Today’s Sewing Vlog about my Tilly and the Buttons Lyra shirt dress – this is a review of the pattern and how I found making the dress.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
I love dreaming of my next sewing projects and what fabrics I can use to create my outfits. Today, I’m sharing my plans with you of what I’m hoping to sew up over the next couple of months.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
Today’s Sewing Vlog is about my latest sewing makes and my new favourite t shirt pattern.
My vlog includes a free sewing pattern by Pattern Scissors Cloth called the Galaxy Tee which is designed to be made in a jersey fabric.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
Today’s Sewing Vlog is about my fabric haul and sewing plans for April as well as my plan to sew myself a Spring capsule wardrobe.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
Easter is a great opportunity to fill your house with crafts, flowers, painted (and chocolate) eggs, and cute animal makes – so I have put together a few ideas I hope you will enjoy making in 2021!
Today’s sewing vlog is about easy Easter sewing and craft ideas for both kids and grown ups!
I have included all the links to the sewing / craft / gift ideas mentioned in my video in the description box on my You Tube channel.
If you enjoy watching today feel free to leave me a comment, press the like button and subscribe to my channel 👍😊.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky
Today I’m sharing my March Makes video including a few things I’ve made for myself, my husband and a gift too.
If you enjoy watching today feel free to leave me a comment, press the like button on my YouTube channel and subscribe👍😊.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
I love it when I find a good basic pattern that can be made in different fabrics – and the Friday Pattern Company Square Neck Top is one of those.
In my latest You Tube video, I’m making a jersey version of the Square Neck Top in a lovely red fabric from Guthrie and Ghani.
This pattern can be made in both knit and woven fabrics so there is lots of choice of the types of material you can use for this project.
I’ve made this sewing pattern twice now, once in a woven fabric and once in a knit fabric, and I’m sure I will make it again as it is really versatile.
I’m sure there is also lots of potential to hack this pattern into a dress or extend the length of the sleeves too.
I hope you enjoy watching my video.
Becky x
I really enjoy planning out my next sewing projects and today I’m sharing my fabric and sewing plans for the next few weeks.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
My latest sewing vlog is about what I made in February.
I love finding patterns that I want to make time and time again, and that’s what happened with the Tilly and the Buttons Billie Sweatshirt. I’ve included two different versions in this video.
During February, I was also lucky enough to be asked to demonstrate a Simple Sew Sewing Pattern on TV – I chat about this and how exciting I found the whole experience.
I hope you enjoy seeing my latest sewing projects.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
I’m a huge fan of Tilly and the Button’s patterns and the Agnes Top is definitely one of my favourites.
Today I wanted to share my full collection of Agnes Tops with you. I have made 13 so far and I’m confident I will make more in the future.
In my latest video, I am sharing what I love about this pattern as well as 10 reasons why I think you should consider giving this pattern a go if you haven’t made it already.
Hope you enjoy watching.
Becky x
Today’s sewing vlog is about what I made in January this year.
I’m sharing four completed makes as well as a work in progress and a new craft I’m trying 😊.
My video includes 3 jersey makes and one woven top too.
I’m also chatting about a new pattern release from My Handmade Wardrobe that I was lucky to test recently.
I hope you enjoy watching.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
Have you ever bought a pattern and then made it again and again and again? That’s what happened when I made the Linden Sweatshirt – I love it.
Today’s video is about my full collection of Grainline Studio Linden Sweatshirts.
I’ve made 9 different versions so far and I’m sure I will make more. As well as sharing all of my sweatshirts with you, I’m also chatting about the 10 reasons I would recommend you trying this sewing pattern if you haven’t already.
Hope you enjoy watching.
Becky x
In today’s video I’m sharing 10 valentines day sewing and craft ideas – to make for a loved one, a partner, a friend or yourself if you fancy a treat.
Many of the ideas include free templates to download or need no pattern at all.
I have included a range of ideas in this video for all sewing and craft abilities.
Valentines Day is a great excuse for me to have some fun with fabrics, use up fabric scraps and get creative in making some fun projects. Links included in the video / mentions of projects:
1. Heart gift bag – https://www.momtastic.com/family/diy-for-moms/114325-diy-heart-gift-bag/
2. Make a new top for Valentines Day – https://patternscissorscloth.com/2020/07/09/galaxy-t-shirt-sewing-pattern/
3. Valentines stuffed heart – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1JGVw-NI4Y&t=287s
4. Chalk Art t-shirt – https://www.polkadotchair.com/chalk-art-t-shirt-tutorial/
5. Make a fabric flower brooch
6. Make a ruffle heart banner – http://pickupsomecreativity.blogspot.com/2010/01/ruffle-heart-banner-tutorial.html
7. Make a pretty apron – https://www.deliacreates.com/simple-gathered-half-apron-tutorial/ https://www.thesewingdirectory.co.uk/sew-an-apron-project/
8. Crochet a Heart decoration – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_C1Lu4jStw
9. Make a heart cushion
10. Craft a card If you do enjoy watching my sewing / craft video please press the ‘like’ button, leave me a comment and subscribe to see all of my latest content.
My YouTube channel is all about sewing, dressmaking and craft activities. You can also follow me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/notes_from_the_sewing_room/?hl=en
Hope you enjoy my You Tube video.
Becky x
I’ve put together a list of my top 5 sewing patterns and makes from last year so thought I would record a video to share my highlights.
