3 BRANDS TO TRY FOR LOW-WASTE SEWING

The best part of sewing is creating custom garments that fit your body and one of the most frustrating parts is all the scraps you accumulate. I am sure you can relate to this problem and are probably staring at a pile as we speak!

If you are hunting for indie designers that do the leg work in busting those bitty-bits, you are in the right place as we have three brands to share who all put sustainable sewing at the forefront of their designs. Each one has a different approach to utilising as much fabric as possible when creating your handmade garments. Make space on your sewing list, as you are about to discover some pretty tempting patterns...

CRIS WOOD SEWS

Why low-waste? Patterns are designed to have low-waste

DAYWEAR L-R: Daydream Dress and Top, One Hour Skirt, Casita Dress.

BESTSELLERS L-R: Envelope Dress, Parasol Top and Dress, Throw Jacket.

DRESSY L-R: Juniper Dress, Garden Dress, Gemini Dress.

Are you eyeing up multiple Cris Wood patterns? Grab the Best Bundle and save 49% on individual pattern price. For just £20, these three confident beginner patterns will create an instant low-waste wardrobe! The bundle includes the iconic Envelope Dress, the Parasol Top and Dress, plus the Casita Dress.

Sizing: Custom to your measurements.

Patterns: Patternless - measurements are drawn directly onto your fabric.

BIRGITTA HELMERSSON

Why low-waste? - Designed to be zero/minimal waste sewing patterns

You might have heard the term 'zero waste' sewing before, but what makes this method of pattern cutting different? Well, it’s a bit like a puzzle that strategically plans your pattern pieces, so every bit of fabric is used.

You draw your pattern pieces directly onto your fabric, following a cutting plan and templates instead of using printed pattern pieces, resulting in less fabric and paper waste. It’s great for anyone who feels frustrated with the build-up of inevitable fabric scraps and is ideal if you have a stunning length of fabric you want to make the most of.

Birgitta Helmersson designs exclusively using zero-waste pattern cutting, which means no fabric is wasted in the cutting and sewing process. The designs are modern and sleek, with a skandi feel.

TOPS L-R: ZW Jumper, ZW Soft Blouse, ZW Tie Top.

BESTSELLERS L-R: ZW Gather Dress, ZW Cropped Shirt, ZW Block Pant.

OUTERWEAR L-R: Unisex ZW Coat, ZW Bell Jacket, Unisex ZW Workwear Jacket.

Sizing - Usually broken into one size or sizes 1 and 2 (approx up to a UK 24).

Patterns - Patternless except or a few curved templates (supplied if the pattern requires).

MATCHY MATCHY SEWING CLUB 

Why low-waste? - Mix and match smaller cuts can be utilised.

Do you find yourself drowning in fabric scraps or tempted by those fabric shop remnant sales that leave you with little bits to turn into a whole garment? If you haven’t discovered Matchy Matchy Sewing Club patterns yet, you are going to thank me! Many of their designs use style lines that allow you to incorporate smaller cuts of fabrics creating a mix-and-match look.

BOTTOMS + JACKETS L-R: Over shirt, Recess Play Pants, Homebody Quilted Jacket.

BESTSELLERS L-R: Collage Gather Top, Horizon Day Dress, Butter Quilt Scarf.

SMALL PROJECTS L-R: Wave Float Top, Stash Pocket Tote, Weekend Chore Shorts.

Sizing: UK 6 - 38.

Patterns: PDF with print-at-home and A0 files that can be printed.

How was that for you? Are you feeling pumped to try a new method of sewing? I hope that's left you feeling inspired. I'll leave you to browse all those delightful options.