With so many beautiful fabrics and clever patterns available, it’s easy to become over zealous and then confused with all of your sewing plans. But like any good project, it starts with a smart foundation. And for this Wardrobe Architect challenge, that foundation is comprised of your sewing patterns. So before you start buying all those luscious fabrics out there, make a list of which garments you intend to sew, and then begin the great pattern hunt. I found it helpful to list my pattern plans on an excel spreadsheet.
Like all sewists, I have my favorite pattern companies. Even though I love the variety offered by all the independent pattern companies, I have to admit that I still prefer sewing from a paper pattern rather than downloading one from the internet. However, if you don’t mind that process, check out this previous post I wrote about Indie Pattern Designers to find some very cool companies.
For this challenge, I’m also going to experiment with some Japanese sewing books I have. I love, love, love the simple silhouettes of Japanese tunics and dresses. You can learn more about these from my previous post – I Think I’m Turning Japanese. In the meantime, I’ll keep you posted as I wade through the process of deciphering patterns written in a foreign language.
If you want to keep things simple, just follow the sales at your local fabric shop. Today all Simplicity patterns in Hancock Fabrics were 99 cents. Needless to say, I scoured the Simplicity catalog and found these very cute ones (1465 skirt, 1080 shift, and 2406 dress).
And for less than two bucks, I picked up this sweet McCall’s pattern (M7118). I plan to lengthen and use for my summer maxi dress.
What are you waiting for? Let the hunt begin.
