Unusual and challenging sewing techniques

Unusual and challenging sewing techniques

I was having a conversation with somebody recently about the different techniques we use in sewing clothes. So I began to make a list. I'm not talking about the basics like laying out a pattern, cutting, simple darts. They are important for sure, but I'm more...

2026 Sudoku wardrobe contest

2026 Sudoku wardrobe contest

This is an ongoing post, and I'll update it as I go The 2026 wardrobe contest organised by Sewing Pattern Review is the perfect opportunity for me to use up my (huge) stash and also to sew a new wardrobe after big weight loss over the last 12 months. I also need to...

Revisiting my youth

Revisiting my youth

..through the medium of Vintage Sewing Patterns. I discovered this classic deep in my stash recently. Apparently I was a size 12 back when I was 18 years old and sewed this the last time. I loved this pattern, especially the jacket which was so cool. I made it from a...

Garden redesign

I've been shopping for plants at Farmer Gracy for the great garden redesign of 2025. These arrived today and are now potted up, parked in the greenhouse and doing their thing while I get the borders ready. Photos and descriptions from the Farmer Gracy websiteOne...

Winter sewing

It’s Winter 6PAC time again, and this time I’m really going to do my best to get some, if not all, the garments made/bought.The guidelines are posted over on Stitchers Guild here and are like this:The 6PAC is a set of guidelines to help you create a group...

Sewing with a plan-Spring

If you’re not sewing with a plan then you need to get started now! The idea is to look at your wardrobe, identify key items that are lacking or need replacing, and sew a mini capsule to fill those gaps. Over the year the items build into a useful wardrobe that works...

2014: the year of small changes

For me, a new year always brings the desire to declutter and simplify my life. This year I’m thinking about my brain, my body and my wardrobe. It’s the year of small changes; tackling things in little chunks like drawing, sewing or gardening every day for...

Autumn 6PAC

The 6 PAC (6 piece Autumn collection) is a challenge initiated by Elisabeth over at Stitcher’s Guild Sewing Forum that runs each season. The Autumn 6pac starts in August and ends in October, the idea being that you finish with 6 items to add to your Autumn...

Sewing a winter wardrobe

Before you read: This has become long and wordy, and I apologise for the lack of photos. I promise to post pics as I work my way down the list. I’ve been clearing out my clothes and chucking out all my fashion faux pas…which has left lots of space in...