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The Sewing Workshop Celebrates 25 Years

The Sewing Workshop Celebrates 25 Years
In 1991, I purchased The Sewing Workshop sewing school in San Francisco. Little did I know that 25 years later, we would still be going strong.

It took the entire 25th year to realize we had actually been in business that long. So here it is, the end of our anniversary year, and I am in a reflective mood.

When I bought the school, I assumed that entity alone would survive and grow. I soon realized that we needed a product to sell in order to lure people to the west coast to take classes. Thus, the pattern collection was born.

Now the pattern collection is our heart and soul. But sewing education is where we are enjoying most of our growth, this time in the form of online tutorials and classes. The stand-alone sewing school in the Richmond district of San Francisco is gone, but sewing education is our future.

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An Unexpected & Essential Sewing Tool

An Unexpected & Essential Sewing Tool

Sometimes the simplest tools can be the best. Take the humble tweezer. Sure, it has been stereotyped as a bathroom-only apparatus used only for splinters and the stray eyebrow hair. But the tweezer is more than that, it is an apparatus that can be used in the most delicate of sewing situations. 

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Sewing with Faux Fashion Leather

Sewing with Faux Fashion Leather

Fall fashion trends come and go, but few have the staying power of leather. The leather motorcycle jacket became a classic look the instant Marlon Brando roared into movie theaters on his motorcycle in The Wild One in 1953. Nothing says sleek, sexy – and rebellious – like leather. Whether you are wearing a full jacket or just a pop of leather trim, leather can take your look to the next level. 

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Eileen Fisher Inspired Ikina Jacket

Eileen Fisher Inspired Ikina Jacket

Have you seen a version of a beautiful oversized red jacket flying around the inter-webs? Well, according to Melissa Greene and friends, it's all over the place and she just had to make a version of it, and, well . . . we love it.

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Welcome Alex and Betsy!

Welcome Alex and Betsy!

You may have noticed some new names popping up on threadWEAR 301 and our Facebook page. Join us in welcoming Alex and Betsy to the team!

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Liberty Shirt Garment Measurements

Liberty Shirt Garment Measurements

​We get a lot of questions regarding the finished garment measurements for the Liberty Shirt. Here is the chart for easy reference.

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Stripe Inspiration from Sonia Rykiel

Stripe Inspiration from Sonia Rykiel

The fashion world was saddened when legendary designer Sonia Rykiel passed away this week. Rykiel, who unknowingly got her start as a designer when she started sewing maternity clothing for herself, was known as The Queen of Knits for her fashion-forward work with knit design. As I thumbed through Pinterest, looking at Rykiel designs, I noticed that she not only loved knits, but also loved a knit stripe (though, who doesn't?). In honor of this great designer, I've put together a few Sonia Rykiel inspiration boards, pairing our knit stripes with her design inspiration. 

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Tremont Vest Variations

Tremont Vest Variations

Our customer Nancy Means has used the Tremont Jacket pattern to make some fantastic vests. She is our guest blogger for this post. Whether you like sleeveless for summer, or layering vests for the cooler months ahead, we think you'll like these ideas.

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Sew Kansas July 2016 Round 2

Sew Kansas July 2016 Round 2

Another week, another great workshop!

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Leopard Spot eTee

Leopard Spot eTee

​Here's a different take on Leopard Print! 

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Sew Kansas July 2016 Round 1

Sew Kansas July 2016 Round 1

Round One of Sew Kansas July is just wrapping up. I think everyone had a good time!

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Introducing the Barcelona Top!

Introducing the Barcelona Top!

​We love pattern debuts around here at the Sewing Workshop! We finally get to spread the love about what we've been working on over recent weeks or months. The Barcelona Top has had many forms during it's design process. Through trial and tribulations, we're so happy with the result. A year round garment, depending on your fabric choice, the Barcelona looks great in lightweight knit gauze with short sleeves for spring and summer or try it in a medium-weight, stable knit for fall and winter, like this Houndstooth Print Pique. Here are a few of our favorite fabric choices.

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A Tremont for the Stars and Stripes

A Tremont for the Stars and Stripes

Enjoy celebrating the 4th of July this weekend! 

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Sew Confident! May 2016

Sew Confident! May 2016

​Some of you have been anxiously awaiting this month's Sew Confident! tutorial. It's finally here!

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Eureka Springs Retreat 2016

Eureka Springs Retreat 2016

Our 2016 Sew Arkansas retreat is happening now in beautiful Eureka Springs. These three ladies are wearing unique versions of the Peony Vest. Read the full post to enjoy more pictures from the event.