If you do enjoy watching my sewing / craft video please press the ‘like’ button, leave me a comment and subscribe to see all of my latest content.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments about what your favourite patterns are from last year.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
Today’s video is about what I made in December including clothes, gifts and Christmas decorations I put together for the house.
I love getting into the festive spirit and making gifts for my friends and family as well as decorations for the house is a great way for me to do this.
I’m pleased with the range of crafts I managed to squeeze in during December so I hope you enjoy watching this video.
This is the second part of my December makes series, so I’d love it if you wanted to watch part one on my You Tube channel too.
If you do enjoy watching my sewing / craft video please press the ‘like’ button, leave me a comment and subscribe to see all of my latest content.
Hope you’re having a good week.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
Today’s video is about what I made in December. I have split my vlog into two parts as I have lots of sewing and craft projects to share with you.
Christmas is my favourite time of year so I love to make gifts for my friends and family if possible.
In this video I’m sharing clothes, Christmas gifts and craft projects / Christmas decorations I made for the house.
I hope you enjoy learning about some of my homemade projects. I’d love to know what you made for Christmas this year, feel free to comment on my video if you would like to.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
I have spent some time brainstorming what I would like to make in 2021, so I am excited to share my sewing plans with you.
I have recorded a sewing vlog all about my sewing plans for 2021 and you can find my video here.
Patterns included in the sewing vlog:
Today’s video is all about the new subscription service from one of my favourite online fabric shops, Crafty Sew and So.
One of the things I have missed over the past few months is getting out to fabric shops, feeling different fabrics, going to sewing meet ups and dreaming about different projects I could make with the fabrics I see when I’m out and about.
Crafty Sew and So are filling this gap though by bringing a bit of the tactile shopping experience to you at home. The Swatch List allows you to receive a number of carefully chosen fabrics through your door each month allowing you to feel / see the fabrics before you order enough to make your project.
I think this is such a lovely idea so I hope you enjoy hearing more about what is included in my review.
I was a tester for this new service so I was given the swatches / magazine for free in exchange for a review in my own words.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
If you enjoy watching this video please press the ‘like’ button and subscribe to my channel.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
Today’s video is all about 5 different outfits you can sew for New Year’s Eve this year at home.
Thank you for watching my video today and a huge thank you to everyone who has subscribed so far, I can’t believe I’ve made it to 4000 subscribers.
I’ve included different outfits that are quick to make and can be sewed up in lots of fun or sparkly fabrics.
You could make any of the below even if you are short on time…
1. The Harper cardigan by Sinclair Patterns
2. The Safiya trousers by Tilly and the Buttons (Make it Simple book)
3. The Stella hoodie and joggers by Tilly and the Buttons (Stretch book)
4. Gather patterns – the Buchanan dressing gown
5. Kwik Sew K3553 PJs
Thank you for watching.
Happy sewing.
Becky x
This month I was delighted to be asked to write a blog for Simple Sew Patterns, so I decided to join three of my favourite patterns together to create one new dress!
Having made a number of Simple Sew dresses before, I decided that to create a dress that I will really love and want to wear a lot of – so I joined three of my favourite patterns together to make one party dress (not that I’m going anywhere at the moment).
I joined two Simple Sew Patterns – the skater dress and the grace dress on to the bodice of the betty dress by Sew Over It.
Why did I choose to hack the patterns?
I decided to join the three different patterns to create my perfect dress. I have made each of the dress patterns before so I used my favourite parts of each to make a completely new outfit.
I used the bodice from the betty dress which is very similar to the Simple Sew skater dress bodice, although it has a slightly lower neckline which works better for me. I also prefer the fit of the bodice overall, even though the two patterns appear to look similar on paper with the same darts and back shaping.
I like the three-quarter length arm patterns pieces from the skater dress and think they are ideal for this time of year.
I chose to use the pleated skirt pattern pieces from the Simple Sew grace skirt as I love the shaping of the box pleats. Box pleats are really flattering and remind me of 1950s fashion designs.
How did I join the patterns?
In order to join the betty bodice onto the sleeve pieces I had to change the shaping of the arm sockets on both the front and back pattern pieces.
I used tracing paper to firstly copy the betty dress bodice (front and back pieces) and then placed the skater dress bodice pieces on top of my new drawings. I then copied the shaping of the arm sockets on the skater dress on to my new traced pieces so I knew the arm pattern pieces would fit into the sockets comfortably.
I also re-drew the arm pieces to have a little extra volume at the top (I added around 2cm onto the centre / top curve), as I wanted to create a small, gathered area when I sewed it onto my bodice. This worked well and allowed the sleeves to have a more on-trend look for 2020!
The final change I made to sleeves was to add an extra 1cm to each long side of the sleeve pattern pieces as I previously found that although the size 10 arms from the skater pattern fitted me okay, I thought I would be more comfortable with slightly more space to move around.
The grace skirt is a dream to sew-up and fitted onto the betty bodice nicely. I didn’t make any changes to the skirt apart from adding one inch onto the length as I’m tall and didn’t want my finished dress to be too short.
The fabric
I used a berry-coloured triple crepe from Guthrie and Gharni to make my dress that I bought ages ago. I used two metres of fabric to make my new outfit and found that the material had a beautiful drape as well as enough structure to show-off the best bits of my dress including the bodice darts and skirt pleats.
