The Great British Sewing Bee Series 9, which aired in 2023, continued with Sara Pascoe as host alongside judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young, welcoming a fresh group of skilled amateur sewists into the sewing room. Over ten episodes, the contestants tackled everything from underwear and asymmetrical dresses to upcycling office wear and producing striking made-to-measure garments inspired by different themes. The series showcased plenty of creativity, humour, and problem-solving under pressure, as well as the supportive camaraderie the show is known for. After weeks of testing challenges and standout sewing, Asmaa Elbadawy was crowned the winner, celebrated for her bold creativity, technical skill, and ability to bring her unique vision to life through her garments.
Series 9 Episode 10: Final Week
The Sewing Bee series 9 final was a phenomenal watch to say the least! Incredible garments were sewn, tears were shed and the judges seemed to be almost speechless at one of the dresses produced in the made to measure challenge. High sewing drama at it's best. Now let's take a look at the patterns and fabrics you can use to sewalong with the Bees.
The Pattern Challenge: a Victoriana Dress
I was unfamiliar with the term Victoriana dress, but as soon as we saw the pattern we recognised the style, which has been hugely popular in recent years.
The Victoriana dress featured a round neck, fitted bodice, a midi length skirt that skimmed the body, short puff sleeves finished with a double ruffle hem and a ruffle hem to finish the skirt.
Sounds simple right? Wrong! The Bees were tasked with sewing it up in a slinky fabric and had to finish the ruffles with a rolled hem created on the overlocker (although I must admit I thought more of a fuss was made about this technique than is the reality - see my video tutorial below to see for yourself).
Sewing Bee Patterns
McCalls 7971 would create a similar look to the Sewing Bee Victoriana dress if you combine the view B bodice with the view C skirt.
McCalls 8032 would also create a similar look if the fullness in the skirt was reduced and the length increased, although I think the mini version is really rather lovely.
We think either of these dresses would look red carpet worthy sewn up in our Mystique satin fabric, which features a matt and a high shine finish to choose from.
Sewing Bee Techniques
The babylocked or rolled hem on an overlocker is demonstrated in my tutorial video below and honestly I don't think it is anywhere near as tricky as the judges were making out.
Made to Measure Challenge: a Two in One Red Carpet Dress
The Bees had to sew not one, but two dresses for the made to measure challenge inspired by recent appearances from Blake Lively and Lady Gaga at the Met Gala who transformed their gowns half way through the night.
To sew two dresses and engineer them so that they could be rolled into one and transformed whilst on the model was such a tough challenge and we were blown away by one dress in particular and wanted to keep watching the transformation over and over again. Patrick was also visibly stunned.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Mia's Dresses
Mia made a short, strappy dress with a sweetheart neckline and full skirt as her first dress and I think Simplicity 9284 is a great pattern to create a similar look sewn up in our John Kaldor Mystique fabric in black.
Mia's second dress was a full length, strappy gown with a gathered skirt and the Viki Sews Iris dress would make a great lookalike sewn up in our Mystique fabric in pink.
Tony's Dresses
Tony's first dress was a bubble hem mini with a fitted, sleeveless bodice and crew neck in a super slinky black satin.
I think view A and view G of Simplicity 8328 would work together to create a similar look. Although the skirt isn't a bubble hem, it is crying out to be turned into one, either using a fork like Tony or gathering stitches as an alternative to a pleated version!
Tony's second dress maintained the same simple bodice, but the bubble hem skirt was unravelled to create a full length fish tail skirt in a dramatic and wacky fabric, which Esme appeared to love. I previously made the short version of Simplicity 8330, which also has a fishtail option and could be used to recreate Tony's wacky skirt.
There will be a delay on our weekly coverage of the Sewing Bee for finals week, but just when you're missing it the most we'll be back with a large dose of Bee themed inspo.
Asmaa's Dresses
Asmaa's first dress was a simple Tshirt dress with a bagged over top and sexy fitted skirt. I made Burda 6540 some years ago and added elastic at the waist to create the bagged over look. Sew it up in our royal blue John Kaldor ritual fabric and you will have a very similar looking dress to Asmaa's.
Asmaa's big reveal was simply mind blowing. The short Tshirt dress unravelled like a Cornetto ice cream to reveal a full length sparkly emerald green evening gown and the world seemed to stop turning.
The gown had a low neckline and a semi fitted silhouette with a dramatic Esmee pleasing bow on the back. I decided to be led by the bow for this final pattern choice and picked out Vogue 1102.
It would look beautiful sewn up in our John Kaldor duchesse satin fabric in jade green, although you may want to use a lighter weight fabric for the bow. I thought a green organza would set it off beautifully.