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3 Spring Tops in our Sewing Queue

3 Spring Tops in our Sewing Queue

​Kathy is busy testing our next pattern using this Japanese Double Gauze. It's going to be a fantastic look, but we can't ruin the surprise! In the meantime, here is some inspiration from around the shop. We all have spring (tops) on our minds!

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Stretch Denim Bristol Top and my Inspiration Emancipation

Stretch Denim Bristol Top and my Inspiration Emancipation

So, I had this brilliant idea for a stretch denim top that ended up looking awful...

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Sew Confident! March 2016

Sew Confident! March 2016

In our latest installment of Sew Confident! 2016, guest artist Barbara Williams makes upcycling TRULY upscale.

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Introducing the Fillmore Duster!

Introducing the Fillmore Duster!

We are excited to launch our new pattern, the Fillmore Duster! 

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Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 3 Looks

Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 3 Looks

Day 3 of #SewStitchExpo2016 in Puyallup! 

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Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 4 Looks

Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 4 Looks

The last day of #SewStitchExpo2016 in Puyallup! 

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Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 2 Looks

Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 2 Looks

Day 2 of #SewStitchExpo2016 in Puyallup!

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Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 1 Looks

Sew Stitch Expo 2016 Day 1 Looks

Even if you can't make it to #SewStitchExpo2016 this year in Puyallup, you can enjoy seeing some of the fashion!

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Working Wall

Working Wall

Our biggest show of the year is fast approaching: Sewing and Stitchery Expo 2016 in Puyallup, Washington!

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Sew Confident! Starting the Year Off Right!

Sew Confident! Starting the Year Off Right!
What a great start to our Year of Inspiration for Sew Confident! 2016. With a variety of topics, the inspiration will be limitless. From double-layer coats, to a curvy woman's wardrobe. Let's get started!

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Party eJacket

Party eJacket

I can attribute my re-entry into sewing in 1986 to my friend and tennis partner, Hildegard McManus.

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Not Too Floral Ivy

Not Too Floral Ivy

When my sister wanted a tunic to match her new leggings, I chose a combo with a floral print. Since some people really dislike florals, I made sure to check with her first. She agreed it would be acceptable in small doses and not near her face!

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Sew Confident! 2016

Sew Confident! 2016

Inspiration The process of being mentally stimulated to do, feel or imagine something, especially to do something creative.

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Chicago Jacket French Terry Topper

Chicago Jacket French Terry Topper

French terry is a type of jersey knit fabric that has vertical ribs on one side of the fabric and fine loops on the other side, unlike terrycloth, which has loops on both sides. It has entered the fashion scene once again and is used by designers for all kinds of ready-to-wear including coats and toppers.

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Metallic Bristol Dress

Metallic Bristol Dress

This Black Metallic Knit is quite stunning. The subtle amount of shimmer in the sequins, paired with black ponte knit makes this a relaxed, yet elegant look. Create your own Bristol with a fabric kit! Pattern is also on sale through Friday, December 11, 2015 for only $18.

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Metallic Terry Vest

Metallic Terry Vest

This Metallic Terry Knit is very unique. Soft and warm with the perfect amount of sparkle. A traditional sweatshirt or jacket just wouldn't do. The new Tremont Jacket pattern has a great fit. So why not try a vest?

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Liberty Shirt Class Favorite

Liberty Shirt Class Favorite

The Liberty Shirt pattern is among our favorites here at the studio. And apparently we're not the only ones!

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eJacket Pattern Debut

eJacket Pattern Debut

The eJacket is here! Introducing our new pattern download, the eJacket

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New Craftsy Course: Fitting Solo!

New Craftsy Course: Fitting Solo!

After years of traveling and fitting every shape and size of body possible, I have come to a the conclusion that almost every sewer, no matter how long we have sewn or our skill level, fails to do three essential things when preparing a pattern.

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Pattern Debut - Tremont Jacket

Pattern Debut - Tremont Jacket

Introducing the New Pattern TREMONT JACKET only $18. Loose-fitting, a-line jacket with one-button closure, asymmetric, angled front hemline with side vents. Three-quarter sleeves with soft-fold cuff detail.

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Hand-Stitched Wrap Skirt

Hand-Stitched Wrap Skirt

Who says faster is always better? Reviving my love of hand sewing, one stitch at a time.

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Mood Boards

Mood Boards

There's definitely something in the air. At the same time that I was producing the June Sew Confident! tutorial about using photos and magazine images as inspirations to build mood boards for wardrobe and sewing concepts, my daughter, Alex, was doing a similar thing in her fashion design class at ESMOD design school in Paris, France.

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Pattern Debut - Florence Shirt

FlorenceShirt BWDotWEB

Introducing the New Pattern FLORENCE SHIRT only $18. Long sleeve, button front tunic has back yoke with mock button band, collar and stand. Pleated left breast pocket, deep center front tucks create lantern shape, soft hem.