Overall
I’m sure I will get lots of wear out of this project so I would recommend joining the different patterns together and using a similar fabric to the one I chose.
I used the size 10 betty bodice, the size 10 grace skirt and the size 10 skater sleeves (with a minor change) to make my dress and I’m really pleased with the overall final fit. I have plenty of room inside my dress to move around and eat a large Christmas lunch, so that works well for me!
Keep up to date with my latest makes
I hope you enjoyed reading this review.
If you would like to keep up to date with my latest sewing projects subscribe to my YouTube channel or follow me on Instagram .
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky
Today’s video is all about how to create / craft a pom pom garland for your home. This is a great Christmas craft but it could be made at anytime of the year to decorate any room and add a splash of colour to any room!
You will need:
– 60 inches of ribbon or bias binding Scissors
-Wool (enough to make 10 poms poms)
-Tape measure / ruler
-Pom pom maker
Hope you enjoy this tutorial, if you do please hit the ‘like’ button on my YouTube channel, leave me a comment and subscribe to my channel to make sure you see my future vlogs.
Happy crafting,
Becky x
Today’s video is all about fabrics I have picked up over the last few weeks and sewing plans I have before Christmas.
I’m hoping to sew up presents for my husband, my new baby and my home before Christmas.
Time is a little tight before the big day but I’m going to do my best to squeeze in as much sewing time as I can.
I love making homemade gifts for my friends and family whenever I can so I’m crossing my fingers that I manage to get as much crafting done this month as I can!
Fabrics included in this video:
Cotton poplin fabric (the London print design) and mustard jersey are from Material Girl fabrics in Nottinghamshire. You can find them on Facebook.
The sweatshirt fabric was from Fabriques on ebay.
The tartan fabric is from my Sew Hayley Jane mini box https://sewhayleyjane.com/
Thank you for watching my video. If you enjoy my video please press the ‘like’ button on YouTube and subscribe to see more from me.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments section.
You can also follow me on Instagram here.
Hope you enjoy my You Tube video.
Becky x
With Christmas just around the corner, I have put together a quick and easy guide to making a few last minute decorations for your home and ideas of crafts you could give as gifts in 2020.
Making homemade decorations is really fun and is something that you can do by yourself in front of the TV or involve the whole family around the table.
I have included 10 different ideas in this video that are suitable for all levels of sewing / craft abilities so there really is something here for everyone to try – even if you are short on time.
Thank you for watching my video.
Links and projects included in this video:
1. Simple peg dolls for your tree https://masandpas.com/santa-peg-dolls/
2. Paper tree garland for your wall or your tree https://www.minted.com/julep/2014/11/28/diy-modern-paper-tree-garland/
3. Beautiful Christmas wreath from almond rock – http://almondrock.co.uk/tag/christmas/
4. Salt dough decorations https://wholefully.com/make-salt-dough-ornaments/
5. Reindeer tree decoration to hang from your tree https://www.thestitchsisters.co.uk/blog/our-top-5-easy-fun-christmas-decorations/
6. Fill clear plastic baubles with beads, tinsel, mini toys (lego characters) or shavings of wax crayon https://www.pinterest.co.uk/juliellowe/clear-glass-baubles-filler-ideas/
7. Make decorations from scrap fabric – hearts, trees or baubles http://blog.monaluna.com/2016/12/scrappy-organic-fabric-ornament-tutorial/
8. Make your own Christmas angel https://fabricartdiy.com/diy-christmas-fabric-angel-ornament-free-sewing-patterns/
9. Craft a pom pom reindeer https://wonderfuldiy.com/holiday-pom-poms-crafts/
10. Easy tree ornament with hanging loop https://www.easysewingforbeginners.com/project/easy-fabric-christmas-tree-ornaments-to-sew/
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
You can also follow me on Instagram here.
Becky x
I can’t believe we are coming to the end of 2020 and Christmas is just around the corner. Today, I wanted to share my latest sewing makes video about what I have made in November and December so far.
My video includes 3 cardigans and a couple of Christmas gifts too – I love making handmade presents for friends and family for Christmas and any other occasion to be honest!
Patterns included in this video:
– Bertha cardigan – Tilly and the Buttons Make It Simple Book
– Billie pattern – by Tilly and the Buttons
Also mentioned in the video: a lovely necklace I have treated myself too – from https://www.layla-amber.co.uk/
Fabric included from:
– Crafty Sew and So, Leicestershire
– Material Girl Fabrics, Nottinghamshire – find them on Facebook
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
You can also follow me on Instagram here.
Hope you enjoy my You Tube video.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
Have you seen the new Minerva website yet? There are loads of good pattern and fabrics on there from bloggers around the world. You can find all of my latest reviews on Minerva.com by searching ‘Notes From the Sewing Room’.
This month I was pleased to be asked to review a berry ponte roma fabric by Minerva.
What did I make?
I love Sew Over It patterns and one of my favourites is the Emma Dress, so as soon as I received this fabric I knew the two would work brilliantly together.
The Emma Dress is designed to be made in a medium to heavy weight jersey fabric so ponte roma works really well. The dress has a bodice with princess seams, a tulip skirt including pleat detail and the arms are finished with a small cuff.
The dress is fairly straight forward to make if you are a confident sewist, although Sew Over It do have an introduction to jersey class in which you can follow along with an online tutorial to make the outfit too.