Another inspiring, emotionally charged, fun and smiley series. What on earth will we do on a Wednesday night now?!
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Series 9 Episode 9: Semi Final Week
Utilitarian week on the Sewing Bee gave the contestants some tough challenges to face making garments most sewers would set several weeks aside to make in just a few hours.
The Pattern Challenge: The Trench Coat
I simply cannot imagine trying to make a coat in a few hours! Hats off to the Bees who rolled up their sleeves, dusted off their sewing kits and tackled this immense challenge head on!
Sewing Bee Patterns
The Named Patterns Isla Trench Coat is a classic trench coat pattern with double breasted button fastening, a belted collar, welt pockets, waist belt, top stitching and vent.
The Cashmerette Chilton Trench Coat is another classic trench coat design and runs in a very size inclusive 12 - 28 with options for C to H cups.
It has lots of thoughtful details to help achieve a great fit including princess sleeves and a two part sleeve, plus lot of fun sewing details to get your teeth into including epaulettes, a cape and two part collar.
The Viki Sews Peyton Trench Coat is a super contemporary take on the trench with asymmetric front fastening and storm flap, welt pockets and cape feature.
Most of these trench coats could be sewn up in our Sevenberry cotton twill fabric, available in a range of colours here. Do check the individual pattern details for fabric recommendations.
McCalls 8246 is a modern take on the trench coat with dramatic storm flaps, pleated raglan sleeves double breasted button fastening and waist belt.
Made to Measure Challenge: a Boiler Suit
Boiler suits have been incredibly popular in recent years and I can see why thanks to the comfort and practicality they offer without compromising on style.
Another difficult challenge for the Bees to fit a boiler suit to their models, no doubt everyone fearing Patrick's pet peeve 'the hungry bum'!
Sewing Bee Patterns
I have a deep obsession with the 1970s, loving both the music and the fashion in equal measure, and just had to share this Simplicity 9700 boiler suit pattern.
The Closet Core Blanca Flight Suit pattern is a highly customisable boiler suit pattern with multiple sleeve and leg options plus lots of opportunities to sew fun design details such as a shirt collar and pleated back design.
The Style Arc Melrose Boiler Suit is another pattern packed with fun features including patch pockets, a double yoke and tucks and is also available in a very inclusive 18 - 30 size range.
McCalls 8243 is a fun boiler suit pattern with D ring belt fastening, button down front, collar and multiple sleeve and leg options.
There will be a delay on our weekly coverage of the Sewing Bee for finals week, but just when you're missing it the most we'll be back with a large dose of Bee themed inspo.
Series 9 Episode 8: Fashion Icons Week
It was a sexy, glamorous week for the Sewing Bees as they produced film star worthy elegant gowns and jackets for fashion icons week. Once again some very tricky challenges for them to tackle and I fully expect they were all ready to retire to a dark room for a lie down afterwards!
The Pattern Challenge: Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany's Inspired Dress
For the technical challenge the Bees were asked to recreate a lookalike Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany's dress with a halter neck detail requiring 'the burrito method' of sewing. Most of the Bees chose slippery, silky fabrics adding an extra layer of difficulty to the task at hand.
Below I've included patterns and fabrics you could use to sew up Audrey inspired dresses and also some helpful tutorials for sewing with slippery fabrics and sewing the Burrito method.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Vogue 1692 was the pattern that immediately came to mind to recreate the pattern challenge look. A sexy, full length evening gown with keyhole detail, racer back and sexy thigh slit, it ticked all the boxes.
Burda 6866 is another very Audrey Hepburn looking dress with a fitted bodice, French darts, V neck, fish darts at the back for shaping and full length skirt. It also has options for overlays, hi-lo hems and sleeves.
I was surprised to see that it is designed for stretch fabrics and thought it would be perfect for our stretch velvet fabric.
Although it isn't Breakfast at Tiffany's, I couldn't resist including Simplicity 9289 a stark lookalike of one of the famous gown Givenchy designed for her.
It would look stunning sewn up in our Duchesse satin fabric.
Sewing Bee Tips and Techniques
If you fancy sewing with slippery satins like the Bees I've included our top tips for getting great results below.
If you want to master the burrito method (super useful for sewing lined shirt and blouse yokes too) check out my in depth tutorial below. Don't be put off by our old branding, the tutorial is timeless!
