PLUSHIE TOY

TEMPLATES UK'S #1 FOR

SEW PEJSKIDS
SEWING MAG! TH
ISSUE ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT

THE Special
feature!
The power
of colour

15
10 TOP TIPS
for sewing
perfect nightwear
Makes to
sew this
weekend

+ WIN!
CRICUT
MAKER 3™
WORTH
£603*

EASY-MAKE!
Refashion a sweatshirt
with vinyl transfers

*T&Cs apply

+MAKE: Patchwork blanket Christmas decorations Hot water bottle cover

 S

FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC

Show off your sewing skills with this month’s
stunning Cover Star The Danni Dress. Designed
by Claire-Louise Hardie, this mini drape dress
can be made with short or long sleeves with the
option of on-trend colour blocking for the latter.
The neckline lends itself to statement jewellery,
either a necklace to dress it up or team it with
statement earrings like this! Turn to page 32 for
more styling and fabric inspiration. If you can’t
decide which fabric to choose for your dress,
flick through to our fascinating feature about
the power of colour (p68)! Plus, we show you
how to create customised Christmas Jumpers
with the help of Cricut Iron On Vinyl™. Want to
take your crafting creation to another level?
Then enter our competition to win a Cricut
Maker Three™ and Accessories Bundle (p16).
Don’t forget to share your Simply Sewing makes
with us using #simplysewingmag.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING #SIMPLYSEWINGMAG
facebook.com/simplysewingmagazine pinterest.com/simplysewingmag instagram.com/simplysewingmag
 Turn to p64 to selfjs
p
draft these kid's

ISSUE ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT

FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC CONTENTS

18

30 to
Turn to page star
er
meet our cov ress.
the Danni D

Great projects for you How to...

17 PIN UP: THE HANDMADE 22 TREND TECHNIQUE: NIGHTWEAR
CHRISTMAS DIGITAL BOOK 79 SEWING GUIDE: TECHNIQUES
18 SEASONAL: CRICUT JUMPERS AND SEWING GLOSSARY
26 PATTERN: GEORGE PJ BOTTOMS 75 TEMPLATES: SNOWMAN AND
30 PATTERN: DANNI DRESS
38 SEASONAL: BOWTIE SET
41 PIN UP: SHOULDER BAG
42 SELF DRAFT: MULTIWEAR DRESS
48 UPCYCLE: PATCHWORK BLANKET
53 DECORATION: FELT STOCKING
sewing is for everyone 57 TOY: SNOWMAN PLUSHIE
te
Sew the snow cu ie
At Simply Sewing, we want inclusivity to be at the heart of 62 STITCH: FABRIC ORNAMENTS snowman plush
what we do. We’re committed to creating content that 64 SELF DRAFT: PJ BOTTOMS & HOT on page 57!
reflects and celebrates the diversity of the sewing
WATER BOTTLE COVER
community. Sewing is for everyone, regardless of ethnicity,
age, size, ability, sexual orientation or gender identity. We
have begun work on a plan to drive meaningful change,
but we know it’s a work in progress. We want to listen to
you, our readers. Join the conversation on Instagram
@simplysewingmag, or get in touch with us at
[email protected].
 48 Happy holidays!
If, like me, you're

some last-minute
sewing (before the
schools break up)

quick-sew makes we've sorted

68 discover how colours have

thE powEr to boost moods
for you this issue. Jump on the
trend and sew the whole family
matching PJ bottoms (p26 and

61
p64) − cute family photos alert!
Update plain sweatshirts with
vinyl for a contemporary take

38
on a festive jumper, and whip-
up some scrappy baubles using
fabric offcuts (p61). For the big
event we've got you covered
with an easy-wear drape dress
(p30) to see you through from
early-morning presents, right

* GIFTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. SOME PAPER GIFTS ONLY AVAILABLE ON UK NEWSSTAND. GEORGE PJ BOTTOMS PATTERN NOT AVAILABLE ON EXPORT COPIES. NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP REQUIRED FOR DIGITAL DOWNLOAD.
through to the post-lunch walk.