Unusually for a jersey dress, the Emma Dress has a zip running down the centre back. I did add in the zip to my project but depending on the stretch of your fabric you could may be skip this step and just sew up the back seam with no zipper (I probably didn’t need to add one).
I recorded a video about my dress if you would like to learn more about how I found the project and see me wearing my new outfit too. You can find my video here.
The pattern
The pattern can be bought as a PDF or printed pattern on the Sew Over It website. The Emma Dress has a round neckline, set-in ¾ length sleeves and the bodice is designed to fit into your waist.
The dress is really comfortable to wear and is a great project to try if you are looking for a stylish jersey outfit for the colder weather. I have made three of these dresses so far and I’m sure I will make a few more in the future.
Sizing
I made a size 10 and found that the pattern has a nice amount of ease, so it is comfy to wear in the house with my slippers or out and about with tights and a coat.
The fabric I used
The ponte I made my dress in is honestly one of the best fabrics of this type I have used. It has a nice weight to it as well as having a bit of drape too.
I finished my dress with a twin needle to hold the neckline facing in place and turned up the hem by one inch and used the same stitch to finish the bottom of my project too. I had to take my time with the twin needle as the fabric is quite thick and the twin needle function on my sewing machine is a bit temperamental!
Would I recommend this project?
Definitely, the dress is a lovely project. I have had lots of compliments on my outfit and really love the berry coloured fabric.
Keep up to date with my latest makes
I hope you enjoyed reading this review.
I have also recorded a YouTube video all about this project if you would like to watch this. You can find me by searching Notes From the Sewing Room or by visiting the link below.
If you would like to keep up to date with my latest sewing projects subscribe to my YouTube channel or follow me on Instagram.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky
Welcome to the first episode of my Vlogmas series. I’m planning to post 3 videos per week during December as we head towards Christmas. Each of my videos will have a festive theme so I hope you enjoy them.
Today I’m taking you out with me as we explore one of my favourite places to go walking.
I show you Christmas decorations I find on my journey as well as showing you how pretty the landscape is on a bright December day.
Thank you for watching my video.
Please subscribe to see more from me.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
In my latest video I’m giving you an update on my festive sewing plans and what I have been making so far.
I really love Christmas and all of the preparations that go along with it, so I have been enjoying making festive gifts and decorations for the house this year.
Over the next few days I’m going to be planning when I’m buying my Christmas tree, finding out my pretty lights and decorations – It really is my favourite time of year.
You can watch my latest video below:
Thanks for watching.
Becky x
I’ve been excited about sharing my latest fabric haul and sewing plans with you. There are a range of fabrics included in this post for me to sew up over the next few months.
I’ve filmed a video all about my new fabrics for my You Tube channel. You can view this below.
I’m really looking forward to using the cosy jersey fabric first to make some warm jumpers or cardigans.
If you have any ideas how I can use the fabric / what I could make please leave me a comment below.
Thank you for watching my video.
Happy sewing,
Becky x
Today’s video is all about what I made during October 2020. I surprised myself with how many projects I managed to complete including both jersey and woven projects.
Patterns included in this video are:
Sew Over It – Emma Dress
Simple Sew – Olive Shirt
Tilly and the Buttons – Coco top
Tilly and the Buttons – Frankie Tee
Fabrics included:
The fabric for the maroon Emma Dress was given to me by Minerva for free in exchange for an honest blog review. This will be on the Minerva website soon.
The fabric for my Simple Sew shirt was given to me for free by Bobbins and Buttons in exchange for a review in my own words. You can find this on the Simple Sew blog.
The green Emma Dress was upcycled from a British Heart Foundation purchase.
The apple fabric is from By Graziela Fabrics
The lama fabric is from Material Girl Fabrics in Nottinghamshire – you can find them on Facebook.
Thank you for watching my video.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Becky x
I’ve put together a selection of the best Christmas gift ideas that you could sew or craft for friends and family this year. I’m sure you are going to love my suggestions and hopefully want to have a go at making a few of the projects too!
This is the second part of my Christmas gift ideas vlog series – if you haven’t seen my first video please check it out.
There are a range of suggestions included for all sewing levels and each take a different amount of time.
There are lots of free sewing patterns online – these ideas are just a sample of what you could make for friends and family this year.
I hope you enjoy watching my video – if you do please hit the ‘like’ button and subscribe to my YouTube channel.
Thank you for watching.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
I love table runners they look great and can be made for loads of different occasions.
Table runners are the perfect gifts for friends and family for Christmas, although depending on the fabrics you choose to make your project in could be used all year round.
I’ve recorded a video showing you how to make this lovely festive gift. If you do give it a try, I’d love to see a picture of what you make.
I previously made a few table runners for my wedding table and they got lots of compliments from our guests!
This sew-a-long is suitable for all sewing levels and I hope that you will love this quick project if you decide to give it a go.
You can make this project in 1 hour (or less if you are a quick sewist) including cutting your fabric and sewing your table runner together.
For this project you will need:
-45cm of backing fabric (1 metre in length)
-30cm of fabric for the middle of your table runner – again 1 metre in length (I used cotton poplin for both the back and front of my project)
-A sewing machine and thread to match your backing fabric -An iron and ironing board
-Tape measure / or ruler
-A pen / pencil or chalk -Scissors to cut your fabric You can make your table runner as narrow or as wide as you would like
– just simply change the dimensions of fabric required as noted above to the size you would like.