Made to Measure Challenge: a Smoking Jacket
It was time for some tailoring and male models for the made to measure challenge and the Bees were tasked with sewing a smoking jacket. Not only do we have a range of patterns and fabrics fit for the task, we also have some excellent tailoring supplies, which I've included below.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Simplicity 8899 is a classic tuxedo style jacket with lots of tailored details to get your teeth into plus dress trousers and a bow tie.
You could sew it up in our Prestige crepe or a suiting fabric of your choice.
Vogue 9097 is another classic tux jacket pattern with matching dress trouser.
The pattern suggests stretch wovens can be used for this style and I know our Dynasty stretch twill fabric is a firm favourite with a customer who sews suits for ballroom dancing.
If you would like to pipe the seams of your jacket, check out our piping tutorial below.
Pressing is so crucial in any sewing and is especially important for tailoring, check out our top tips in the video below.
Also do check out our extensive range of tailoring products and interfacings including, canvas, bias tapeand edgefix tape for lapel breaks and sharp cuffs and hems.
Semi final week next week, who are your bets on for the final?
See you next week!
Series 9 Episode 7: 90s Week
I was so excited for 90s week on the Sewing Bee. As a teenager of the 90s I loved everything about that era - the Britpop movement, Cool Britannia, the sense of opportunity and new beginnings and, of course, the fashion.
The Pattern Challenge: Cargo Pants
For the pattern challenge the Bees tackled one of my favourite things to wear in the 90s, which have also seen a huge resurgence in recent years - the cargo pant. I used to love trying to recreate the Gwen Stefani look with my baggy cargo pants, cropped vest and wacky pigtail bun hairstyles.
The great news is the cargo pant is a super wearable and comfortable make for today too.
Sewing Bee Patterns
There were SO many patterns to choose from for this theme and I couldn't resist including them all for such a wearable look.
McCalls 8099 has a comfortable elasticated waist with options for an elasticated, tapered cuff hem or a loose fit wide leg hem finish compete with side seam pockets and classic cargo pockets. There is also an option for some cute shorts for summer.
McCalls 8206 ticks multiple trends with the wide, flared leg option and classic zip, waistband and cargo pocket design features. There are also options for a plain wide leg trouser and a cargo style pant with elasticated cuff.
The Style Arc Victor trouser is a fun, understated cargo themed trouser pattern with a tapered leg, waistband, zip fastening, cargo style patch pockets and topstitching details.
The Viki Sews Deryll trouser pattern is a super contemporary cargo trouser style complete with fun belt detailing on one leg and drawstring hem.
McCalls 8367 is a fun cargo pant pattern with shirred, elasticated high waistband, optional belt, options for an elasticated cuff or wide leg hem, cargo pant pockets and pattern pieces to create shorts.
The Viki Sews Joanne pants are a super comfy track pant cargo themed trouser we think would be a super stylish way of hanging out at home.
New Look 6644 is a cargo pant pattern with an elasticated waist, options for a hem folded back and fastened with an epaulette or elasticated cuffed hem and a cute long sleeved top to complete the look.
All of the woven cargo pants would look perfect sewn up in our Sevenberry cotton twill fabrics, available in a range of wonderful colours from understated neutrals to bold bright.
Sewing Bee Tips and Techniques
Some of the Bees found the fly front zip a little tricky to tackle so we've included our step by step tutorial for you below.
Made to Measure Challenge: a 90s Supermodel Dress
The made to measure challenge this week gave the Sewing Bees the opportunity to sew the types of dresses we all dream of sewing and wearing and they certainly rose to the challenge. I loved drooling over all the beautifully sexy evening gowns they produced.
Sewing Bee Patterns
First up Vicki created a boned bodice with cups and used a contrasting satin bias to make the boning and cup detail stand out for some real wow factor. The bodice was joined to a slim fitting midi length skirt.
The Viki Sews Ornella dress has all of the wow factor of Vicki's dress and a little more thanks to the impressive godet on the back skirt.
You could recreate Vicki's look with our John Kaldor Mystique fabric and our ivory satin bias binding.
Asmaa created one of my favourite ever made to measures a super sexy figure hugging number with dramatic leather fish tail and back belt straps.
McCalls 6838 has the same dramatic fish tail and fitted bodice and skirt design and could easily be adapted to recreate the look.
It would also sew up beautifully in the John Kaldor satin fabric listed above and available in a range of colours including black.
Mia made a sexy Liz Hurley inspired little black dress and although we do have patterns on the site with the simple strap and neckline design, I thought it too good an opportunity to show you a slight twist on her idea with Know Me 2032.
This dress is on a very similar theme to Mia's, but in addition has a cute sweetheart neckline, a halterneck and regular spaghetti strap design and sexy V at the back.
