder seams and the point of theV-neck. Stitch all along the neck edgeand around the armholes. Reinforce theV by re-stitching over the original line ofsewing. Trim the seams, clip the curvesand into the V, being careful not to cutthe stitching (Fig. 2). Turn the lining tothe inside by pulling each back throughthe front at the shoulder seam. Press.
talkingtechniques
Installing a liningInserting a lapped zipForming pleatsAdding pockets
CUTTING GUIDE:Bodice Back, cut two pairs;one in fabric and one in liningBodice Front, cut one infabric and one in lining,both on foldMidriff Front, cut one infabric, one in lining andone in interfacing, on fold Skirt Front, cut one on foldfrom main fabricSkirt Back, cut one on foldfrom main fabric
Pockets, cut two frommain fabricPocket Facings, cut twofrom main fabricA 1.5cm seam allowance isincluded on all the patternpieces, and a 2.5cm hemallowance on the bottomedges of the skirt frontand back. Choose eitherthe longer or shorterlength when cutting theskirt pieces.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
CUTTING DIAGRAMS
Vie garment_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:50 Page 2
DRESSMAKING
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 17
“If using a printed fabric, be sure to choosea centre in the design and repeat this onthe bodice centre front and back, midriffpanel and skirt as much as possible”
Vie Millard, Sew designer
4Tack the raw edges of the two layers of thebodice front together along the side and bottom
edges. Fold along one solid line at the lower edge ofthe bodice front and bring the fold to the brokenline. Pin, then repeat for the other folds. Tack allalong the raw edge through the pleats (Fig. 4).
3Open up the whole piece so that youcan place the centre back edges
right sides together. Pin the seam fromthe bottom of the lining up, through theseam joining the lining to the bodiceat the neck, then down to the hemof the main bodice piece. Stitchand press the seam open. Turnthe lining to the inside andpress (Fig. 3).
Simplify the design ofthe dress by omittingthe pockets. Adapt thepattern by continuingthe line of the front skirtpiece to match theshape of the back skirt.H
OT
TIP
5Iron interfacing onto the wrong side of the midriff frontpiece. With right sides together and raw edges aligned,
pin the upper edge of the interfaced midriff front to thelower edge of the bodice front, then pin the midriff lining tothe other side in the same way. Tack through all layers andstitch. Press the midriff front and lining downwards, andtack them together along the side and bottom edges (Fig. 5).
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Nec
klac
e, £1
2, R
iver
Isla
nd
Vie garment_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:50 Page 3
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6With the bodice wrongside out, open out the right
side seam edge of the backbodice and wrap it over theright side seam edge on thefront bodice, with the right sides of the front andback lining together and theright sides of the front andback bodice together, with theraw edges aligned. Pin andstitch the right side seamthrough all four layers (Fig. 6).
7With right sides together,pin the pocket facing to
the skirt front. Stitch along thecurved skirt edge. Trim theseam and clip the curves.Turn the facing to the insideand press (Fig. 7). Repeatwith the other pocket.
8On the inside of the skirt front, with rightsides together and raw edges aligned, pin the
pocket piece to the pocket facing. Stitch thecurved outer edge, leaving the side seam and topedges unstitched. Repeat with the other pocket.Align the top and the side seam raw edges of thepocket and its facing with the skirt front andtack the pockets securely in place along theseedges (Fig. 8).
Care isneeded not tocatch the topfabric whensewing in theside zip as itdisappearsinto thepocket.H
OT
TIP
Amy Butler fabricIn The Great BritishSewing Bee, Stuart usedthis striking ChineseLanterns print from Amy Butler's Lark range.Priced £13 per metre,www.cottonpatch.co.uk,0121 702 2840.
SHOPFOR...
Simplicity patternThis dress is fromSimplicity pattern 2886,which includes furtherbodice and sleevevariations, and a bolerojacket. Priced £8.15,www.simplicitynewlook.com, 0161 480 8734.
Feather printSew designer Vie Millardmade up this dress in avibrant printed cotton.Try this similar multi-coloured featherprint, £8.99 per metre,www.minervacrafts.com,01254 708068.
9With right sides together, stitch the skirtback to the skirt front. On the left seam, sew
from the lower edge to the notch (where the zipstarts), then work a few extra reverse stitches forstrength. On the right seam, stitch from the hemto the top (Fig. 9). Press the seams open.
10 Start with one centre front pleat byfolding along the solid line to the centre
front. Pin, placing them vertically at the folds.Repeat with the other centre front pleat. For theremaining front pleats, fold along the solid linesand bring to the broken lines, pinning as you go.Repeat the whole process on the back of theskirt. Tack across the front and back upper edgesof the skirt (Fig. 10).
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
Vie garment_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:50 Page 4
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 19
For this andmany more greatpatterns from theseries, check outThe Great BritishSewing Bee byTessa Evelegh(£20, QuadrillePublishing Ltd).
STITCHMORE
STITCH IT...in a bold
DRESSMAKING
The structure ofthis dressdemands a fabricwith plenty ofbody for aflattering fit andto emphasise itselegant shape.H
OT
TIP
coming next issue...
FREE with next issue wehave a fabulous limited
edition pencil skirtpattern download
from The GreatBritish Sewing Bee
suitable forbeginners.
On sale 14thFebruary
Turn thepage for
day dresspatterns
12Insert a zip using the lapped method, aligningthe top of the teeth with the armhole. Turn the
top of the zip tapes under and slip stitch to neaten (Fig. 12). Machine sew or slip stitch a double hemalong the lower edge of the skirt.
11With right sides together,pin the skirt to the
bodice, matching the right sideseams and left opening edges.Tack, then stitch. Press theseam up towards the bodiceand finish the raw seam edgeswith machine zig zag oroverlocking stitches (Fig. 11).
Make up inDensely woven
cotton and cottonblends, lightweightdenim, chambray,
jacquard, shantungor taffeta
Fig. 11
Fig. 12
Vie garment_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:51 Page 5
PicksPrettify day attirewith a casual dress
pattern
Dresses don’t just have to be reserved for specialoccasions – there are lots of relaxed, feminine styleswhich are ideal for daywear too. Often featuring alonger length and some kind of sleeve, many designsare also easier to construct as they tend to be lessfitted than more formal dresses.
ON THEHIGHSTREETThis casual day dressfrom La Redoute has loose, comfy style – ideal for popping overleggings or a pair oftights. It has a shortlength, but features long sleeves and adrawstring waist. Thebodice features abutton-up front withpretty pin tuck detailing.
20 l sewmag.co.uk
Printed dress, £49, www.laredoute.co.uk,
0844 842 2222.
HOT TIPMany patterns featureinternational sizes which differfrom ready-to-wear sizing. It isessential that you take yourexact measurements andcompare with the sizing chartson each pattern
Pattern of theMonth
Colette PatternsMacaronSizes 0-18
Fitted bodice withdartsContrasting topyokeSleeves and midriffbandPleated skirt withpockets
Opt for a loose style
for comfort
Pattern Picks Jan_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:06 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 21
SIM
PLE
SLE
EV
ES
New Look 6093Sizes 4-16
Bias cut dressSkirt panels Sleeve variationsSew in soft, floaty fabrics
SimplicityAmazing Fit2247Sizes 10-18
Princess seamsEmpire seambelow the bustV-neckline andsleeve variationsMake up in crêpeback satin, crêpe de chine orlightweight linens
Eliza M Wanda dressUK Sizes 10-18
Retro 1950s styleBodice withintegral sleevesBust darts andempire seamV-neckline and A-line skirt
DAY D
REA
MS
STOCKIST INFORMATIONFor Simplicity and New Look patterns, visit www.simplicitynewlook.com, 0161 480 8734.For Butterick, visit www.sewdirect.com, 0844 880 1263.For Eliza M patterns, visit www.elizamvintagesewing.co.ukFor Colette Patterns, visit www.sewbox.co.uk, 01787 269366.
GR
EA
T F
OR
BE
GIN
NE
RS
PLU
S SI
ZE
S A
VA
ILA
BLE
DRESSMAKING
Butterick 5211 isan ideal garmentfor those new todressmaking as itdoesn’t contain anytricky seams, dartsor zips.
194
0S
INS
PIR
ED
HOT TIPAs this dress is bias cut,
hang it for 24 hours beforefinishing the hem to allow
for any natural drop in the seams.
Butterick 5211Sizes 8-24
Loose-fittingtunic styleGathered sleevevariantOptional self beltStitch inlightweight linenor stable knits
MAKE IT!day dresses
WeLove
Pattern Picks Jan_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:19 Page 3
SOS!Have you got a sewing problem? Our panel of experts willhelp you resolve itWrite in to us [email protected]
dressmaking
Alison Smith is a published author andruns the Alison Victoria School of
Sewing. She is also a Mettler threadambassador and MBE holder. Learn
more at www.schoolofsewing.co.uk
Susan Backhouse is the founder ofLondon’s Fashion Antidote fashionschool. Find out more atwww.fashionantidote.com
Lisa Comfort is a publishedauthor and runs the Sewing
Cafe, London. Learn more atwww.sewoverit.co.uk
22 l sewmag.co.uk
Meet the experts...
Once I have made a toile for a garment, how do I goabout identifying any alterations needed and then
transferring those to the paper pattern?Jacqueline James, Isle of Wight
Alison Smith:A toile is a mock-up of the garment you are intending to make.Creating a toile will not only help you to fit the pattern correctly, butprovides a good opportunity to check you like the style beforecutting into expensive fabric. Try to get a friend to help you if youcan as it's difficult to fit a toile yourself. Stand in front of the mirrorand look critically at the garment. Start by analysing how it fits atthe bust, waist and hip. If the fabric is pulling taut then unpick a fewstitches at the side seam or over the bust seam until the materialhas an easy fit. Measure the gap and make a note of it. However, ifthe fabric is too loose, pin out the excess at the stitching lines. Next, check the shoulder length. Is it sitting on the shoulder oroverhanging the arm? If the shoulder is too long, just add a littletuck to it. Look at the neckline as sometimes this can look too loose.If so, just pinch out 3mm sections at a time to tighten the curve.Finally check the length. Once all this has been done on the calico,remove the garment and measure where you have altered. You canthen either add paper underneath the pattern at the seams whichneed expanding, or pinch out extra fullness on the tissue paper inthe corresponding positions.
Q
Mostcommercial
sewing patternswill need to be
altered toimprove the fit for your body shape
Dressmaking SOS_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:44 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 23
How to...alter princessseams
1Find the bust point on the paper pattern.
If this is not marked, it will be at the
widest part. Mark the positions on the
side front. Draw a line parallel to the hem on
the centre front and cut along this line.
I have always been tall and struggledto get trousers long enough, so
I thought I'd make my own. However,commercial patterns still come up toosmall; is lengthening them just a case of extending the hemline? Linda Beale, Milton Keynes
Lisa Comfort:How you alter a trouser pattern depends on thestyle; if they are a straight leg trouser then yes,lengthening the hem is all you need to do.However, if they are tapered or flare then youwill need to lengthen from the knee as well asthe hem. On a flared trouser, the flare will startfrom the knee so at this point you should draw ahorizontal line, perpendicular to the grainline,and slash the pattern open. Add the extra lengthto match your hip to thigh measurement. Dothis by sticking a piece of paper where you havecut the pattern, making sure it is an even stripall the way across. If you still need to add extralength, you can do this at the hem.
Q
DRESSMAKING
back pattern pieces and mark the reduction onthe waistline. For instance, if you are reducingit by 6cm, dividing this by four equals 1.5cm.Mark a point 1.5cm away from each front andback side seam on the waistline. Draw a linefollowing the curve of the hip from this pointdown to meet the hip line 6cm to 8cm belowthe waist. Use a curved ruler to help you drawthe new cutting line. Trim away the surpluspattern. The optimum amount of reductionyou can do on the side seams withoutdistorting the pattern is around 6cm. If theamount is more, you can additionally reducethe waist measurement by adjusting the size of the darts. Draw new dart lines outside thelines of the existing darts increasing the size ofeach dart equally so that you reduce the waistmeasurement when you construct them.
I struggle to get skirtpatterns to fit as I have
quite broad hips but a small waist.What is the best way of altering a pattern to get a good fit?Carol Salsbury, Norwich
Susan Backhouse:Start by taking accurate bodymeasurements; tie a piece of thin elasticaround the waist to establish the naturalwaistline and measure around it. To find yourhip measurement, the upper hip is from 7.5cmbelow the waist and the lower hip is measuredaround the fullest part. Compare your bodymeasurements to the sizes on the back of thepattern envelope. Choose the onecorresponding to your larger measurement, in this instance the hip one. If you feel that thehip area fits on the skirt but the waist is tooloose, then you can do a simple patternadaptation. Cut out the skirt pattern in the sizecorresponding to your hip measurement.Deduct your own waist measurement plusease from the one on the pattern. This is howmuch you need to decrease the waist by. Dividethis by four to get the amount you need to takefrom each side seam. Lay out the front and
Q
2Measure the body from shoulder to
bust point to waist. Compare this with
the measurement on the centre front
pattern piece and move the pieces
accordingly. Tape the pattern to paper
placed below to secure it.
3Cut into the seam allowance at the
bust point and from there along
the seam allowance to the armhole
and hem.
4Pivot the two seam allowance pieces
at the armhole and hem, moving
them apart at the bust point.
Move these the same amount as the
centre-front pieces.
5Measure the body from the side to the
centre front horizontally through the
bust line. Add the required amount of
ease to this measurement and check this
against the adjusted pattern pieces (overlap
them at the seam allowance when
measuring). Smooth out the seams and edges.READER OFFER...For more troubleshooting tips and technical how-tos, take a look at Dressmaking to Flatter YourShape by Lorna Knight (£16.99, Bloomsbury). Sewreaders can purchase a copy for the special price of£11.99 with free UK postage by calling 01892 510850and quoting Sew magazine.
THIS MONTH...alterations
Dressmaking SOS_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:45 Page 3
As a subtle nod to Valentine's Day , why not stitch up garmentsin feminine shades of rose, coral, cerise and fuchsia?
AL
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Steph DurrantSew Deputy Editor
“I would love to make a prettypair of pyjamas from thisdreamily soft cotton lawn”
Rosie SavageSew Editorial Assistant
“This enchanting merry-go-roundprint reminds me of the fairground
scene in Mary Poppins”
SM
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Vie MillardSew designer
“This soft twill would be great for alightweight jacket to wear as a cover-up
on a breezy spring day”
Lorraine LuximonSew Editor
“Light and airy, this colourful paisleylawn would make a stunning maxi
dress for an exotic excursion”24 l sewmag.co.uk
THINK PINK
Home Fabric Shopping Jan_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:54 Page 2
10
2
8
5
12
71
6
4
11
9
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sewmag.co.uk l 25
DRESSMAKINGDRESSMAKING
fabric shopping
PINK MOODBOARD1 Wilmington Prints Carousel Dreams in ToilePink, £8.90 per metre, www.plushaddict.co.uk,0845 519 4422.2 Cotton lawn in Candy, £11.96 per metre,www.seamstar.co.uk, 01829 770733.3 Dress It Up Colour Me buttons in Hot Pink, £2.45per pack, www.beadandbuttoncompany.co.uk4 Small floral twill by Kiyohara in Coral, £16 permetre, www.eternalmaker.com5 Briar Rose Strawberry in Pink, £12 per metre, www.thevillagehaberdashery.co.uk, 020 7794 5635.6 Medium polka dot silk crêpe de chine, £23.20 per metre, www.beckfordsilk.co.uk,01386 881507.7 Bertie's Bows grosgrain rose print ribbon in Pink, £3.49 per metre,www.beadandbuttoncompany.co.uk8 Liberty Lifestyle Stile Collection LowkeColourway C, £14 per metre,www.sewbox.co.uk, 01787 269366.9 Cotton houndstooth in Melon by Bonnie & Camille for Moda, £12 per metre,www.eternalmaker.com10 Cotton print with flowers in Antique Pink,£4.88 per metre, www.fabric-dreams.co.uk11 Alexander Henry Regent Peacock cottonlawn, £16.50 per metre, www.fancymoon.co.uk,0845 519 4354.12 Printed polycotton check dress fabric inCerise Pink, £2.99 per metre,www.minervacrafts.com, 01254 708068.
Home Fabric Shopping Jan_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:55 Page 3
26 l sewmag.co.uk
V• Dressmaking mannequins on sale at
Valentino’s• Available in Male, Female & Child sizes
• UK manufactured• Excellent prices
• Free UK delivery
01489 808007 - [email protected]
026_Layout 1 19/12/2013 11:45 Page 1
sewmag.co.uk l 27
Add laceto your look and have all eyes on you
DRESSMAKING
custommade
Cut-outnumberAdd lace to a cut-outdress to make it morewearable. Priced £55,www.yumidirect.co.uk
Wear whitelace for a
freshappearance
www.mandco.com
Make it!
1Beginning approximately 3cm from the end
of a lace trim, pin the front of the lace down
and along the strap of a vest top.
the blog...This tutorial comes from thewonderful Love Maegan,created by Maegan Tintari.Visit www.lovemaegan.comfor more fantastic ideas.
2Hand stitch or machine sew the lace to
the strap, and continue all the way
round on the armhole.
3Cut the excess lace trim away – if
desired you can use this to add detail
to the hem of your top too. 4Overlap one edge of lace over the
other, then hand stitch the ends
together creating a circle.
5You can pinch the underarms together and add
a few stitches or create a dart, but when you
wear the top your arms will do this naturally.
How to...make a lace sleeve vest top
Velvet dreamIf you're adding lace to a hem or sleeve,incorporate this Blue Mist ribbon tocreate a more striking look. Priced £3.75for three metres, www.johnlewis.com
Lovely lace We adore this Chantilly-style lace,
which comes in this prettyChampagne colour. Priced £13.79
per metre, www.fablace.co.uk
Turn overfor moreon lace
Custom Made_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:40 Page 3
PATTERNS! Save 5o% off all
Kids & AccessoriesMake something for all the family
with easy-to-follow patterns
GarmentPatterns Choose from arange of stylesand sizes forall the family
Home PatternsCreate cushions, curtainsand more for the home
Visit www.simplicitynewlook.com using vouchercode SEW5o14 from 1oth Jan to 14th Feb 2o14.