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Bristol Pattern Debut

We love preparing for the Spring 2015 Tradeshows - starting with the Sewing & Stitchery Expo in Puyallup, WA. This year we had a big pattern debut the first day of the show - the Bristol Dress & Top. We love showing off our new designs in different fabric combinations so customers can really see how creative you can get with just one pattern!

BristolTop StripeComboWEB2

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Random Ruffle eTee

Random Ruffle eTee

And the stitching goes on! Using the new eTee download pattern and the Alabama Chanin organic cotton knit in Dark Grey, Kathy created this darling t-shirt that she claims is "girly", but we love it anyway for its creativity and charm.

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Stitching Progress

Kathy Alabama-Chanin1WEB

Inspiration. Admiration. Creativity. Drive. Ambition.

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Alabama Chanin Weekend

AChanin8.14-MakeWhatYouLoveWEB

The dust has settled and the new website has launched! Now we can really concentrate of the important things - our love of sewing.

We had our first Stitch Night at our Topeka studio last night. Our first gathering since returning from the Alabama Chanin studio. It was a great reminder of how much fun we had during our visit August 1-3.

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Modern Piecing

Modern Piecing

Modern Piecing Using Japanese Quilt Fabrics

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New Fabrics

New Fabrics

New fabrics! Spring is here and it's time to look at fresh new colors and lighter weight fabrics.

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Join Linda Lee in Minneapolis!

EmailUpdates2015 MinneapolisRetreat1

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Classics Promo

 
Fall in love with The Classics all over again! We've unlocked our pattern vault and reimagined these popular styles wth modern fabrics for a fresh new look. Don't miss out on sewing these fun patterns! Buy & download yours today. Just $12 each! Check out the Peony Vest, Era Jacket and the Fuji Mt Top.

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Bristol Dress & Top

EmailUpdates2015 BristolIntro

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Haiku Two KITS Now Available

F Emma HaikuTwo 

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Pattern Kits Now Available!

F2 Emma 2015 Kits

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eTee Evolution

F eTeeEvolution

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Introducing the eTee!

Blog Emma eTee

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Faux Leather Fashion

F Emma SC Pleather

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Dots & Dashes

Stitch2Alabama Chanin Organic Cotton Jersey Pillow

Check out the Fall 2014 issue of Stitch magazine. My Dots & Dashes Pillow made in three colors of Alabama Chanin 100% cotton, all-American-organically-made, knit is on page 37. And the best part is that the instructions for making it are included in the magazine!
 
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Summer Challis

StellaTop-RedWhiteChallisStella Top in Cotton Challis

When I think of challis, I conjure up images of European paisley wool skirts. Beautiful, but not exactly what I am wearing these days, especially in the summer.
 
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Printed Pants

IkinaPants-SilkFloralAlexWEB

This is the season for pants to be made in anything but a solid color. Every designer has some style of pants, skinny to flowing, in everything from botanicals, paisleys, travertine and stone patterns to animal prints. I have to say, some of them look and feel like pajama bottoms, but it is a serious trend and it's fun.

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TV Time Vest

PearlVest-OrganicACWEB

Once a month, a group of like-minded women get together to share their artistic works and listen to a program. The June program was all about the Alabama Chanin experience, and many examples of incredible work, a la Chanin, were shown.

Barbara was wearing a Pearl Jacket that she had made in Alabama Chanin's black organic knit, and she had stitched it all by hand with the seams on the outside. I loved it!

I came home and decided to literally copy her, but I got a little sidetracked and decided to use her technique to make a Pearl Vest (the jacket without the sleeves, as simple as that).

So here's the deal. I love sports of all kinds and the NBA playoffs are going on, so I want to watch every game that I can. That requires being in the TV room rather than my sewing room. But who can just sit and watch TV without a little something else going on? Hand stitching a Pearl Vest was the answer. My favorite team, the Oklahoma Thunder, won their game 7 of the series just as I put the last stitch on this vest.

I used two layers of organic knit, Dark Grey over Gold. I cut out the grey pieces first, then placed them on top of the gold yardage, using the grey pieces as the patterns to cut out the gold sections. After smoothing the two cut pieces together, I hand basted the pieces together along the 5/8" seam allowances using Silk Basting Thread. (Game 1)

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Sew Confident! Table Descriptions

2012 Individual TutorialsPriceDescription

2013 Individual Tutorials

PriceDescription2014 Individual TutorialsPrice Available 2015
Description
How to MeasureFREEMeasurement Chart, Ease Charts & How to Measure GuideHow to MeasureFREEMeasurement Chart, Ease Charts & How to Measure GuideHow to MeasureFREEMeasurement Chart, Ease Charts & How to Measure Guide 
Sewing with Knits$24.99Understand sewing knit fabrics - notions, presser feet, tools & techniques.

