In high-level sewing, you seek control of the process, from beginning to end. The correct tools make each step easier and faster as you pin, mark, cut, shape, sew, and…
This year, spring fashions veer toward loose, breezy silhouettes and oversized garments. Blazers with strong shoulders are carried over from fall in a fresh range of colors and fabrics. Layered…
Lining a jacket creates a beautiful interior finish and prolongs the garment’s life by preserving its original shape. Lined pieces slip over other garments more easily, cling less, and can…
No matter how close your measurements are to those listed on a pattern’s size chart, you are likely to need some fit adjustments for comfort and appearance. With pants, a…
If you were stranded on a desert island with only one fabric to sew, it should be ponte knit. It’s not your grandmother’s polyester double-knit—the stuff of 1970s leisure suits—but…
I like to add tack buttons, also sold as no-sew jeans buttons, to garments, especially children’s coveralls. However, I found it difficult to hammer the tack into the cap without…
From superheroes such as DC’s Aquaman and Marvel’s Doctor Strange to warriors like Moana’s Maui and The Hobbit’s Thranduil, Philip Odango has cosplayed characters of many backgrounds. Cosplay, short for…
1. Handy spool storage Keep your thread organized in one travel-friendly case with the Perfect Thread Bag by Karen Kay Buckley. It is designed for hand sewing, because it enables…
Embellished appliqué on a filmy background is lovely but may not seem easy to accomplish. Traditional appliqué methods require invisible hand stitches or heavy machine-sewn satin stitches— both of which…
Q: When you’re drafting or fitting a pair of pants, does the center-front seam have to be on the straight grain? Center-back seams are always slightly off-grain, but I’ve seen center-front…
Marfy 6134 & 6135 This chic ensemble from Marfy exudes elegance. The slim-cut, unlined jacket is traditional with a modern twist. It has a wide, portrait-like open neckline with a…
Waffle Patterns: Kaneel Moto Jacket This fully lined, slim-fitting jacket includes sleek details such as a stand collar with an extension and snap closure, front and back curved yokes, and…
McCall’s 7848 Expanded sizing options make this cozy coat a good choice for a wide range of body types. The pattern includes views for three lengths: above the knee, below…
Victory Patterns: Jackie Dress Elevate your wardrobe with this classic silhouette that includes flattering seaming. The dress features a funnel neckline and fitted bodice, which flares into a softly draped…
Vogue 9374 Get creative with these pull-on pants by Marcy Tilton. The pattern includes two styles, each with two length options. Both styles sit at the natural waistline. Views A…
Sew Different: Scoop Pinafore This knee-length pullover jumper has a square neckline and wide straps that connect to the back panel. The front and back panels are lined. The sides…
Decorative slot seams can add so much interest to a garment. Backed with a contrasting fabric underlay, these open seams call attention to a garment’s style lines and to the…
