Sewing Tips and Techniques

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

Sewing patterns are the foundation of every handmade garment, guiding you from fabric to a finished piece. Yet, for beginners, those lines, symbols, and terms can be overwhelming. But here’s the good news: reading and cutting sewing patterns is a skill you can easily master. In this guide, you’ll learn how to interpret patterns, measure accurately, and cut with confidence. Whether you’re sewing a classic blouse or a cosy hoodie, these tips will help you get it right the first time. Continue reading →

If you've ever dreamed of owning a Baby Lock machine, but would like to see first hand just how effortless they are to use and how beautiful the stitches are, come along to our demo day on Thursday 10th April 2025 from 10am to 3pm at our showroom in the East Midlands. Continue reading →

Sewing is a rewarding and creative skill, but when you're first starting out, sewing patterns can feel like reading a foreign language. Terms like "grainline," "notches," and "seam allowance" might seem intimidating, but once you understand them, they become second nature. This guide will help you decode common sewing pattern terminology, making it easier to follow patterns and create beautiful garments with confidence. Continue reading →

Choosing the right sewing pattern for your skill level can make your project so much more enjoyable. A pattern at the right sort of level not only boosts your confidence but also ensures a more enjoyable and successful sewing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sewist, understanding how to choose a suitable pattern for your skill level is incredibly helpful. Let’s explore how to make the best choice for your next project. Continue reading →