50% OFFSIMPLICITY
reader offer_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:53 Page 1
Create your own patternto make Amy Butler’s
32 l sewmag.co.uk
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
This patterned rose and creamdress features a drawstring
neckline, shoulder slits, andelastic cuffs. Its casual, loose
style means that it’s reasonablyeasy to make with no tricky
fitting or zips to master. It looksgreat when paired with a
high-waist belt or worn free.
drawstringdress
Drawstring Dress Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:08 Page 2
(Fig. 8)
DECORATE IT...with smocking
essentialsFabric: printed, cotton, 183cm; plain, white, lightweight, 138cmThread: all-purpose, coordinating; elasticBobbin, machineElastic, 6mm wide, 70cmPen, fabricSafety pinRuler
DIMENSIONS:Small: bust size 34½" (6–8)Medium: bust size 36" (10–12)Large: bust size 39" (14–16)
Sew all seams with right sides together, using a 1.3cm seam allowance, unlessotherwise indicated. Back stitch at thebeginning and end of each seam.
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 33
create the sleeves
1 Find the centre (halfway) point at the top of the sleeve by folding it in half lengthways
and making a snip at the top fold. Open thesleeve flat and, using a ruler and fabric marker,draw a 15.2cm line down from this point,perpendicular to the top edge (Fig. 3). Cutalong this line. Repeat on the second sleeve.
2Reinforce theslit with stay
stitching 6mmfrom the cut edgeand tapering downto the bottom.Pivot at this point,then stitch back upthe other side to within 6mm of the oppositecut edge (Fig. 4). Repeat on the second sleeve.
3To make two fabric binding pieces, measureand mark a 3.2cm wide (crossways grain)
x 30.5cm long (lengthways grain) rectangledirectly onto fabric. Cut two. Lay each bindingpiece on an ironing board wrong side up
5Bring the folded long edgeof the binding over the
6mm seam to the wrong sideof the opening and have itextend slightly past thestitching line. Pin from theright side, then machine stitch in place (Fig. 7). Press smooth. Repeat for thesecond sleeve. Sew the sleeveseams and press the seamallowance to one side.
6For the sleeve hems, turnup 1.3cm to the wrong side along the
bottom edge of each sleeve. Then, turn up afurther 1.6cm to make the casing for the elastic.Stitch around the sleeve bottom 1.3cm away from the folded edge, leaving a small1.9cm section unstitched as an opening for inserting elastic (Fig. 8).
DRESSMAKING
CUTTING GUIDE
1Use a ruler and a fabricpen or pencil to mark the
measurements for yourdress size directly ontofabric using Fig. 1. Thelength of the dress is 117cmwith a 2.5cm hem included.Cut two pieces, a dressfront and a dress back.
2Use these pieces aspatterns to cut a front
and back from liningmaterial. Trim the lining
pieces 2.5cm shorter than thedress along the bottom edge.To lengthen or shorten thedress, make adjustments atthe hemline.
3Visit www.sewmag.co.ukand download the armhole
curve template. Select yoursize and use it to mark and cutan armhole curve from bothtop corners of the front andback dress and lining pieces(Fig. 2). Set these aside.
4Use a ruler and fabric penor pencil to mark the
measurements for your sleevesize directly on the fabric. Cut
two: small – 48.9cm length x 57.1cm width; medium – 49.5cm length x 60.3cmwidth; large – 50.2cm lengthx 63.5cm width. Use thetemplate to mark and cut twoarmhole curves at the top corners of each sleeve (Fig. 3 see below).
5For the sleeve facings,measure the new width
at the top of the sleeve anduse a ruler to mark it on thecrossways grain of the liningfabric. Add 5cm to this lengthfor added seam allowance.Draw a parallel line of thesame length 5.4cm above orbelow the first line. Drawperpendicular lines at eachend. Cut two strips.
6Fold each strip in half bybringing the short ends
together and cut in half. Youshould now have four pieces5.4cm x half the top sleevewidth measurement. Thesewill be used as sleeve facings.Set them aside.
(Fig. 2)
(Fig. 4)
(Fig. 7)and press 6mm in along one long edge. Using a fabric pen and ruler, mark a line parallelto and 6mm below the opposite long edge (Fig. 5). Repeat for the other binding.
4Spread the 15.2cm slit of one sleeve openand, with right sides together, pin the slit to
the marked long edge of one binding strip,aligning the long edges. Position the staystitching along the slit so it matches the 6mmmarked line on the binding piece. Stitch withthe slit side facing up, then press (Fig. 6).
(Fig. 6)
DRESS FRONT AND BACK
DRESS FRONT AND BACK
81cm(S) 84cm(M) 86cm(L)
65cm(S) 69cm(M) 72cm(L)
Top Corners
ArmholeCurve
CuttingLine
Leng
thw
ays
(str
aig
ht)
gra
in(Fig. 1)
SLEEVE
SLEEVE(WS)
SLEEVE(WS)
SLEEVE(WS)
Top Corners
ArmholeCurve
Cen
tre
15.2
cm
CuttingLine
Binding
Binding
StayStitching
(Fig. 3)
(Fig. 5)
(WS)
(WS)
(RS)
6mm
1.9cm unstitched
Casing
Drawstring Dress Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:08 Page 3
34 l sewmag.co.uk
WHATTO BUY…
Amy Butler fabricAmy Butler chose to use Souvenir in Ivoryfrom her Lark range to create this dress.Priced £13 per metre,www.cottonpatch.co.uk,0121 702 2840.
7Cut two pieces of elastic following thesemeasurements: small – 29cm; medium –
30.5cm; large – 33cm. Using a safety pinattached to one end of elastic, insert it into theopening of the casing and use the safety pin tofeed it through. When it comes back throughthe opening, cross the two elastic ends on top of each other and tack them together. Machinestitch the gap closed.
8Take the four sleeve facing sections and onone short end of each, turn in 1.3cm to the
wrong side and press. With right sides together,pin the sleeve facings to the tops of each sleeve with the folded end of the facing lined up with the finished edge of the bound plackets (slits) at the top of the sleeve, and the other raw end lined up evenly with the top of the armhole curve.
9Sew the facing to the armhole curve with a1.3cm seam. Begin 1.3cm in from the end of
the armhole curve, take a few stitches, backstitch, then sew across the top of the sleeveuntil you get to the placket and back stitchagain. Start again on the other side of theplacket, back stitch and continue sewing untilyou are 1.3cm from the opposite armhole curve(Fig. 9). Press. Repeat with the remainingsleeve facings on the other sleeve. Then press6mm of the long, unsewn edge towards thewrong side and stitch in place.
assemble the dress
10Sew the dress front to the back at the side seams. Press the seam
allowances to one side. Repeat with the front and back lining pieces. Press the seam allowances to one side.
11Pin the sleeves to the dress, matching the underarm curves and the side
seams of the dress with the sleeve seams. Stitch along the curve, keeping the sleevefacings free from any stitching.
12With the lining wrong side out and the dress right side out, slip the dress
into the lining, matching the top edges of thefront and back dress and lining pieces, and pin them together.
13Before stitching the dress and liningtogether at the top, turn back the sleeve
facings to the right sides of the sleeves andmatch the short, unstitched ends with the top ofthe lining at the seam where the dress andsleeve meet. Stitch them together and press theseam allowance towards the lining (Fig. 10).
14Sew the dress and the lining togetheralong the top edges, meeting up at the
point where the sleeve facings and the sleevesare stitched together (Fig. 9). Press theseseams open. Turn the lining to the inside of thedress, then press it flat along the top edge. Tackthe armhole seams of both the lining and thedress together either by hand or by machine.
15Keep the dress right side out (with thelining inside) and pin again along the top
edge of the dress where you just pressed to holdthe lining and the dress together and to preparefor making the drawstring casing.
16Make the drawstring casings at the top of the dress. With the right side of the
dress facing up, start stitching around the topof the dress, 1.9cm down from the top edge,beginning at one of the sleeve openings. Stitch across the front of the dress to the othersleeve opening, catching the lining and thesleeve facings in the stitching.
17Sew a second row of stitching 6mmdown from the first row. This should
secure the bottom edges of the sleeve facingson the insides of the sleeves (Fig. 11). Repeaton the back of the dress and press.
18Using a ruler and marking pen, draw sixlines starting 6mm below and parallel to
the last stitching line for the casing. The lines
Use avanishing pento draw yourpatterndirectly ontoyour fabric so it won'tpermanentlymark thematerial.H
OT
TIP
For this and othersewing andquilting projectscreated in supportof women's hearthealth, take a lookat Sew Red:Sewing & QuiltingFor Women'sHeart Health byLaura Zander(£14.99, Sixth &Spring Books).
READMORE
(Fig. 9)
(Fig. 10)
(Fig. 11)
LINING(WS)
SLEEVE(RS)
Join facingand lining with1.3cm seam
ArmholeCurve
(RS)
(RS)
1.3cm ofsleeve facingunsewn
1.3cm turned in
DrawstringCasing
Marked gatheringlines 6mm apart;first line 1.9cmbelow casing
(RS)
(RS)
Drawstring Dress Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:08 Page 4
should be drawn 6mm apart on both the frontand the back of the dress, starting andstopping at the sleeve seams (Fig. 11).
19Hand-wind elastic thread onto anempty bobbin, applying a very gentle
stretch to the elastic and winding in the same direction as your machine winds yourbobbin thread. Put the bobbin in yourmachine or bobbin case and thread it as usual.Set your machine at a stitch length of 3.0 or longer. Keep your top thread threaded as normal and pull your elastic thread up through the needle plate.
20With the right side of the dress facing up, back stitch, then slowly
sew across the first marked line. The elasticthread will stretch as it sews and create asmocked look across the front of the dress.Back stitch when you reach the end of theline. Repeat with the remaining lines. When you are finished smocking, changeback to your regular stitch length and all-purpose thread in your bobbin.
21To make the two drawstrings, measureand mark two strips 3.2cm (crossways
grain) x 137cm (lengthways grain) out of theremaining fabric and cut them out. Fold eachstrip in half lengthways, wrong sides together,and press a crease along the folded edge.Open each strip, then fold each long edge intowards this centre crease and press.
22Fold the strips in half again at thecentre crease enclosing the raw
edges and press. Pin, then edge stitch down both long edges. You will then have two drawstrings approximately 6mm wide x 137cm long. Using a safety pin, feed thedrawstrings through the openings in the front and back casings. Make a small knot at the end of each drawstring and tie together at the shoulder.
23To make the hems on the dress andthe lining, turn up 2.5cm along the
bottom edges to the wrong sides and press.Tuck the raw edges of the hems into thepressed crease to make a 1.6cm hem.Topstitch close to the top pressed fold.
DRESSMAKING
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 35
Meet thedesigner...
AMY BUTLERAmy Butler contributedto Sew Red: Sewing &Quilting For Women’sHeart Health by LauraZander (£14.99, Sixth &Spring Books) by
creating this vintage-inspired garment,as she lost her grandparents to thesilent killer. Amy has been honing herskills in fashion and surface designsince she was seven years old, andwhile she spends much of her timefocusing on sewing and designingfabric, she also makes time to takegood care of herself through diet,exercise, and managing her mind.
talkingtechniques
DrawstringsSmockingAdding a lining
Drawstring Dress Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:08 Page 5
machineCreate neat hems withan overlocker
spotlightFinish your projects like a pro with anoverlocker model. They cut and sew the edges ofyour garments so they are neat and secure, all inone easy motion. Most modern models havesimple threading systems too, so you can stitchquality garments at home in no time.
36 l sewmag.co.uk
WINa sewingmachine
worth £749!Turn to page 92
JUKI MO-1000The Juki MO-1000 overlocker helps you finish seamslike a pro with ease. It provides effortless threading withthe power of air and the needle can be threaded in justthree simple steps. Unleash your creativity withnumerous stitch patterns including a rolled hem and adecorative frill edge. Other convenient features are theadjustable differential feed and presser foot pressure,an option to deactivate the upper knife, a wide throatarea, plus a handy waste collector.
AEG 760This four thread overlocker has a free arm and a built-in differential feeding mechanism. It automatically neatens and trims fabric as it sews and stitch length can be adjusted on theunique dual dial. The lay-in colour coded threading system and telescopic thread guide make it easy to set up. There’s also a front cover safety power cut out switch.
Stitches: VariousKey features: Dual dial selection, differential feed adjustment, free arm, safety feature, easy threading system, adjustable stitch width,telescopic thread guide.Price: £399Contact: www.aegatadjustoform.co.uk, 01233 625227.
PFAFF COVERLOCK 4.0The Pfaff Coverlock 4.0 is a handsome machineboasting a range of great features. Access extendedinformation on each of the 25 stitches on the graphictouch screen then, once selected, the machine willset optimum thread tension, differential feed andstitch length. Threading is easy with colour codedthread paths and there’s no need to change thepresser foot or needle plate when swapping stitches.
Stitches: 25Key features: LCD touch screen, large sewingspace, differential feed, memory function, dual LEDlight sources, safety lock out, five sewing speeds,large variety of stitches.Price: £969Contact: www.pfaff.com, 01527 519480.
Graphictouch screen
l Air supported threading
l Quiet operation
l Adjustable differential feed
l Wide throat area
l Waste collector
Price: £995Contact: www.juki-uk.com, 01206 563955.
British SewingAwards – vote now!It’s your last chance to ensure yourfavourite sewing machine brandplaces in the British Sewing Awards.Vote now on page 39.
Built-incarrycase
MchnSptght_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:20 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 37
MODEL OFTHE MONTH
HA
PPY H
EMS
DRESSMAKING
Largesewingspace
What’s on offer?l Free training and support
l Excellent aftersales service
l Many machines in stock to try
l Wools, fabrics, and haberdashery
Find out more...Visit Rona Sewing Machines, 143a High Street, Waltham Cross, Herts, EN8 7AP. Alternatively, log on towww.onlinesewingmachines.co.uk,01992 640250.
This month the Sew team met Paul Field, owner of Rona Sewing Machines
“Rona Sewing Machines is a family run business which has been trading since 1949.Originally making sewingmachine cabinets and carry cases, we startedmanufacturing worktops forindustrial sewing machines in the mid 1950s. We openedour first shop in Edmonton,London, in 1969, then movedto Waltham Cross,Hertfordshire, where we have been located for thelast 39 years. We sell, repair and service mostmakes of machine and stock a large range of fabrics and haberdashery.”
Paul Field, Rona Sewing Machines
SHO
P OF TH
E MO
NTH
HUSQVARNA VIKING HUSKYLOCK S21With features that focus on ease of use and professionalresults, you’ll be impressed by the creative possibilitiesavailable with the Huskylock S21. A large sewing surfacemakes fabric feeding easier and more accurate, andthere is an extension table included for major projects.Choose from two, three or four thread overlock stitches,rolled hems and more, then the machine willautomatically set the thread tension for you.
Stitches: 21Key features: Threading guide DVD, large sewingspace, differential feed, automatic settings includingthread tension, chain stitch and cover stitch for seaming and hemming.Price: £679Contact: www.husqvarnaviking.com, 01527 519480.
Model of the
month
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SEWYOU
Sewing and style blogger, Ami Lowden ‘The Little Tailoress’, tells us what she loves about creating her own wardrobe
“Sewing has given me a wonderfuloutlet for my creativity and allowedme to express myself in a way that
simply wouldn’t be possible otherwise”
MY SEWING ROOM
I learnt to sew from my motherwhen I was a little girl, andstarted to dabble in making myown clothes when I was ateenager. I remember the firstself-made garment I wore out wasa bright green, lace, boned bodicebased on something JenniferAniston wore in the film PicturePerfect. An ‘interesting’ stylechoice, with very questionablefinishing on the inside! But itstayed in one piece and I havenever been one to shy away fromdiving in at the deep end. Afteruniversity, I took several shortcourses in professional finishingtechniques, pattern cutting andtailoring at London College ofFashion and have been developingmy skills ever since.
My mother is a very creativeand practical person and mychildhood in many ways affirmedthe phrase ‘necessity is the motherof invention’. I grew up in a housefull of patchwork quilts, rag dolliesand handmade dresses; my motheralways used her sewing and craftskills to make the most out of whatwe had, and taught me the benefitand the pleasure of creating things.She has definitely been a hugeinspiration to me.
I started my blog, The LittleTailoress, as a way of recording thethings I was making. When yousew and wear your own clothes itis easy for them to just become aworking part of your wardrobe and
Find more from Ami at www.sewinglondon.co.uk
some period costume workshould the opportunity everpresent itself. As well as sewing, Iam addicted to knitting and I ownmore yarn than I care to admit. I also love to bake, paint, and, ofcourse, go vintage shopping!
I love what I do so much. It'sbeen fantastic connecting withother people who get excited bythe same things I do. I like thefact that taking time to make myown clothing means that I reallyvalue and look after mypossessions. One of my absolutefavourite things about sewing is the ability to recreate theclassic styles I love, and makingup a vintage pattern really gives me a feeling of beingconnected with a past era.
it is nice to have the blog as away of capturing the process,before they are worn and well-loved. At the risk of soundingdramatic, sewing has changedmy life! It has given me awonderful outlet for mycreativity and allowed me toexpress myself in a way thatsimply wouldn’t be possibleotherwise. I think it's a greatshame that sewing and relatedskills fell out of favour for solong and that the design andmanufacture of clothes has been
outsourced from the UK to sucha degree. I would love to see areturn of proper sewing classesat schools and moreopportunities being created foryoung people to develop theirsewing as a hobby or career.
My style is very classic; I adore the fashions of the 1920s to 1960s and think this comesthrough in most of the things I make and wear. I love the carethat went into making clothing inthe past, and I would jump at thechance to become involved in
38 l sewmag.co.uk
MySewingRoom Feb_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:22 Page 2
Vote now!
Thank you for all your nominations for the upcoming BritishSewing Awards. We asked you to name all of your best-loved sewingproducts, brands and resources and had an overwhelming response.Those with the most nominations have made it through to the votingstage. You can now place your final votes and make sure your favouritesfeel your support. Simply complete the form overleaf or visitwww.sewmag.co.uk/awards. Not only will you have theopportunity to have your opinion heard, but you will also be in with the chance of winning a bumper prize contributed by our nominees. Get voting!
BritishSewing Awards
Give recognitionto yourfavouritesewing shop,
personality, machine andmore in the British Sewing
Awards 2013
Three easy steps to vote...Complete your contact details Send it to us at
Or visit www.sewmag.co.uk/awards to vote online now!