This dress would also work well in the satin above or our John Kaldor Prestige crepe fabric, available in a range of colours.
Lauren made a slinky, cowl neck slip dress and although I wasn't able to find a cowl neck slip dress pattern I thought the Tessuti Sadie dress was very similar with a scoop neck design, spaghetti straps and body skimming skirt.
I didn't feel we had a suitably slinky fabric for this design, but I did think this glorious John Kaldor Paris fabric would be perfect. The print is just so pretty and also more forgiving than a plain fabric.
Lizzie also plumped for a slinky slip dress with a fitted bust design detail. Vogue 1842 would create a very similar look.
It would also work brilliantly in the John Kaldor Paris fabric shown above.
Tony sewed up a storm in his beloved scuba fabric again creating a very fitted dress with asymmetric block colour design. McCalls 7999 has a simple crew neck, long sleeves and flirty side thigh slit and would be easy to hack to recreate Tony's look.
You could sew it up in our John Kaldor scuba fabric in black and silver grey to create a similar look.
I hope you enjoyed our trip back to the 90s as much as I did, although it is always sad to say goodbye to another lovely Bee. Only three weeks left now, who is your favourite for the final?
See you next week!
Series 9 Episode 6: Children's Week
There's nothing cuter than a mini me dressed up for a party, I always love seeing them strut their stuff down the catwalk at the end too and this year children's week did not disappoint. The Bees whipped up some super cute party outfits in record time, although there were a couple of sewing casualties along the way.
The Pattern Challenge: the Dragon Dressing Gown
For the pattern challenge the Sewing Bees had to sew a dragon themed dressing gown complete with teeth, eyes and spikes. Some of the Bees found sewing the bias binding particularly tricky so I've included some super useful tutorials on this topic for you in the blog post today.
Sewing Bee Patterns
We don't have a dragon themed dressing gown pattern, but we do have a dragon and dinosaur themed onesie pattern which also includes a cute matching outfit for your dog and wings! Simplicity 1765 is perfect for any aspiring fire breathing dragons!
Sewing Bee Tips and Techniques
If you saw some of the Sewing Bees struggling with the bias binding and would like to perfect your bias binding skills, check out my tutorial below for 7 ways to sew bias binding.
If you'd like a quick and easy way to sew bias binding, check out my how to sew with a bias binder foot on your sewing machine video, demonstrating two types of bias binder feet.
If you would like to be able to make your own bias binding at the touch of a button, watch our handy video on the Simplicity bias tape maker below.
Made to Measure Challenge: a Party Outfit
What could be more fun than sewing a party outfit for a little one? Sewing a party outfit for myself (did I just say that out loud?!) As a selfish sewer I've made very little for other people, but I must admit some of the cute outfits the Bees produced had me tempted to sew for my nieces.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Mia made an adorable sleeveless dress with a button down back and bow to complete the look. You could create a similar look with Simplicity 9154.
I thought it would look incredibly sweet sewn up in this fresh cornflower polka dot cotton fabric.
Tony made a beautiful sleeveless dress with a dramatic bow and decided to go for a controversial scuba fabric, which worked out brilliantly and created real drama in the full skirt. You could create something on a similar theme using New Look 6548.
If you're sticking to the fabric recommendations on the pattern our Sevenberry cotton ditsy print fabric would work beautifully.
If you're feeling brave like Tony you could try sewing it up in our ivory scuba fabric.
Lizzie made a super cool outfit I would have loved as a child - a waistcoat with a tiered skirt and Doc Martin boots. Never one for a party dress and always in dungarees it was nice to see one of the Sewing Bees sew my dream party outfit. McCalls 7223 gives four different options for a children's waistcoat and would create a super contemporary look styled a la Lizzie!
I thought it would be party perfect sewn up in our faux silk dupion fabric.
Vicky made a dress with a tiered skirt and long sleeves and lots of sewing details. Burda 9332 would be a great pattern to create a similar look.
It would have definite Laura Ashley vibes sewn up in this pretty ditsy cotton lawn fabric.
Asmaa sewed up a dress fit for a princess including criss cross lace up design on the front and handkerchief hem. Simplicity 1303 gives you multiple options to sew up a royalty worthy gown including a lace up design and skirts that could easily be adapted to create a handkerchief hem.
I adored Lauren's choice for the made to measure challenge, a strappy dress with faux button down blouse underneath. Simplicity 9559 would create a similar look with the added advantage of the most adorable ruffle effect straps, the ability to create a matching headband, options for a tunic and trousers and matching bags! A lot of mileage in this pattern!
