What to sew in your Christmas break?
Those few days between Christmas and New Year often end up as spare days with not a lot of plans. This is the PERFECT time to get out the old sewing machine, shut the door on the world and get stuck into a project or too. I’ve decided to plan out a few makes for this time so that if I am free then I’ve got something to sew. I thought I’d share some of my favourite patterns that have made it onto the make list and I hope there is something in there that you’ll like too. I’ve split the patterns into sections and feel like there is something in here for everyone.
The last-minute New Year make!
Who hasn’t done a last minute sewathon before a party? We like a little pressure.. no? These would make fantastic New Year’s eve dresses and what’s great is they are ones that you could wear in the day too.
The Closet Core Nicks dress is a super option, if you are new to gathering you are going to get good at it if you make this dress. The pattern has got loads of lovely details and also comes with two top variations.
The Patterns Fantastique Esther dress looks very dramatic on, but actually, it’s a pretty simple sew. The core feature is the gathered ruffle around the neckline so finding the perfect tie for this dress is key. We love the cotton rope they have used in their sample.
The Roslyn dress from Vickisews has loads of great details at the neck and shoulders, drawing your eye up there first. We love the square neckline and the cross-over straps are perfection.
Sewing Something Cosy
If the idea of a dress makes you shudder then worry not I’ve got some lovely cosy options for you. I’ve got two fantastic jumper options, the Elaine Sweater from Fibre Mood and the Simpson Sweatshirt from Style Arc. Both of these patterns have interesting cut lines that elevate them from a basic sweatshirt into something special. Don’t be fooled by the simple shape and go and have a look at the line drawings as both of these patterns have a lot going on. I really love a garment with a simple shape and some good details.
A couple more cosy options are the Vikisews Andie Dress, this long jersey dress is going to look fantastic and keep you warm, double win! If you like a layering piece then the I am Patterns Hathor vest has been hugely popular. There are lots of variations with this simple vest including a hood option so you can really make it your own.
For the time-rich maker
If you do have a little more time than you thought then a pair of trousers might be the perfect project to get your teeth stuck into. There are two patterns that have been winking at me for a while. The first is the Quinn Trousers from Merchant and Mills. These sailor trousers have a wide leg, button fastening, and buckle detail at the back.
The Billy trousers from Bella Loves Patterns are a fantastic take on a pair of men’s tailored trousers. High-waisted, wide-legged and pockets at the front – what is not to like about these?
Tops that you need in your wardrobe
I’ve got three fantastic tops that are fairly simple and would make dreamy wardrobe staples. The first one is the Chalk and Notch Max Tee with it’s simple shape and high neckline I really like the proportions of this pattern.
If you are looking for a fantastic basic then the Long Sleeve Tunic from The Assembly Line might be it. With a simple round neckline, all the detail is in the hem. I love the idea of wearing this underneath a jumper so you can see the dropped hem at the back.
The Style Arc Kenny shirt is the best of both worlds, a little dressy but casual with a fantastic collar. Now all you need to do is pick the perfect fabric and you are good to go.