2 31Vote in each category on theform overleaf
Marketing Department,British Sewing Awards,21-23 Phoenix Court,Hawkins Road,Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY
Vote now at www.sewmag.co.uk/awards
WIN!Not only can your favouritesewers and brands win, but so canyou! By voting, you are enteredinto a prize draw and could win a stash of stitching goodies!
HH
HH
HH
HH
sewmag.co.uk l 39
A BUMPER PRIZE OF GOODIES FROM SOME OF
OUR NOMINATED COMPANIES AND BRANDS! HH
Items pictured for illustrative purposes only
Awards Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:06 Page 3
40 l sewmag.co.uk
VotingformPRODUCTS: Best thread brand❑ Madeira❑ Aurifil❑ Gütermann❑ Mettler❑ CoatsOther................................................
Best brand of haberdashery tools ❑ Hemline❑ Fiskars❑ CloverOther................................................
Best fabric brand❑ Moda❑ Makower❑ Michael Miller❑ Liberty❑ TildaOther................................................
Best new product 2013❑ Downton Abbey fabrics❑ Creative Grids Diamond and
Lone Star Bias Ruler❑ Magical Teepee by Just For
Tiny PeopleOther................................................
SEWING MACHINES: Best user-friendly sewingmachine brand❑ Janome❑ Singer❑ Husqvarna❑ Brother❑ BerninaOther................................................
Best quilting/embroiderysewing machine brand❑ Pfaff❑ Brother❑ Husqvarna❑ Janome❑ BerninaOther................................................
Most desirable sewing machine ❑ Janome 525S❑ Brother Innov-is V5❑ Janome Memory Craft 9900Other................................................
ONLINE:Best online retailer ❑ Lady Sew & Sew ❑ Plush Addict❑ Minerva Crafts ❑ The Cotton Patch❑ FrumbleOther................................................
Best sewing blog❑ Plush Addict❑ Minerva Crafts❑ Sew, Mama, Sew!❑ CraftsyOther................................................
Best website for sewing resources❑ The Sewing Directory❑ Minerva Crafts ❑ Plush Addict❑ The Cotton Patch❑ Lady Sew & Sew Other................................................
RETAILERS:Best UK chain store ❑ John Lewis❑ Dunelm Mill❑ Abakhan Fabrics, Hobby
& Home❑ Fabric Land❑ HobbycraftOther................................................
Best independenthaberdashery shop WALES...❑ Lee Mill Fabrics, Swansea❑ Venn School of Sewing,
Cardiff❑ Calico Kate, LampeterOther................................................
IRELAND...❑ Craftswoman Fabrics,
Kilroot❑ Quilters Quest, Belfast❑ Fiddlesticks Fabrics,
BallymenaOther................................................
SCOTLAND...❑ Edinburgh Fabrics,
Edinburgh❑ Purely Patchwork,
Linlithgow❑ Mandors, GlasgowOther................................................
NORTH OF ENGLAND...❑ Leon’s Fabrics, Chorlton❑ Minerva Craft Centre,
Darwen❑ Patchwork Parade, OldhamOther................................................
SOUTH OF ENGLAND...❑ Cowslip Workshops,
Launceston❑ Lady Sew & Sew, Marlow❑ Ditto Fabrics, BrightonOther................................................
MIDLANDS...❑ Fred’s Haberdashery,
Chesterfield❑ Guthrie and Ghani,
Birmingham
✁Vote now at www.sewmag.co.uk/awards
❑ Totally Patched, Bewdley❑ The Cotton Patch,
Birmingham❑ The Bramble Patch, WeedonOther................................................
Best pattern house❑ Simplicity❑ Butterick❑ Vogue❑ McCall’s❑ BurdaOther................................................
Best for customer service❑ Plush Addict❑ Minerva Crafts ❑ John Lewis❑ Lady Sew & Sew ❑ FrumbleOther................................................
RESOURCES ANDACTIVITIES:Favourite sewing personality❑ Tilly Walnes❑ Kaffe Fassett❑ Jennie Rayment❑ Kirstie Allsopp❑ Jo ColwillOther................................................
Best sewing book ❑ Reader’s Digest Complete Guide
to Sewing (Reader’s Digest)❑ The Great British Sewing Bee
by Tessa Evelegh (QuadrillePublishing)
❑ The Sewing Book by Alison Smith (Dorling Kindersley)
❑ Sew by Cath Kidston (QuadrillePublishing Ltd.)
❑ Vogue Sewing by Crystal McDonald (Sixth andSpring Books)
Other................................................
Best for sewingworkshops/courses❑ Cowslip Workshops, Launceston❑ Craftsy❑ MIY, Brighton❑ Lady Sew & Sew, Marlow Other................................................
Best exhibition/show experience2013❑ The Festival of Quilts❑ The Knitting & Stitching Show,
Harrogate❑ The Knitting & Stitching Show,
Alexandra Palace❑ Spring Quilt Festival, MalvernOther................................................
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Please complete your details Title: ........................Forename: ...............................................................Surname: ..................................................................................................Address: ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................Postcode: ..................................................................................................Contact number: ......................................................................................Email: .........................................................................................................Date of Birth: DD/MM/YY.................../......................./.........................Signature: ..................................................................................................Date: ............................../................................./.......................................
CLOSING DATE: 14TH FEBRUARY 2014
Send your completed voting form to: Marketing Department, British Sewing Awards, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road,Colchester, Essex, C02 8JY.
Conditions of entryAll entries must be received by 14/02/14. The competition is open to all UK residentsaged 18 and over, excluding employees or agents of the associated companies & theirfamilies. One entry per household. Prizes will be given to the first entrants drawn atrandom on 15/02/14. Entries must be made at www.sewmag.co.uk/awards or on thecoupon provided (no purchase necessary). Photocopies are NOT accepted. Illegibleentries and those that do not abide by the rules will be disqualified. No responsibility forentries lost, delayed or damaged in the post. Proof of posting is not proof of delivery.The decision of the judge is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Winner’sname and county will be available by sending an SAE marked British Sewing Awards toAndrea Turner, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY.
Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd. in full accordance with dataprotection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd. and sister companies may wish to contactyou with information of other services and publications we provide which may be of interest.Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post❑ Phone ❑ Email ❑SMS ❑. From time to time Aceville Publications Ltd. will share details with other reputablecompanies who provide products and services that may be of interest to you. Please tickhere if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post ❑ Phone ❑ Email ❑ SMS ❑.
Awards Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:06 Page 4
turnover for
more!
SEW GIFTS
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 41
Give your wedding daya personaltouchwith Sandra Hamilton’s
The dove is a traditional symbol of peace andlove, which is why we’ve used it on this charming
ring pillow. Perfect for any wedding day, thedesign is made using freshly-coloured felt and
embroidery in ocean blue and gold. It is placed ontosoft wool felt and decorated with a border of
stitches and seed beads. Simply tie the rings onto theribbon and give it a starring role on the big day.
weddingring pillow
Wedding Pillow_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:52 Page 1
Gold threadAdd just a touch of sparklewith shimmering goldembroidery thread. Priced£2.49 for 100 metres,www.pandurohobby.co.uk,0844 848 5692.
of blue embroidery thread and split stitch, sew throughthe tissue paper over thepattern. For the eye, create amulti-spoke star and stitch ablue seed bead to the centre.
3Fill the beak with smallpieces of gold thread, then
use couching to secure thethread ends to the pillow on thereverse. Repeat for the bird’slegs. Once finished, carefullytear the tissue paper away.
4Using the template, cut outthe following: five roses
and three calla lilies fromwhite felt; five rose leaves fromdark green felt; three calla liliesfrom purple felt; three callalilies, two calla lily leaves andone bouquet backing from lightgreen felt.
5Tightly roll up the roses andstitch to secure. Curve the
square ends of the calla liliesaround a small piece of goldthread and secure. Arrange theflowers and leaves as desired,then stitch to the bouquetbacking before securing to themint felt, just below the bird.
6Create the stems of thebouquet using either stem
or split stitch with two strands
SHOPFOR...
Seed beadsLine your pillow withcerulean blue seed beads. Priced £2 for 8g,www.beadmerchant.co.uk,01376 570022.
of green embroidery thread, ensuring they coverthe ends of the dove’s legs. Fold blue ribbon inhalf and stitch securely to the pillow where thedove’s feet would be.
7Cut out the mint felt measuring 19cm x 20.5cm, making sure to centre the bird
and bouquet design. Place turquoise wool felt of the same size on the back. Use two strands of white embroidery thread and small runningstitches to sew around the felt pieces, 2cm fromthe edge, sliding a seed bead onto the thread onevery alternate stitch. Leave a gap, add a smallamount of stuffing and lavender if desired, thensew closed.
essentialsWool felt: mint, A4 sheet;turquoise, 19cm x 20.5cmFelt: white; light green; dark green; purple, scrapsof eachRibbon, blue, 40cmThread: embroidery,pearlised, blue; green;yellow; gold; sewing, whiteBeads, seed, bluePaper, tissueFibre fillingDried lavender (optional)
DIMENSIONS:19cm x 20.5cm
42 l sewmag.co.uk
stitch a weddingring pillow1To download and print the
templates, visitwww.sewmag.co.uk. Cut outthe body and wing of the dovetwice, then place the two winglayers together and arrange thetwo body layers on top overmint-coloured wool felt. Stitchin place using white thread andtiny whip stitches.
2Trace the arabesquepattern onto tissue paper,
then place it over the dove andpin in place. Using two strands
FILL IT...with dried lavender
“This ring pillow would be abeautiful addition to anywedding day, and makes agreat memento for the bride”Sandra Hamilton, Sew designer
Turn top99 for an
explanationof couching
As an alternative to tissuepaper, use a transfer pencil totrace the arabesque designonto the bird.H
OT
TIP
Dried lavenderCreate a beautiful aroma by inserting asmattering of driedlavender into your pillow.Priced £3.50 for 50g,www.naturaleigh.co.uk,0845 900 3833.
Wedding Pillow_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:53 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 43
Suppliers of mail order fabrics for over 40 years we source beautiful fabrics from
Britain, Europe and rest of the world.
The Pattern PagesT: 023 92 354162 - www.thepatternpages.com
Last chance to buy a specialselection of limited stock patterns!
Patterns for thelatest fashion trendsand news from the
sewing industry, plusdressmaking guides
with tips & adviceCourtesy of SimplicityPatterns (1589)
Stylish skirt(7196) from Burda pattern shop
QuoteSEW10 atcheckoutto receive10% off
Burdapatternshop
043_Layout 1 19/12/2013 11:48 Page 2
44 l sewmag.co.uk
Dres
s, £1
9.99,
New
Loo
k
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
Give your look a feminine touch with Lisa Steed Davey’s
button jewelleryCollar necklaces are the trend du jour, which is why we’ve designed one that’sperfect for Valentine’s Day or any romantic occasion. Made simply from felt andadorned with pretty pearl buttons and cube beads, you’ll find this accessory to be a
real crowd-pleaser. You can even make a ring and earrings to match.
Button Jewellery_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:17 Page 2
ADORN IT...with pearl
buttons
essentialsFelt: purple, 3mm thick;pink, 5mm thickButtons, shell hearts,assorted sizes: pink; purpleBeads, cube, pinkFusible webbingThread, silk: pink; purpleNecklace chainNecklace claspJump rings, 10mm, twoEarring sieveBeading needleHole punch, smallPliers, flat-nosedRing blank
DIMENSIONS:Necklace: 9cm x 15.5cm
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 45
make a necklace1Go to www.sewmag
.co.uk to download andprint the bib template. Trace it onto pink and purple felt,then cut out. Stitch a numberof pink and purple heart shell buttons to the pink feltusing thread in the opposingcolour. Sew pink cube beadsbetween the hearts using abeading needle.
2Fix the purple felt to theback of the necklace with
fusible webbing. Using a smallpunch, make a hole at eachend of the collar. Connect a10mm jump ring to both endsusing flat-nosed pliers, thenconnect chain to either side, to the desired length. Add anecklace clasp to finish.
create matchingearrings1Cut out two circles from
pink felt to cover the widthof an earring sieve. Using the
SHOPFOR...
Shell buttonsMix things up with avariety of different shellbuttons – we adore thesedaisy shapes from JosyRose. Priced 75p each,www.josyrose.com
SEWFASHION
Make&Do
When making thering, ensure thering blank sticksto the felt bysqueezing themtogether withbulldog clips.H
OT
TIP
Brightly-coloured feltLisa’s used feminine shadesof pink and purple felt, butyou could always mixthings up with anotherbright colour. Priced from £3.50 per sheet,www.bloomingfelt.co.uk,01245 471690.
Necklace chainChange up the look ofthe necklace with thecolour of the chain. Visit Beads Direct for a huge selection in all shapes and sizes,www.beadsdirect.co.uk,01509 218028.
Create an accompanying ring byattaching pink felt adorned
with three buttons to aring blank.
...get yourhands on oursister titleMake & SellJewellery.The Februaryissue is onsale now!
LOVECREATINGJEWELLERY?
sieve findings, sew the felt circle to it.Attach a large pink heart to the felt usingpink thread, then fix a slightly smallerpurple heart on top.
Button Jewellery_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:18 Page 3
Show someone how much youlove them with Susie Johns’
What better way to share your love than with a project you’ve put yourheart and soul into? With several embroidery designs, you can eitherchoose your favourite or mix and match to create your own variation.
The stitches used on the hearts are satin, chain and split stitch, all ofwhich are quick and easy to do. Embroidery is a timeless art, meaning
these hearts can be treasured for years to come. Use scraps from yourwork basket, and make a beautiful gift without breaking the bank.
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINEValentinetokens
46 l sewmag.co.uk
Valentine Hearts_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:48 Page 2
MAKE IT...with vintage
linen
essentialsFabric, cotton, assortedplain and prints, scrapsLinen napkins andtraycloths, vintage, scraps25cm squareThread, embroidery,Anchor, Lavender;Wineberry; Thistle; Denim;Peony; Beauty Rose; SurfBlue, 8m skein of each;sewing, whiteRibbon, embroidery, darkpink; light pink, 4mm wide;green, 2mm wideEmbroidery hoopErasable pen or pencilNeedle, crewel; sewing Fibre fillingDried lavender (optional)Key
DIMENSIONS:Rose heart: 16cm x 19cmMoustache heart: 16cm x 19cmPersonal heart: 15cm x 17cmKey heart: 13cm square
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 47
make a roseheart1Go to www.sewmag
.co.uk, download thetemplates and print out. Trace the large heart shape and wording ‘To my Valentine’onto a vintage napkin or similar piece of linen, trying to incorporate any existingembroidery on the fabric withinthe boundaries of the design.
2Place the fabric in anembroidery hoop and fill
in all the lettering in satinstitch, using three strands ofthread: use Lavender for thewords ‘To my’ and the smalldiamond on the ‘V’, and useWineberry for the word‘Valentine’. To make thelettering really sumptuous, use padded satin stitch.
3Create ribbon rosesfollowing the panel
opposite in dark pink for thelower two flowers and lighterpink for the remaining one.For the stems and leaves, use
SEWGIFTS
green ribbon: stitch a straightstitch below the largest rose, to form a short stem, then sewtwo more straight stitches,joining this rose to each of theother two. Add detachedchain, also known as lazydaisy, stitches to form leaves,using the photograph of thefinished heart as a guide.
4Remove the fabric fromthe hoop, place face down,
and press lightly on thereverse with a hot iron, takingcare not to flatten theembroidery stitches. Cut outthe heart shape, following theline you transferred in step 1.
5Place the embroideredheart shape face down on
a piece of plain or patternedfabric, pin and stitch the twofabrics together 1cm from thecut edge using back stitch (or asewing machine). Cut awaythe excess backing fabric andsnip into the seam allowanceon all curved edges. Turn rightside out and stuff using fibrefilling, dried lavender, or a
1Thread your needle with two strands of embroidery thread in a
colour which closely matches the ribbon you’re using. Work a fly stitch to create three spokes, then do twofurther straight stitches, so that you have five straight stitches radiating outfrom a central point. Fasten off thethread at the back of the work.
2Thread your needle with ribbon, knotthe end and bring the needle up
to the front, close to the centre of the five spokes.
3Take the needle under one of thespokes then, working anti-clockwise,
take it over the next spoke, under the next,over the next and so on, working outwardsfrom the centre and twisting the ribbonfrom time to time. Continue until youhave gone round about three or four timesand reached the outer edge of the fivespokes. Then take the needle through tothe back of the work and fasten off.
Make your own...ribbon roses
Valentine Hearts_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:48 Page 3
48 l sewmag.co.uk
WHATTO BUY...
Embroidery thread Don’t skimp when itcomes to embroiderythread. Always usegood quality like theseskeins from Anchor, asit will be stronger andgive a lasting effect.Priced 68p per skein,www.sewandso.co.uk,0800 013 0150.
mixture of both. Turn in theraw edges by 1cm on theopening, and slip stitch thefolded edges together.
stitch amoustache heart1Trace the wording ‘Love
me, love my’ and themoustache motif from thetemplate onto a piece of plainwhite linen. Place the fabric inan embroidery hoop and fill inall the lettering in split stitch,using two strands of Thistlethread, then fill in themoustache shape using twostrands of Denim. Remove the fabric from the hoop andpress lightly on the reverse.
2Trim the fabric to within2.5cm of the lower edge of
the moustache and the samedistance above the lettering.Cut two strips of patternedfabric, each measuring 5cm x 18cm. With right sides facing,join one strip to the upper edgeof the embroidered fabric andone strip to the lower edge,with a seam allowance of 1cm.Press the seams to one side,towards the patterned fabric.
3Place the joined fabricface down. Trace the
large heart shape onto a pieceof card, cut out and use as atemplate. Place it on yourembroidery, draw around theedge and cut out, making sure
the writing and moustacheare central. Add a fabric backto the heart as before.
embroider apersonal heart1Trace the wording ‘Your
heart is mine’ and the smallheart motif onto a vintagenapkin or similar piece oflinen, trying to incorporate anyexisting embroidery on thefabric. It doesn’t matter if thepiece of linen is smaller thanthe medium-sized hearttemplate, as it will be mountedonto a backing fabric.
2Place the fabric in anembroidery hoop and fill
in all the lettering in satinstitch or padded satin stitch,using three strands of Peonythread. Complete the heartshape using two strands ofBeauty Rose and split stitch.Remove the fabric from thehoop and press lightly on the reverse. Place theembroidered piece face up on top of a piece of plain,coloured fabric measuring at least 18cm x 20cm and pinthe two pieces together.