Kabuki Patchwork  Jacket

$24.99Pieced, overlaying silk panels using a serger.Sewing with Knits UpdateAvailable 2015 Hard to sew knits, plus adding a long sleeve to the Eureka Top.
Sewing with Linen$24.99 Understand sewing linen fabrics - notions, presser feet, tools & techniques.Liberty Shirt as a Knit Pullover$24.99 Alter Liberty Shirt into knit pullover with cowl.T-Shirt VariationsAvailable 2015Modifying Olive & Urban T-Shirts into basic tees.
Sewing with Silk$24.99Understand sewing linen fabrics - notions, presser feet, tools & techniques. Urban Cardigan$24.99Raw-edge patchwork embellished Urban T-Shirt into Cardigan.Guide to Sewing Linings (coming soon!)Available 2015Adding lining to your favorite shirt/jacket pattern.
Making a Swing T$18.99 Alter Trio T-Shirt: lengthen + inverted pleat = Swing Trio.Collars & Stands$18.99Step-by-step  instructions for classic & contemporary methods for collars & stands.It's a Wrap! Graphic SkirtsAvailable 2015Return of the wrap skirts. Create the Sandra Betzina Skirt.
 Build a Core Wardrobe $18.99

Linda outlines 6 wardrobing concepts  using 9 patterns!

 Small Hems, Five Narrow Hem Options $18.99 Options: zigzag, triple stitched, baby, faux piped & doublefold hems.Sleeve PlacketsAvailable 2015 Step-by-step instructions for 2 types of sleeve plackets.
 Fitting Shoulders $18.99Five Shoulder Alterations: narrow, sloping, forward thrust, balancing and round back. Downtown Bags $18.99 Handbag zipper & pocket techniques, unique closure & hardware ideas.More coming soon!  

 Installing an Invisible Zipper

 $18.99Right tools, notions, skills - eliminate puckers & blip at the bottom of zipper.  DIY Pants Fitting$18.99 Common pants pattern alterations you can do on your own!   
 Crinkles, Gauzes and Stretch Lace $18.99 Essential techniques & tools to tame difficult novelty fabrics. Clothing: Zakka Style$18.99  Handstitching to handmade garments, accessories and interiors.   
Tanks Again $18.99Unique edge finishes, style & shape variations for a tank pattern. The Sewing Workshop Ensembles $18.99Sewing Workshop pattern combinations - create a wardrobe!   
 Setting in a Sleeve $18.99 Take the mystery out of setting in perfect sleeves in any fabric. Raw Edge Construction $18.99 Make the Opal Jacket using overlapping seams. Step-by-step instructions & techniques.   
 Modernists Concepts for Clothing $18.99Colorblocking Inspirational Tutorial Sewing Velvet$18.99 Understand sewing velvet - cutting & sewing techniques.    
Fitting the Bust $18.995 pattern alterations for adding bust fullness. Loops and Tubes $18.99Create button loops, cord-filled tubing & drawstrings quickly & easy.   
Bias Bindings$18.99French Bias Binding, Offset Binding & Trio Binding     
West End $18.9911 Great Tips for Better Results!     
Sew Confident! Yearly Subscriptions12 Tutorials12 Tutorials with 3 patterns
Sew Confident! Year 1 (2012)$99$145
Sew Confident! Year 2 (2013)$99$145
Sew Confident! Year 3 (2014)$99$145

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Kathy's Wardrobe

BalboaTopper-GreyBoucleKathyWEB1

We're still recovering from our trip out west to the Sewing & Stitchery Expo in Puyallup, WA. We always look forward to our annual trip every year. It's great to see familiar faces, customers and vendors alike. Every year we try to plan our wardrobe, filtering inspirations that we've been collecting into a final garment. Kathy did an amazing job of that this year! Her look was very cohesive, fun, creative and extremely wearable. Take a look!

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Long Helix Tee

DSC 1307

I lengthened this one 3″ and used two colors of the Alabama Chanin organic cotton jersey in white and natural. Plus I used the embroidery floss to hand stitch some parallel lines of diagonal running stitch embellishment along the lower right front.

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Loop Knit Scarf

Endless Loop scarf 1

Do you save your fabric scraps like I do and wonder why? Here's an idea for how to use all of those small pieces of random knits. Make an endless loop scarf.

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Military Influence

army

Army jacket on the runway.