Our colourful ditsy print cotton fabric in yellow and purple would make the perfect partner for this delightful pattern.
Fauve also opted to choose an alternative to dresses and made a jumpsuit for her mini model. Fauve's version didn't have any fastenings and was a loose fit. New Look 6612 would create a similar shaped jumpsuit, although it does have a zip feature at the front. The zip could easily be omitted just check that it fits over the head first! There are also options for a playsuit and dress with this pattern giving you multiple outfits for the price of one pattern.
Who doesn't want a ditsy print jumpsuit?! Our John Kaldor Lizzano cotton floral print fabric would make a fun jumpsuit any party goer would love to wear and is silky soft to the touch for extra comfort points.
I won't give the game away, but I was really sad to see this week's Bee leave as the competition becomes more and more fierce now as the last few contestants battle their way to the final.
I cannot wait for 90s themed week next week, on trend cargo pants and super model dresses to die for. Take me back to my hey day!
See you next week!
Series 9 Episode 5: Art Week
This week it was chance for the Sewing Bees to revel in their creativity and tackle three challenges inspired by the art world. The made to measure challenge was wide open for the contestants to use their imagination with relatively few boundaries guaranteeing a feast for our eyes.
The Pattern Challenge: the Appliqued Skirt
For the pattern challenge the Bees were tasked with sewing a skirt inspired by the modernist movement with abstract shapes created by applique. We've shared similar skirt patterns below and also our top tips and tools for applique if you fancy having a go.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Simplicity 8211 is a gathered skirt with waistband and optional bow, just add applique!
Jalie 4017 is a lovely gathered skirt with elasticated waist and options for a button down front and cute bum bag.
McCalls 8066 is also a gathered skirt summer classic with options for tiers, a ruffle hem or a simple flared skirt design.
Sewing Bee Tips and Techniques
Our top tips for applique:
- Choose simple shapes to start with, either straight lines or gentle curves.
- Iron your fabric onto your Bondawebbefore cutting out your shapes for the most accurate results. Once your shapes are cut out peel off the underside layer and position your shape on the main fabric, which negates the use of pins. You can also find smaller packs of a similar product to Bondaweb here and here.
- If you do want to use pins we recommend applique pins, which are smaller than regular pins to help you pin your shapes accurately.
- Do a practice run to check you are happy with the stitch you have chosen, both in design and size. The trick is choosing a stitch that compliments the shape rather than overpowers it. Experiment and try different stitches too.
- Use an applique foot on your sewing machine for maximum visibility and control.
- Check for puckering and adjust your needle tension if necessary.
- Have fun with super shiny rayon or metallic threads.
- Use applique scissors to trim off any excess fabric, these allow you to get nice and close to the stitches without cutting them.
- Keep any sticky Bondaweb away from heated appliances, it responds so well to heat it can jump up and onto your iron when you're not looking!
- Use an applique mat to protect your iron from the glue.
Made To Measure Challenge: a Surrealist Inspired Fantastical Outfit
The Sewing Bees had the opportunity to go wild for the made to measure task and I was quite sad some of the contestants who left in previous weeks weren't here for this one because I think they would have excelled and shown us some crazy ideas. Nevertheless the remaining Bees knocked it out of the park with their creations and we loved every minute of it.
Let's take a look at the sewing patterns you could use to recreate the looks.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Lizzie made a cross over front top with dramatic sleeves and although I couldn't find exactly the same design I thought McCalls 8145 would create a similar look. It is also very similar to a top I bought recently and lots of people were asking for a similar pattern on Instagram.
It would look great sewn up in our red John Kaldor ritual jersey fabric.
Vicky made a shell top and skirt with an impactful eye design on the front of the top. I thought the Tessuti Tavi top looked like a great shell top for summer.
It would look pretty and cool sewn up in our Robert Kaufmann neon fleck chambray fabric.
Asmaa made a beautiful gown with twisted design on the bodice and a flowing skirt, which told a story about her past. Although I couldn't find something exactly the same I though New Look 6717 with cross over neckline design and maxi skirt and waterfall skirt options was along a similar theme.
It would look so pretty sewn up in our cotton jersey fabric.
Fauve made a super cool, punk like dress with handkerchief hem and one shoulder design. McCalls 7315 has the handkerchief hem and a simple bodice that could be hacked to create a one shoulder design.
It would look pretty sewn up in our blue and white cotton lawn fabric for summer.
Tony made a super sexy fitted dress with dramatic godet sleeves and feather trim paired with a bolero. I thought Burda 6364 would be a great way to recreate the look.
