Mellie & Me is releasing new vest patterns that make me want to start sewing clothing again! The Britney Vest comes in three styles and a multitude of sizes from XS to XXXL. The zippered version is my favorite. I don’t know if it is the colors or the pockets, but this one is definitely on my to-do list! Mix and match the variations to make it truly your own! You can also easily make this with a quilt top or finished quilt instead. This printed pattern contains fully illustrated step-by-step instructions and full-sized templates to create your own Britney Vest.
The back is understated elegance.
Same pattern, different cover for those Tula fans. Notice this version, included in both patterns, includes a V-neckline, no zipper, and a binding trim with a bow closure – the perfect choice for a beginner!
Or Version 3…squared off neckline and bottom.
The Harmony vest is adorable in whichever size you choose. The baby sized version includes sizes newborn to 24 months.
The Harmony Girl Vest pattern includes sizes from 3 to 8.
The ladies version includes sizes from XS – 4XL.
All of these patterns should be arriving this month, just in time for those cool, summer evenings!
Huh?…Being a bit beyond the mid-point of the aging scale, I am no longer a Spring Chicken. But I make a mean Summer Hen when I’m wearing these luxurious linens from Robert Kaufman. There’s nothing better than having lots of lightweight linen dresses that flow and move easily during hot summer months. Sure, spring chickens might be wearing shorts and minis, but this old hen needs those pale white and blue (vericose veins) legs covered up comfortably. There are lots of easy dress patterns out there with no zippers or buttons, but we can offer lots of help in the way of reading material to get you through a pattern that is a bit more involved. First take a look at these beautiful Brussels Washer Linen fabrics from Robert Kaufman that are a combination of linen and rayon for excellent drape and breathability.
There are many colors to choose from and can be ordered regardless of stock levels shown on the website. This is a heavenly linen that you must try. I wash mine in cold water and lay flat to dry. And don’t worry about wrinkles! It used to be a thing to avoid but it now adds to our casually worn appearance. Natural, effortless, and undeniably modern. Think summer hen grunge. I think I just coined a great new term!
If sewing garments is not something you do, or you don’t do often, we have a couple books I’d like to recommend. This one is available now.
The Ultimate Illustrated Guide to Sewing Clothes is a must-have resource on everything you need to know on how to sew clothes. Filled with valuable insight on sewing, tailoring, and making alterations, you’ll learn how to get a good fit for every body type out of any sewing pattern, install a zipper, use notions, and more. Whether you’re new to sewing or have experience, expand your skill set and build confidence so you can sew like a pro!
I am looking forward to this next book which is coming in August. A bit late for summer sewing, but a good one to have in your arsenal.
Ultimate Guide to Designing Patterns for Clothing is an essential reference guide for aspiring fashion designers, fashion design students, and sewing and fabric enthusiasts who want to develop their eye for fashion. Packaged with easy-to-follow diagrams and QR codes for exclusive video tutorials from the author, Ultimate Guide to Designing Patterns for Clothing covers 11 essential subjects, from creating basic slopers to building perfect-fitting garments on the first try. Whether you’re a seasoned sewist looking to level up your skills or a beginner in the world of fashion design, author Suzy Ferrer’s Ultimate Guide to Designing Patterns for Clothing is the definitive resource for professional pattern making instruction.
I’m not looking to become a fashion designer but I sure look forward to those QR tutorials! If I can avoid Amazon shopping and make my own clothes, I’ll be the loudest clucker in the hen house. Join me!
With the store that shall not be named closing, I hear people constantly crying “but where will I buy my fleece”? Fleece was a top seller there and it was often cheap. Well guess what? Checker has the fleece. Although it isn’t cheap, you can be confident that it is a superior quality that people will notice. Paying more for something that is better will become the norm. Give it a try. Start small. Gather a few bolts and see how it goes. Make sure your customer knows that you have it and that it comes from great brands like these from Windham Fabrics.
Lots of solids and lots of prints to choose from. Don’t worry if the one you want is not in stock, Checker will get it for you. Make a few tie blankets, maybe even kit them up.
Here is another great use for fleece. I have made this poncho many times and it’s a great class.
It is so easy and makes a perfect gift. Hang one in the shop and illustrate how great it is for camping or after a swim on a cool night. Not to mention how perfect it is for fall. It’s like being wrapped in a blanket!
Things are changing, attract those ‘other store’ customers and give them the service that they didn’t know they could get. Who knows, fleece might become your top seller.
P.S. Look for the REAL TREE FLEECE PROMO coming up this week on the website
If you’ve never knitted a pair of socks, you’re missing out. Yes, it can take awhile. Yes, I have many single socks laying here and there. BUT, to wear a pair is like heaven on your feet. They are cushier, prettier, and so satisfying. There are so many options in socks that it’s hard to stop.