Military influences in fashion come and go. 2010 was a big year for designers to include olive green and khaki in their palettes. But according to Erin, who keeps us young around here, the fashionable army jacket is back.

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Everything's Coming Up Orchid

stella-purplesilkWEB

Stella Top in silk crepe

According to the Pantone Color Institute, we are going to be craving a flowery pinky-purple color in the coming year. After tavelling the world analyzing everything from cultural influences to fashion runways, Pantone announced Radiant Orchid as the Color of the Year. Add a vase or towels as your interior accents, and think about wearing this joyful and energetic color.

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Deja Vu

DSC 0856

In 2005, wraps and capes were all the rage, so we re-invented the Cocoon Coat (basically scaled it down), and introduced it into our pattern collection as the Déjà Vu Wrap. We made it in everything from wool crepe to silk organza – all woven fabrics.

It’s almost 9 years later, and the wrap is back. The Déjà Vu came to mind again. But this time, I could visualize it in a knit. Nine years ago, I really wasn’t making much in knits. That has all changed, and I am constantly experimenting with some of our older patterns re-programmed as knitwear.

So I made this Déjà Vu in a soft, lightweight sweater knit, knowing that the stripes would really highlight the unique design of this pattern. This is one of the more unusual patterns that we have in the line. It is essentially one very long rectangle, but after it is folded, origami style, in a few places, you end up with a cape-like wrap with one vertical armhole and one horizontal armhole, plus a deep pleat in the back that adds fullness and style.

Because I used a knit, I could edit the pattern some, eliminating the need for faced edges and hems. I also deleted the pockets. After taking about 30 minutes to cut it out one afternoon, I sewed it together in an evening, just in time for the fall winds and crisp temperatures to descend upon us here in Kansas.

I know you will really have fun making this garment, either for yourself or as a gift this season. We don’t have many patterns left, so don’t dally, order it now.

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Burberry Goes Street Chic

Portrait Knit Pr 525db48796054
5-813-6aearth
Portrait Knit Pr 525db394824c1

The various plaids appear to be collaged onto the fabric with softened and zigzag edges, all of which are carefuly blended over 40's-style glamour portraits.

While I can imagine making a skirt from the eDress download pattern, my guess is that I will make a Eureka Top to wear under an Onde Jacket.

Check these two knits out. 5-813-5 has some purples and rose tones. 5-813-6 has more yellow plus many earth tones.

5-813-5 Detail

5-813-6 Portrait Printed Knit - Earth

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Organic Knit Peony Vest

DSC 0787

Peny Vest using Organic Cotton Jersey, beading and hand stitching.

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Captain's Coat for Fall

verona pinkwoolWEB  verona redwool

Kathy's many versions of the Verona Coat.

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Marvelous Mulberrys

6 

Magenta, mulberry, burgundy, plum, cranberry - whatever the season's color flavor is called, this color category is always in fashion, one way or another. 

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Serious Shirtings

 10

Shirtings are a most for a breezy, cool spring.

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French Knits

1

We have just added 21 fabulous new knits, most of them from France.

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West End Shorts

WestEndPants-ShortsPantsWEB
24-513-4
21-513-5
EB14983
27-513-4

I love the West End Pants anyway because they are so cool and comfortable and chic, too. Shortening them if just a matter of deciding how to make them and cutting them off at the bottom. It's that easy!

Here are my two summer favorites.

I used green linen to make the shorts.

But if I have time, I'll be using cobalt blue linen,

EB14983 coral cotton and lycra

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Linen Eureka Tops

EurekaTop-AnnLinenYellowWEB

I love the Eureka vest and have made it out of wool, raw silk and lightweight linen. But I wanted to make one that had a "skirt" or underlay so that I could use two coordinating pieces of linen—a plaid and a stripe—that I'd gotten from Cy Rudnick's years ago. (Sorry but the store closed years ago.)

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Linen Gauze

EurekaTop-AquaGauzeWEB

Linen Gauze is our favorite go-to fabric right now! We've created everything from tops to jackets. My favorite? The Eureka Top in Aquamarine Linen Gauze. The perfect design for July in Kansas.

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Summer Vests

LibertyVest-GreyLinenWEB

On a recent trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Melissa Greene showed me two linen vests that she had made using both the Liberty Shirt and the Tosca Dress patterns as starting points. I was so intrigued, that I just knew that I had to make some summer vests incorporating that concept.

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Knotted Scarf Tutorial

KnottedScarf-Finished3WEB-crop

Scarves are definitely an accessory trend that isn't going away. A scarf can update and perk up any outfit! When wearing an ordinary tee and jeans, add a scarf and you instantly look polished.

