Follow along with my reversible tank top sewing tutorial. This is my tried and true way to sew up a simple tank that is comfy and lovely!
Believe it or not, there are quite a few things your sewing patterns aren't telling you. Here are 6 of them!
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The recording of the new two-part Sewing With Nancy mini-series, Tried and True Sewing & Quilting Tips, took place during Nancy’s Notions annual Sewing
I’ll be showing you how to sew a bra from scratch at home. I’ll be showing you one way to draft your own custom-fit bra pattern.
I feel like I have had the inspiration for this dress (shown below) on my Pinterest board for an eternity, but it’s probably only been a couple of years. The inspiration dress is from the blo…
I got to the studio today, ready to write a blog post about checking curved seams as a follow up to last week's blog post on creating princess seams , when I realised that I'd actually done it a few months ago (high-five to past self for that one)! Thankfully I realised before I started.
Print these sewing cheat sheets out for free and have right on hand to save you time and effort, leaving you more time to create beautiful things!
A beginners guide for how to cut and sew clothes. This breaks down how clothing is made and how easy the step by step process is!
In the world of fashion, there's something undeniably charming about a blouse adorned with delicate ruffles and elegant details.Crafted with care and attention to detail, this blouse features a ruffled hem and short sleeves, adding a touch of femininity and sophistication to your wardrobe. But what truly sets this blouse apart is its exquisite design details, including decorative stitches on the front side and a Polo closure on the back.Available in sizes 34-48, this blouse pattern ensures a flattering fit for a range of body types, allowing you to feel confident and comfortable in your creation. Whether you prefer a more fitted silhouette or a relaxed look, this pattern can be easily tailored to suit your style preferences.To bring this blouse to life, we recommend using lightweight fabrics such as cotton voile or chiffon, which will drape beautifully and add a soft, ethereal quality to the garment. These fabrics are perfect for showcasing the delicate ruffles and intricate stitching, ensuring that your blouse will be a true work of art.Get ready to turn heads and receive compliments wherever you go—your handmade blouse is bound to make a statement and showcase your impeccable style!
Suffering from back pain while sewing? Don't want to give up on your favorite hobby? Check out these tried and true tips to avoid back pain while sewing.
The Victorians had a seam for every purpose! Learn how to make 34 historical types of seams. For historical costumes and modern clothing.
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When I first starting sewing, I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on patterns that I wasn’t sure I would know how to use, so I wondered: where can I find free (but stylish) women’s sewing patterns that I could print out in the comfort of my own home? The following 11 websites have collections of
In this video, learn how to maintain good posture while at the sewing machine and find out why having good posture is good for your health.
If you’re a sewist, there are certain universal things all of us can relate to. You know, the things that we are constantly having to explain to all the non-sewists in our lives. So today I thought I’d take a shortcut and make this list – that way, we can just share this article with...Read More
Let’s face it. Your sewing machine is your best friend…when it’s working or sitting in the cabinet. But true to Murphy’s Law, the minute you want to finish or even start a project, it’s inevitable that something will go wrong. Nine times out of ten, it’s just a simple thing. It’s unlikely you’ll experience a major shutdown (except me, of course, when I’m on a deadline…). While most of these time stealers are quick fixes, they can come with a hassle factor of 10+, enough to bring your progress to a grinding halt if you aren’t equipped with some basic…
The Janae top is a modest design that is suitable for both work and other casual occasions. It comes with a statement front notched neckline, a relaxed fit and short sleeves. Let’s have a look at the details: As usual, my pattern is made in 10 sizes from XXS to 5XL so you may find a suitable size for yourself. If you are not sure which size suits you, take a look at the measurement table before doing anything here: SIZE GUIDE. The pattern is made using layered PDF, please check for your desired size before printing so you won’t waste your paper. I have included a first page with many details about sizing and printing, so please first read the first page and make sure you know what size you need! If you still do not know how to print a layered PDF, please check for the printing instruction in this post: PRINTING GUIDE. My patterns are now made in both A4/Letter paper and A0 paper format so you can print at home or at any print shop! I also included a projector file for those who are more tech savvy and have a projector at home! For home printers, you can print this using your home printer and either A4 or Letter paper. I calculated the printing area so that you will be able to use either type of paper to print the pattern out perfectly. Always print the first page first and check with the test square if you are printing at the right scale before you print out the whole pattern – avoid waste of ink and waste of paper, save the earth! Some PC may print smaller than actual size even when you choose 100% scale – I don’t know why this problem exist, but my HP laptop cannot print true to size. I have to scale up to 103% to get the right size. You may need to check with your PC to see if it prints true to size, if not, scale up a bit. I was informed by a reader that you can also print the pdf as image to get the right scale, however I never tested it on my computer. SEWING INSTRUCTION You will need: Fabric of your choice. This pattern is intended for WOVEN fabric. Some lightweight