Although completely seasonally inappropriate, you cold recreate the look with our John Kaldor Carlotta stretch velvet in wine. I've made two dresses from this velvet and it is beautiful.
Lauren made a gathered skirt with lots of tulle for a dramatic shape and paired it with a mini shirt attached to the front of a bodice. You could recreate the skirt using Simplicity 8211 featured in the pattern challenge section of the article above.
Mia made an awesome cloud inspired dress by sewing a simple slip and attaching tulle or net pom poms to it. It was so cute! A simple slip dress pattern for summer is the gorgeous Claudia dress by Tessuti patterns.
Recreate the classic look on the front of the packet with our cotton linen mix navy fabric.
It would look fab sewn up in our cotton linen mix fabric shown above and available in a range of colours here including Tony's chosen black.
Another week another rush of adrenaline, excitement and emotion for the Bees!
See you next week!
Series 9 Episode 4: Reduce, Reuse & Recycle Week
This week is all about how we can do our bit for the planet through our sewing, a cause very close to Patrick Grant's heart with his environmentally focused fashion label Community Clothing. We love seeing ideas for using up those scraps and repurposing fabrics we all have lying around the house.
The Pattern Challenge: the Zero waste wide leg trouser
The pattern challenge kicked off with a zero waste, wide leg, drawstring trouser, which required accuracy and precision when cutting out.
Although we don't have a zero waste pattern, we do have lots of lovely wide leg, drawstring trouser patterns, which not only recreate the Sewing Bee pattern challenge look, but also nail the hugely popular linen trouser trend this summer.
Sewing Bee Patterns
The Saguaro set by Friday Pattern Company has been on my to make list since it was released. The perfect casual, chilled out summer coord set.
Simplicity 9756 also nails the summer trends and includes a wide leg, drawstring trouser, cute crop top and oversized shirt cover up, perfect for the beach.
The Style Arc Milan trousers also nail the trend with cropped hem for extra contemporary, on trend points, plus box pleats and waist darts at the back for shaping.
If you need to do some precise, accurate cutting like the Bees on the pattern challenge, I'd highly recommend a rotary cutter, cutting mat and quliters rulers. You can see our full range of rotary cutters and accessories here and quilters rulers here.
Made To Measure Challenge: a crochet outfit
For the made to measure challenge the Bees had to whip up an outfit made from old crochet blankets, which was quite a tough challenge and many of the contestants found rather tricky. We don't have old crochet blankets on the site, but we do have lots of gorgeous patterns and fabrics you could sew lookalike outfits up in and I've listed them below for you.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Tony made some wide leg trousers and a crop top, which is a super popular look right now. You could recreate something similar with McCalls 7757, which has all the summer vibes.
I think it would look beautiful sewn up in our deadstock viscose challis fabric.
Tony made a simple shift dress AKA a great dress to have in your summer wardrobe. You could recreate this look with the Style Arc June sheath dress pattern.
I think this simple silhouette would show off this Dashwood rayon print beautifully.
Lauren sewed up a really cute wide leg, box pleat trouser and cami top coord set. McCalls 7907 would make a great version of the trousers in our indigo denim fabric.
You could sew a similar cami up in one of my all time favourite patterns, the Ogden cami. I actually made it in the same fabric I've featured below in a different colourway, many years ago and I still love it and wear it all the time.
Matthew made a 1950s inspired full skirted dress with square neckline and wide straps. We think this incredible Vogue 1884 pattern would make a great lookalike.
Mia made a beautiful boxy jacket and mini skirt combo and McCalls 8370 would make a great copycat. I love the way these individual pieces would give you so many outfits from one project.
It would look great sewn up in our boucle suiting fabric, which could be styled differently to take you through the seasons - a crisp, white tshirt or shirt in summer and thick black tights and a black turtleneck in winter.
Fauve made a Twiggy inspired 60s dress with a cute collar and I thought Simplicity 9371 would make a great replica.
It would look great sewn up in our John Kaldor Prestige crepe fabric in this pretty Delphinium blue.
Lizzie made a lovely hoody cardigan and although we don't have exactly the same pattern, we have McCalls 8019, which I think would also make a great extra layer for any British seaside holidays this year! Personally I spend a lot of time on British beaches wearing my favourite shorts and a hoody.
It would look great sewn up in our bright red sweatshirt fabric.
Asmaa made a simple calf length jacket and I thought the Style Arc Sigrid jacket would make something very similar, which is a super easy to wear throw on knit jacket with patch pockets, fun hem and no fastenings.
I think it would look fab sewn up in our pale grey marl sweatshirt fabric and would be a complete wardrobe workhorse.