Thank you for watching my video.
Please subscribe to my You Tube channel to see more video content from me.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures – let me know if you have any ideas of content you would like to see on my channel in the future.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
I was delighted to be asked to review the Olive Shirt by Simple Sew patterns. I was sent both the pattern and fabric for free in exchange for a blog review in my own words.
I made my new top in a beautiful viscose fabric that was supplied by Bobbins and Buttons.
The fabric is really pretty and has a great drape to it. Designed by Dashwood Studio, the fabric is called birds of paradise and has a deep navy background with vibrant pink and orange birds on it.
The pattern
The Olive Blouse is available as a printed pattern with a size range from 6 to 20. The top has a relaxed fit that works really well in a viscose fabric. The design of the blouse is a bit different from other blouses I have made due to the gathering at the shoulder seams and on the back yoke.
I think you could wear the blouse into the office or team it with jeans or a casual skirt to wear at home or socially.
I made my blouse in a size 10 with no changes and used just under two metres of fabric.
The finished sleeves end just above my wrists, which seems a little unusual, but I actually really like this feature now I’ve got used to it.
The blouse is finished with buttons on the front. I chose some light purple buttons I had in my stash as I thought they worked well with the fabric colours. If you don’t like creating buttonholes on your sewing projects, you could try to finish the blouse with snaps instead.
As blouse projects go, I think this was a fairly speedy project to make. I cut out the pattern pieces one afternoon and sewed up my shirt over a few hours scattered over just a couple of days.
I can’t wait to start to wearing my new top out and about as I love the fabric and think it will add a slash of colour to my winter wardrobe.
The pattern includes easy to understand instructions, although I think it would be beneficial to have made a few garments before trying to make this project as there are a few potentially tricky elements to tackle including creating the button holes, gathering seams and adding a button placket.
If you are new to sewing and wanted to try this project you could try to make your top in a cotton lawn or a cotton poplin fabric so the fabric may be more stable to work with, although this would give the shirt a different final look.
Would I recommend this project/fabric?
Yes, I am really pleased with my new top. I’d recommend both the viscose fabric and trying the Olive Blouse pattern; both are wonderful to sew and wear.
Keep up to date with my latest makes
I hope you enjoyed reading this review.
If you would like to keep up to date with my latest sewing projects subscribe to my YouTube channel or follow me on Instagram.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky
This is the second edition of my mid-week crafty catch up series in which I chat about my sewing / craft progress this week, being a new mum and my latest TV / film recommendations.
Featured projects in today’s video include my latest Sew Over It Emma Dress, my progress on my Tilly and the Buttons Bertha Cardigan and a Christmas craft table decoration made using pine cones.
I hope you’re having a good week and enjoy watching my video. If you do enjoy watching it would be great if you could press the ‘like’ button and subscribe to my channel to keep up-to-date with my latest content.
I’d love to hear what you are making at the moment and if you are making anything for Christmas this year. Feel free to comment on my video and share your project plans!
Thank you for watching my video.
Becky x
I know it is only October but I want to start planning for Christmas early this year so I thought I’d share some of my festive craft ideas with you.
I’ve recorded a video including all of my sewing and craft suggestions if you are hoping to make homemade gifts for your friends and family this year.
I love a handmade gift and always enjoy making presents to give to others for birthdays and Christmas. There is nothing better than making someone smile by giving them something you have made yourself!
I hope you enjoy seeing my Christmas gift ideas. There are a range of suggestions included for all sewing levels and each take a different amount of time.
There are lots of free sewing patterns online although I have included a few ideas of Christmas inspired craft kits you can buy too.
Ideas included in my video include:
1. personalised Christmas stockings with appliqué initials Make a hand sewn, personalised Christmas stocking with appliqué initials for each family member for a stocking they’ll treasure for a long time. You could use scrap fabrics for this project. You can find a range of ideas here to different templates and design ideas.
2. easy sweet jars – no pattern needed upcycle your old jam jars / sauce jars, fill them with your favourite sweets and make a fabric lid. You can either stick your fabric with a glue gun on to your lid, or you could simply put the fabric on top of the jar and hold it in place with an elastic band and ribbon to finish it off. A great stocking filler.
3. Homemade advent calendar / reusable Advent Calendar Ideas could include: An envelope style garland or mini Christmas stockings in the form of bunting. There are free ideas on the love sewing magazine website or you could buy a kit from Crafty Sew and So – they have pre-printed advent calendar panels and a tutorial on their website.
4. Make a Christmas apron – pdf pattern from Crafty Sew and So.
5. Upcycled Christmas jumper Christmas lights design – DIY jumper.
6. Drawstring fabric gift bags. Make them in any size to suit any size gift.
7. Bake some cakes and put a bow around your tin It is a simple idea – but why not bake some cupcakes, mince pies or simple scones and either line your tin with a lovely piece of fabric or put your cakes in to a nice reusable tin and put a bow around it.
8. Make it simple eye mask This project is included in the Tilly and the Buttons Make It Simple Book.
9. Easy Christmas table runner – This can be as easy or complex as you like depending on your design.
I hope you enjoy watching my video.
Please press the ‘like’ button and subscribe to my channel to see my latest content.
Thank you for watching.
Becky x
I thought I’d put together a few mid-week videos based around what I’m up to in the week including my craft / sewing plans, my recommendations for TV and giving you an insight into my life as a new mum.