fusible interfacing Scissors, pencil or fabric marker, ruler, pins Sewing machine/Serger or needle and thread Printed pattern The amount of fabric needed will vary depending on the width of the fabric of choice. To be precise, you may need to check how much fabric you need before buying. It will depend on the selected pattern size, the width, and design of the fabric you plan to use. Just to be sure, print all the paper patterns and lay them out at the width of fabric you plan to use (usually from 90 to 150 centimeters or 35 to 60 inches). Measure how much fabric you will need. Don’t forget to account for pieces that need to be cut multiple times and pieces that are cut on the fold. CUTTING INSTRUCTION The pattern pieces are as follows: All my patterns already include 1cm (3/8in) seam allowance. Just cut the pattern pieces as is and use a 1cm seam allowance when you sew. The fabric will be cut into following pieces: - Front: cut 1 piece on the fold - Back: cut 1 piece on the fold - Sleeve: cut 2 mirrored pieces - Front Neck Panel: cut 4 pieces main fabric + 2 pieces fusible interfacing (in mirrored pairs) - Back Neckline Facing: cut 2 pieces from main fabric + 1 piece from fusible interfacing - Sleeve Edge Facing: cut 2 pieces Place the pattern pieces on the fabric, pin the pattern pieces to the fabric to secure them in place. Using sharp scissors, carefully cut out the fabric pieces along the outer lines of the pattern. Take your time to ensure precise and clean cuts, as this will affect the fit and overall appearance of your garment. Make sure to mark all notches and other design features such as darts, pleats, draw marks etc. from the pattern pieces onto your fabric. When sewing the garment, pay attention to notches, they must match up. SEWING INSTRUCTION 1. Serge/zig zag stitch the edges of fabric to prevent unexpected unravelling. 2. Apply fusible interfacing to the neck panel pieces. 3. Sew the bust darts on Front piece Video tutorial: https://tianascloset.com/index.php/2023/12/15/how-to-sew-darts/ 4. Sew the Main Garment - Place Front and Back piece right sides facing. Carefully match the shoulder seam and side seams. Pin to secure. - Sew the shoulder and side seams. 5. Sew Front Neck Panel - Place the interfaced Front Neck Panel pieces right sides together, matching the center front seam and stitch using a 1cm (3/8”) seam allowance. Backstitch at both ends of stitching line. Press seam allowance to the sides. - Repeat with the non-interfaced Front Neck Panel pieces. 6. Sew the Neck Panel - Place interfaced Front Neck Panel and Back Neck Panel right sides together, match the shoulder seams and stitch. Press seam allowance to the sides. - Repeat with the non-interfaced pair of neck panel pieces. - Place interfaced and non-interfaced Neck Panel right sides together, matching the neckline and shoulder seam. Stitch along the neckline using a 1cm (3/8”) seam allowance, pivot fabric when you reach a turning point for sharp corners. - Trim off half of the seam allowance and clip the curves and corners. Understitch the seam allowance to the interfaced side. - Turn the Neck Panel to right side and press to get a crisp neckline finish. Topstitch two parallel lines along the neckline, the first line spacing about 0.3cm (1/8”) from the edge, the second line is about 0.5cm (1/4”) from the first line (use contrast stitch for decoration). - Press 1cm (3/8”) seam allowance of the interfaced flap to wrong side of fabric to create a crease for next step. 7. Sew Neck Panel to the Main Garment - Place the non-interfaced flap of the Neck Panel on the garment so that right sides are facing, match the neckline and pin. - Stitch to attach the Neck Panel to main garment using 1cm (3/8”) seam allowance. Trim off half of the seam allowance, clip corners and curves, then press seam allowance up toward the Neck Panel. - Place the interfaced flap of the Neck Panel (with the seam allowance pressed under) so that it covers the raw edges of fabric. Pin or baste to secure position. - Working from the right side of the garment, topstitch all layers of the Neck Panel, try to stay as close as possible to the joining seam of the main garment and the neck panel. You can use contrast stitch for decoration. - Topstitch the Neck Panel again at 0.5cm (1/4”) from the previous topstitching line. 8. Sew the Sleeves - Place Sleeve Edge Facing at the sleeve bottom, right sides together and stitch. Understitch the seam allowance to the Sleeve Edge Facing. - Fold and press 1cm (3/8”) of the free edge to wrong side of the Sleeve Edge Facing. - Fold the sides of Sleeve and match the underarm seam, right sides together. Make sure to line up the seam of the sleeve facing. Stitch the underarm seam and press seam allowance to the sides. Fold the Sleeve Edge Facing up to the wrong side of fabric. - Topstitch two parallel lines along the sleeve bottom, first line is 0.3cm (1/8”) from the edge, second line is 0.5cm (1/4”) from the first line. 9. Set in Sleeves Video tutorial: https://tianascloset.com/index.php/2023/11/06/how-to-sew-set-in-sleeve/ 10. Finish the garment hem Turn 2.5cm (1”) of the hem towards the wrong side of the fabric. Press the folded hem in place with an iron to create a crisp edge. Choose your desired finishing method: • Topstitch: Sew a straight stitch along the folded edge of the hem, securing it in place. • Slip Stitch: Use a hand sewing needle and matching thread to invisibly stitch the folded hem to the main fabric. Below are the download links: JANAE NOTCHED NECK BLOUSE (A0 PAPER) JANAE NOTCHED NECK BLOUSE (A4/US LETTER PAPER) JANAE NOTCHED NECK BLOUSE (PROJECTOR FILE) To download just click on the link above and choose “Save link as”. The PDF file will be downloaded to your device. An advertisement may pop up, just close it and continue with your download. In case some ads attempt to make you enter your personal info, just ignore and close it. I do NOT require any kind of information to download my pattern files. Happy sewing! And don’t forget to share your project on my Facebook page: Tiana’s Closet Sewing Patterns or tag me on Instagram #tianasclosetsewingpatterns, I will be thrilled to see the garment in real life!