After moving on from making pieced infintiy scarves, I decided to try a NO-SEW option. Perfect for a lazy night craft. Only one problem, once you start making them, you can't stop.

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Sew Fabulous Fashion Knits for Craftsy

CraftsyKnits-LindaWEB

Tame tricky-to-sew fashion knits with me, Linda Lee, in my new online Craftsy class, Sewing Fashion Knits: Beyond the Basics. Join me in the classroom, and be well on your way to confidently sewing fashion knits into designer looks.

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Oh, Wait There's More - Puyallup 2013

IconVest-LindaPuyallupWEB
Bells-Puyallup13CustomerWEB
Zigzag-CoatPuyallupWEB
EurekaTop-WoolColorblockWEB2

 

 

Icon Vest in Jacquard

 

Left: Bells Shirt in Mixed Cotton Prints

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Sewing & Stitchery Expo 2013

Pearl-NeutralLinenWEB
Pearl-StripeCottonWEB
Pearl-StripeKnitWEB
eShrug-MotherDaughterPuyallupWEB
Opal-GreenBoucleWEB
WestEnd-BoucleLindaPuyallupWEB
Zigzag-PurplePuyallupWEB
LibertyTunic-PrintMixPuyallupWEB
Puyallup2013-GroupPhoto

 

  Top: Pearl Jacket in Linen Gauze

Middle:Pearl Jacket in Cotton Plaid

Bottom: Pearl Jacket in Stripe Knit

 

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Any Excuse to Wear Sequins!

EurekaTopSkirt-LindaShimmerGreyWEB
EurekaTopSilk-QuincyPantsLindaWEB
EurekaTop-ErinHeavySequinWEB
Eureka-ErinLaceHudsonWEB
AnnsTank-SequinWSleevesWEB2

I love this time of year! December is in full swing with holiday parties, sparkling decorations, delicious winter treats and time with family & friends.  What do you think I look forward to most about these holiday festivities?

Sequins! Lace! Shimmer!

I'm not typically that fancy but there's something about sequins that brighten a cold winter day.

Something must have gotten into Linda and Kathy as well. Most of our Eureka Tops are perfect for special occasions!

  

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Everything You Need to Know about e-Patterns

eDressSkirt-PinkStripeTankShrugWEB

If you're perusing the newstand this weekend, check out the latest Sew News magazine. All your ePattern questions are answered in Linda Lee's newest article All About e-Patterns.

 

 

 

We love the simplicity of our ePatterns! We can't get enough of the eShrug, eVest, eSkirt and eDress.

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Class in a Flash 2014

Welcome to Sew Confident! Class in a Flash 2014

EASY ACCESS - ALL THE TIME!


As the year goes on, a new tutorial will be added each month! Enjoy!

Click the links below to download your tutorials...

JanuarySewing with Knits Update - Make the Eureka Top + Eureka Top Long Sleeve Pattern
February Tee for Two - Modifications to Make Two Basic T-Shirts
March It's a Wrap! Graphic Wrap Skirts
April Sleeve Plackets + Shirt-Sleeve Placket Pattern
May Pantpourri
June 
July 
August 
September 
October 
November 
December 

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Class in a Flash 2013

Welcome to Sew Confident! Class in a Flash 2013

EASY ACCESS - ALL THE TIME!


As the year goes on, a new tutorial will be added each month! Enjoy!

Click the links below to download your tutorials...

JanuaryKabuki Patchwork Jacket
FebruaryLiberty Knit Top
MarchDowntown Bags by Linda Lee
AprilCollars & Stands
MaySmall Hems, Five Narrow Hem Options
JuneUrban Cardigan
JulyDIY Pants Fitting
AugustClothing: Zakka Style
SeptemberThe Sewing Workshop Ensembles
OctoberRaw Edge Construction
NovemberSewing Velvet
DecemberLoops and Tubes

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How Do You Wear the Eureka?

Eureka-KathyDotStripeWEB
Eureka-KathyVeronaWEB
EurekaSkirt-ZonaJacketWEB
EurekaSkirt-PlaidKathyWEB
Eureka-ErinLaceHudsonWEB
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Sometimes the best garments are simple, easy to wear and comfortable. Clothing that will take you to work and to the park on the weekends.

Introducing the Eureka Top & Skirt. A pattern all about simplicity with a few creative details.

Here's a look into Kathy's way of wearing the Eureka.

"Pieced Eureka Top: I saw a short boxy sweatshirt in one of the fashion magazines that was pieced in several different fabrics.  I found several knits on our shelves and gave the piecing a try.   The skirt is a black knit. (Also shown with the Verona Jacket)

    

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Reverse Your Color Emphasis

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For years I have worn basic colors of black, brown and charcoal on the bottom in pants and skirts. I have a closet full of them. But a new concept has been introduced this fall season. Reverse the color emphasis and wear your signature color on the bottom and keep the tops neutral.