3Trace the medium heartshape onto a piece of
card, cut out and use as atemplate. Place it on yourembroidery and draw aroundthe edge, making sure thewriting and heart are central.
With white sewing thread, work a tackingstitch just within the line you have drawn,through both fabrics.
4As decoration and still using white thread,use running stitch around the heart shape,
again through both fabrics. Add further lines ofrunning stitch along any embroidered areasalready on the fabric and the edges. Cut outalong the outline of the heart shape, add theback and complete as before.
create a key heart1Trace the small heart template, the wording
‘The key to my’, the flowers, and the heartmotif onto the centre of a piece of plain,coloured cotton or linen fabric. Place thematerial in an embroidery hoop and fill in all the lettering in split stitch, using two strands of Beauty Rose thread.
2Outline the heart shape with chain stitchusing three strands of Lavender. Change to
Peony and embroider the flower petals indetached chain stitch and the flower centres insatin stitch, or use French knots if you prefer.Switch to Surf Blue and embroider the stems instem stitch and leaves in lazy daisy stitch.
3Remove the fabric from the hoop, place facedown and press lightly on the reverse with a
hot iron, taking care not to flatten theembroidery stitches. Then cut out the heartshape, following the line you made in step 1. Add the back and complete as before.
4Make a plait using six lengths ofembroidery thread (two each of three
colours), knotting each end of the plait, toprevent unraveling. Fold in half, then push the loop through the ring at the top of a key, and stitch the two knotted ends to the back of the heart, at the top. Add a small ribbon bow, sewn in place at the front of the heart.
“Makeone ofthesefabric
hearts for a lovedone, to remindthem of you. Fill itwith dried lavenderand they can storeit in a drawer, tofragrance theirclothes and keepthe moths away!”Susie Johns, Sew designer
Cherry print Use prints and plainfabrics of your choice forthe back of the hearts.This little pink numberwould be perfect forValentine’s Day. Priced£12.40 per metre,www.thefabricloft.co.uk,07791 639896.
Candy heartsWhy not decorate yourmake with cute heartbuttons to really showsomeone how muchyou love them? Theseones are sweet assugar! Priced £2.97 perpack, www.gregory-knopp.co.uk, 01634375706.
Valentine Hearts_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:49 Page 4
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Stay connected More ways to stay in touch with Sew...
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BusymittsJoin our sister crafting community atwww.busymitts.com where you can checkout what fellow stitchers having been making,or why not share your own creations?
ForumMeet like-minded crafters and share yourmakes by logging on to our new-look onlineforum at www.sewmag.co.uk
WebsiteRegister online for an abundance of FREE projects andpatterns, video demos of essential techniques, along withexciting competitions. You’ll also find all your templates andpatterns from the main magazine to download and print.
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per issue!
50 l sewmag.co.uk
New look
savvyKeep in touch with yourfavourite magazine whereveryour stitching takes you
l Released monthly, the appversion contains all thefantastic projects andinformative features you’ll find in your regular magazine.Better still, it will be stored inyour phone or tablet so you canread it whenever you like.
l The Sew magazine app can be purchased either as a singledigital issue, priced £3.99 each, or as a full digital
subscription* starting from£2.99 per month, so you’llalways have the latest news,fabric shopping and projects at your fingertips.l To subscribe, visit the Appleor Kindle Newsstand andsearch for Sew magazine.l Compatible with Kindle FireHD, Kindle Fire HDX, Barnes & Noble Nook, iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.
Digital editionSew magazine is now available as a digitaledition on the Apple and Kindle newsstands,meaning you can enjoy your favourite stitchingmonthly in a whole new format.
*Please note, digital subscriptions do not include subscription gifts or cover-mounted gifts.
Facebook &TwitterVisit facebook.com/SEWHQ to share yourlatest makes or keep intouch by following uson Twitter @SewHQfor stitching news,gossip and exclusivegiveaways.
Online page Feb_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:23 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 51
We’ve got 28pages of homestyle, projects & inspirationhome
“This issue we’re mixing old with new. Ourvery own Corinne Bradd has made a set ofcushions with a distinct retro feel, yet thetraditional wreath is given a modernmakeover with different coloured felts. Wehave classic designs including a heart motifquilt made from Liberty fabrics, and a floralprint pocket apron that’s perfect for thegarden. On the other end of the scale, weexplore this season’s penchant for all thingsgrey and yellow, offering your living space a contemporary twist.
We’ve also got an abundance of ideas this month on how you can give your home a quick update. Make your own lampshade,dip-dye your bedding, stitch patchworkcurtains and more.”Rosie Savage, Sew Editorial Assistant
PAGE
54
HOME &INTERIORS
Make a colourful felt wreath
PAGE
69 PAGE
67
rulesModernity Top tips for a
dual-tone homeMyleene Klass’bed linen rangeComputer screencover tutorialBird cross stitch design
Grey andyellow décor
Stitch a retro cushion
HomeIntro_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:41 Page 1
Deck your home in black and white for a cool and collected look
CO
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Rosie SavageSew Editorial Assistant
“Everyone at Sew knows I’m cat-obsessed – I’mgoing to stitch a bed for my kitten Nola with
this purrfect print”
Steph DurrantSew Deputy Editor
“I love incorporating history throughout myhome, so this digital restoration of the
Brantford Expositior from May 1898 is ideal”
LO
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CIT
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£1
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Corinne BraddSew designer
“The narrative nature of this design allows forso many different opportunities – make a set of
cushions or create a wall art series”
Rebecca DruryMissPrint Director
“This pattern is a classic and the monochromecolourway works well as it fits in with
everything, from brights to pastels or neutrals”52 l sewmag.co.uk
MONOCHROMELIFE
Home Fabric Shopping Jan_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:30 Page 2
10
2
8
5
12
7
1
6
4
11
9
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sewmag.co.uk l 53
HOME &INTERIORSHOME...
fabric shopping
MONOCHROME MOODBOARD1 Little Trees fabric in Monochrome, £72.50 per metre,www.missprint.co.uk2 Typewriter lower-case alphabet wooden stamp setby Inkadoo, £9.50, www.imaginedoingityourself.co.uk3 Cool Cats by Prestigious Textiles, £14.40 per metre,www.kingdominteriors.co.uk4 Emily and Anne Bronte’s Diary by PeacoquetteDesigns, from $10.50 per fat quarter,www.spoonflower.com5 Love City by Alexander Henry, £12 per metre,www.eternalmaker.com6 Royal gingham in black, £4 per half metre,www.alwaysknittingandsewing.co.uk7 Brantford Expositior Page by Calliope Rose HandcarJones, from $10.50 per fat quarter,www.spoonflower.com8 Home Sweet Home ribbon, 65p per metre,www.josyrose.com9 Pianoforte Keyboard Life-Sized by Sef, from $10.50per fat quarter, www.spoonflower.com10 Geisha curtain fabric in Graphite, £8.99 per metre,www.terrysfabrics.co.uk.11 Uma in Ebony, visit www.romo.com for stockists.12 Monaluna polka dots, £7.60 per half metre,www.modes4u.com
Home Fabric Shopping Jan_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:31 Page 3
54 l sewmag.co.uk
HOT TIP
When sewing awrap, make surethat the bias cut
GR
EY&
YELLOW
Hometrends
Leaf print wooden buttons, £1.99 for 10,www.beadandbuttoncompany.co.uk
Sew Editorial Assistant Rosie Savage on introducing yellow and grey into your abodetop tips● If you like to include a vintage touch,design and make your own grey cushions and place them on a retro yellow Chesterfield sofa for an old-meets-new look.● Create a feature wall with yellowwallpaper and apply a fashionable grey wall sticker on top to furtherencourage a striking aesthetic.
● It’s easy to incorporate this two-tonescheme into your home – work on a roomthat acts as a blank canvas and go to townwith accessories like grey and yellowbedding, stand-out wall art or a gigantic rug.● When creating a grey and yellow-themed room, it’s best to take thegeometric route. Opt for bold shapes liketriangles, and try to keep things modern.
1 2 3
● Design a yellow and grey artificialflower arrangement and place it on yourmantelpiece or coffee table to create theperfect finishing touch. Update yourcoasters and mugs for a coordinated feel.
Share your yellow and grey home makes with us on Facebook(www.facebook.com/sewhq) andTwitter @sewhq.
fabric1
2
3
STITCH IT
Uptown Windows Yellow by RobertKaufman, £12 per metre,www.plushaddict.co.ukBold Floral Round Flowers in Metal Greyand Dandelion, £13 per metre,www.myfabrichouse.co.ukPassing Clouds in Gold by Eloise Renouf,£13.60 per metre, www.fabricrehab.co.uk
Iron on schnauzer motif, £1each, www.hobbycraft.co.uk
Prism embroidery thread, visit
www.dmccreative.co.ukor call 0116 275 4000
for stockists.
Nature Study cross stitch kit, £19.80,www.sewandso.co.uk
Let your home exudethis modern aesthetic
Fresh stripe ribbon in yellowand grey, 41p per metre,www.craftyribbons.com
Home Trends_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:32 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 55
GR
EY&
YELLOW
MAKE IT
ESSENTIALS● Fabric: yellow and grey stripe; plain for lining ● Basicsewing kit
1 To work out the fabricwidth, measure horizontallyacross your screen and add
2.5cm for the seam allowance,plus the depth. For the height,measure vertically and add 5cm,then double it. Cut one piecefrom printed material andanother from lining fabric.
2Fold the outer piece in halflengthways, right sidestogether. Pin, then stitch
each side using a 12mm seam.Repeat with the lining fabric.Press the seams open.
3To make a gusset, flatten the side seam at the foldedend and pinch the layers
together to form a triangle. Stitchacross the triangle where it’s12mm wider than the screendepth. Repeat on the other side.Trim away the tips. Repeat withthe lining.
4Turn the outer piece rightside out, leaving the liningwrong side out. Slip the
lining inside the outer piece,aligning the seams. Turn over a2.5cm hem inside the outer andlining pieces and pin. Topstitchand press.
HOME &INTERIORSMyleene Klass has created the Mousai bed
linen range. With tribal influences, this vibrantdesign has flashes of chartreuse combined withgeometric monochrome shapes. For stockists,
visit www.ashleywildegroup.com
FIND OUT MOREFor more retro makes read Home SewnHome by Sally Walton (£14.99, GMC Books).
GREATQUICK MAKE IDEA!
Create a computerscreen cover
Home Trends_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:03 Page 3
56 l sewmag.co.uk
Get the latestpatchwork and quilting newswith Corinne Bradd
“Simon Haskins wasdiagnosed with
Acute LymphoblasticLeukaemia in Juneand wants to raise
awareness andmoney with quilt
blocks being made allaround the world!”
QUILTER’S CORNER
The West Country Quilt Show was a roaring success inNovember. There was an excellent array of contributorsand traders including world-renowned artists such asKaffe Fassett, Tula Pink and Alicia Merret. This year also sawcreations from Stuart Hillard, who took part in demonstrations andsigned copies of The Great British Sewing Bee book.
“I was thrilled and honoured to be asked to attend the second WestCountry Quilt Show and be given exhibition space to show 10 of myquilts,” exclaims Stuart Hillard. “Between teaching workshops anddemonstrating hand appliqué, I met many wonderful quilters, sewingenthusiasts and interested visitors. I even managed to stock up onsome rather lovely reproduction fabrics and spent a fascinating half anhour chatting with exhibitors from the Tent Makers of Cairo. Thisshow is already in my diary for 2014!”
Event organiser Nigel Stevens says, “I am so pleased at the way theshow turned out, with some of the best quilts in the country on displayand entries from overseas for thefirst time.” The overall winner was‘Inner Circle – Flower of Scotland’by Kay Bell of the Scottish Borderswho also won Best Large WallHanging, Best SurfaceTexture/Embellishment, andVisitors' Choice!
Show in focus:The West Country Quilt Show
SEWCOLUMN
I tend to make quilts up as I goalong, adding more and morepatches until the piecebecomes almost too big tohandle, then I stop. They’vealways come out pretty well,touch wood, but I sometimes feel that I should work to a moreprescribed method. To overcomemy ‘slapdash’ process (whichapplies to everything fromwallpapering to cooking,decorating and quilt making) I’ve got plans to make a series of motif blocks to use in mydesigns. I've never felt quite soorganised. Armed with freezerpaper, I shall attempt to createperfect pictures and, if I’m reallylucky, they might even resemblewhat they’re supposed to! Don'tmiss out on next month's Sew tosee how I get on – I'm even goingto create a Mother's Day make,which I'm sure you're going tolove. Stay tuned!
Corinne loves...
PatchworkPROMISE
Road 15 charm pack by Moda,£9.95, www.cottonpatch.co.uk,0121 702 2840.
Keep Calm and Quilt Onspiral notebook, £11.95,www.zazzle.co.uk
Make a quilt block and raise money for The LeukaemiaFoundation atwww.sunshine4all.com
WeLove
Zakka Japanese linen fabricstash bundle, £19.50, www.u-handbag.com,01273 747112.
The 2014 exhibition takes place from 13thto 15th November at the Exhibition Centre,University of the West of England. Seewww.westcountryquiltshow.co.uk orcall 0117 907 1000 for more details. Inner Circle – Flower of Scotland
Quilters corner_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:47 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 57
VOTE FOR US!
Online quilt shop stocking hundreds of fabrics byArt Gallery Fabrics, Moda, Makower and more,
as well as a full range of quilting tools, wadding,and bag making supplies.See our full range at:
www.pelennapatchworks.co.uktel: 01639 898444
057_Layout 1 19/12/2013 11:53 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 59
The Bead and Button Company is a
leading UK shopping site that is
dedicated to the needs of the modern
crafter. We stock a huge selection of
beads, buttons and craft supplies.
Buttons Beads Papercraft Knitting & Sewing
Storage & Packaging Jewellery Making Jewellery
To view our huge range of products please visit:
www.beadandbuttoncompany.co.uk
We don't say "Make do and Mend"We say "Rediscover and Redesign"
Janome Sewing Machine hire
Buttons/Fabrics/Haberdashery
[email protected] - 07976 293751
059_Layout 1 19/12/2013 11:58 Page 2
60 l sewmag.co.uk
The greatest selection of true vintage sewing patterns, from 1920sflapper dresses, to 1970s jumpsuits.
World Wide Shipping - Credit Cards Welcome
www.sovintagepatterns.com
15% Offfor Sew
readers, quote'Sew'
For amazing offers go towww.sewbox.co.uk
the home of stylish sewing patterns, beautiful fabrics and everything for your dressmaking needs.
• Eliza M • Hot Patterns • Colette Patterns • Liberty Jersey • LibertyTana Lawn • Liberty Poplin • Liberty Kingly Cord
• Kwik Sew • Modkid • Serendipity • DIY Couture &Sewaholic Patterns • John Kaldor Fabrics • Papercut & Lilly
Blossom Patterns • House of Alistair Liberty PrintHaberdashery & more
060_Layout 1 19/12/2013 12:09 Page 1
HOME &INTERIORS
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 61
Show some love withCorinne Bradd’s
If home is where the heart is, this quilt is perfect. Combine bright,beautiful prints with patchwork hearts to create this gorgeousdesign. It looks wonderfully intricate, but is easy to make. The size
and square shape of the quilt means that it is the ideal throw for a chair.Use the Liberty prints listed or scraps from your work basket.
Liberty quilt
PatchworkPROMISE
Liberty quilt_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:45 Page 1
62 l sewmag.co.uk
essentialsFabric: Liberty Bloomsburycollection, Virginia (D);Dance (A); Woolf (D);Copeland (A); Leonard (D);Catherine (A); Charles (A),fat quarter of each; cottonsheeting, white, 120cm x 240cmVilene iron-on quiltwadding, medium-weight,40cm squareQuilt wadding, 2oz, 120cm square
DIMENSIONS:110cm square
make a heart quilt1Take seven printed fabrics,
and cut 10, 5.5cm squaresfrom each. Mix up the squaresand stitch them together intothree by three blocks with a5mm seam allowance, makingsure no two prints of the sameare touching. Press each blockand cut into quartersmeasuring 7.25cm square.
2Mix up the squares andturn them all so the small
square sits in the bottom rightcorner. To make a heart, youwill need seven squares. Cutone in half diagonally from thebottom right to the top left.Then stitch the pieces togetherto make a rough heart shape(Fig.1). Press the seams flat.Repeat this three more timesto end up with four hearts.
3Go to www.sewmag.co.uk, download the
heart template and print out.Cut four hearts from iron-on
When choosing wadding foryour quilt, think about theseason. Thicker wadding willbe more suitable for the coldermonths, and polyester is oftenwarmer than other types.H
OT
TIP
quilt wadding. Lay them onthe wrong side of thepatchwork panels leaving aborder all round and pressinto place. Trim the excessfabric to 1cm from thewadding, clip curves andcorners, fold in and tack.
4Cut a 120cm square ofcotton sheeting and place
to one side, as this will be theback of the quilt. From theexcess sheeting, cut four24cm squares. Pin a heart tothe centre of each square andoversew in place. Remove thetacking stitches.
5Cut a 4cm x 55cm stripfrom each of the seven
prints. Sew these together on the long sides and pressthe seams to make a panel22cm x 55cm. Cut across the panel to make 15, 3.5cm strips. Join these end to end to make onecontinuous strip of blocks.
6Take two heart squaresand join them using a
strip eight blocks long, then repeat with theother two heart squares. Join the two pairsand form a square using a length seventeenblocks long. Use the remaining strip as aborder around the heart squares.
7Tear two 4cm x 120cm strips from spare white sheeting. Use this to
add a border with overlapped corners around the patchwork.
8Cut 11, 10cm squares from each of theseven prints. Take 32 of these squares and
make two strips seven squares long and twostrips nine squares long. Stitch the shorterstrips to the sides of the patchwork then addthe longer ones to the top and bottom,matching up the seam lines neatly.
9Add a second 4cm wide white border asbefore, joining strips if necessary to
Fig.1
Liberty quilt_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:46 Page 2
LAYER IT...using
appliqué
HOME &INTERIORS
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 63
“When using a sewing machine,it’s important that it has a longarm so the quilt fits properly. I lovethe Janome Horizon 8900QCP
because there’s plenty of space to work”Corinne Bradd, Sew designer
Leonard (D)Use ditsy printsalongside large onesfor a dynamic look.
All the prints used for this project are from the Liberty Bloomsburycollection. Visitwww.sewbox.co.ukor call 01787 269366.
