SEW IN A DAY: SUMMER ITEMS

The summer season may be crawling to an end, but as it had a slow start you might still be thinking about adding to your collection of handmade items. As you're likely to want to make the most of the nice weather, you probably will be spending less time at the machine so will be hunting for something quick to sew that you can whip up and wear!

I have shortlisted eight fantastic items that you could sew in a day. If you are new to sewing, these projects might take you a little longer but are all approachable for beginners.

Whether you are looking for a swishy summer dress, your first swimwear project or a piece to add to your holiday capsule, these patterns could be just what you are after.

Matchy Matchy Bow Boxer Shorts

Need a cute little pair of shorts? These are super speedy to whip up and wear. Finished with small side slits and sweet bows, these comfortable elastic waist shorts are sure to keep you feeling cool and relaxed in and out of the house. Perfect for pulling on to relax in the garden or by the beach. You can make use of those special little scraps you didn't have the heart to bin for the bows. You won't stop at making one pair...

Sizing: UK 6 - 38

Helen's Closet Ashton Top

This all-season wardrobe staple is easy to sew and style so it will be a bit of a workhorse pattern. The Ashton has bust darts and a signature A-line shape. The pattern includes the option to finish the neck and arms with an all-in-one facing or bias binding. I've seen lots of matching tops and trouser sets on the high street so you could whip this up to pair with a pair of elasticated trousers to recreate the look. 

As you can see, it looks great worn with the Donovan Skirt - a beginner-friendly sewing pattern that teaches a variety of sewing techniques.

Sizing: UK 6 - 30 

Nina Lee Holland Park Dress and Top

If you've spotted the trend for elastic channel detailed tops and dresses on the high street and are hunting for an option to sew yourself, this is possibly the best out there. With a whopping 14 variations, this is your ultimate cottagecore pattern – perfect for trips to the farmers market, strolling through meadows, or comfortably crafting. Fitting is a breeze with the abundant ease and elastic channels that cinch in to fit as tight or loose as you fancy.

Sizing: UK 6 – 20 or UK 16 – 28 

Madswick MADE-Line Bundle

Are there any beginners in the house? This is the perfect set to start your sewing journey with. This bundle includes all four patterns in the MADE-line collection (which can be bought individually too), and £15.50 is a pretty great price for a complete capsule wardrobe! If you have a few projects under your belt already, you could probably sew a top and bottoms in a day, achieving last-minute-summer-handmade-outfit goals!

Sizing: UK 6/8 – 34

Maison Fauve Marisa Top

If you are a smart packer, you like to take pieces that create a mini capsule with you on holiday and this is the perfect top for said capsule. It features a comfortable cut, a round neckline with a slit in the centre front, and a pleat at the back. Whether you choose to sew a sleek top or add button embellishments, Marisa is a quick and easy project to give your outfit a twist. It's a popular pattern with fellow Foldliners.

Sizing: UK 6 – 22

Friday Pattern Company Twin Lakes Two Piece

Tempted to try sewing your own swimwear? Perhaps you've thought about making your own comfy lingerie for those mooching-around-the-house days where a proper bra is just not comfy enough. The Twin Lakes pattern is dual-purpose so you can do both! Make it as a swimsuit or as a bra and panty set. The top pattern has B/C and C/D cup options, as well as darts for easy pattern adjusting, and features a fun method for covering elastic in fabric. It's perfect for your first go at sewing your own lingerie or swimwear. 

Sizing: UK 6 - 34 

Sew Liberated Songbird Set

Indie designers seem to be serving us sets at the moment and this one is a winner for summer. The Songbird Set is easy to sew with endless styling possibilities. The set looks great worn together and the tank is a really useful layering piece for the cooler months or under a sheer blouse.

Sizing: UK 6/8 – 32/34 

True Bias Nova Jumpsuit

An all-in-one outfit is pretty useful in the summer months as you don't have to put any thought into getting dressed. If you looked "secret pyjamas" up, Nova would be the image example! Comfy yet incredibly chic, this pattern is a summer essential that can be whipped up in a day. The shorts version is ideal for slipping in after a day at the beach. Designed for stable knit fabrics, you won't feel flustered in the heat as it skims the body without causing any irritation.

Sizing: UK 8 – 20 or UK 16 – 32