I can’t wait to get my hands on this new book from Landauer called “The Little Sock Knitting Book” by Christopher Verlag. I need no other reason than the yellow ones on the cover.
Inside, the author uses the simple, everyday pair of socks as the footstools for understanding how knitting works, showing how it’s possible to work from cuff to toe or toe to cuff. Learn cast-on stitches, shaft patterns, and more – each packaged with careful step-by-step photos. This book will get you started on your journey to the comfort of sock knitting. If you can’t wait until July when the book is released, Checker has you covered.
“Love To Knit Socks” is from Annie’s. It will be just as satisfying, and maybe more, because it is available now!
This extensive pattern book features 14 beautiful sock patterns showcasing a variety of techniques and methods. From top-down to toe-up and even unique spiraling socks, readers can master multiple ways to knit socks while also trying different cuffs, heels and toes. Socks with different textures, techniques and leg lengths are included. Oh the joy!
One of the other great things about knitting is the amazing options in needles and accessories. KnitPro has some beautiful, fun to knit with, needles that are a perfect accompaniment to these books. Symfonie Dreamz Fixed Circular Needles.
Made of laminated birchwood, these needles are smooth with metal connectors and a nylon cable. They come in many beautiful colors adding to the treat you can experience when knitting. KnitPro has an entire range of needle types and sizes for you to try at a very reasonable price point. They are brand new and definitely worth a try.
If there is one downside to sock knitting, it would be that the completed pair don’t last forever. The urge is to wear them every day but we know (from experience) that isn’t a good idea. All of a sudden your big toe pokes through or your heel gets very thin. It can be the most depressing day of the year because you have no more of the yarn you knitted them with. Alas, there is a solution! Clover is releasing some Darning Yarn in May!
This is just one of the amazing color groups being offered. AND, the yarn is 50% wool and 50% acrylic. Each card has three shades /colors of darning yarn and each color is 17-1/2 yards.There will be no sock that I can’t color match. I feel like I need them all. You might even have a favorite pair of store bought socks that have a hole. Now you can darn them, darn it!
Quilts for children and babies are something that most quilters LOVE to make for their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Well, we’ve got an entire display idea, for shops, of a great gift suggestion that many might find ‘fairy’ appealing. How about quilts, dress-up clothes, and even a jacket?! All for children and all about fairies.
Riley Blake’s ‘Thimblelina and the Sewing Fairies’ line makes easy work of finding the perfect fabric for ‘all the things’. Although not released until October, it gives you plenty of time to plan.
This vibrant fabric showcases a delightful patchwork design inspired by the whimsical world of Thimbelina and the Sewing Fairies. It is a good representation of the fabrics in the line, but in one great piece. The pattern features a variety of squares, each adorned with charming illustrations of fairies, sewing tools, and floral motifs.
Imagine the darling piece above in a quilted jacket or twirly skirt. No need for patchwork because it is all done for you. Just quilt the whole cloth for the jacket and sew the tiers together for the skirt.
That’s just a start. With the entire line, Thimbelina and The Sewing Fairies, or at least a few more pieces, you can make these simple dress-up costumes that will surely make you Queen of the Forest.
Thoughtfully sized, the crown, wings, and wand are easy to craft, while the adjustable skirt ensures a great fit for growing kids. The pattern includes detailed instructions for using Peltex stabilizer, fusible fleece, and ribbon, ensuring a sturdy and polished finish.
The hat, designed for comfort and structure, incorporates fusible fleece and offers endless customization possibilities.
I have been making quilt jackets for over a year now and they are ALWAYS noticed by people everywhere I go. Even my kids requested and received them. They are in their 20’s. There are so many different patterns and styles out there- a couple of Instagrammers have been selling them for $1000! Even if you have never sewn garments, most of the jackets are ‘sew’ easy to make and they are usually oversized so that fit isn’t a huge issue. Remember that you can go to Instagram and #hashtag the pattern you are considering, and you will likely see a lot of pictures of that jacket made in many different ways. It will give you a good idea of whether you like it or not. One of my favorites is the Tamarack Jacket from Grainline Studio. There are sizes from 0-30 so you will surely find your size.
This one fits a little closer than others, so you might want to size up. Although it’s shown here in a solid quilted fabric, it can be made using a quilt- just cut the pieces, sew, and bind. No need for a separate lining because your quilt is already lined!
I haven’t made theLaura Jacket by Melly and Me yet, but I sure like the simple design. It is similar to the ones I have made, but mine are closer to waist length, and they have a hood. Both are easy adjustments to this jacket.
To make comfy, fashionable living even more fun, make a mommy and me match for a little one. Melly and Me has also designed this Tic Tac Toe pattern for children in sizes from 3-8.
