The relationship between fitting and garment seamlines fascinates me. Having a seam go over an area where fitting issues occur—for example, a princess seam at the bust—enables me to fine-tune…
WOW—the World of WearableArt—was a small show of wearable art, dance, and theater, when it was launched by Dame Suzie Moncrieff in 1987, in the outskirts of Nelson, New Zealand.…
Knit garments are comfortable to wear and relatively quick to make. However, some sewers shy away from sewing with knits because of the clingy nature of lightweight or stretchy versions.…
The annual Make It With Wool (MIWW) competition is dedicated to encouraging sewing and knitting enthusiasts to explore the beauty and versatility of wool fabrics and yarns. It is sponsored…
Recent couture shows featured garments with jeweled accents. I was inspired by looks from designers such as Alexander McQueen, Chanel, and Valentino, and I decided to develop my own method…
Cashmere is made from the fine hair combed from the undercoats of cashmere goats. It is the top luxury fabric for softness, warmth without bulk, and breathability. Because it is…
Fehr Trade: Threshold Shorts These shorts are designed with a runner’s performance and comfort in mind. They feature an elastic waistband and bound hems. The side-front pockets are incorporated into…
Style Arc: Brooklyn Pant + Top Outfit On a chilly day, look to this cozy top and pants ensemble. The top, which is intended for knits, is an easy, oversized…
Burda Style 6387 Featuring dramatic details that will weather a winter day, this fully lined coat comes in two lengths. View A ends at the midcalf and has welt pockets…
DP Studio: Long Asymmetric Skirt with Ruffle Detail Le 406 This midi skirt features an asymmetrical drape and curved seam at the front with an optional flounce. It has one…
Blueprints for Sewing: Moderne 005 This thigh-length jacket was inspired by Art Moderne architecture from the 1930s and ’40s, which features horizontal and curved lines. It has a structural appearance,…
Megan Nielson Patterns: Dove and Dove Curve Blouses Designed to flatter many silhouettes, this loose-fitting, hip-length blouse is a great option for wardrobe building. It features three sleeve variations: half-sleeve,…
Deer and Doe: Magnolia D0032 There are two views to this sophisticated dress designed with a surplice neckline. The maxi-length version has a deeper front neckline. Both views have a…
Precision is something we sewers strive for, but occasionally we need a little help to achieve it. There is a tool you can make at home that ensures your stitching…
Silk tulle is extremely soft and sheer and it provides a different sewing experience from working with a woven fabric. Silk taffeta has a crisp hand, comes in a variety…
There are times when you really love a garment, and want it in another color or fabric. Or, the garment has worn out but you’re not ready to part with…
Q: Why are Princess Seams Called Princess Seams? —Emma Weber, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom A: Melissa Heischberg, an historical costume expert (Sempstress.org), traces this classic means of shaping back several…
The annual Make It With Wool (MIWW) competition is dedicated to encouraging sewing and knitting enthusiasts to explore the beauty and versatility of wool fabrics and yarns. It is sponsored…
There are two views to this sophisticated dress designed with a surplice neckline. The maxi-length version has a deeper front neckline. Both views have: a self-lined bodice front; front princess…