Finally Vicki made a long sleeved raglan dress and I thought Butterick 6428 would work well. Although it is a sleepwear pattern it definitely has the same swing shape and long raglan sleeves as Vicki's dress.
I thought it would look lovely sewn up in our retro tropical print jersey fabric for definite 70s vibes paired with chunky tan or gold strappy sandals.
I also wanted to share this fun Simplicity 9633 pattern, which incorporates crochet and dressmaking.
We also have a small selection of crochet tools and patterns here if you fancy having a go at crochet.
Phew! Another jam packed week and definitely a super tough made to measure challenge for the Bees. Don't forget to check out our weekly YouTube videos and Instagram competitions too.
See you next week!
Series 9 Episode 3: International Week
What a feast for the eyes as the Sewing Bees tackled international week sewing up garments from West Africa. The beautiful, vibrant fabrics reminded me of a batik print I created for my art GCSE back in the day and a stunning batik I bought in Mozambique when I was 18, which is now proudly displayed on the landing at my parents' house.
The Pattern Challenge: the Ghanaian Batakari or Fugu Tunic
Special guest judge, fashion designer Banke Kuku, talked the judges through the garments and fabrics including the Ghanaian Batakari or Fugu tunic sewn with strips of handwoven deboya fabric.
It was surprising how much more complicated this task was than it looked, lots of different parts that required real precision including godets, pocket placement and a tricky neckline.
Although we don't have a pattern for this very specific type of West African garment we do have lots of lovely tunic patterns perfect for summer sewing.
Sewing Bee Patterns
The Style Arc Kent tunic has definite Batakari vibes with the neckline and loose fitting design. We think it would look great sewn up in our white Swiss dot fabric for a floaty summer top.
Simplicity 9333 is another loose fitting tunic with a similar neckline to the Batakari tunics the Bees sewed up. We think it would look great sewn up in our plain linen cotton mix fabric in a colour of your choice.
Simplicity 9130 fits the Batakari brief with a similar neckline, optional collar and sleeves or sleeveless option. It would look chic and perfect for summer in our cotton line stripe fabric.
Made To Measure Challenge: a Boubous
The boubous is a flowing, wide sleeved robe worn by men and women across West Africa. We couldn't wait to see what vibrant creations the Bees sewed up for their models for this one and found lots of patterns that could be boubous inspired.
I didn't expect to feel inspired to make a gown along Boubous lines, but after seeing the Bees creations I am sold! So many glamourous, drapey, beautiful designs perfect for summer holidays and poolside mooching!
Sewing Bee Patterns
Butterick 6900 reminded us of the boubous robes and we thought it would make a great summer holiday beach cover up too. We think it would work brilliantly sewn up in our leopard print floral viscose challis fabric.
The Victory Patterns Satsuki pattern also felt decidely boubous with the wide flowing sleeves and we loved the pretty ruffle at the centre front. We think it would look so pretty sewn up in our John Kaldor Fernando fabric.
Butterick 6853 is loose and floaty with wide sleeves and a holiday feel for sure. We think it would look fab sewn up in our double gauze fabric in your favourite colour.
Simplicity 8505 is a gorgeous retro boubous design and screams 70s Hollywood glamour.
It would look beautiful sewn up in our retro inspired cotton lawn fabric.
One of the Bees broke the mould and sewed a sleeveless boubous design, which had so much wow factor. We think the Named Ilma dress would work brilliantly to create a similar design.
This would look so pretty in our linen cotton plain range mentioned above, we'd opt for a vibrant pink.
Simplicity 9323 is a complete boubous winner! One of the Bees created something very similar.
We think it would look fabulous in our cotton lawn fabric.
Another week has gone by already - how did that happen?! We can't wait to see what the Bees rustle up next week, the standard is just so high and some of the garments being produced have our pulses racing and our feet running for the sewing machine!
Series 9 Episode 2: Travel Week
We were certainly dreaming of our summer holidays watching the Sewing Bee this week as the Bees sewed up travel themed garments and accessories. Are you feeling inspired to have a go at swimwear or will you be sticking to travel luggage for now?
The Pattern Challenge: A Rucksack
The pattern challenge required the Bees to sew up a rucksack using some complex strap construction and a bit of heavy metal in the form of hardware. Wouldn't it be lovely to pack your holiday must haves in a handmade bag?
Sewing Bee Patterns
Burda 6400 includes two contemporary bag patterns for you to choose from - a rucksack that couples up as a tote and a slouchy hobo style bag. We love them both and think they would look great sewn up in our Kona cotton or Sevenberry twill fabrics.