10 Sewing Hacks You Probably Didn't Know- Whether you are a sewing pro or just a beginner sewing it is always helpful to have some sewing tips.
Sewing tricks from professional seamstresses. Your sewing is about to get easier and more efficient. Grab a project to test them out!
In this article I'm sharing how I got started sewing, my favourite patterns and fabric stores, and my top 5 beginner sewing tips.
Learn how to sew sleeves in the round with these two methods. Sew a set-in sleeve the easy way or the tried-and-true way.
Here are my top 7 flowing blouse patterns to sew! A beautiful, flowing blouse makes a great addition to your summer wardrobe and a loose fit is flattering.
In this sewing tutorial you will learn all about sergers sewing machines. Find out what a serger is, how to sew with a serger and what types of stitches sergers have. What does it do? What sewing techniques to look for in a serger/ overlock machine? Learn to use a serger for your sewing projects.
Sewing terms are important once you introduce yourself into the world of sewing, this way, you can be more vocal and conversational about your new projects.
Get knit-picky with fitting, by Katie Whittle.
As with life, along your sewing journey there are moments that change you. Things you learn that blow your mind, and change the way you do things. When things like this happen, it can totally alter the way you think about sewing. Stop you from cringing over sewing an armhole, from shying away from certain […]
Well, after y’all loved the Coach’s last post, I talked him into doing another one. Enjoy! I tried to explain that this was a one time deal the first time I agreed to post on the blog. It didn’t help when you readers started leaving comments about how funny my post was and now here...Read More
The versatile Lichen Duster can be worn as a lightweight coat, wrap dress, or robe - a true capsule wardrobe workhorse! Its shawl collar, princess seams, unique pockets, four skirt gores and hand-stitched facings make it a beautiful heirloom piece. This is a PDF sewing pattern, available to download immediately after purchase. (What is a PDF pattern?)
Get knit-picky with fitting, by Katie Whittle.
Sewing Memes For Crafty People - Funny memes that "GET IT" and want you to too. Get the latest funniest memes and keep up what is going on in the meme-o-sphere.
The versatile Lichen Duster can be worn as a lightweight coat, wrap dress, or robe - a true capsule wardrobe workhorse! Its shawl collar, princess seams, unique pockets, four skirt gores and hand-stitched facings make it a beautiful heirloom piece. This is a PDF sewing pattern, available to download immediately after purchase. (What is a PDF pattern?)
Laughter is the best medicine and it's time for a big dose of happy. Kick up your feet and enjoy some of the most liked/pinned/shared sewing and quilting memes/comics. So many misconceptions about what a sewist really does. Honestly, I'd say most of my time is spent finding the tools I just had in my hand a second ago.
Need a refresher on the different types of seams at your disposal? Or maybe you’re starting out and doing research to better acquaint yourself with your
Learn sewing secrets that every beginner should know. These sewing tips will save you time and frustration!
I saw this on Pinterest... ...and laughed out loud. Why is this so true? Everytime my husband buys pants that are too long or rips a seam, he brings me the clothes to be mended. {Like the time he completely ripped the seam in the seat of his pants after squatting down to pick up a child in the nursery we were manning one Sunday. Absolutely hilarious and one of the funniest things I've ever witnessed!!} I hang them over the chair in my craft room and they stay there until I just can't put it off any longer. In fact, I've got a pair of jeans waiting right now. Hemming and mending are generally an easy process, but for some reason I dread it. Do you feel the same way or is it no big deal to you? Thanks for stopping by!