Finding your signature color is actually pretty easy. While is a nice idea to "get your colors done", I am more inclined to listen to my own instincts and pay attention to what I am drawn to and to listen to what people say to me. If someone says, "You look tired.", then I definitely have on the wrong color. But if I hear, "Have you just returned from vacation? You look so rested.", then I know I am wearing "my" color.

My favorite color is a greyed yellow green that seems not to have a name but is something like a mustard olive (thanks to the paint company, Benjamin Moore). So I worked with the lovely new Ponte Knits that have arrived in our warehouse/studio this fall and made the Quincy Top in a dark charcoal and used my favorite color to make the Quincy Pants.

I know that I can't wear a blue pink/purple/magenta, but I love the color. So thanks to the fashion pros, I have permission to wear this zany color on my feet. And I love it!

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Gourmet Sewing!

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Nora, one of our wonderful customers had an Ann's Cardigan class in a friends home recently.  She's here with a little Guest Blog Post about her fun evening!
"Start with friends.  Add some great food.  Stir in beautiful fabrics and a stylish pattern.  Top with a large portion of fun.  The result-----a day of creativity with a new garment to wear home!

This class was in a friend's home.  We met two weeks before our scheduled class date to discuss supplies and techniques.  Then we had time to prepare and organize. What fun we had working together!

Next------the Soho Coat!"

Thanks Nora! We look forward to your Soho Coat installment.

Happy Sewing!

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More Stripes Please!

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If you haven't noticed, we're a little obsessed with stripes around here. Knit stripes to be exact.  The evidence is all over our latest pattern download, the eDress (and don't forget the Skirt Variation).

We've decided to take the stripe trend a step further. 

First of all, we never shy away from horizontal stripes. Daring I know. This Skirt uses horizontal stripes in the skirt and bottom band.

When paired with a black Ann's Tank, the overall look is very slimming.

Using the same fabric, Kathy decided to change the look ever so slightly.  Notice the bottom band uses vertical stripes. Just that small change makes a huge difference. 

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Best Travel Bag

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I am constantly searching for the best all-purpose travel bag. This satchel comes as close to perfection as any that I own. It is very large (22" wide, 20" high, 6" deep) with lots of large pockets on the interior (some with zippers), and sturdy upholstery-weight Ultrasuede handles and trim.

I used a very cool fabric from Calvin Klein, a coated linen LL752. I lined it with a natural striped linen, LINNOV1-004 and used 2 nifty silver zippers.

I am trying to decide if this is worthy of making into a pattern, so I would love to hear from you. Would you carry this?

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Simple Tank - Simple Details

Simple Tank - Simple Details

Nine Times Out Of Ten I love a quick project. The Ann's Tank is a simple, one night sew. Start to finish.

Then again, there are nights when I'm in the mood to add a little more detail.  One easy way to do that is to start with a simple pattern like the Ann's Tank, one I know all too well, then add embellishment.

 

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Change It Up - Woven to a Knit

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Even though it is summer here, I always like to have a collar on my knit shirts.  I was getting tired of my polos.  One of my favorite knit fabrics this summer was the little dot and line knit we have in three colors--black & cream, bronze & black and red & orange.  This viscose knit has stretch on the crosswise, but not very much on the lengthwise so it does have a certain stability, wonderful drape and washes great.

  

Each of the garments in our MixIt Pattern can be made with a knit or a woven.  This is the MixIt Top.  I did not make any changes to the pattern or alter any detail because of the knit.  I didn't even need to use a lightweight interfacing at the front keyhole or collar.

I now have a really comfortable and cool summer top with one of my favorite patterns.

Kathy

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Sew Confident!

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Techniques + Tutorials + Style = Sew Confident!

Sew Confident! Class in a Flash is an electronic educational program produced by Linda Lee that not only offers how-to tutorials relating to garment-making and The Sewing Workshop Pattern Collection, but gives you processes and ideas that enhance our collection with pattern variation suggestions, fitting solutions, wardrobe ideas, and signature sewing techniques.

The tutorials are presented in a step-by-step format rather than as a continuous video. By stopping the action at the point of interest, you will be able to work at your own pace and successfully recreate the technique that will give you the right results. Linda Lee shows you how to create more than you ever thought you could. Do even more when you buy the patterns, too.

Find out more quickly: Watch Preview, Year 1, Year 2, Year 3, Year 4, Download Help

Take a class on your time, any time!

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Video: Sew Expo WRAP UP!