Don't forget we have handbag stabilisers and all the hardware you need for bag making on our site, we have some lovely, colourful Prym bag straps.
If rucksacks aren't your thing, but you fancy a go at bag making we have a range of bag making patterns here.
Made To Measure Challenge: a Swimsuit
A tricky challenge for the made to measure, the Bees had to whip up a swimsuit requiring precision cutting small pieces of fabric and the ability to work successfully with stretch fabric. We have lots of gorgeous swimwear patterns to choose from, but also lots of habby to help you with the task such as swimwear elastic and bra making supplies including cups if you prefer padded swimwear.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Fauve opted for a long sleeved swimsuit suitable for cold water swimming and the Friday Pattern Company Seabright Swimmer fits the bill perfectly. We love the deep V neckline, long sleeves and low cut leg.
Another long sleeved option is Jalie 4013, we stock the full range of Jalie patterns and they really excel at activewear and swimwear as well as their gorgeous range of size inclusive garment patterns.
Lauren chose a one shoulder swimsuit design and we love Vogue 9192 to cover this look. Not only is there a one shoulder swimsuit design, there is also a deep Vneck swimsuit, a cross over bikini top and briefs, a long sleeved top and a cover up skirt. So much mileage in one pattern!
New Look 6734 is a super contemporary design with one shoulder and cut out effect with optional waist tie and cover up wrap skirt/sarong included. It reminded us of Lauren's make.
I couldn't resist throwing McCalls 8329 into the mix, a super contemporary bikini and swimsuit design with ring detail.
Matthew opted to make a swimsuit with a skirt and there are multiple options included in Butterick 5795 for this look, plus it is a super inclusive size range.
Sewing Bee Techniques
If you're planning to have a go at sewing swimwear and activewear a coverstitch and/or overlocker machine will make life so much easier and will enable you to sew stitches that will stretch with the fabric.
You can see our full range of overlocker and coverstitch machines here and don't hesitate to ask if you need any help. We love nothing more than a good natter about overlockers and coverstitch machines and can match you with your dream machine.
Here is a video for some top tips when sewing on an overlocker to show you some of the capabilities of these machines:
We are loving this series so far, for week two there seems to be such high drama, fantastic sewing and we feel like we're right in at the deep end already. I wonder what week three will bring?!
Series 9 Episode 1: Classics with a Twist
The Sewing Bee is finally back and we are so happy to see a new bunch of contestants take to their sewing machines and sew up a storm. Here's our weekly round up of patterns and techniques you can use to sewalong and join in the fun.
The Sewing Bees three challenges were set around classic designs with a twist this week including a top to be sewn with French seams, a refashion of some office wear and a made to measure cut out dress challenge. What a great start!
The Pattern Challenge: A Twist Top
The Sewing Bees were asked to whip up a relatively simple top with a twist (literally!) They were also asked to sew with French seams including French seaming the armholes. Luckily we have a whole host of patterns and fabrics you could use and two tutorials on sewing French seams, including the armhole.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Burda 6911 has the twist detail and options for a short sleeve, long sleeve and dress version, which can be sewn up in comfy jersey fabrics.
New Look 6733 has the fun twist crossover detail plus sleeve options and can be sewn up in a nice comfy knit.
Butterick 6899 is a woven twist top pattern with easy to sew grown on sleeves and option for pretty sleeve hem ruffles.
Sewing Bee Sewing Techniques
The Sewing Bees were asked to sew the twist top with a French seam including French seaming the armhole. Luckily we have a video tutorial to hold your hands through this sewing technique, which is actually relatively simple and will give you super sleek results.
Made To Measure Challenge: a Cut Out Dress
Cut out dresses have been so on trend in recent years, in fact I made one for my friend's wedding last year and I love it dearly. There are so many patterns to choose from to sewalong with the Bees and I wish I had time to make them all. Here's some of the ones we spotted on the show.
Sewing Bee Patterns
Tony sewed up McCalls 8253in a pretty floral jersey fabric, you can find our range of printed jersey fabrics here.
Fauve sewed up McCalls 8175, we love the different length and sleeve options.
Mia, Lauren and Catherine chose New Look 6731 complete with sexy ruching detail.
If you're a fan of vintage designs you could replicate Tony's cut out back 50s inspired dress with Simplicity 8051.
We have so many more cut out dress and top patterns up on the site so do jump on and check them out and don't forget our gorgeous dressmaking fabric range too, you can see them all here.
Do jump on to Instagram and check out our weekly Sewing Bee themed giveaways too for even more chance to join in the fun.
Do you have a favourite contestant yet?
See you next week.