Woolf (D)This geometric print complements the patchwork design perfectly.
Dance (A)The collection wasinspired by BloomsburyGardens, London, seenin the beautiful florals.
SHOPFOR...
achieve the length needed.Use 44 of the remainingsquares to make two strips 10 squares long and twostrips 12 squares long. Stitch these to the edges of the quilt as before.
10Press the entire quilttop and the square of
white backing fabric. Lay thebacking fabric on a flatsurface, place the waddingcentrally on top and add thequilt top face up over this. Pin the three layers togetherworking from the centre out in all directions. Thereshould be excess wadding and backing fabric all round.
11Topstitch the quiltalong the seam lines
starting from the centre andworking out to eliminate
creases in the backing fabric.Either use a long machinestitch or running stitch ifquilting by hand. Once theouter border has beenquilted, the excess fabricfrom the underneath layerscan be trimmed away.
12Bind the edges of thequilt by tearing the
leftover white sheeting into 4cm wide strips and joining end to end to make onecontinuous piece. Stitch the strips to thesides of the quilt and then the top andbottom to make an overlapped border asbefore. Turn the quilt over and turn under5mm on the raw edge of the binding strip.Fold the strip over the raw edge of the quilt,mitring the corners as you do so, and slipstitch to the back of the quilt.
Liberty quilt_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:46 Page 3
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Explore a different craft techniquewith Ellen Kharade's
flowercushion
Paper cutting, as the name suggests, is usually associatedwith cutting intricate patterns from paper to make
decorative cards and pictures. We've been inspired bythis technique to create this pretty flower cushion. Themotif has been hand-embroidered in complementary
colours and embellished with buttons.
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
Flower Cushion_Layout 1 20/12/2013 11:28 Page 2
MAKE IT...with wool felt
essentialsFabric: wool, white, 1m; woolfelt, ecru, 41cm squareCushion pad, 41cm squareFabric dye, Dylon, OceanFusible webbing, 41cm squareThread, embroidery: red;orange; turquoise; lavenderRic rac, purple, 5mmButtons, small: blue, two;lavender, two; turquoise,five; flower, three
DIMENSIONS:41cm square
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 65
stitch a cushion1Cut white wool into three
smaller pieces measuring30cm x 45cm, 35cm x 45cm,and 45cm square. Colour eachpiece with blue fabric dye,following the manufacturer'sinstructions. Once the desiredcolour is achieved, rinse untilthe water runs clear and spinon a short cycle. Leave to dryfully, then press all pieces.
2Visit www.sewmag.co.uk to download and
print the templates for thisproject. Cut the shape out soyou are left with the flowermotif. Cut a 41cm square ofecru wool felt and iron fusible
“Contrasting fabrics will work wellfor this project, so you could use adark base fabric with a light motifas we have, or reverse it instead”
Ellen Kharade, Sew designer
SHOPFOR...
HOME &INTERIORS
Use the bestfabrics moneycan buy, as thiswill be reflectedin your work.Pure wool felt is luxurious, willlast a long time,and will resistbobbling.H
OT
TIP
Embroidery threadDecorate the flowerswith a variety of blue threads. Priced£1.10 per skein,www.eternalmaker.com
stitches to the flower stems. Work whippedback stitch along the central flower in red andorange thread and embellish with buttons. AddFrench knots to decorate.
5From the smaller dyed fabrics, cut a lowerback measuring 30cm x 41cm and an
upper back piece of 24cm x 41cm. Sew zig zagstitches across the long edge of the lower backsection. Fold over a 1.5cm hem at the zig zagedge, then pin and machine stitch into place.Repeat for the upper back section andmachine stitch the hem. Sew purple ric rac tothe lower back piece, 6cm from the bottom.
6Measure the position for the buttonholes,3.5cm up from the hemmed edge. Mark
the centre of the cushion cover, then measure10.5cm either side. Stitch buttonholes at thesethree points, then carefully open them using aseam ripper.
7Lay the two back fabric pieces on top of thefront. Mark the positions for the buttons
and stitch on. With right sides facing and rawedges aligned, pin the three pieces togetherand machine stitch around the cover using a1.3cm seam allowance. Snip the corners, turnout, press under cotton fabric, then insert acushion pad.
webbing onto the back. Gluethe back of the paper flowermotif to the fusible webbing,then use a sharp pair ofscissors or scalpel to carefullycut out the motif.
3From the largest piece ofdyed fabric, cut a 41cm
square. Peel the backing paperfrom the motif and place itcentrally on it. Lay cotton overthe fabric, taking care not tomove the motif, and press untilthe felt is securely in place.Using matching thread,machine stitch around thedesign, staying close to the edge.
4Embroider the tulip-shaped flowers
with blanket stitch, chainstitch, and running stitch inlavender and turquoiseembroidery thread, then workwhipped back stitch along theflower stem, following theshape of the flower as you doso. Add buttons and star
Fabric dyeEllen used this rich Ocean Blue shade fromDylon, priced £6.06, to dye the wool felt. Visit www.dylon.co.ukfor stockists.
Flower Cushion_Layout 1 20/12/2013 12:05 Page 3
focusLOVEfocusLOVEfocusLOVEfocusLOVE
The websites keeping usbusy this month...
SEWONLINE
Click Stitch
www.apracticalwedding.comIf you're planning awedding, this site isperfect for you. Withplenty of money-savingDIY ideas and more, you'll come away feelingvery inspired.
&“Little Winter became a place to get lost inthe world of a man, woman and their cat,Runkle. It details and appreciates thesmaller things in life like the simplepleasures of taking a tub of Ben & Jerry'sto bed and, alongside our love for fairylights and heart-shaped plates, tells thetale of two little people working their waythrough an average life. With a desire for a perfect home, a love for fashion and somebaking thrown in for good measure, this issomewhere to escape, accompaniedwith a cup of tea and a slice of cake.We've actually just moved home,and plan on giving it the sameLittle Winter touch that we didwith the last one – visit us tosee how we get on and, of course,to see my obsession with ice-creamand marshmallows get out of control.”Katy McPhedran, one half of the blogging duo
Blogof the
Month
www.bedruthan.comDo you want to head offinto the sunset with yourother half this Valentine'sDay? Combine it with yourlove of sewing at thegorgeous Bedruthan Spaand Hotel in Cornwall.
www.sewmag.co.ukLove is in the air, so whynot make our cross stitchpencil case with a pair ofdarling dogs and heart?You could incorporate the design onto anythingyou like!
Darling discoveriesGreen Grass“I'm definitely a hopeless romantic, so I lovegetting custom orders for loving gifts,” explainsdesigner Liz Muller. “The idea for my Mr and Mrspassport covers was suggested by a customerlooking for a wedding gift, though it would make agreat Valentine's Day or anniversary present too!”Mr and Mrs passport covers, £29.70,www.etsy.com/shop/greengrass2
www.littlewinter.net
66 l sewmag.co.uk
Heart and Parcel“This handmade noticeboard is perfect for thekitchen, bedroom, study or a teen's room,” notesdesigner Karenza Maynard. “With its creambackground and tiny pink flowers, it would suitany colour scheme. I love creating designs witha heart motif; it's in the name of my company!”Floral padded heart noticeboard, £25,www.heartandparcel.co.uk
Red Bird Makes“I absolutely love the idea of these fab cushionssitting side by side on the bed,” exclaims Etsyseller Joanna Kang. “They'd be a perfect weddinggift or house warming present, and make a prettyquirky statement. I love that they provide amodern, fun twist to romance.”His & Hers felt cushions, £56.23,www.etsy.com/shop/redbirdmakes
Follow Katyand herfamily’s
adventures
Click and stitch_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:36 Page 2
turnover for
more!
HOME &INTERIORS
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 67
Add a splash of colourwith this fun
This funky wall hanging is simple to make and wouldbe a welcome addition to any home.
A rainbow-coloured wreath is suitable all yearround, or you can choose shades of your choice to suit yourcolour scheme or to celebrate different occasions.This make involves very few materials, so it's also a great
way to use up scraps from your work basket!
felt wreath
Felt wreath_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:55 Page 1
slit in the centre. Repeat for all the squares.
3Arrange the piles of felt into a circleof rainbow colours, as shown in the
diagram. Placing pieces from each pilewith its adjacent colour will give agradual shading effect. Thread the piecesonto the wire, following the patternarranged on the circle.
4When the wire is full, re-twist thecoat hanger and bend the hook into
a closed loop. As an extra detail, hang apadded felt heart in the centre of thewreath. Cut two hearts from pink felt (oruse pre-cut ones). Stuff lightly, and stitchtogether using running stitch. Attach acord or thin strip of felt to the heart andhang from the top of the wreath.
WHATTO BUY...
essentialsFelt, thick, assorted colours,25cm squares, 11Thread, sewing,coordinating Coat hanger, wireFibre fillingCord
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make a felt wreath1Untwist a coat hanger at the
join, using pliers if necessary,then reshape into a circle,leaving the hook at the top.
2Take a 25cm square of felt, and cut it into
approximately 20 irregularshapes. Fold each shape in half and snip a very small
Funky feltBlooming Felt offer ahuge range of colours.They also provide pre-cut shapes such ashearts, so this projectcouldn't be easier. Visitwww.bloomingfelt.co.ukor call 01245 471690.
TIPSFORFELT
● Thin felt will need a stiffener or somebacking to make itstand up nicely.
● Felt doesn't fray, so there's no need to hem.
● Make sure to cut outshapes using a sharpcraft knife or scissorsfor a clean edgewithout pulling fibres.
● Use good quality felt:it tends to be sturdierand less likely to tear.
● Use a medium-weight needle whenstitching with felt sothat it passesthrough the thicknesseasily but doesn'tleave large holes.
● Iron felt using a low, wool setting,making sure to keepthe iron moving.
Make yourown felt
1Take some merino wool top fibres
and select your choice of colour.
Arrange as desired.
2Wet with hot water, place a layer of
muslin over the top and rub with
soap to lock the fibres together.
3Roll the fibres in a bamboo mat,
creating further friction to thicken,
harden and shrink the materials.
You can find all the supplies to make your
own felt at www.bloomingfelt.co.uk
MAKE IT...with bright
felt
READ MOREThis project was takenfrom Felt Fantastic bySarah Tremelling withprojects by Morven Jones,(£14.99, David & Charles).
Felt wreath_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:56 Page 2
HOME &INTERIORS
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 69
Use Art Gallery Fabrics’ Poeticarange to make Corinne Bradd’s
Create perfect harmony in your living space with thesefeminine cushions. Made using printed cottons in serene
greens, blues, pinks and purples, Corinne has created twocoordinated styles; a 3-D pillow with a pretty pleated frill,
plus a coordinating cushion with padded appliqué.
heart pillows
Heart cushions_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:39 Page 1
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two 1cm seam allowances of the gusset rightsides together and sew down to join. Pin andtack the second heart to the gusset. Sewaround the perimeter leaving a 10cm gap onone straight edge for turning.
7Clip all curves and corners before turningout. Fluff up fibre filling well and stuff
into the cushion a little at a time to preventlumps forming. Use sufficient stuffing to givethe cushion a smooth, rounded finish. Fold inthe raw edges of the gap and slip stitch closed.
make an appliqué pillow1Visit www.sewmag.co.uk and print the
small heart template. Draw around the
essentialsFabric: Art Gallery Fabrics,Poetica range, SweetMelody Aqua; SpiritedVerse Azure, fat quarter of each; Love Notes Mint;Rhythmic Lilac; cotton,white, 50cm of eachFibre fillingCushion pad, 40cm square
DIMENSIONS:Heart cushion:40cm x 47cmSquare cushion: 42cm square
sew a heart-shaped cushion1Visit www.sewmag
.co.uk and print the largeheart template. Pin it to twofloral fat quarters and cut outwith a 5mm seam allowance.Measure the perimeter of theheart shape.
2Cut six 6cm wide stripsfrom striped fabric
ensuring you cut across thepattern. Sew the pieces endto end to make onecontinuous lengthapproximately 3m long. Foldin half lengthways, right sideout, and press.
3Stitch along the raw edgethrough both layers with
a long, straight stitch. Do notfasten the ends of thethreads, instead pull the topthread to gather up the foldedfabric into a ruffle.Alternatively, sew running
Use a contrasting thread colourwhen working tacking stitches.This will make them easier tosee when removing them later on and will hopefully help you avoid cutting throughthe real stitching. H
OT
TIP
stitch by hand and gather upto the measurement of theheart perimeter, plus 5cm.
4Fold in the ends of thegathered strip and slip
stitch. Tack the ruffle to theedges of one heart, right sideup, starting at the topindentation and easing itaround the curves. Overlapthe ends of the ruffle.
5Cut enough 6cm strips oflilac fabric to measure the
perimeter of the heart whensewn end to end. Pin thisgusset strip face down overthe ruffle, leaving a 1cm seamallowance on the end andstarting from the bottompoint of the heart. Oncepinned in place, trim theother end of the gusset to a 1cm seam allowance.
6Stitch the gusset andruffle in place. Remove
the tacking threads. Place the
Make&DoTo create an alternative
design, why not patchworkyour heart cushion.
Heart cushions_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:39 Page 2
APPLIQUÉ IT...with hearts
HOME &INTERIORS
Join the world’s busiest online craft community today! busymitts.com l 71
SHOPFOR…
Love Notes MintThis is reminiscent of aserene meadow in spring.
Rhythmic LilacPassionate and moody, thisis ideal for a Valentine’s-inspired project.
Sweet Melody AquaA bold floral printincorporating pink, purpleand blue tones.
Corinne used prints in theSeafoam Symphonycolourway from ArtGallery Fabrics’ Poeticarange to create our heartcushions. For stockistsvisit www.hantex.com/agf
template nine times onto thereverse of lilac fabric, leavingat least a 1cm border aroundeach one. Top and tail them ifnecessary to avoid waste.
2Pin the lilac fabric facedown onto plain white
cotton and stitch around allthe hearts leaving no gap inthe outline.
3Cut out the doublelayered hearts, clip all
curves and corners before
“I have used a contrasting fabric strip as a gusset to make the heart cushion 3-D so it’s extra plush. The ruffle then gives it even more dimension”Corinne Bradd, Sew designer
snipping a 4cm wide slit inthe centre of the white layeronly. Turn the hearts outthrough this gap and press.Stuff each heart very lightlywith fibre filling to give it alittle puff.
4Cut a 45cm square offloral fabric and crease to
find the centre. Pin one heartto the middle, lilac side up.Pin the remaining heartsaround this leaving at least
a 4cm border at the edges. Oversew the hearts to the square of fabric withsmall stitches.
5From the remaining white fabric, cut two 30cm x 45cm rectangles.
Hem one long edge on each piece before pinning to the cushion front, right sides together with the hemmededges overlapping.
6Stitch around the whole cushion andturn out through the overlap. Press
and topstitch 5mm in from the edges.Insert a cushion pad through the gap.
Heart cushions_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:40 Page 3
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We speak to Sew Over It’s very own Lisa Comfort
close to the business, knowingwhat works and what people like. I enjoy developing the business intonew areas, coming up with ideasand following through on them.Everything inspires me! Fromsitting on the tube to visiting an artgallery. At the moment I’m readinga biography on Marilyn Monroe; Ilove her style and think I will have todesign something Marilyn-inspirednow! I am very lucky to enjoy whatI do so much.
BranchingoutThe business hasgrown so muchsince we started.The sewing caféwas borne out of a desire to
BUSINESS BITE
reinvigorate people’s passions,make sewing accessible to all andmost importantly, make it fun andrelevant to people’s lifestyles today.We now teach over 12 classes aweek compared to six in thebeginning, and we add at least three new ones every few monthsbased on customer feedback and emerging trends. The team has grown a lot too, and we have developed further off-shootsof the business.
Recovery time As a consequence of running myown business, I am extremely busymost of the time. But I have a greatteam behind me, which allows meto take on new opportunities andprojects whilst ensuring thebusiness continues to run smoothly.
Sew Over It has gone fromstrength to strength since itopened in 2011. So how do yourun a successful sewing café,design patterns, teach and writea book all at once? We find outhow Lisa Comfort does it all.
Lost artI started Sew Over It for a numberof reasons. I was working for bridalcouture designer, Phillipa Lepley,and teaching sewing on the side.I quickly realised that I wasenjoying the teaching more thanmy primary job. I also worried thatsewing was in danger of becominga lost art, as it’s omitted from theschool curriculum, and high streetstores offer clothing so cheaplythat the impetus to create your ownis lost. I’d always known that Iwanted to start my own businessone day, so I decided to open asewing café!
Living the dreamOne of my favourite things aboutwhat I do is designing the classes.I also really enjoy the teaching; it’sso rewarding and I love meeting thecustomers and finding out whatthey are sewing. It helps to keep me
“The sewing café was borne out of a desire to reinvigoratepeople’s passions, and make sewing accessible, fun and
relevant to people’s lifestyles today”
Coming next month:
Gordana’sHouse ofSewing
Lisa’s Advice● Make sure you are ready tospend most of your day notdoing sewing-related things.I spend 75% of my timedoing business tasks such aswebsite maintenance andaccounts.● Word of mouth is often thebest promotion, so makesure customers leave happy!● Work out your strengthsand weaknesses early on andenlist help for the latter. Youcan’t be good at everything,so don’t try.
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For more information, visit www.sewoverit.co.uk
A lot’s happened over the years. I’mvery proud of my book, Sew Over It(£15, Ebury Press), and getting thecontract with Selfridges wasamazing. I just need to find a way ofgetting a few more hours in the day!
Business bite_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:16 Page 2
sewmag.co.uk l 75
HOME &INTERIORS
MakeyourselfReinvent your living space with our
selection of home update ideas
Nothing quite beats the feeling of sprucing up a room
in your home; you find yourself wandering in there
just to have another look around. But it’s not
practical to overhaul your living room or kitchen every
month. Instead, why not provide your abode with subtle
updates? Turn the page for an abundance of ideas, which are
quick and purse-friendly all at once. We also share Sew
reader tips on what you like to do to reinvent a room, and
catch up with DIY SOS designer Gabrielle Blackman who
shares her story and update inspiration.
AT HOME
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Rejuvenate withpretty patchwork
We adore these patchwork curtainsfrom Woolworths, which willcompletely revamp a room. Why notgive it a go yourself with a selectionof ditsy prints?