£600
However you choose to

WoRtH oF priZEs!
Enter today and you could win the Cricut Charlie Moorby, Editor
Maker 3™ and Accessories Bundle.
Find out more on p16
your gifts*:
✓ tHe danni dress
Good reads & ideas ✓ tHe george pjs
9 PINBOARD: IDEAS, EVENTS, NEW ✓ snowman toy
FABRIC AND PATTERN RELEASES
28 COLUMN: BLANCA BLAK
✓ digital book
34 PROFILE: AMBER MAKES
68 FEATURE: THE POWER OF COLOUR
82 MY FAVE THING: MALLORY STEWART

PLUSHIE TOY
TEMPLATES UK'S #1 FOR
SEW PJSKIDS
SEWING MAG! THE

GREAT SUBS
ISSUE ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT

Danni
THE Special
feature!
The power
of colour OFFERS! P14 20
20 gifts and decorations to sew for the season

PROJECTS
15 TO make!
10
SAVE TIME, MONEY
TOP TIPS Makes to

42
for sewing sew this
perfect nightwear weekend

+ WIN!
CRICUT

AND HASSLE
MAKER 3™
WORTH
£603*

WITH AN ANNUAL
EASY-MAKE!
Refashion a sweatshirt
with vinyl transfers

+MAKE: Patchwork blanket Christmas decorations Hot water bottle cover

SUBSCRIPTION
 CONTRIBUTORS
FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC
EDITORIAL
EDITOR Charlie Moorby
CREATIVE DESIGN LEAD Lisa Jones
CREATIVE DESIGNER Beth Giovanelli
PRODUCTION EDITOR Sarah Trevelyan

A huge thank you to this talented lot... TECHNICAL EDITOR Sarah Taylor
PHOTOGRAPHY Dave Caudery and Steve Sayers

SUBSCRIPTIONS
CALL +44 (0)3330 162 149
QUERIES ourmediashop.com/contactus
ORDER ourmediashop.com

ADVERTISING
Call 0117 300 8206
SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE
Jessie Dolman [email protected] +44(0)117 300 8133
CLIENT PARTNERSHIP MANAGER
Beckie Pring [email protected] +44(0)117 300 8205

MARKETING & CIRCULATION

HEAD OF CUSTOMER ACQUISITION Clive Evans-Morris
SENIOR PERFORMANCE MARKETING MANAGER Kellie Lane
SENIOR DIRECT MARKETING Kate Jones
HEAD OF NEWSTRADE MARKETING Martin Hoskins
NEWSTRADE MARKETING MANAGER John Lawton
HEAD OF LOYALTY, CRM AND RETENTION Rosa Sherwood

BUYING
stagram
nca on In
Karen Flannigan

Follow Bla ndblanca Read all Clair PRODUCTION

@blaka e-Louise’s late
st PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Sarah Powell
news @thrifty
stitcher GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER Louisa Molter
JUNIOR PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Katie Hood

LICENSING
BLANCA BLAK CLAIRE-LOUISE HARDIE DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL & LICENSING
Blanca describes herself as an all-grown up Claire-Louise is a former Sewing Producer for The Tim Hudson [email protected]
earthling and believes strongly that ageism is never Great British Sewing Bee and an online Sewing HEAD OF LICENSING
Tom Shaw [email protected]
in style! Read about how her love of fashion led Educator who loves making clothes fit and inspiring HEAD OF SYNDICATION
her to start sewing and making her own clothes in beginners to get started. Check out her Cover star Richard Bentley [email protected]
Column on page 28. pattern − The Danni Dress on page 30.
PUBLISHING
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Andy Marshall
MANAGING DIRECTOR Andrew Davies
BRAND LEAD Liz Taylor
HEAD OF CONTENT Gail Shortland

DISTRIBUTION
FRONTLINE Call +44 (0)1733 555161

PRINTED IN THE UK
BY WILLIAM GIBBONS

NEED TO GET IN TOUCH

EDITORIAL TEAM [email protected]
SUBSCRIPTION QUERIES www.ourmediashop.com/contactus
DATA QUERIES [email protected]
EDITORIAL COMPLAINTS [email protected]
DATA QUERIES [email protected]
ula Images.

