July 16, 2015

Beth – Sew DIY

sewing, roundup

DIY Roundup – 10 Retro Summer Sewing Patterns

July 16, 2015

Beth – Sew DIY

sewing, roundup

One of the best things about sewing is that you are not beholden to what you can find in the stores and you can create any style you want–even something vintage. As I mentioned in my post earlier this week with my DIY Retro Check Top, the big pattern companies have been re-releasing more vintage patterns of late. And because I like to share, I've rounded up 10 easy to find retro patterns that are perfect for the summer season.

10 Retro Summer Sewing Patterns

1. Butterick B5708

2. Francoise Dress by Tilly and the Buttons

3. Simplicity 1059

4. Marianne Dress by Christine Haynes

5. Decades of Style 1930s Beach Romper

6. Colette Patterns Sencha Blouse

7. Decades of Style Empire Waist Trousers

8. BurdaStyle 6891

9. Simplicity 1101

10. Vogue V8788

Do you have any favorite retro patterns? Have you tried any of these on the list?

July 10, 2015

Beth – Sew DIY

sewing, roundup

DIY Roundup: 10 Shirtdress Patterns

July 10, 2015

Beth – Sew DIY

sewing, roundup

Earlier this week I shared a roundup of my favorite RTW shirt dresses but for those of you who like to DIY, here are 10 easy to find shirtdress sewing patterns. Looking through my stash I discovered a whole slew of shirtdress patterns that I have never used. I obviously can't resist a shirtdress pattern (just look at that pile in the photo up there!!!) but I also never actually use them. I love how polished they look with the button front and there are so many great styles out there to try. Maybe this year I'll try out a few more (#1 in the roundup is definitely on the list!). Meanwhile, check out this roundup of great patterns!

July 2, 2015

Beth – Sew DIY

knitting, roundup

12 Gorgeous Summer Knitting Patterns

July 2, 2015

Beth – Sew DIY

knitting, roundup

Summer knitting calls for lightweight yarns, small projects and lace when at all possible. When knitting in the summer heat, the last thing you want is a big pile of wool sitting on your lap. It's also prime travel season and the knitting project I love to travel with is socks. They are fun to knit and won't take up a lot room in your carry-on.

Since moving to California, I've nearly stopped knitting. I make a pair or two of socks a year, sometimes a hat or an occasional baby sweater. Whereas when I lived in Oregon, I knit countless hats, mittens and a fair number of big bulky sweaters. Here in southern climes though, I have little need for sweaters, especially bulky ones. So my knitting has dwindled and sewing has stepped in to fill my making hours. For a few years now, I've been thinking that I was just knitting the wrong things and should try a summer knit. So to inspire myself (and you!) I put together this little roundup of summer knitting patterns.