Sunshine Rose blue gingham£3.50 per fat quarter,www.thehomemakery.co.uk
Make your own lampshadeCustomising a tired-looking lampshade isanother great way to add a lease of life to aroom, especially if you can match the fabric to a set of cushions, blinds or similar. Visitwww.needcraft.co.uk for a variety ofdifferent lampshade making kits: choose fromsmall 20cm versions up to supersized 70cmstyles, then decide on a shape from the moderndrum to the classic candle design. They’re sogood, in fact, that the wonderful Cath Kidstonhosts regular lampshade making workshopsnationwide using these very kits!
IDEASNotebookFrom stitching to dyeing, fauxupholstering and more, there
really is something for everyone...
Dabble indip-dyeing
Interior stylist Emma Morton-Turnerteamed up with Dylon to create thisvisually stunning bed cover set. Whydon’t you give it a go? It couldn’t beeasier, and you’ll end up with acomplete transformation. Visitwww.emmamt.com for inspiration.
Dylon machine dye in Navy Blue£6.06, visitwww.dylon.co.uk
DYE IT...Hanky Panky£3 per fat quarter, www.moresewing.co.uk
MAKE IT...
CATHKIDSTON
APPROVED!
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Free Spirit Tanya Whelan Sweetie Rose Pink£3.25 per fat quarter, www.fabric8e.com
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OVERTO YOU
We askedyou for
your homeupdate advice on Facebook
Carole Johnson Prettyduvet covers make cheap andstylish matching curtains, andare economical because thetwo sides of the duvet makethe pair. A headboard can alsobe made by covering a cheaprectangle of foam with fabricand applying tab tops – thenhang behind the bed on a
Pull up a chairIf your kitchen chairs are lookinga little tired but you don’t wantthe expense of buying a wholenew set, then freshen them upwith fabric to offer a new lease of life. We show you how with apretty Laura Ashley print and ricrac at www.sewmag.co.uk– go and check it out!
STITCH IT...Wallace Natural/MultiDual Purpose Fabric£22.40 per metre,www.lauraashley.com
Create an original time pieceThis one-of-a-kind design will get everyone talking. Why not place this clock embroidery hoop in your study?
1Cut four 15cm squares offabric and join together to
make a large patchwork square.Iron heavyweight interfacingonto the back and stretch into anembroidery hoop. Snip througha few of the stitches in thecentre of the patchwork to make a small hole.
2Trim thick card to fit intothe recess at the back of the
hoop. Make a hole in the middlefor the spindle of a clockmovement to fit through.
essentialsFabric, coordinatingpatterns, fourInterfacing, fusible,heavyweightEmbroidery hoop, 20cmCard, thickClock movementWooden numbersTape, double-sided
Stick to the back of the fabricusing double-sided tape.
3Place the clock movement atthe back of the hoop and push
the spindle through to the front.Screw the washers and hands into place, following themanufacturer’s instructions.
4Glue wooden numberstogether in layers of two
or three. Fix to the clock face,positioning them over the seamsin the fabric to mark the fourquarters of an hour.
Have you ever been in a room that is pink in colour everywhere youlook, or doused in luminous green? It’s not pleasant. You don’t have tomake everything match in an extreme way; simply work a toningpalette of colours or type of fabric throughout a room in your homefor a more cohesive look.
curtain pole to match yourwindow drapes.
Becky Little Update oldcushion covers by addingribbons or tassels. Thepossibilities are endless!
Sam Cragg Recycle,recycle, recycle! I lovereusing denim to make
cushions, bunting and more.It’s a great medium to workwith, and is easy to bleach anddye too. You can find somegreat pieces in charity shops.
Louise Horler Makeyour own lampshades. Youcan buy kits and the smallones only use half a metre offabric or wallpaper.
Pamela Benn Use Freegleor Freecycle. I’ve got my handson rolls of fabric from peopleand colleges getting rid of old stock, and have made allsorts including some reallylovely quilts.
Visit us at www.facebook.com/sewhq to share your ideas!
Coordinate your prints
Wall art can make astriking focal point. To
create, simply cut fabricto size and staple to a
blank canvas!
FIND CLOCK PARTS AT
WWW.FREDALDOUS.CO.UK
DISCOVERMOREHoop-la by Kirsty Neale (£14.99, David and Charles) is chock- full ofembroidery hoop ideas.
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HOME &INTERIORS
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“I’ve always been interiors-obsessed,” explains GabrielleBlackman. “Growing up in a B&B run by my mother, I wasalways helping her to dress rooms for guests and movingfurniture around. I was also very lucky that my parentsgave me a lot of confidence early on, allowing me todecorate my own room – I was ripping up carpets andpainting floorboards at the age of 12. Looking back, thatreally was incredibly brave – or bonkers – of them, but itseemed quite normal at the time.
“Later on I trained as an artist, but it felt toointrospective and isolated for me. I wanted a career whereI could apply my artistic abilities, so interior designseemed the natural choice. I was very lucky to start mycareer working for some truly inspirational and talentedwomen: the iconic Mary Fox Linton who designed theaward-winning One Aldwych hotel in London, as well as luxury interior designer Nina Campbell.
“I’m inspired by art and photography. I also lovemuseums and country houses – I’m constantly draggingmy family around National Trust properties, flea marketsand exhibitions. That’s why my personal style is all about curating and blending. I have lots of cabinets full of objects that are special to me. I love groupingpaintings and photographs that tell a story, and use a lot of vintage furniture. I always draw from differentsources and never dress a house from just one shop;cookie cutter design is something I despise, so I strive to create interiors with personality.”
Gabrielle Blackman, aninterior designer on theBBC’s DIY SOS andChannel 5’s CowboyBuilders, believes increating beautiful and
functional interiors for everyone
Revamp Your BedroomON A BUDGETGabrielle shares how you can dress a bedroom veryeasily with a little sewing and some clever tweaks● Make a simple headboardcover. Cut a piece of fabric bigenough to cover both sides andthe depth of your headboard,allowing for a decent hem on all sides. Press and hem all foursides. Drape over the headboard.Trim six 30cm lengths ofgrosgrain ribbon in a punchycolour. Create ribbon ties andpin them in place, equallyspaced apart on either side of your headboard. Fix Velcro to the back of the headboard and cover to prevent the cover moving.● Create contrast layering.I often use plain sheets in goodcolours as throws layered withmore expensive blankets, but I
enjoy incorporating pattern witha basic throw too. Cut fabric tothe size required and line it withsomething interesting liketicking stripe or a strong shade.● Quick-make cushions.Envelope covers are ideal forpillows or cushions on your bed.Create them from three clashingpatterns for fun – use one printfor the front of the cover and twooverlapping fabrics for theenvelope back.
Visit www.gabrielleblackman.com for moreinterior design inspiration, and catch the new series ofCowboy Builders on Channel 5this spring.
DESIGNERspotlight
Layer exciting prints with plain white cotton
Many of her designshave a vintage touch
Gabrielle enjoys creatingcolourful rooms for children
Home feature_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:29 Page 4
sewmag.co.uk l 79
Funky Felt Supplies - Handmade with Love
Check out our NEW range of Felt Gadget Cases and 2-Tone Felt!
Great Range of Felt-based Sewing &Craft Supplies!
Felt Beads, Balls and String - great for making funky jewelleryFelt & Crocheted Flowers, Felt Shapes, 100% Wool Felt
Sheets Remnant Silk Sari Ribbon, Spotty, Striped, Grosgrainand Embroidered Ribbon, Ric-Rac and lots of bias binding.Huge selection of Buttons including spotty, flower shaped,
hearts, squares and lots of giant buttons.Plus: Jewellery findings, Needle felting supplies, Needle FeltingKits, Wool Roving, Felt Purses and Gadget Cases, Jingle Bells,
DMC Soft Cotton Thread, Glues...and much more!Come and see us on Stand M13 at
The Knitting & Stitching Show, London - 10-13 October
THE ONE-STOP PATCHWORK AND QUILTINGSHOP FOR ALL QUILTERS.
WITH AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF FABRICS, BOOKS, PATTERNS AND NOTIONS.
Regular Workshops, Authorised Brother & Husqvarna Sewing Machine Dealers, AuthorisedHorn Furniture Specialists. Shop Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am-4pm.
www.thefatquarters.co.ukTel: 01207 565728
We are the main Art Gallery Fabric Stockist. Also available ModaVin du Jour, English Diary Sweet Serenade and Tanya WhelanFabrics. We stock an extensive range of Patterns, Books, Kits
Waddings and Extra Wide Fabrics.
5 Chopwell Road, Blackhall Mill, Newcastle upon Tyne NE17 7TN
Oilcloth, Fabric &
Vintage Textiles
NorfolkTextiles
A fine Selection of oilcloths available please visit ourextensive website or call us to discuss your requirements
www.norfolktextiles.co.uk - Tel: 01263 768237
079_Layout 1 19/12/2013 12:04 Page 2
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ONLINE
80 l sewmag.co.uk
Make daily tasksa doddlewith Debbie Shore’s
pocketapron
This useful apron will keep yourgardening tools in order and leave your
hands free for tending the plants, plus it caneasily be adapted for the painter, cleaner and
certainly the stitcher! This design has beenmade with a variety of feminine prints, bias
binding and tape – it's so simple, and willdefinitely come in handy.
Pocket Apron_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:21 Page 2
MAKE IT...with practical
oilcloth
essentialsFabric, cotton or oilcloth,two prints: 23cm x 46cm;15cm x 46cmInterfacing, fusible(optional)Bias binding, 190cmRibbon tape, 140cmFabric pen, disappearing
DIMENSIONS:23cm x 46cm
stitch an apron1Cut 23cm x 46cm from
printed fabric for theapron, then 15cm x 46cm from a coordinating print for the pocket. If you're using a lightweight cotton fabric,back it with interfacing to add weight.
2Sew bias binding acrossthe top of the 46cm length
of pocket. Divide the pocketinto four equal sections: fold it
SHOPFOR...
Floral oilclothCreate your apron withthe English Rose Sageoilcloth from NorfolkTextiles for a hard-wearingyet pretty alternative.Priced £13 per metre,shop.norfolktextiles.co.uk
so the stitches will be concealed under the biastape. Topstitch the individual pockets along themarked lines.
5Curve the bottom two corners to makebinding easier, then sew bias binding around
three sides of the apron, excluding the top.
6Fold 140cm of ribbon tape in half widthwaysand mark the centre point with a pin. Lay it
across the top of the apron, aligning this pointwith the centre top of the apron. Pin in place.
7Make sure the top edge of the ribbon isaligned with the top of the apron and sew
along the top of the ribbon to attach it. Sew across the bottom to secure it.
HOME &INTERIORS
Red ribbonUse this polka dot ribbonfor the ties in your design.Priced £1 for two metres,www.craftyribbons.com,01258 455889.
Strawberry printWe think this good-enough-to-eatdesign is an ideal choicefor a whimsical look.Priced £13 per metre,www.fabricinspirations.co.uk
in half and mark the fold linewith a disappearing fabric pen, then fold again and markthe quarters.
3Place the pocket, right sideup, across the lower part of
the apron piece and pin theedges together. If the pocket isslightly larger than the apron,cut off the excess fabric sothey are exactly the same size.
4Sew down both sides andacross the bottom of the
pocket, quite close to the edge
For more thriftymakes, read Half Yard Heaven byDebbie Shore (£9.99, Search Press).
READMORE
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Pocket Apron_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:22 Page 3
82 l sewmag.co.uk
sew an ovalcushion1Download the templates
from www.sewmag.co.ukand print out. Use folded paperto draw two full oval shapes:one outer, one inner. Use theouter oval template to cut twoshapes from blue Polka dotfabric, adding a 1cm seamallowance. Use the inner ovaltemplate to cut one piece fromShamrock material.
2Iron fusible webbing ontothe wrong side of the inner
oval. Neaten the edges with zigzag or overlock stitch. Pin it tothe centre of the outer cushionwith pom pom ribbon over theedge; topstitch to secure theminto place.
3Lay the front and back ofthe cushion wrong sides
facing and stitch together witha 1cm seam allowance, leaving10cm open for turning. Turnout and stuff loosely. Sew thegap closed.
4Unfold bias binding andpin it right sides facing on
the outer edges of the oval.Stitch securely along thecrease all the way around.Then fold the binding over tothe other side, enclosing thecushion edge, pin and sew. Pin bobbin lace over the seamand stitch in place.
5Cover a button with teapotfabric according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.Fold strips of net lace in halflengthways, gather the openedges with hand stitches anddraw them tightly together.Knot the threads. Stitch the net lace in the centre of the
essentialsFabric: Ring a Roses byGütermann, Summer Loftrange, Polka dot, blue,40cm; Shamrock, pink andgreen, 20cm; Teapot, blue,scrap; netting, light blue,12cm x 40cmThread, sew-all,coordinatingBias binding, pink, 130cmLace, bobbin, light green,1cm wide, 130cmTrim, pom pom, jade green, 80cmButton: cover, 4cm; small, shirtFibre fillingFusible webbing
DIMENSIONS:36cm x 48cm
Use pretty pastelprints to make these
These coordinating cushions innostalgic prints are ideal for piling
onto a comfy sofa to sink into with agood book or your latest sewing project.
Made using Gütermann’s Ring aRoses Summer Loft range of 100%
cotton fabrics, the geometric andfloral designs in spring-fresh pastels
are sure to lift any room.
vintagecushions
DownloadTEMPLATE
ONLINE
Oval cushion
Knotted cushion
Rose cushion
ring a roses cushions_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:30 Page 2
Make&DoMake more cushions fromcoordinating fabrics using
an assortment of trims such as velvet ribbon
and cotton cord.
HOME &INTERIORS
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cushion by hand. Place thecovered button on top in thecentre, and sew it securely inplace with a small button as astay button on the back of thecushion, through all the layers.
essentialsFabric: Ring a Roses byGütermann, Summer Loftrange, Ornament, blue,40cm; Teapot, blue, 30cm;Meander, green, 70cmThread, sew-all,coordinatingRibbon, satin, light green,5mm wide, 150cmLace, bobbin, pale pink,1.5cm wide, 120cmInterfacing, fusible, 30cm x 90cmCushion pad, 30cm square
DIMENSIONS:50cm square
make a knottedcushion1For the cushion front, cut a
37cm square from blueOrnament fabric. Cut two 31cmx 37cm pieces for the back. Cuta 27cm square from blueTeapot fabric and iron fusibleinterfacing to the reverse.Neaten the edges with overlockor zig zag stitch. Topstitch theoutlines of the teapots withstraight stitch. Pin the piecewith the teapots centrally onthe cushion front and sew all around, 5mm from the edge.
2Lay pale pink lace alongthe edge of the teapot
centrepiece and pin so that ithides the edge beneath. Placethe lace in small folds at thecorners. Pin satin ribbon overthe top of the lace edge,starting from the lower rightcorner, leaving the endsprojecting an equal distance.Make sure the corners slant byfolding the ribbon at a 45o
angle around the corner.Secure the satin ribbon andlace with a topstitch. Tie thesatin ribbon in a bow, cuttingoff the ends to equal lengths.
3On each long edge of thecushion backs, press a 1cm
hem and stitch down close tothe edge. Pin the back piecesright side facing to the front
RoseRose is a kitsch floralprint on a ditsy polka dotbackground.
SHOPFOR...
with raw edges aligned. Stitchall around with a 1cm seam,allowance. Press, then turn thecushion to the right sidethrough the closure. Ease theedges into shape and press.
4For the ties, cut four 18cmx 92cm strips from green
Meander fabric. Fold them inhalf lengthways, right sidestogether, and mark a 45o angle at each end. Stitchthe ties starting from thecentre of the long edges leavinga 6cm gap for turning. Trimseam allowances and clip thecorners. Press and turn out.
5Pin the ties 5mm from theouter edges of the cushion
from corner to corner and tack,leaving the ends projecting atequal lengths. Stitch on theright side, at the same timesewing the turning gap closed.Loosely knot the ties at the corners.
essentialsFabric: Ring a Roses byGütermann, Summer Loftrange, Rose, pink and white,55cm; Ornament, green,55cmThread, sew-all,coordinatingBias binding, pale pink,110cmLace, bobbin, pale pink,
ShamrockMix it up with Shamrock,a geometric repeatavailable in threecolourways.
FlowerKeep it simple withFlower, a circular design reminiscent of daisy heads.
These lovely cushions aremade using Gütermann’sRing a Roses Summer Loftrange. For stockists [email protected] or call01453 883581.
1cm wide, 110cmFibre filling
DIMENSIONS:50cm square
create a rose cushion1For the outer cushion cut 52cm x 104cm of
Rose fabric. From green Ornament fabric, cut52cm x 102cm for the inner. Cut four ties eachmeasuring 6cm x 42cm. Fold the ties in halflengthways right sides facing and stitch 1cmalong the long edge, sewing one end to taper at anangle. Trim the seam allowances and clip thecorners at an angle. Turn out and press.
2Pin the ties onto the right side of the cushionouter short edges, 16cm down from the
corners. Unfold bias binding and pin it right sidedown over the ties and stitch in the fold alongthe seam line. Then lay the bias binding, withthe seam allowance folded in, around the edgeand pin. Iron, then stitch on the right side closeto the edge.
3Fold the short sides with the bias binding to a width of 3.5cm on the wrong side and
press. Slide bobbin lace beneath the ironed edge and stitch securing the lace and the ties to the fold.
4Fold the cushion cover in half right sidestogether and stitch 1cm from the side edges.
Turn out and press. Next, fold the inner cushionpiece in half widthways with right sidestogether, stitch all around 1cm from the edges,leaving a 10cm gap for turning. Press and turnout. Stuff with fibre filling and sew the gapclosed. Place the cushion in the cover and secure the ties.
MAKE IT...with floral
prints
ring a roses cushions_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:31 Page 3
JANUARY SALETRY SOMETHING NEW TODAY
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Show off yourembroidery skills
with Lillie Cockrell’s
Add a quirky touch to your sofa with thisadorable feline cushion. Decorated
with an array of embroidery stitches, this isa great opportunity to practise and
experiment with stitching. Thiscushion is easy to make and the difficultyof the embroidery design is up to you,
so you can make it as simple orintricate as you like.
cat plush
Cat cushion_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:35 Page 1
Sea shellsUse shell buttons to createthe glinting effect of a cat’seye. Try yellow or orangefor a realistic look, orpiercing blue for a prettykitty. Priced 15p each,www.totallybuttons.com,01403 598014.
in different colours, followingthe triangular shape.
