2019 Make Nine Challenge

2019 Make Nine Challenge

I’ve been participating in the Make Nine challenge since 2016 and it’s a really nice way to start the year off with a fresh and consolidated list of projects. I realized this year that my list has always been (with one exception) patterns that I’ve never made before. (The one exception was the Archer Shirt in 2018. I made it once before but wanted to perfect the fit and fabric choice.) This year I actually have a lot of projects in my queue that are repeat patterns but they’re just not fun to put on the Make Nine. So my 2019 Make Nine will again be all new-to-me patterns. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with making a pattern over and over again. In fact, I truly hope that people make my patterns more than once. But, making a new pattern is such a thrill. I always learn so much from new patterns and there’s also that suspense of not totally knowing if you’re going to love the final garment or not.

Holiday Gift Guide - 12 Gifts for Sewists

Whether you’re shopping for your sewing BFF or working on your own wish list, you’re sure to find some lust-worthy gifts in this roundup. If you’re shopping for a sewist who likes to try new crafts, make sure to check out the needle punch and crochet kits (numbers 1 and 7).

1. Punch Needle Pillow Kit from Fancy Tiger Crafts. I’ve never tried punch needle but I’d love to learn and the design of this kit is so pretty.

2. Wooden Needle Minder from Arrow Mountain. I sooo wish I had this sewing tool in my arsenal. It conveniently holds onto your needle while hand sewing and prevents it from getting lost on your lap (which has happened to me many times).

3. Measure Twice Cut Once enamel pins. So you can wear your passion on your sleeve.

4. Jordy Bralette kit from Emerald Erin. This pattern looks really comfy and I love all the options available in Erin’s shop.

5. Clover Chaco Liner Chalk Pens. Just because it’s useful doesn’t mean it’s not a great gift.

6. Broad Strokes book by Bridget Quinn and Lisa Congdon (make sure to check out the rest of the yummy goods in Lisas’s shop. Including embroidery kits!)

7. Love Game Basket from Wool and the Gang. This basket made out of raffia yarn would fit in in any home.

8. Garden Sewing Art Print from Crafted Moon is the perfect way to decorate a sewing room. I love the artwork from this company and have a few of their prints. Check out the Sewing Art page for even more options.

9. Sewist necklace from Closet Case Patterns. There’s also a Maker version available for your all-around crafty friends.

10. I Love Linen woven labels from Kylie and the Machine. The perfect finishing touch for your handmades. Make sure to check out all the options available because they’re amazing.

11. Celestial Sheep Enamel Pin from Home Row Fiber Co. These sheep are just too cute.

12. Speckle Go Cup by Mudhavi. I love this handmade mug that can also be taken on the go. Stylish and eco-friendly.

If you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out my gift guides from 2017 and 2016. Items may not still be available but it’s worth a look for inspiration and eye-candy.

DIY Roundup – 10 Sewing Patterns for Spring

Over the past few weeks I’ve been following along with the Seamwork Design Your Wardrobe project/class. It’s been a great way to develop wardrobe inspiration and start planning a DIY wardrobe refresh. I’ve been looking at lots of patterns and considering how they might fit into my spring wardrobe. You can check out my inspiration board on IG here. I enjoy wearing dresses too but I already have a lot of those in my closet. I’m going to be focusing on pants and tops for a casual work wardrobe. I’m taking the planning process slowly, but I’m excited to dive in soon. Today I’ll give you a sneak peek of some of the patterns that are topping my list  (plus a few dresses to balance it the imaginary wardrobe).

10 Patterns for Spring Sewing

1. Lander Pants by True Bias
I don’t think it would be an understatement to say that "these pants are my everything”. I love the high waist and exposed button fly. I can’t wait to finally give them a go. 

2. Willamette Shirt by Hey June Patterns
This pattern selection was very much influenced by my inspiration board. I already knew that I really like boxy tops (like my pattern the Lou Box Top) and this one has the extra details that I’m looking for this season.

3. Veronica Dress by Seamwork
I love the fitted waist and cap sleeves on this dress. 

4. Calyer Pants by French Navy
One of the silhouettes that I’m really drawn to is high-waist pleated pants that taper to the ankle. They are so casual and chic at the same time and very nearly fit exactly what I want (I’d only like a slightly higher waist). 

5. Collins Top by In the Folds
This top is on my 2018 Make Nine and I love the easy fit and interesting design lines.

6. Highlands Wrap Dress by Allie Olson
This is such a classic wrap dress that would flatter any figure.

7. Wyome Boyfriend Jeans by Named Clothing
I love the tapered leg and angled pockets on these jeans. Oh and they have an exposed button fly, which apparently I have a bit of an obsession with. 

8. Winslow Culottes by Helen's Closet
I love the dramatic wide leg of these culottes.

9. Mila Dungarees by Tilly and The Buttons
Last year I made the Burnside Bibs by Sew House 7 and have worn them a lot, proving that I do still love to wear overalls. These are fun, more traditional version. 

10. Darling Ranges dress by Meghan Nielsen
I made this pattern last year and really love it. It’s easy to wear (and sew) and I love the button front and v-neck.

What's on your sewing list for spring this year?