The first edition includes information about how I’m planning to make a Tilly and the Buttons Bertha Cardigan as well as the low-down on what I’ve been enjoying watching on TV.
The Bertha pattern is included in the book Make it Simple and can be either traced out of the patterns in the book or printed off as a pdf.
Apart from sewing and craft activities, I have always enjoyed sitting down in the evening and watching a good TV show particularly at this time of the year when the weather is getting colder!
I hope you enjoy watching my video – let me know if you like this style of vlog.
If you do enjoy watching please hit the ‘like’ button, leave me a comment and subscribe to see more from me.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love it if you could check out some of my other videos too.
Thanks for watching.
Becky x
This is part two of my September sewing makes video, I decided to split the video in to two sections as I didn’t want it to be too long!
I’m chatting about a few outfits I made for myself as well as a really speedy project that would make an ideal gift.
Patterns included in this video include the Helen’s Closet Gilbert Top (I really love this shirt and sure I will make more), the McCalls 7947 dress and an Ogden Cami hack.
I also had a go at sewing a cool cat shaped eye mask from the Tilly and the Buttons Make It Simple book. I’ve had lots of use out of this so far and also think this would make a great gift.
Everything included in this video was made before my new baby arrived, but I have been busy making a few other quick projects this month too so I plan to show you what I’ve been working on soon.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures so I hope you enjoy watching my video.
If you enjoy watching my videos – please click the ‘like’ button and subscribe to my channel.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky
This is the first video I’ve filmed since the birth of my baby and I have been looking forward to showing you what I made in September.
I decided to split this video into two parts – this one and another video next week as I have lots to chat about and I didn’t want this video to be too long!
This video includes my proudest ever make – a Sew Over It denim jacket, as well as a Helen’s Closet Gilbert top, a play mat, baby bib and face mask.
My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures.
Thank you for watching my video. Please subscribe to see more from me and click the notification bell to make sure you see my latest content.
What are you sewing at the moment?
Hope you’re having a good week.
Becky x
Treating myself to a few new fabrics always brings a smile to my face.
September saw me receive my Sew Hayley Jane Classic subscription box including 2.5 metres of multi-coloured jersey fabric and four fat quarters, as well as me ordering some beautiful new jersey fabrics from Felicity Fabrics online.
I love making sewing plans and dreaming about what I’m going to create, so I hope you enjoy watching my latest You Tube video based around what I plan to make over the next few weeks.
My You Tube channel is all about my sewing and craft creations. I’d love it if you checked out some of my other videos (if you haven’t already) and subscribed to my channel to see all of my latest content.
Happy sewing x
This month I was pleased to be asked to review the new pin tuck cami top pattern, from Crafty Sew and So.
The pattern
The top pattern is the latest edition to the Crafty Sew and So pattern collection, under the brand My Handmade Wardrobe.
Both the fabric and sewing pattern were sent to me for free in exchange for a review in my own words.
It will be available to buy from 18 September 2020, if you want to give it a try too.
It is an easy to wear top that has no tricky fastenings like zips or buttons, and instead literally slips on and off over your head.
The top has been released to be either worn alongside the My Handmade Wardrobe pyjama bottoms or to be made up in smarter fabric and worn has part of your everyday outfits.
The top includes a pin tuck section at the centre front. The pattern guides you through how to sew these, although it you get stuck there are many ‘how to’ videos and blogs on this subject to be found online.
This was the first time I had sewed any pin tucks, but I found it an easy process and adds a really cute detailed feature to the front of my new top.
A tip I discovered when sewing the pin tucks is to make sure your fabric is ironed and has no creases in. Then iron a centre front crease in place. This will allow you to easily work out where your four pin tucks on both sides of the centre front crease need to be sewn in place. After sewing, iron the front section again and a bit of steam should mean that centre front crease you ironed disappears.
You could make this pattern in any lightweight fabric like viscose, rayon or cotton lawn depending on the finished look you are hoping for. I used a cotton lawn fabric that was sent to me by Crafty Sew and So for my review.
I think this pattern is a wardrobe staple, that you could make in a range of fabric designs to make either the perfect summer top collection or an ideal layering piece to wear in the cooler weather.
Sizing
The sizes for this pattern are clearly described in the pattern and range from a size extra small to extra large. I made the size small, grading out slightly towards the size medium at the hip due to currently being eight months pregnant.
The pattern has an a line shape though to it will be comfortable to wear for me now and when I no longer have a baby bump!
Techniques
I followed the instructions – they are very detailed and hold your hand through each step of the sewing process. I think the project is suitable for a confident beginner, particularly if you make the top in a cotton lawn that is easier to control on your sewing machine.
Would I recommend this project?
Yes, I am really pleased with my new top. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who fancies making a cami top with pin tuck details.
Keep up to date with my latest makes
I hope you enjoyed reading this review.
If you would like to keep up to date with my latest sewing projects subscribe to my YouTube channel or follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/notes_from_the_sewing_room/?hl=en .
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
I am delighted to have been asked to join the Husqvarna sewing machine team as a brand ambassador.
I bought my Husqvarna Opal 670 sewing machine a few years ago and have since used it to create lots and lots of different projects for myself, my husband the house and for sewing various presents for friends and family.
The machine has many stitches, lots of which I have never used, but like most people I have my ‘go to’ functions on my electronic machine that I use on a regular basis to sew up my dressmaking and craft projects.
