A world of choices allows the home sewer to make it her way–and that’s the best reason of all to sew. Dianne M. Wojnarowski of Buffalo, New York, taught herself at age 11 to use the sewing machine her mom had won and made a dog’s coat back then. Last year she made this Butterick coat no. 3768 view B and a matching velvet beret. The lavender fabric is a modern tie-dye fleece that is contrasting with the traditional velvet black of the collar and cuffs. Inside, both coat and hat are lined in fuschia satin for a warm, luxurious feeling. This is the third time she has used the lavender tie-dye fleece. The two others are a coat (McCall’s no. M6657 v. B with A’s faux fur trim) and jacket B5262, the Butterick design by Connie Crawford. Everywhere she wore these three, she says, a lady (and some men too) would come up to her and express their awe over its stunning yet simple beauty. “Some ladies wanted to buy it off my back,” says Dianne. “Threads magazine has continued to inspire me to take an idea–like the vivid contrast of black velvet and lavender tie-dye fleece–and push the concept of individuality to the edge. The back cover upclose details, close-ups of vintage garments and the hand-sewn workmanship inspire me to do whatever it takes to get the look I want, even if it means hand-sewing an entire coat to match the plaids and install a 36″ zipper, or to handle 20 yards of tulle for a Wizard of Oz good witch costume. I love to sew,” sums up why she does it and why she reads threads. “I’m one of those people–like in the cover slogan:FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO SEW.” See that dress and Dianne’s jewelry designs at Etsy.com/shop/dianapandamonium.

Threads Recommended Products

Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Vogue 1642

Pattern A has pleated patch pockets with flaps. Pattern B has side seam zippers. This Vogue sewing pattern kit was designed and printed in the United States and comes with sewing templates, instructions, fabric recommendations, pattern pieces, and sizing guides for (2) shirts and (1) pair of pants. Women's clothing patterns can be made to fit sizes 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14.

Buy at Amazon

Brilliant Little Patchwork Collection by Kaffe Fassett

Kaffe Fassett is a renowned painter and textile designer known for his visionary use of color. Based in London, he was the first living textile designer to have a solo exhibition at the V&A in 1988. He designs fabrics for Rowan Patchwork and Quilting, knitwear for Rowan Yarns, and has authored over 70 books, including Quilts in Wales and Quilts by the Sea.

Buy at Amazon

Know Me 2064 Vest and Jacket

Know Me patterns offer stylish and versatile designs, including the ME2064 rain jacket, which combines a cropped jacket and a vest that can be worn together or separately. The boxy-fit jacket features a hood, snap closure, and multiple pockets, while the vest has a zippered front and cargo pockets. This sewing kit includes templates, fabric recommendations, and instructions for sizes 44-52, proudly made in the USA.

Buy at Amazon