RIGHTS QUERIES [email protected]

NEXT ISSUE ON SALE

Photographs: Fab

lory’s makes at THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER 2024

Check out Mal No gift included? Ask your newsagent.
Follow Amber Mak e_creations Cover gift may be unavailable overseas.
es news at @mallory_mad
@amber_makes

AMBER MAKES MALLORY STEWART

The copyright in the patterns in this magazine are owned by or licensed to Our Media Ltd and are for
Rebecca Reid and Amy Gaunt set up their thriving Mallory is a young sewist living in the Canadian readers’ personal use only. Please do not share them online (even for free) or copy them multiple times
without our permission. Where selling crafts based on these patterns is permitted (usually only to raise
sewing company Amber Makes when faced Prairies. She has always had a passion for creating funds for charity), we’ll say so on the page.
with redundancy in 2020. Read what inspires the and is an Engineering student pursuing a career in All toys sold in the UK must meet the requirements set out in the Toy (Safety) Regulations 2011,
with proof in the form of a CE Mark. You must take all necessary steps to comply with this important
dynamic duo to create their sewing kits and how Biomedical Engineering. She loves music, staying legislation. For more information, see gov.uk/ce-marking.
teamwork makes the dream work on page 34. active and reading. Read more on page 82. Our Media Limited (company number 05715415) is registered in England and Wales. The registered
office of Our Media Limited is at Eagle House, Colston Ave, Bristol BS1 4ST. All information contained
in this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to
press. Our Media Limited cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information.
Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/
services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically
grant Our Media Limited a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the
magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS world. Any material you submit is sent at your risk. Although every care is taken, neither Our Media
Limited nor its employees agents or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage.
Rachel Avery, Louisa Burtonshaw, Jessica Entwistle, Xanthe Grundy, Mollie Johanson, Portia Lawrie, Becky Perry,
We abide by IPSO’s rules and regulations. To give feedback about our magazines, please visit ourmedia.
Michelle Rowley, Kate Smith, Sophie Tarrant, Debbie Wainhouse, Rachel Walker and Lucy Ward. co.uk, email [email protected], or write to Legal, Our Media Ltd, Eagle House,
Bristol, BS1 4ST.

Sustainability is at the heart of our values, and as a business, we are committed to reducing the impact
we have on the environment. Read more at ourmedia.co.uk/sustainability

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
facebook.com/simplysewingmagazine pinterest.com/simplysewingmag instagram.com/simplysewingmag

6 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
ADVERTISEMENT

disco
20%
unt fo
Turn your home space into Just e
nter ‘2
0%’ in
r read
the d
er s!
code
a workspace – in seconds box a
t onli
iscou
ne til
l
nt

STRUGGLING to find the space you need when

measuring and cutting fabrics?
BALANCING your scissors, tape measure and
fabric on a slippery kitchen table?
CRAWLING around on your knees with the fabric
on the carpet?

Our unique, extra-large cutting cutting, maximising even the most

board is a premium quality tool impractical of working spaces.
for any sewing project. Whether Designed by a professional and
you’re a sewist, seamstress, tailor, perfected to exacting standards,
dressmaker or upholsterer without Sew & Stow is an XL, double-sided,
access to a professional cutting cutting board. It creates a sturdy
table, our cutting board unfolds and area for cutting patterns, tracing,
can be used on a floor, bed, table pinning and cutting fabric. It
or other home space. It instantly is laminated to take pins, ink,
creates a sturdy area for cutting, weights or tape: with care it will
tracing, pinning and pattern last a lifetime.

■ Extra large cutting board for fabrics:

2 by 1 metres unfolded
■ Folds away neatly to 1 by 0.4 metres
just 2cm thick
■ Laminated for strength and durability:
wipes clean
■ Double sided with measurements in
metric and imperial
■ Bias cut lines & semi-circular templates
■ Eco friendly – Designed and made in UK
– Recyclable card and PVC free

sewandstow.co.uk
@sewandstow.uk @sew&stow
 IDEAS INSPIRATION ACCESSORIES WEBSITES EVENTS STUFF
Photograph: Kristin Perers