The versatile Lichen Duster can be worn as a lightweight coat, wrap dress, or robe - a true capsule wardrobe workhorse! Its shawl collar, princess seams, unique pockets, four skirt gores and hand-stitched facings make it a beautiful heirloom piece. This is a PDF sewing pattern, available to download immediately after purchase. (What is a PDF pattern?)
This is both the most exciting and most scary time in any project. You're excited to see your creation come alive but terrified to cut out y
This is one of those sewing skills that took some real trial and error before I felt confident enough that I’d get it right every time. I did conquer the knit neckband, though, and I have a tried and true method that now works perfectly, so I’m here to share it with you today! If you never quite kn
Such a smart hack! . . . Credit: @mothersewsbest_ #sew #sewing #hacks #tips #bebefameh. glam.homedesign · Original audio
This dress pattern is made after I received a request from a reader on Tiana's Closet. She asked me (a few times) for an empire waist dress, with V neckline and short sleeves. After a long time of procrastination, I finally finished designing this Yvonne empire waist dress. At first I was quite reluctant to make an empire waist dress. To me, this style is often made for pregnant women - higher waistline and plenty room at the skirt to accumulate the baby bum. But when I tried with many styles, I realized that this style can also be elegant and flattering if the skirt is cut the right way. The Yvonne dress has all bust darts turned into gathering at the empire waist line, and the skirt is fairly fitted at the waist and flared down the hemline. This helps to draw attention to the bust and covers the (possibly) not very slim waist of the wearer. Let's have a look at the 3D simulation of the Yvonne dress. I was quite happy with it, so I played around with the prints and color. You can explore your own way of choosing a suitable color for this dress. How do you think about this dress? If you are interested, download and print the pattern and start the project. The pattern is made using layered PDF, please check for your desired size before printing so you won’t waste your paper. If you still do not know how to print a layered PDF, please check for the instruction here. You can print this using your home printer and A4/Letter paper. I calculated the printing area so that you will be able to use either type of paper to print the pattern out perfectly. Always print the first page first and check with the test square if you are printing at the right scale before you print out the whole pattern. Some PC may print smaller than actual size even when you choose 100% scale – I don’t know why this problem exist, but my HP laptop cannot print true to size. I have to scale up to 103% to get the right size. You may need to check with your PC to see if it prints true to size, if not, scale up a bit. Cutting instruction: After taping down all the pages following the instruction, the overall layout of the pattern pieces is like this: The pattern pieces are to be cut as follows: A. Bodice Front – cut 2 B. Bodice Back - cut 2 C. Skirt Front - cut 1 on fold D. Skirt Back - cut 2 E. Front Neck Facing – 1 piece main fabric + 1 piece fusible interfacing F. Back Neck Facing – cut 2 pieces main fabric + 2 pieces fusible interfacing Sewing instruction: Although many experienced sewers do not need a sewing instruction, I find that many newbies do, not because they do not know how to sew a straight line or insert a zipper, but because they do not know which step comes first, so I just add here simple guidance of the sewing steps: 1. Cut out all the pieces according to cutting instruction. Iron the fusible interfacing to the back and front facing. 2. Serge all the pieces (if needed). You can always serge later after sewing the seams. 3. Place the two Bodice Front pieces right side facing. Pin and sew the Joined Bodice Front Piece. 4. Gather the fabric between two notches at the underbust of the Bodice Front piece by sewing two parallel straight lines and pulling the threads. Match it with the notches at the Skirt Front piece. Pin and sew the front dress. 5. Place the right Bodice Back piece and right Skirt back piece right side facing. Pin and sew. Repeat with the other side. 6. Place the Joined Back Pieces and the Joined Front Piece right side facing. Sew the shoulder seams and the side seams. If you want to add inseam pocket for this dress, check out this post: How to add side seam pockets to your garments. 7. Place the Front Neck Facing and Back Neck Facing pieces right side facing. Pin and sew the shoulder seam. 8. Place the Joined Facing piece and the main dress right side facing. Pin and sew the neckline. Turn the facing inward, sew a flat felled hem on the facing. Clip the seam at the tip of the V neck line and the curves for a smoother neckline. 9. Sew the side seam of the sleeves. Insert a piece of elastic to the sleeve just like how you do with an elastic waist band. You can just hem the sleeve and leave it as a flared sleeve. 10. Turn the sleeve inside out and pin on to the main dress (right side facing). Sew the armhole. 11. Attach zipper closure at the back of the dress. Sew to join the rest of the Main Back pieces together. 12. Hem the dress. And there it is, a beautiful Yvonne dress! It is a really quick and easy project and can give you room for creativeness. Sew it, and send me photos of your finished projects. I look forward to seeing your masterpieces. Download link: Yvonne Empire Waist Dress (size XXS to 5XL) Happy sewing! Tiana