3Using the remaining linesof the design as guidelines,
experiment with your choiceof colours to add decorativedetail to the cat including atail. Use the photograph as aguide: all the stitches used arevariants of running stitch,sewn in straight lines, curves,circles, spirals and zig zags,with straight stitchesradiating out from some of the circles. Then sew twobuttons in place as eyes.
4When the embroidery isfinished, remove from
the hoop and press the worklightly on the reverse. Then pinit, wrong side up, to anotherpiece of the same fabric andcut out, going through boththicknesses, 1.5cm outside therunning stitch outline.
5Stitch the two piecestogether with a 1.2cm
seam, leaving a gap of 5cm inone of the straight sides forturning. Snip into the seamallowance on all the curvededges, taking care not to cutthrough the stitching, thenturn right side out. Fill thecushion with stuffing, thenturn in the seam allowance on the open edges and sewclosed using slip stitch.
WHATTO BUY...
Embroidery threadExperiment with differentcolours to make yourembroidery interestingand dynamic. Use strong,good quality thread toensure a pleasing finish.Priced 68p per skein,www.willowfabrics.com,0800 056 7811.
Rough redLillie has used a grey,wool fabric. For acolourful alternative, whynot try this red byBasicgrey for Moda.Priced £12.40 per metre,www.thefabricloft.co.uk,07791 639896.
essentialsFabric, wool, grey, 40cm x 60cmNeedle, embroidery; sewingThread, embroidery,assorted coloursEmbroidery hoopFibre fillingButtons, two
DIMENSIONS:20cm x 31cm
86 l sewmag.co.uk
make a cat plush1Go to www.sewmag
.co.uk, download thetemplate and print out.Transfer to a piece of fabricmeasuring at least 20cm x 30cm, and place in anembroidery hoop. Using twostrands of embroidery threadthroughout and working awayfrom the edge, begin by sewingaround the whole outline of thecat in running stitch, usingorange thread.
2Continue with the face,outlining the lower edge
in running stitch, using orangethread, then fill in thetriangular nose in satin stitch,using black. Use back stitch forthe whiskers and mouth, andwork French knots for the dots,also in black. Fill in the earcentres in satin stitch, usingyellow, then outline these withseveral rows of running stitch
Create a whole menagerieof friends for your littlecat with these cuties.
STITCH IT...with colourful
embroidery
On the high street
Sleeping foxcushion, £15.99,www.cloth-ears.co.uk
Plum & AshbyBertie cushion, £25,
www.cotswoldtrading.com
Monochrome owlcushion, £14.99,www.oakroomshop.co.uk
Organic blue whale stuffie, £10,www.verynicethings.co.uk
Cat cushion_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:35 Page 2
SEW KIDS
DownloadTEMPLATES
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Make your little one smile with Ellen Kharade’s
This eye-catching bag would make agreat birthday gift for any little girl. It’s
practical and pretty, made from sturdycorduroy fabric with handy side pockets,
and decorated with ric rac and yo yo flowers.The bag is lined in cute pink and white
gingham and the black handles give it asophisticated look. It has been designed in
an attractive basket shape with a roundbottom so it can hold a host of goodies.
yo yo bag
essentialsFabric: corduroy, red,50cm x 65cm; pink, 15cmsquare; gingham, pink andwhite, 50cm x 65cm;cotton, red, 30cm square;cotton, assorted red and pink prints, 15cmsquare, sevenFelt, pink, scrapsButtons, vintage, white,assorted sizes, sevenRic rac, assorted shades ofpink, 20cm of eachRibbon, pink, 26cmBag handles, black, acrylicFusible webbingClover yo yo maker, extra large
DIMENSIONS:25cm x 30cm
Yo yo bag Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:27 Page 1
88 l sewmag.co.uk
stitch a yo yo bag
1Go to www.sewmag.co.uk,download the templates
and print out. Create seven yo yos from assorted red andpink prints, and put to one side.Cut the front, back and baseshapes from red corduroyfabric. Then cut out two backs and one base shape from pink and white ginghamfor the lining.
2At one angled edge on thetop of the bag front, turn
over a 1cm hem and machinestitch. Pin pink ribbon trimacross the angled edge and sewinto place, trimming the ends
of the ribbon to size. Cut outtwo triangular shapes using thetemplate, one from pinkcorduroy and one from redcotton. With right sides facing,attach the two together bypinning the long edges togetherand machine stitching intoplace, so you end up with arough square shape. Cut out a piece of red cotton the samesize. With wrong sides facing,pin the two pieces together and machine stitch around the outer edges to hold thefabrics together and create the pocket piece.
SHOPFOR...
Yo-yo makerUsing a yo yo maker meansthat this make is quick andeasy. They come in a rangeof sizes so you can makebig or small ones. Ellen usedthe extra large model fromClover. Priced £4.30,www.quiltdirect.co.uk,01822 810877.
Bag handlesKeep your bag sturdy andpractical with stronghandles. These shiny blackones add a sophisticatedtouch. Priced £4.85,www.bag-clasps.co.uk,01253 590188.
Make your own... yo yos
3Place the pocket piece behind one anglededge on the front of the bag, aligning it with
the top and sides of the bag and pin into place.Measure 1cm in from the ribbon trim at the topand the side of the bag. Go vertically down fromthe top point and horizontally from the sidepoint until these lines meet. You should havecreated a right angle. Mark this on the bag witha fabric pen or pencil, then topstitch the rightangle incorporating the pocket piece beneath asyou sew. Make and insert the other pocket piecein the same way.
4Arrange the yo yos across the bag as shown.Place and pin ric rac beneath to make
flower stems, trimming it to size. Move the yo yos to one side and machine stitch the ric racinto place. Iron fusible webbing onto a scrap ofpink felt and cut out four leaf shapes. Positionthe leaves on the front of the bag and press tosecure, then machine stitch around them using coordinating thread. Put the yo yos back in place, pin and hand sew with small slip stitches around each one. Sew whitebuttons to the centre of each.
5With right sides facing, pin the sides of thefront and back pieces together and machine
stitch into place. Pin the base of the bag in placeand machine stitch. Press all seams open.Repeat with the lining pieces, making sure thatit fits well. Press all seams open. Press down a2cm hem at the open edge of the bag and thelining and put to one side.
6To make the handle tabs cut a 3.5cm x 32cm strip of red corduroy fabric. Fold and press
down 1cm on both long sides and then fold in the middle for the sides to meet. Pin andmachine stitch up the length. Cut this into four8cm sections. Thread the tabs through baghandles and pin to the top of the bag andmachine stitch into place. Push the lining into the bag, matching up the side seams as you do so and pin, then hand sew the lining into the bag using neat whip stitches.
Find this and other handy tutorials atwww.georginagiles.co.uk. Check out Georgina’s onlineshop at www.etsy.com/shop/georginagiles
1Draw circlesonto the wrong
side of a piece offabric, using atemplate such as aglass. Note thatthe finished yo yowill be roughlyhalf the size of thecircle. Cut out.
2Sew a runningstitch around
the edge of thecircle usingcoordinatingthread.
3When youreach the start
of your stitches,pull on the threadto gather thecircle. Continueuntil the edges of the circle meetone another in the middle.
4Adjust the yo yo so that
it lies flat and thefabric is evenlydistributed aroundthe circle. Onceyou are happywith the overallshape, work a fewstitches across themiddle, from oneside of the fabricto the other, sothat the shapestays put.
5Stitch a buttoninto place in the
middle of yourgathered circle,using the threadthat is stillattached to yourwork. This willmake your finishedyo yo both strongand neat.
Yo yo bag Qx_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:27 Page 2
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Little ones can learn and playwith Sandra Hamilton’s
Stacking rings are a classictoy for toddlers and what
little one could resist thisrosy-cheeked bunny,poking its head out of acolourful burrow? Thesedoughnut-shaped rings
are a great way of bustingyour stash using an array
of jolly fabrics.
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
babystacking
rings
baby play rings_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:21 Page 1
90 l sewmag.co.uk
sew babystacking rings1Download the templates
from www.sewmag.co.ukand print. Use them to cut outtwo of each ring from fabric
essentialsFabric, cotton: printed,25cm, four; 35cm, one;plain, yellow, 10cmInterfacing: lightweight, 1m; heavy, 25cmThread, embroideryToy stuffingCotton budBlush (for cheeks)
DIMENSIONS:22cm x 36cm
and lightweight interfacing.Tack the interfacing to thewrong sides of the rings andusing a light box or window,mark the inner circle, bothcircular lines of stitching(indicated by the dotted line),crosses and notches on the interfacing.
2Cut out the small circle in the centre of each ring,
then clip out to the stitchingline around it. Make cutsapproximately 1cm apartaround the outside of eachring, down to the stitching line.
3Cut out the inner gussetsfor each ring. Mark the
crosses. With right sidestogether, fold each gusset inhalf and sew into a ring with a1cm seam allowance. Clip bothedges approximately 1cm apartand 1cm deep. Turn right sideout. Repeat for the outergussets, marking the notches.
4With right sides facing,slide the inner gusset, into
the hole in the centre of a ring,aligning the crosses on bothsides. Pin and tack so thegusset sits evenly inside thering, then sew together usingsmall back stitches. Fold over1cm on the unsewn edge of theinner gusset and tack.
5With right sides facing, and aligning themarks and notches, pin and tack the outer
gusset to the ring. Sew all the way around. Pin,tack and sew the remaining ring to the otheredge of the outer gusset. Fold in the clippedcentre circle and tack. Turn the fabric rightside out. You should have a drum shape with achimney on top.
6Stuff the drum through the small centrehole, pushing the filling out to the sides to
create a smooth, rounded shape. When thedrum is almost completely stuffed, poke yourfinger through the centre of the filling to allowthe inner gusset to be pulled through themiddle of the drum. Pin the two tacked edgestogether, ensuring the inner gusset is nottwisted, and slip stitch closed. Repeat for theother rings.
“These rings may seem a bit tricky at first, so you maywant to have a practice go. If your toddler prefers adifferent animal topper, this head is fairly adaptable - just change the ears!”Sandra Hamilton, Sew designer
baby play rings_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:22 Page 2
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Cute fabricSandra used a range of colourful cottons to makeour rings. Kids are sure tolove this Creative ThursdayFloat Away print featuringadorable bunnies andballoons, priced £2.99 per fat quarter,www.seamstar.co.uk, 01829 770733.
SHOPFOR...
Why not add extraembellishmentsby sewingloops of ribboninto the seamsof the rings?H
OT
TIP
make a base7Cut out the pole template
from collar stiffening fabricor heavyweight interfacing, andprinted cotton fabric. Fold thefabric over the top and sides ofthe interfacing, smooth, pinand sew 1cm from the edge.Fold the edge of the fabriccovered interfacing over toform a narrow cone and whipstitch in place. Sew the top shutand stuff well. Fold the fabric atthe bottom of the pole under1cm, then make long stitches to gather. Pull tight and stitch
closed. If desired, sew the poleto the largest ring to create a base.
create a bunny topper8Cut out the pieces for the
bunny’s head using thetemplates provided. Centre theinner ear pieces on the rightsides of the ears, then sew inplace using zig zag orbuttonhole stitch. With rightsides facing, sew around the earpieces leaving the bottom plus2cm open, and turn right side
MAKE IT...in fun prints
out. Fold the edges at thebottom of the ears over eachother and stitch down.
9With right sides facing, pinthe curved edges of the
back of the bunny’s headtogether, and stitch. With rightsides facing, pin the gussetfrom the tip of the nose to thetop of the face on both sides,and sew. Then, pin and sew theface pieces together from thetip of the nose down to thebottom of the neck.
10Place the front of theears against the face so
that the stitches securing the fold over at thebase of the ears are above the top of the head.Place the back of the head, right side down, overthe face and ears, aligning the edges. Pin and sew.Turn the bunny head right side out, stuff, butleave a space the size of your thumb for the poleto fit snugly into the head. Fold under the neckedge by 1cm, make long stitches close to thefolded edge, pull together and stitch closed. Pushthe neck fabric up inside the bunny head.
11 Using the images as a guide, embroider atriangular shaped nose in the base of the
gusset, a smile and star spoked eyes. Using acotton bud, pick up a very small amount ofpowdered blush, and gently rub it in a circularmotion onto the bunny’s cheeks.
Alphabet printLetterpress: Mint by PattyYoung, £3 per fat quarter,www.backstitch.co.uk
baby play rings_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:22 Page 3
MORE THAN
£1,200WORTH
OF PRIZES!
giveaways
Fabric paint Colouricious is the only stockist of these fantastic fabric paints. They havea really long shelf life, they’re water-based so they won’t clog up anystamps and are easily washable, heat fixable, and are just the rightconsistency. There’s a great selection of colours and finishes on offer too.
We have three sets up for grabs for three lucky winners. Win either theRainbow, Metallic or Scrumptious version, priced at £32 each. To be inwith a chance, tick the ‘PAINT’ box. Visit www.colouricious.com or call 01494 721471 for more exciting products, as well as sewing holidays.
Enter nowfor yourchanceto win theseamazing prizes!
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Craft showThe Creative Crafts Show heads to Belfast from 10th to 12thApril offering supplies, workshops, make and takes,demonstrations and more. As well as sewing, cross stitchingand quilting, there will also be a whole host of other crafts onoffer too. We love the idea of learning how to fuse fabrics, as seen below.
There are 10 pairs of tickets on offer, worth £16 per pair. To enter, tick ‘CRAFT’. To find out more about the Creative Craft Shows taking place across the UK, visit www.sccshows.co.uk or call 01822 614671.
PAINT YOUR OWN
FABRIC
Stitch itRunning from 28th February to 2nd March, Knit & Stitch It isnot to be missed. Needle crafters can enjoy a dedicatedexhibition showcasing all aspects of needlecraft,stitch craft and wool craft all under one roof inFarnborough, Hampshire.
We have five pairs of tickets to give away,worth £24 for the pair. To win, tick the ‘STITCH’box. Visit www.knitandstitch-it.org.uk to seewho’s exhibiting.
STITCHINGEXHIBITION
Polymer clayFIMO Classic workshop boxescontain everything you need tomaster one of six differentpolymer clay techniques. They include four blocks ofFIMO Classic; the oven-hardening polymer claypreferred by professional andadvanced users. Just follow the instructions to master anadvanced modelling techniqueand create a lasting work of art.There are six boxes in the series – Kaleidoscope, Paisley, Blending,Millefiori, Mokume Nendo and Geometrics.
We have 10 boxes to give away to 10 winners, worth £11.95each. To enter, tick the ‘FIMO’box. For more details about theFIMO range and to find yournearest stockist, visit www.staedtler.com,01656 778668.
BELFASTEXHIBITION
TRYSOMETHING
NEW
Giveaways Feb_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:11 Page 2
Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Other................................................................................
Name.....................................................................................................................
Address................................................................................................................
................................................................Postcode.............................................
Daytime telephone........................................................................................
Mobile number.................................................................................................
Email................................................................Date of birth.......................
To enter our giveaways, just tick the boxthat corresponds with the prizes you wantto win and send your entry to us, to arriveno later than 14.02.2014. Mark yourenvelope: Sew February Giveaways, PO Box 443, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8WG.
What appealed to you most in this month’s Sew?The FREE pattern The Simplicity offer The Home sectionOther ...............................................................................................................
What would you like to see more of in Sew?Dressmaking Fashion Home accessoriesGift ideas Children’s makes Novelty ideasOther ...............................................................................................................
This competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over, excluding employees or agents of theassociated companies and their families. One entry per person. The prizes detailed in each competitioncannot be exchanged for goods, or towards the purchase of goods at any retail outlet. Entries must beon the coupon provided. It cannot be exchanged for cash, or replaced if lost or damaged. Illegibleentries and those that do not abide by these terms and conditions will be disqualified. Prizes must betaken as stated and cannot be deferred. The decision of the judge is final and no correspondence willbe entered into. CLOSING DATE 14.02.2014 Winners will be notified after the cover dated month, a listof winners will be available in writing on request from Andrea Turner, 21/23 Phoenix Court, HawkinsRoad, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY.
Data ProtectionYour details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Sew) in full accordancewith data protection legislation. All entries become the property of Aceville Publications Ltd,publishers of Sew. Aceville Publications Ltd and sister companies may wish to contact you withinformation of other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick hereif you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post Phone Email SMS . From timeto time Aceville Publications Limited will share details with other reputable companies who provideproducts and services that may be of interest to you. Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receivesuch information by Post Phone Email SMS .
Only one entry per household please.
just tickthe boxes!
CRAFT PAINT STITCH
l Extra needle penetration power
l Jam-proof drop-in bobbin system
l Stop/start button – no need to use foot control
l Seven-piece feed dogs for superb fabric control
l Stitch elongation up to five times standard
l Feed dogs drop for free motion sewing
l Dual measurements on needle plate
l Three storage areas
sewmag.co.uk l 93
!
Powerful machineThe Elna 660EX is a fantastic sewing machine for quilts or accessories for the home, as well as everyday projects. Designed with ease of use in mind, this model is just great for those biggerprojects because it’s supplied with an ergonomically-shaped extension table, which lets thefabric flow freely when sewing. Featuring 200 stitches including 12 styles for automatic one-step buttonholes, this machine allows you to truly personalise your sewing style.
We have one Elna 660EX to give away, worth £749. To win, tick the ‘ELNA’ box below. For more details, visit www.elna.com or call 0161 666 6011.
FIMO ELNA
WORTH£749!
Giveaways Feb_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:11 Page 3
94 l sewmag.co.uk
PLUS…
COMING NEXT MONTH IN…
Simplicity toy pattern,The Great British
Sewing Bee pencil skirtdownload, plus homeand style updates for
you and the family
LimitedEditionDownload!
Stitch apencilskirtMake up in tweed
Upholstera cat bed
Embellishcute pumps
Stitch prettybathroom storage
FREE! The Great British
Sewing Bee Pencil Skirt Pattern
CNM_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:38 Page 1
CREATECUTE
WOODLANDANIMALS
sewmag.co.uk l 95
Con
tent
s su
bjec
t to
chan
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Why not take up a trial of Sew with 3 issues for just £6!*
Go to www.sewmag.co.uk/SEW14T
YOURFREE
PATTERN!
Raccoon & Deer
Fox
Owl
Bunny
March issue ofSew on sale 14th February
NEXTMONTH...
FREE
PATTERN!