The Opal 670 came with a number of sewing machine feet and I have bought a couple of extras over time including an invisible zipper foot (the best foot ever).
Working with Husqvarna I have been sent a number of different sewing machine feet to test out and review in my own words. The feet have been given to me for free, so I will be creating a few honest reviews of the products over the next few months.
This week, I have made a video about the products I have been #gifted so far. It would be great if you wanted to watch my YouTube video, I have included the link below.
What are you working on this week sewing / craft wise?
Happy sewing.
Becky x
With my baby due this month, I was keen to sew myself a new pretty bedtime robe that will be useful for both wearing at home and during my time in hospital.
My dressing gown was created using the Gather Sewing Pattern called The Buchanan.
The Buchanan is a relaxed dressing gown in sizes small, medium and large. I made a size large as I wanted lots of fabric to wrap around me and keep me lovely and warm in wintertime.
The dressing gown includes 3/4 length sleeves, a contrast neck band, side slits, a sash tie to the waist and a hanging loop. It can be lengthened or shortened and there are two pocket variations.
I decided to add 10 inches to the length of my gown as well as 8 inches to the length of the sleeves of my project too.
I chat all about the changes I made to the pattern in my latest YouTube video, it would be great if you wanted to check this out.
I used two different cotton fabrics to make my project – the pink one I picked up on holiday last year and the blue one has been given to me by Minerva in exchange for a blog review in my own words.
I hope you enjoy my video. Please subscribe to my video and like my post to see my latest YouTube content.
You can also see my latest sewing projects on Instagram too.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
This week I decided I wanted to sew a shirt dress with a difference, so hacked the popular Sew Over It Penny Dress.
I have seen the Penny Dress made in many different fabrics online and they each played a part in inspiring me to create my version.
I spent a lot of time browsing Instagram and looking for ideas before starting my project and decided that I would like to create a dress with no elastic waist channel as I sometimes find this feature a bit uncomfortable.
I’ve recorded a YouTube video all about my hack of the Sew Over It Penny Dress. I have made a couple of tie waist shirts using this pattern previously, but wanted to try out a different version of the shirt dress too.
The fabric in this video was gifted to me in exchange for a blog review in my own words by https://www.minervacrafts.com/
I have made a number of changes to the original Penny Dress pattern including adding in front and back darts to the bodice, extending the facing section and changing the skirt design. I describe all of this in more detail in the video.
Thank you for watching my video. My YouTube channel is all about my sewing, dressmaking and craft adventures and I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
You can also follow me on Instagram here.
Hope you enjoy my watching.
Happy Sewing x
I had quite a productive sewing month in August, so I’m looking forward to showing you what I made in my latest sewing vlog.
The video includes a range of different fabrics, tops, a skirt and dress so lots to chat about!
I was gifted the fabric for my top I’m wearing in the picture below from By Graziela Fabrics in exchange for a review in my own words. I made a Sew Over It Edie Top with the cotton jersey, and love the bright colours (it reminds me of a candy cane)!
Thank you for watching my video.
The fabrics included in this video are from:
https://www.bygraziela-fabrics.co.uk/(this fabric was given to me in exchange for a review in my own words).
Hope you enjoy my You Tube video.
What are you making this week? Leave me a comment, I’m always inspired hearing about different craft and sewing makes you are trying.
Thanks for watching.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
July has been a busy month in terms of the projects I’ve sewn up for me, my husband and our baby.
In my latest YouTube video I show you what I’ve been working on. I have also tried a couple of new free baby patterns too, I tell you all about these in the below video as well.
I hope you enjoy watching.
Happy sewing.
Becky x
I love making dresses so I am pleased to show you my latest two makes made in viscose and jersey fabrics.
This is part one of my July makes, I have recorded a YouTube video all about my projects. I hope you enjoy watching. I’d love it if you wanted to subscribe to my channel and leave me a comment about what you are working on this week 🙂
You can watch my video here:
I was delighted to be asked to review the Tara Dress from Simple Sew.
The Tara Dress is the first pattern I’ve reviewed for Simple Sew, and I couldn’t wait to get started.
The dress is supposed to have a button back closure, but I decided to add in a few changes due to being 26 weeks pregnant at the time of writing this and wanting my outfit to be as comfortable as possible.
What changes did I make?
I’m a big fan of Simple Sew patterns as they tend to fit me well and generally don’t have loads of pattern pieces to cut out. I don’t know about you, but I often enjoy making quick speedy projects, rather than more detailed and involved makes.
The Tara Dress is supposed to be made in a woven fabric, so the first change I made was to make it in a jersey fabric instead. I used a light-weight scuba fabric I bought from Leicester market a while ago. Unfortunately, the fabric is not great quality and has lost a bit of its colour in the wash, but I think it still works well for this.
Buttons are supposed to be added to the back of the dress, but due to using a stretch fabric I decided to miss out this step and instead sew up the back-seam. This means I just slip the dress on over my head.
In order to miss out the ‘button steps’ in the pattern I cut the pattern on the line marked for the centre back-seam, rather than adding on the extra width across the back to form the button closure.
I then added 1.5cm to the centre back-seam before I cut my fabric, this was for my seam allowance.
How was the sizing?
I normally make a size 10 in all Simple Sew Patterns, but I was worried the back skirt pieces were going to be to ‘straight’ for me as I prefer an A Line design, so on this occasion I graded out to a size 12 for the skirt.