SUSTAINABLE FASHION
Annie Phillips' new book is giving us all the inspo we need to create our sustainable sewing plans for 2025. Upcycle: A Modern Maker's
Guide to Sewing and Mending a Preloved Wardrobe will teach you how to create a more eco-friendly wardrobe, through expert advice
and practical sewing projects, on ways to repair and repurpose old clothes. Offering a modern approach for the home dressmaker and
fashion lovers, this book tackles the three core repair techniques: Upcycling, Mending, and Creating. Turn to page 13 for more info.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 9
 MOLLY MAHON
TAPESTRY
▼
KITS
The Sussex-based
family-run business
that has a particular
passion for creating
warm, enticing,
comfortable and
welcoming homes
with the emphasis on
pattern, colour and
good craftmanship
have just released
their new limited
edition tapestry kits!
Tapestry Kit ‘Joy’ and
Tapestry kit 'Love'
(priced at £135 each),
comes with all the
canvas and yarns you
need to stitch it
straight away. Buy at
mollymahon.com

THE FIELD JACKET LITTLE HELPERS

The new Everyday Helpers Collection from
Vlieseline is a fun collection of practical projects
The Paynter Jacket Co. make limited edition for people on the go. Why not combine H630
jackets four times a year (made to order) so Fusible Wadding and Interlining H310 to make
there's no waste from over production. The some organisers, or blend everyone's favourite
Field Jacket is Paynter's first make-your-own Bondaweb with the 272 Thermolam Wadding
to create a stylish bag. The foam-based Style Vil
jacket pattern in collaboration with Merchant works a treat with the fusible H250 to make
& Mills. Get yours at merchantandmills.com a unique laptop cover, too! vlieseline.com

TABBY ROAD
DEJAVU
The Déjà Vu collections from Tula Pink are
designed to offer a new take on an old
favourite. In an effort to preserve the
original collection, Tulu has recoloured
Tabby Road for a new group of quilters. For
people who loved Tabby Road when it first
debuted in 2012, Tula Pink brings you this
brand-new color way and a new reworked
print! The linchpin of the collection is
“Disco Kitty,” a pair of fantasy cats in stripes
and polka dots. Preserving the original
collection, whilst giving it a new lease of
life, Tabby Road Déjà Vu features eight Browse the complete
designs for new fans and old friends. Find
collection at
out more at tulapink.com and shop the
freespiritfabrics.com
range at freespiritfabrics.com

10 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 FINDING MeAnING thE paTTern
Change the way you approach
Jackets
Edit
creative endeavours with a new Stay warm and stylish
book by the founder of Brown in these jackets says
Paper Bag, Sara Barnes. In Production Editor
Threads of Treasure: How to Sarah Trevelyan
Make, Mend, and Find Meaning
through Thread, she explores NOW ME SEWING
PATTERN ME2061
the perspective of 14 modern
We love this Men’s
stitchers and how to use thread Puffer Jacket In Two
to display and treasure special Lengths by Norris
moments. schifferbooks.com Dánta Ford.
Durable, oversized
puffer coat and
jacket will be

SHIV TEXTILES
▲Shiv Textiles, a sustainable textiles studio
a cold-weather essential for years to come.
Lined coat has welt pockets, zipper closure
and flap with band collar. sewdirect.com
renowned for its considered designs and
eco-friendly practices, is excited to launch its BURDA STYLE
latest collection: Patterns in Repeat. This new PATTERN 5768
series of cushions draws inspiration from the Discover the
studio’s bestselling Aednat Blanket, weaving versatility of this
together mid-century patterns and palettes men’s jacket
with modern flair. Patterns in Repeat is a bold pattern: as attractive
celebration of pattern, colour, and texture. Find as a modern
the gorgeous Aednat Blanket (120x220cm) and lumberjack shirt, but
more at shivtextiles.co.uk perfect as either
a lightweight jacket or ultra-warm cardigan

HELLO, DREW SWEATSHIRT

thanks to the cozy quilted lining and hood.
The cut, based on a classic shirt, is made from
high-quality wool bouclé. sewdirect.com
Tilly and the Buttons’ have a new pattern, and we’re all obsessed! The
Drew sweatshirt is a cosy, comfy winter warmer, with the optional BURDA STYLE
colour block sleeve design elevating it beyond a basic. Simple PATTERN 5799
construction and easy-to-follow instructions make this project a perfect The ideal
introduction to sewing with stretch knit fabrics. You can make Drew on companion for the
a regular sewing machine, or sign up to Tilly’s new online workshop to transition: the
learn to sew it on an overlocker. Watch the video lessons whenever you transition jacket
like, as many times as you like, with no deadlines, and learn Tilly’s tips combines quilting
and tricks to feel confident making knit garments from scratch on your and woollen to
overlocker. Find out more at shop.tillyandthebuttons.com create a trendy look.
With practical press studs and without the
hassle of sewing in buttonholes. Pattern
available from sewdirect.com