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With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’simportant to find the perfect, thoughtful gift. A
piece of stitching you’ve put your heart and soulinto is the ideal solution and will be treasured byyour loved one for years to come. We’ve also included
some inspirational messages, which would begreat hanging on the wall as a daily reminder to
smile and be happy.
Collect&KeepCross Stitch
Library
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
Cross stitch_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:39 Page 1
sewkids
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turn
APPLIQUÉ: A decorativetechnique with one piece of fabric stitched on top of another.BACK STITCH: A handstitch made by inserting the needle at the mid-pointof a preceeding stitch sothat the stitches overlap by half lengths. A strongstitch used for outlining and seams.BACK TACK: Set themachine to reverse andwork back over a couple of stitches to secure.BIAS BINDING: Narrowstrips of fabric cut on thebias and used to create neat finishes to hems and edgings.
BOBBIN: Removable spoolunderneath the needle plateon a sewing machine wherethe lower thread is wound.DART: A tapered fold usedto give garments shapearound the body’s contours.GRAIN: The lengthways andcrossways directions of thethreads in a fabric.HEM & SEAMALLOWANCE: Amount offabric allowed for turning tomake a hem or seam.INTERFACING: Fabric placedbetween the main materialsto give an item structure. Itcomes in a range of weights.PLEAT: Even folds of fabricstitched to create shaping or for decoration.PRESSER FOOT: Part of the sewing machine that is lowered over thefabric to hold in place while stitching.
Stitch termsOUR HANDY GUIDE TOTHE TECHNICALASPECTS OF SEWING
Start sewing today with these basic stitches and techniques
Method oneTrace or photocopy the patternsheet onto thin layout paper ortyping paper. Turn the paper overand work over the design with atransfer pen or pencil. Position themotif on your fabric and press witha hot, dry iron (no steam) for about 10 seconds, until the designhas transferred.Method twoTrace or photocopy the motif fromthe pattern sheet onto paper (anytype). Tape the paper to a light box orwindow pane. Position the fabric rightside up on the design and tape edgesto prevent it moving, then trace thedesign onto the fabric using anerasable pen or pencil.
HOW TO... TRANSFER A MOTIF
the essentials
sewmag.co.uk l 97
RAW EDGE: The cut edgeof fabric. This can befinished with zig zagmachine stitch to prevent fraying.REVERSE STITCH: Asewing machine settingthat allows you to workback over a row of stitchesto secure.RIGHT SIDE: This is theside of the fabric that willbe on show when theproject is completed.When given theinstruction right sidesfacing, place the fabricright sides together.SELF-LINED FABRIC: Using the same material as a lining.SELVEDGE: The finishededges of woven fabrics.STAY STITCH: Straightmachine stitch worked just inside a seam allowance to strengthen it and prevent fraying.TACKING STITCH: A handsewn temporary stitch used to hold fabricstogether, or as a guide before stitching.TOPSTITCH: A machinestraight stitch used on the right side of an item.Often used in contrastingcolour for decorativeeffect.WARP: The lengthwaysthreads on woven fabrics,the edges of which form the selvedge.WEFT: The widthwaysthreads that run across thewarp on a woven fabric.WRONG SIDE: The reverseside of the fabric, which will be the inside of thecompleted garment or project.YOKE: The top section of a garment from whichthe rest of the skirt, or dress hangs.ZIG ZAG STITCH: A machine stitch used tosecure raw edges of fabricand for decoration, used in a variety of sizes.
Shopping listKeep these essential toolshandy in your sewing kit• Dressmaking shears
• Embroidery scissors
• Pins
• Various sized needles
• A selection of threads
• Tape measure
• Tailor's chalk
• Seam ripper
The Essentials_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:46 Page 1
Thread factsYou should select a thread that meets your specific sewing needs.Your fabric will have an influence on the type of thread you select. As a rule the fibre content of your thread should be thesame or similar to the fabric.● Heavyweight fabrics require a thicker thread andlightweight versions require a finer thread. Verylightweight or sheer fabrics are best sewn with a veryfine needle and an extra fine thread.● Using the correct thread thickness may helpreduce puckering, a problem frequently encounteredwhen sewing lightweight fabrics.● Don’t forget to consider the care requirements ofyour thread choice. They should be compatible with thefabric care recommendations.
1Secure the thread and workingalong the edge, bring the
needle to the surface of the fabric.
2Take the needle through fromthe back of the fabric to the
surface on the stitching line.Loop the end of the threadunder the needle and pull
through to adjust so that thestitch lies along the edge of the fabric.
3Repeat to create evenlyspaced stitches along the
fabric edge, maintain an eventension to avoid distorting the fabric.
BLANKET STITCHAlso known as buttonhole stitch, used for reinforcing theedge of thick materialsin stitches
1Secure the thread on thewrong side of the fabric and
bring the needle through to thesurface to start the first stitch.Move a stitch length backwardsalong the sewing line, take theneedle back through the fabric,then bring it to the surface atthe end position of this stitch.
2Moving back along thestitching line, take the
needle down through the samehole as the previous thread.Bring it to the surface for the end position of the stitch. Repeat along the sewing line to create even stitches.
BACK STITCHStrong hand stitches with a neat finish
Satin stitch isideal for filling
in shapes
98 l sewmag.co.uk
SLIP STITCHSmall stitches used for hemming or sewing up projects after stuffing
1Working on the fold in thefabric, secure the thread with
a double stitch. Pick up twothreads of the fabric with theneedle tip, then slip the needlethrough the fold of the hem.
2Bring the needle out 5mmalong, then pick up two
more threads of fabric beforereturning through the fold of the hem.
3Pull the thread lightly as you work to tighten the
stitches, being careful not todistort the fabric which makesthe stitches visible.
COUCHINGA decorative stitch where a thicker thread is positioned onfabric and a thinner thread is stitched over it to hold it in place
1Secure the thread at the back of the work and bring theneedle up to the surface at the start of the design. Place a
thread or cord along the sewing line and take the needle overit and down through the fabric on the other side.
2Continue making stitches over the cord to secure in placealong the length.
1Start with the secure end on thewrong side of the work. Pull the
needle through to the surface on thebase of the outline to be filled. Takethe needle to the outline on theopposite side and push the needleback throughto form a long, straight stitch.
SATIN STITCHThis decorative stitch requires parallel lines of thread to make adesign. These can be worked horizontally, vertically or at an angle
2Take the needle down next tothe end of the first stitch and
under the work, bringing it backthrough at the start of theprevious stitch, forming a parallelline of thread. Repeat this processuntil the desired area is filled.
The Essentials_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:47 Page 2
STEM STITCHDiagonal stitches that create textured outlines
CHAIN STITCHCreate chain like stitchesto add dimension to anembroidered line
1Bring the needle to the surfaceat the start of the sewing line.
Take it back down very close towhere it came up, then return itto the surface at the end positionof the first stitch.
1Working from left to right, bring theneedle up to the surface of the sewing
line to start. Take the needle down, a stitchwidth to the right. Bring it up half way
along and above the previous stitch.
2Make another stitch to the right,bringing the needle back up above
the previous stitch as before.
3Continue working in this way along the stitching
line to create a line of diagonal stitches.
sewmag.co.uk l 99
FRENCH KNOTS These are raised stitches formedinto little knots
2Ease the knot onto thesurface of the fabric, holding
it steady while pulling theneedle through to the wrongside. Stitch to secure or returnto the surface for the nextFrench knot.
1Bring the thread to the surfaceat the position for the knot.
Wrap the thread around theneedle tip twice and take theneedle back through the fabricwhere it came up.
1Secure the thread on thewrong side of the fabric, then
bring the needle through to thesurface to start the first stitch.
2Moving forward, take theneedle back down through
the fabric and then bring it upagain. Keep the distancebetween the gaps and thestitches the same size andcontinue along the stitching line.
RUNNING STITCHA simple row of stitches thatcreates a dotted line of thread
2Take the needleback down,
close to where itcame up throughthe loop and bringit back up at the end position of the next stitch.
3Continueworking along
the stitching line,repeating the stepsto create a chain oflinks. Finish bycatching the finalloop with a smallstitch to secure.
1Secure embroidery thread on the wrong sideof the fabric, then bring the needle through
to the surface. Take it back down about 1mm to2mm ahead to complete the first stitch.
2Bring the needle to the surface againthrough the centre of this stitch and come
down as before. Repeat to create an outline of stitching.
SPLIT STITCHA simple stitch used to fill shapesor emroider lines
The Essentials_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:48 Page 3
● Most commercialpatterns are printed ondressmaker’s tissue paperand have cutting marks formore than one size. Eachsize is identified by adifferent style of markingfor the cutting line. Whenonly one line is visible thisindicates that this is acommon cut line for all sizes.
● Many patterns areavailable with a series ofvariations on a garment,which allows you to selectdifferent elements to suityour style. These areindicated on the pattern,with alteration lines fordifferent lengths.
FABRICPREPARATION● It is advisable to launderthe fabric, as you wouldthe completed item,before you start cutting.This ensures that you willknow how the fabricreacts and reduces thepossibility of shrinkage inthe completed garment.● Press the fabric with aniron on a suitable setting,and lay out in a largespace ready for pinningthe pattern pieces to it.● Fabric is usually foldedselvedge to selvedge.With the material folded,the pattern is pinned tothe top. Once cut, theopened fabric will betwice the size of the paperpattern piece. If yourfabric is patterned it isadvisable to place thedesign outermost so thatyou can lay the pieces in a pleasing manner to suitthe printed motif.
PATTERNPREPARATION● In addition to startingwith your fabricslaundered and pressed, itis also advisable to pressout your paper patternpieces. You can either
choose to do this beforeyou cut the individualpieces required and iron theentire sheet as a whole, orafter they have been cut. ● Unfold the tissue paperand with an iron on itscoolest setting – taking carenot to burn the paper –gently smooth out thecreases, so that all the foldsare pressed flat.● By ironing them you willensure that the pieces lieflush with the fabrics whenpinned and will result incleaner, sharper lines whencutting. The thin tissue canbe ironed on a cool tomedium setting – if indoubt, press a blank sectionof the paper first.
PLACING PATTERN PIECES● Place the pattern on thefabric with the printedtissue side uppermost,
some pieces will need to beplaced on the fold, this isindicated on each specific part.The tissue paper used fordressmaking patterns meansthat you can see through to thedesign of the fabrics. This isessential when working withpatterned materials, allowingyou to adjust the placement ofthe pieces to ensure continuityin the motif can be achievedover joins in the garment pieces.● The ‘To fold’ symbol meansthat the piece should be placedto the folded edge of the fabricfor pinning. This will create bothsides when the cut piece isopened, for example two sides of a top will be cut at once.● The other pieces should beplaced on the fabric with thegrain arrow running parallel tothe selvedge. Measure thedistance from one end of thearrow to the parallel selvedge,repeat at the other end andmove the piece slightly until
Follow this guideto working your way around adressmaking pattern
both the measurements are thesame. Once you are happy withthe finalised placement, pincarefully in place using as manypins as is necessary to secure. ● Most patterns offer a layoutguide for the placement of thepieces onto the fabric (seebelow). This ensures that youlay out the pieces in the mostefficient manner for cutting withthe least wastage of fabric.
fold
to fold
cut on the fold
grain
selvedge
cut two
grain
grain
When you see thissymbol on a project, youwill need to log on towww.sewmag.co.ukto download and print your free patterns and templates.
DownloadTEMPLATES
ONLINE
100 l sewmag.co.uk
pattern perfection
The Essentials_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:48 Page 4
FRONT BODICE Includes 1.5cm seam allowance
and 1cm allowance for centre shaping
Cut one on fold in fabric Cut one on fold in lining
Dress A & B Top C
Cen
tre fr
ont f
old
5
BACK BODICE Includes 1.5cm seam allowance
Cut two in fabricCut two in lining
Dress A & BTop C
6 CUTTING LINESMulti-sized patternsfeature a series ofdifferent cuttinglines, one for each size.
NOTCHESThe symbols to help you accuratelymatch seams. All pieces thatrequire joining willhave correspondingnotches.
WRITTENINSTRUCTIONSThis indicates whichgarment from thevariations of designthat the patternpiece correspondsto. It also instructshow many times youneed to cut the piece from the fabric.
We demistify the markingson paper patterns
FABRIC KNOW-HOW
SELVEDGE
WARP
BIASWEFT
It is important to cut thefabric on the correct grains as this will produce finisheditems that hang in a morepleasing manner. Taking acritical look at thecomposition of the materialwill help you to ascertain thebest techniques to use.BIAS: The bias grain is thediagonal line running 45° to thewarp and the weft of the fabric.Cutting garments on the biascreates a finished piece thatfollows the contours of the body.
SELVEDGE: These are thenon-fraying, woven edges thatrun parallel to the warp grain.
WARP: These are the yarnsthat run the length of thefabric. They are stronger thanweft yarns and are less likely to stretch.
WEFT: These run over andunder the warp yarns acrossthe fabric from selvedge toselvedge. As these yarnsdouble back, they fix theweave of the selvedge.
GRAIN LINESThe doublepointed arrowindicating theplacement of thepattern piece onthe fabric. Ensurethat the line of the arrow runsparallel to thelengthwise grain of the material.
FOLD LINESThis arrowindicates theplacement of thepattern piece onthe fold of thematerial. Aligningthis to the foldmeans you willhave a finished cut piece twicethe size of thepaper patternwithout having to add in a joining seam.
DARTSWhen cut andsewn together,darts shape yourgarments to fit the curves of the body.
1Careful, smooth cuts aroundthe pattern pieces are what
you are trying to achieve. Thiswill help the pieces fit togetherwhen you are making them up.
2Always aim to cut on a flat,smooth surface, and ensure
that the scissors you are usingare sharp. Use the full blade forthe long, straight edges andwork with smaller cuts aroundthe curves.
3If you are right-handed,place your left hand on the
pattern piece and fabric to keepit secure. Holding the scissorblades at right angles to thefabric, begin cutting cleanlyaround each section.
Reverse this if you are left-handed.
4You will sometimes befaced with a pattern point
where the lines for a number ofsizes appear to merge. Whenthis happens, you should setthe outer point of the scissorblade towards the line that youwant to end on. By carefullyworking the blades shuttowards the final line you wantto achieve you will create asmooth, clean cut that relates to your size.
5Repeat for all requiredpattern pieces making sure
to take your time – it’s better togo slow than make a mistake.
Clean cutsACCURATE CUTTING MAKES OR BREAKS YOUR PROJECT – IT’S TRICKY TO PUT A WRONG CUT RIGHT. FOLLOWINGA FEW SIMPLE PRINCIPLES HELPS ENSURE THAT YOU GETOUTSTANDING RESULTS EVERY TIME
sewmag.co.uk l 101
symbolsavvy
The Essentials_Layout 1 20/12/2013 09:49 Page 5
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106 l sewmag.co.uk
Our new columnist, The Great British Sewing Bee’sLauren Guthrie, shares her tips on adjusting patterns
The great thing about makingyour own clothes is that you cancreate garments to perfectly fityour body shape. Makingadjustments to sewing patterns, oreven existing clothes, honestly isn’tas scary as it may seem. The mostimportant thing when making yourown garments is to measureyourself at the bust, waist and hips.Whatever you do, don’t just makeup the size you think you are! Peopleare different sizes in high streetshops and every pattern companywill label measurements withdifferent numbers. So it iscompletely normal for yourmeasurements not to fit just onesize; they may even span three sizes!
Some independent patterncompanies tailor their designstowards certain body shapes. Butthat doesn’t mean you can’t makethose designs if you have a differentbody shape. The style and how thegarment is constructed will affecthow easy it is to adjust the pattern.For example, if it’s a simple shiftstyle top or dress, the adaptationmay be as simple as adjusting theside seams to fit the contours ofyour body. Sometimes alterationsmay have to be more involved like asmall or large bust adjustment, butthere are lots of great tutorialsonline that really break it down. I would recommend practising onsome muslin or leftover fabric firstuntil you get the fit right.
I’ve never made a garmentwithout making some sort of
Find out more visit www.guthrie-ghani.co.uk or follow me on Twitter @guthrieghani
Lauren loves...
so perfect for a chilly winter when worn with some thick tights and boots.
If you’re not confident to gochopping up a pattern yourself, we are running several classes at Guthrie & Ghani to help you out,including drafting your ownpattern from a favourite garment,drafting a custom top and skirtblock, plus we have a one-dayalteration workshop too.
I hope you’re inspired to giveadapting a pattern a go. We’ve allmade mistakes before, so don’tworry if it doesn’t work outperfectly first time, it’s alwaysworth it in the end...
Happy Sewing!
“We’ve all made mistakes before, so don’t worryif it doesn’t work out perfectly first time”
THE BUSY BEE
Style tipI often wear a thin beltright on my waistline tobreak up a top or dressand give more definition to looser fitting clothes.
SEWCOLUMN
adjustment. My most commontweaks are shortening the length of straps, taking in the side seam atthe hips, lowering a neckline, andtaking in the waist. Just bear in mind that if you take in agarment at the waist and it runsinto the armhole, this can thenaffect how a sleeve would fit, soyou’d need to increase the size ofthe armhole.
One of my recent makes was theChloe dress by Victory Patterns.The shaping of this is veryflattering as it has bust darts aswell as vertical princess seam lines,giving the impression of height andslenderness. It has pockets – whichI love – that are hidden in the frontseam lines and an invisible zip in
the centre back seam. I made upthe size 4 (watch out as the patternis from Canada so it’s sized theNorth American way) and had totake the side seams in at the hips by a fraction, as well as shorten thelength of the dress by about 4cm.Look out for the two lines thatshow where to shorten andlengthen the pattern as you arecutting it out; it’s not always OK to just take a chunk off the bottomedge at the end as it can affect theshape of the garment. I used a darknavy wool and viscose mix fabricand lined it with regular non-staticlining. I used an embroidered tullefor the sleeves which is a contrastto the wool, but I’m so pleased withhow it turned out! It’s super cosy;
Hobby (besides sewing)I really enjoy running – I ran a marathon last yearand would love to doanother one!
Victory PatternsChloe dress
Food and drinkI love Thai food and sushi,and would never say no tocake – especially mintchoc chip.
Lauren column_Layout 1 20/12/2013 10:44 Page 2
Create and Craft_Layout 1 19/12/2013 16:48 Page 1
Go ahead… get creative!
For further information: Telephone 0161 666 6011 or visit our website www.janome.co.uk
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