However, I didn’t need to worry. I ended up taking the dress in by a couple of inches on the back-seam in the end to achieve a more fitted look.
I’d definitely recommend trying on your dress during the making process, before you finish your inside seams with a zig zag stitch or an overlocker. This way you will have the chance to reduce the size of your dress like me if you wanted to.
The pattern
The pattern includes the usual easy to understand instructions you would expect in a Simple Sew pattern, but of course I think it would probably be best if you had made a few garments before tackling this project. This is particularly if you wanted to make similar changes to me, just so you have a bit of extra confidence more than anything else.
Would I recommend this project/fabric?
Yes, I am really pleased with my new dress. I’d recommend both making this in a light-weight scuba fabric and trying the Tara Dress pattern; both are wonderful to sew and wear.
Keep up to date with my latest makes
I hope you enjoyed reading this review.
If you would like to keep up to date with my latest sewing projects subscribe to my YouTube channel or follow me on Instagram .
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
Today’s video is all about my latest May sewing projects.
This is part one of a two part series. Mentioned in the video: New skirt hack is a mixture of these patterns:
https://gatherkits.com/shop/product/t… (with a gathered skirt) https://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/hol… Nora cardigan hack: https://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/20…
Hope you enjoy watching.
Don’t forget to subscribe to see my latest content.
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
I decided I wanted to make a face mask for me and my husband to use when we go out and about so started to look around for an easy version to make.
This is based on a Crafty Daily video linked below, but I have changed it a bit to make it both use up-cycled fabric and be more comfortable to wear.
Hope you find this useful.
Becky x
SHOW LESS
This month I was delighted to be asked to review the new button up skirt pattern, from Crafty Sew and So.
The pattern
The skirt pattern is the latest edition to the Crafty Sew and So pattern collection, under the brand My Handmade Wardrobe Pattern.
It will be available to buy from 1 May 2020, if you want to give it a try too.
It is a panelled skirt, made up of eight separate sections and a waistband.
I really enjoyed making this project as although I make quite a few skirts and dresses, this was a new challenge due to the way the skirt is constructed.
The pattern allows you to be creative with top stitching if you want to, sewing down each of the panels on the right side of the fabric for decorative purposes.
I made my skirt in a grey stretch denim fabric. It is a light to medium weight fabric as I wanted to be able to wear my skirt in both summer and winter. I used regular grey cotton to sew up my skirt, both on the inside and on the outside to do my top stitching.
The pattern gives you the option to add belt loops and patch pockets if you want to. I decided to leave these out of my design, as I very rarely wear belts with skirts and I’m not a huge fan of patch pockets on garments I make.
I’d say this project is suitable for intermediate level sewers who have made a few items before and feel confident in their dressmaking ability. The reason for this is the number of pattern pieces, understanding the pattern markings and being able to adjust the pattern to skirt your exact shape due to the panelled design.
The skirt has a 1970s feel about it, and would be suitable to sew up in denim, corduroy or other heavier weight cotton fabrics.
I decided to use some bright red buttons to decorate / finish my skirt. I love adding a pop of colour to the clothes I make, and I wear a lot of red so I thought the red buttons would work well with one of my red spotty t-shirts or a cropped red cardigan.
Sizing
The sizes for this pattern are very clearly described in the pattern instruction booklet. I made a size three at the waist, grading out to a size four at the hip. However, I overestimated my sizing and ended up taking a lot of fabric out of the panels around the waist area before I finished my inside seams with the overlocker.
I would recommend trying on your skirt during the sewing process so you can check the final fit before you do any overlocking or top stitching on the outside of the skirt.
The end garment is lovely and flared. Although I’m spending a lot of time at home at the moment due to the lockdown, I have enjoyed wearing my new skirt around the house all day. It is comfortable and practical, so I think I will get loads of wear out of it for years to come.
Techniques
I followed the instructions – they are very detailed and hold your hand through each step of the sewing process. The only change I made was to the sizing, making my skirt smaller, as noted above.
Would I recommend this project?
Yes, I am really pleased with my new skirt. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who fancies making a skirt, that has fun panelled details.
You could play around with the fabric you make this project in, the buttons you use, the top stitching thread and choose to include pockets or not.
Keep up to date with my latest makes
I hope you enjoyed reading this review. This is also included in my latest You Tube video (link below to my channel).
If you would like to keep up to date with my latest sewing projects subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLebXtybVIzPAhp0ys2RCeQ?view_as=subscriber or follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/notes_from_the_sewing_room/?hl=en .
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
Hi everyone. I’ve uploaded my latest video to You Tube (link below) if you would like to watch. This week I’m chatting about what I made in April.
My video includes two Sew Over It Betty Dresses, a new button down skirt pattern I reviewed for Crafty Sew and So and a few other projects that have kept me busy over the last few weeks.
Hope you enjoy watching. To keep up to do with my latest You Tube content, don’t forget to subscribe to my channel 🙂 .
Until next time, happy sewing.
Becky x
Today’s Sewing Vlog is about 10 summer dresses to make in 2021.
My vlog includes patterns I’ve tried before as well as a few other sewing patterns I’m planning to make this summer.
Music thanks to: Ben Sounds.
Thanks for watching.
I hope you enjoy my vlog today.
Happy sewing 🧵,
Becky x
Notes from the Sewing Room 