Sewing Tips, Tutorials, Projects and Events

Few things compare to the satisfaction of finishing a sewing project... until you try it on and realise the fit isn’t quite right. A gaping armhole, a waistband that pinches, or shoulders that refuse to sit properly can turn your 'woohoo' into 'boohoo' in seconds. But here’s the good news: these issues are common, they’re fixable, and learning to solve them will make you a better sewist. It's all just a part of the journey. This guide will help you identify fitting problems and give you practical solutions so your handmade clothes feel every bit as good as they look. Continue reading →

What a joyful, relaxed final it was – with just a few nail-biting moments in the made to measure! True to form, the Bees powered through with clever sewist problem-solving (something we’re all rather good at, aren’t we?). So let’s dive into the patterns, fabrics and tutorials to help you sew along with the Bees one last time. Continue reading →

Ever followed a pattern exactly, only to find the skirt doesn’t fit as you hoped? You’re not alone. Standard skirt patterns are a great starting point, but small adjustments make all the difference to comfort, style, and confidence. With the right guidance, you can tailor skirt patterns to fit your body beautifully. In this guide, you’ll learn how to assess your body shape, take accurate measurements, and make simple adjustments for a made-to-measure finish. Along the way, you’ll pick up tips for personalising your design so every skirt you sew feels polished, comfortable, and uniquely yours. Continue reading →

Few garments carry as much significance as a wedding dress. It’s a piece that symbolises love, individuality, and celebration so the way it is made matters. Creating a gown that fits beautifully requires more than sewing skills; it demands a strong understanding of wedding dress patterns, fabrics, and fitting techniques. With the right approach, you can transform your sewing into professional results worthy of the big day. In this guide, we’ll share specialist sewing and fitting advice to help you refine your process. From choosing the right fabric and taking precise measurements to adjusting patterns and perfecting skirt shapes, each step builds towards a gown that’s as flawless in finish as it is meaningful in design. So, how do you move from pattern paper to a dress that truly fits and flatters? Let’s begin by looking at what makes wedding dress patterns unique and how to choose the right starting point for your project. Continue reading →

Ask any professional designer the secret to a flawless fit and they’ll often mention one essential tool: a well-made sloper pattern. This basic, body-shaped template allows you to start every project with a clean foundation before you add further shaping and details. Whether you’re drafting your own designs or adapting commercial dressmaking patterns, a sloper is the base for garments that not only look right but also feel comfortable to wear. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what a sloper is, how to create one, and how to use it to make every piece in your wardrobe a perfect fit. Continue reading →

If you’ve ever felt bogged down by the time it takes to print, trim, tape, and cut out paper sewing patterns? You’re not alone. Enter... the short-throw projector! A clever solution that’s growing in popularity among modern sewists. These projectors allow you to beam your PDF sewing patterns directly onto your fabric, saving you time, effort, and space (plus it's just pretty cool to be able to do). No more paper clutter or wrestling with taped pages. Once you’re up and running, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t make the switch sooner. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right projector and setting up your workspace to preparing and projecting your pattern with confidence. It’s easier than you think. Continue reading →

There’s something incredibly satisfying about wearing a dress you’ve designed and drafted yourself. Not only does it fit just the way you like it, but it’s a true reflection of your personal style. Drafting your own patterns may sound a bit advanced if you're just starting out - but with the right tools, clear instructions, and a bit of patience, it’s an accessible and rewarding next step in your sewing journey. Continue reading →

There’s something undeniably joyful about sewing summer dresses. They're quick to sew, easy to wear and endlessly versatile – which is exactly why they top my sewing wishlist year after year! I’m Lucy from Sew Essential, and if I had unlimited time this summer, these are the dress patterns and fabrics I’d be reaching for. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and prepare to be inspired. Hopefully, some of these make it onto your own sewing table – even if I don’t get chance to sew them all myself! Continue reading →

Ever spotted a gorgeous dress online and thought, “If only it had sleeves... or a longer hem... or pockets”? Good news - you don’t need to be a professional fashion designer to make that happen. Pattern hacking is a simple, creative way to personalise sewing patterns and make clothes that truly reflect your style. Whether you want to tweak the fit, add details, or combine elements from different designs, learning how to hack sewing patterns opens up a world of possibilities for DIY fashion lovers. Continue reading →

If you’re looking for an overlocker that’s easy to thread, offers professional results, and has a few premium touches that make sewing more enjoyable—meet the Brother 4234D Overlocker. In this article we'll explore what makes the Brother 4234d overlocker such a great buy and how it can help you in your sewing. Continue reading →

A well-fitted waistline is the foundation of a beautifully tailored garment. Whether you're creating a structured dress, a pair of trousers, or a flowing skirt, getting the waistline just right ensures comfort and enhances the overall silhouette. But dressmaking patterns aren’t always a perfect match for individual body shapes—this is where waistline adjustments come in. Continue reading →

I'm so excited to bring you a round-up of the biggest spring 2025 trends! If you’re looking for fresh sewing inspiration, I've handpicked the best patterns and fabrics to help you recreate these runway looks at home. Continue reading →