BURDA STYLE PATTERN B5941

MISSES’
These jackets are very on trend at the
moment! The sporty collared jackets
or coat with large flapped patch
pockets are in! The pockets and
front bands are fastened with
snaps and there are options for
quilted and waxed utility
fabrics if you are looking for
a different look or want them
to be warmer or waterproof.
Despite the look, it's a very
easy sew! sewdirect.com

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 11
 RECYCLED
RIBBON
▼Namaste is
proud to bring you
eco-friendly, Fair
Trade and
sustainable
products, all
handcrafted by
skilled artisans
from around the
world. They are
making a positive
impact partnering
with local
communities to
support the very
people and places
that bring these
creations to life.
Find ribbon made
from recycled saris
(below), hemp
twine, recycled
yarn and more at
namaste-uk.co.uk 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
Gathered’s 12 days of Christmas is back
for the third year in a row! For 12 days,

CLOsET EsSENTIALS
starting on December 2nd, there will be
12 exclusive projects for you to get your
hands on. Each day has a completely
We are so excited about the brand new Phoebe coat from unique project (one of which will be our
Closet Core Patterns. It is a timeless winter coat with a notched cute Christmas Elf pattern) for you to
collar and beautiful tailored details, Phoebe has an oversized fit download for FREE. But you’ll have to be
and comes in alpha-sizing from XS-4X. The drop shoulder, quick… each project disappears after
roomy two-piece sleeve, and oversized fit make it ideal for 24hrs (unless you subscribe to their
layering over bulky winter layers. closetcorepatterns.com newsletter). See more at gathered.how

3 of the best
IN THE BAG
Give a gift that keeps on giving with these bag
designs for all occasions and family members

1. Add some glamour to your Christmas

wardrobe with this metallic ruffle clutch bag:
gathered.how/sewing-and-quilting/sewing/
clutch-bag-pattern

2. Upgrade your tech storage and keep your

laptop safely stowed away in this quilted bag:
gathered.how/sewing-and-quilting/sewing/
laptop-bag-pattern

3. Bum bags are back! Make your own version

of this 80s extremely practical accessory:
gathered.how/sewing-and-quilting/sewing/
fanny-pack-pattern

12 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 Pinboard

INSPIRING
READS
UPCYCLE
Annie Phillips
(£9.99, Quadrille )
Tired of wearing clothes that
fall apart after one wash?
Struggling to find second-
hand clothing that fits? Offering a modern
approach to sustainable sewing for the
home dressmaker, this book tackles the
three core repair techniques: Upcycling,
Mending, and Creating. Upcycle by Annie

MAKE A SPLASH
Here's something unique and new from
Phillips (Quadrille, £20). Photographs
© Kristin Perers. Illustrations © Suzie London.

Atelier Brunette − LE Trench sewing

pattern and coordinating fabrics! Their SEW YOUR OWN
range of 100% cotton water repellent NURSERY RHYME
Gabardine are available in six new OLD MACDONALD
stunning colours: Ivy Green, Sandy Sand, Sarah Simi
Pecan Pie, Dreamy Twilight, Deep (£9.99, Search Press)
Charcoal and Crispy Brownie - and the With a snip snip here,
coordinating Seersucker fabrics come in and a stitch stitch there, bring this beloved
Dreamy Twilight, Deep Charcoal and nursery rhyme to life in tactile, easy-to-sew
Crispy Brownie. atelierbrunette.com felt! From a playful pig and a cheerful
chicken to Old MacDonald herself, this fun
events play set also includes a fold-out farmhouse
for playing with and storing the characters!

CRAFT AND
Based on animation by Little Woolly Vision.