After a week in recovery mode, I think the dust has settled from our exciting trip to Puyallup, WA for the 2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo

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We're Winding Down at the Sew Expo

In the past three days of the Sewing & Stitchery Expo we've talked to so many talented sewists.  We love seeing friendly faces & new - all happy to show off their creations.  Here's what we saw.

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The Sew Expo has Begun!

The 2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo in Puyallup, WA starts now......... The sew expo is always filled with talented people & creative garments, set in the beautiful Northwest. Here's a little peak into our first few days at the expo.......

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Spring Scarves-Can't Make Just One!

Who says you have to stop wearing scarves as the temperature rises?  Scarves are a great way to transition into spring.  Create a wooly scarf to wear now or use spring colors & fabrics for the coming spring!

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Create-Your-Own-Stripe Infinity Scarf

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Nothing says winter like a rich, classic Infinity Scarf. 

Create your very own using our luxurious Organic Fleece-Natural. This beautiful fleece comes in a 28" tube, which makes creating your Infinity Scarf really easy!

Supplies:

Tube: 1/3 Yard Organic Fleece-Natural
Knit Strips: 1/4 Yard Lightweight Viscose Knit (comes in 18 colors)
Fusi-Web or Iron-on Tape
Thread (2 colors: Scarf Fabric & Stripe Fabric)

To create your own Striped Scarf download this quick tutorial.

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How Do You Wear the Ann's Cardigan?

We've had a such mild winter here in Kansas.  All my sweaters were still packed away in the attic-until this week!

The temperature is finally starting to drop, so cozy up with a winter Ann's Cardigan.

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Winter Sweater Knit Workshop

We love our new pattern, the Ann's Cardigan & apparently so do you!  We just completed our first Winter Sweater Workshop using the Ann's Cardigan. Since this workshop was such a great success we've decided to offer another one in May to create a Spring Cardigan!

For a complete listing of our events, view our Events Calendar.

The Ann's Cardigan class was very inspirational!  We had a full house with 14 participants, each with a complete cardigan by the end of the day.  Sewing the Ann's Cardigan is quite relaxing with an ultra flattering end result.

What a good looking group! I love how each person (well, almost each person-the Caramel & Brown Floral Wool Knit was quite popular) created a different look using the same pattern.  Such versatility in one style!

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Linda (left): Animal Print Wool Knit Ann's Cardigan

Kathy (right): Black & Grey Striped Knit Ann's Cardigan

Click through for more images.....Read More

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The Fabrics are Pouring In.......

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Just when we thought activities would wind down around here for the holidays, we get an unexpected surprise!  Fabrics are just pouring in this week!  So we're starting off with the most unique first, textured jacquard weaves from France.  Here's a little more detail from Linda herself......

We just received some very unusual jacquard weave fabrics from France. The textured weaves are quite detailed and the colors are so rich. I can't wait to make a simple shirt like the Zen Shirt, the Liberty Shirt or a MixIt Shirt to wear as a jacket. Or the Tosca Dress always works well in purple jacquard. All of them are washable and won't wrinkle.  Very limited yardages available.

Here's a few similar styles just to give you an idea.....

Then let your imagination run wild!

  

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Luxury Warmth & Style

Is it possible to stay warm and stylish? We like to think so, especially when you add a touch of glamour with fur, wool & accessories.

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Sparkle & Shine this Holiday

The HOLIDAY SEASON is here! START the SEASON with a little GLITZ & GLAMOUR!

Create & give handmade this season!

Handmade gifts for the holidays! The eShrug is quick & easy with a versatile fit. Make in a shimmery knit, vivid red viscose or a black & white lace knit. The options are endless.

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Left: Charcoal Glisten Knit Lengthened eShrug, Sequin Tank (pattern coming soon!), Black Hudson Pants

Right: Lace Knit eShrug, Lace Knit Trio T-Shirt, Black 8th Avenue Skirt

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Left: Red Knit Lengthened eShrug, Gold Lame Trio T-Shirt, Gold Silk Ikina Pants

More Holiday Glamour-Don't forget to Read More

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eStyling for Fall Weather

We've really been happy with the ePattern trend.  With our free time becoming more limited, it's nice to whip out a quick garment in 1 evening or over the weekend. Download the pattern, paste together, cut-out, sew & wear!

We started with the eShrug which is a great beginning project. Leave the edges raw with a rolled knit hem-perfect 1 night project. If you prefer a more finished look, hem the front & bottom edges. You could even try it in a woven. The options are endless.

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Left: Magenta Knit Trio T-Shirt, Stretch Lace Print eShrug, Hudson Pants

Right: Grey Knit eShrug (similar here), LetterKnit Alex Top

More eStyling after the jump......

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