You must have a quilt or two that you don’t use, or don’t love, that you could turn into a jacket. Make it useful. You’ll be surprised at how much you love it.
You might think that we could leave the men out of this discussion, BUT NO! I am here to tell you that I have gotten more compliments from stylish young men (20 something’s) than anyone. Weird right? The more colorful the better. So why not make a man in your life the Beachcomber Jacket from Friday Pattern Company? You would have to make some adjustments to this one if using an already finished quilt but MAN! You would be a superstar. I’m pretty sure this will be my next make.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
In the meantime, here are some examples of Men’s Quilted Jackets. It takes a special man.
Definition of Hoppy: To jump with joy, to bounce excitedly.
Easter is more than easter eggs, bunnies, and candy. It is a time to remember why we are all here. A time for joy and renewal and love. It is a time to be ‘Hoppy’! So, let’s be hoppy together with this collection of joyful Easter Bunny patterns that will renew your homes décor and fill your friends and family with love.
First, you will need some table runners to adorn your table or one of someone you love. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to gift one of these to the hostess of your Easter dinner? Bunny Trail Table Runner by The Tipsy Needle and Easter Bunnies Runner by Patchabilities, Inc.What joy and hoppiness you will bring.
Next, think of how dying Easter eggs with your children or grandchildren might renew your spirit and fill them with so much hoppiness. Make them an apron to wear to avoid getting dye on their clothes, and you will make mom and dad hoppy too. This one, ‘Fun Friends’ by Cotton Ginnys is perfect!
For the younger kids, how about a stuffy? ‘Easter Bunny Buddies’ by Funky Friends Factory is so much fun. Make it in polka dots or their favorite color. They will surely feel the love and demonstrate their hoppiness.
Lastly, imagine your home filled with smiling, hoppy faces enjoying all that Easter brings. You want to hang on to those feelings. So, make yourself a quilt. An ‘Easter Egg Hunt’ quilt by Laugh yourself into stitches. In Easter traditions, eggs symbolize new life, rebirth, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What better way to remind yourself of the JOY, RENEWAL, and LOVE that Easter brings.
Hippity, Hoppity, Easters on its way! Better hurry and get started on these great patterns.
The Elemental Coat from Crinkle Dreams by Teresa Coates is a loose-fitting, slightly A-line coat with options!
Choose from full-length, mid-length and cropped length, as well as 3/4 or full-length sleeves. The pattern includes options for adding a hood or collar, and for using a button loop closure. Whether re-purposing quilts, using new fabric combinations or quilt-your-own with coordinating Quilted Element modules, the Elemental Coat pattern is designed to bring quilters into the garment-sewing world and give them the opportunity to let their quilt-making skills shine.
Sizes range from 4/6 to 22/24.
Check out all of the options! Whether you quilt parts of the jacket or choose a stunning print or novelty fabric, you will be the star of the show!
This pattern is due to arrive next month so place your orders now.
This quick and easy wrap is your go-to shrug for any occasion! Make this fun, fashionable wrap for family, friends, and yourself. It’s the perfect accessory for a chilly day or to cozy up on the couch. With six sizes and three sleeve lengths to choose from there’s a pattern for everyone – all using less than two yards of your favorite fabric. Customize it even more with an elastic cuff or leave the sleeve loose.
The pattern offers tips and techniques for stitching Luxe Cuddle® Plush, faux fur, polar fleece, batiks, double gauze, knits and woven cottons. Style one for every season, every event, or any mood!
The QR code inside the pattern links to bonus content that includes a Look Book and video featuring the suggested styling and fabric options as well as sewing tips.
Check out all of the possibilities:
The patterns are in stock so you have time to make these for last minute gifts!
This pattern will be featured on a Missouri Star episode soon so Amy thought you might want to have it in your store!
In her words: The AnyTime Topper will appeal to quilters, as well as those who sew apparel. This loose fitting, versatile style can go from casual to a cocktail party depending on fabric choice. The quick and easy construction as well as comfortable style will inspire makers to construct multiple versions of this design. The 8 page, full color fold out format includes versions photographed in wovens, quilt cottons, knits, rayon, and toweling yardage as well as specific tips and techniques working with those substrates. Clever options for upcycling fabrics like bandanas or a tablecloth are also featured. The pattern includes two sizes (S-XL) (2X-3X), with mid-hip and three-quarter length options.
A QR code/link inside the pattern will lead to bonus content which includes a Look Book and video showcasing styling and fabric options we suggest for the project. Or, you can view it now on our website.
Here are several examples of finished toppers which show the versatility of the pattern.
With so many options to choose from, your customers are sure to be tempted to make clothing again!