QUILT SHOWS THE ART OF

EMBROIDERY DESIGN
Christi Johnson
Get your dose of creative, crafts and quilts (£25, Storey)
at these upcoming shows. Christi Johnson, author of
Mystical Stitches, offers
CREATIVE CRAFT SHOW embroidery enthusiasts an in-depth
NEC, Birmingham, workshop to create their own unique
March 13 - March 16 mystical and spiritually-themed designs.
Featuring Sewing for Pleasure – Fashion Combining instruction with a series of
and Embroidery - Spring 2025! The hands-on experiments and challenges,
Creative Craft Show is a haven for knitting, Johnson shares her expertise with readers.
cross stitch, paper crafting, jewellery and
dressmaking and stitching enthusiasts,

50% off stash hub

offering all the latest supplies as well as RELOVEABLE
ideas and inspiration. You’ll find plenty of Caroline Arthur
opportunities to gain industry advice, and (£55, Wildacre Press)
This November, Stash Hub turns two! The tool network with like minded crafters. Relovable takes the reader on
that every sewists needs, this ingenious app creativecraftshow.co.uk a journey that begins with
helps you catalogue and organise your stash of retrieving their old wedding
patterns and fabrics with advanced filters, NEWARK QUILT SHOW dress from the loft, assessing its potential
multiple images for each record, and unlimited Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire, and exploring aspirational ideas for
Magic Input (which imports fabric and pattern January 17-18, 20024 repurposing it. These ideas are
details directly from web listings). Stash Hub is Find quilt displays from well-known demonstrated by transforming old
available on iOS, Android and web. The 50% off quilting and textile artists alongside wedding dress samples donated by
sale will run throughout November for all first a variety of exhibitors selling supplies. designer bridal boutiques for this project,
time subscribers on yearly and monthly Stash grosvenorshows.co.uk with practical inspiration whether or not
Hub Plus subscriptions. stashhubapp.com you can sew. Perfect wedding present!

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 13
 Simply
FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC

START YOUR FREE

PLUSHIE TOY
TEMPLATES UK'S #1
SEWING MAG!
ISSUE ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT
SEW PJS
FOR
THE KIDS

TRIAL TODAY!*
Download the latest issue
Danni
THE Special
feature!
The power
of colour
straightaway, for free
15
10 TOP TIPS
for sewing
Makes to
sew this
perfect nightwear weekend

+ WIN!
CRICUT
Your next issue is free too
MAKER 3™
WORTH

Get a further 12 issues in

£603*

EASY-MAKE!
Refashion a sweatshirt
with vinyl transfers your first year
All issues download
*T&Cs apply

+MAKE: Patchwork blanket Christmas decorations Hot water bottle cover

automatically
Download it once…
read it offline forever

iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
NOOK is a registered trademark of Barnes & Noble, Inc. NOOK Tablet is a trademark of Barnes & Noble, Inc
*Free trial not available on Zinio

SAVE TIME, MONEY AND HASSLE WITH AN

ANNUAL SIMPLY SEWING SUBSCRIPTION
 just tap
PLUSHIE TOY
TEMPLATES UK'S #1 SEW PJS
FOR
SEWING MAG! THE KIDS
ISSUE ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT

Danni
THE Special
HERE to
subscribe
feature!
The power
of colour

15

today
10 TOP TIPS
for sewing
perfect nightwear
Makes to
sew this
weekend

+ WIN!
CRICUT
MAKER 3™
WORTH
£603*

EASY-MAKE!
Refashion a sweatshirt
with vinyl transfers

*T&Cs apply

+MAKE: Patchwork blanket Christmas decorations Hot water bottle cover

SEARCH SIMPLY SEWING IN THE APP STORE

* iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
 ™ ™
Win the Cricut Maker 3 and
‘Sew’ Much More Besides!
We have teamed up with Cricut to offer our readers the
chance to win a Cricut Maker 3™ and Accessories Bundle.
Worth
nleash the power of pure precision and personalisation with £600
U Cricut™! Win this all-in-one bundle and revolutionise your
crafting! We’re offering Simply Sewing readers the chance to
snag a Cricut Maker 3™ and Accessories Bundle worth over £600!
This isn’t just a smart cutting machine; it’s an all-in-one
crafting workshop at your fingertips. From delicate silks and
tricky chiffon to robust denim and more, the Cricut Maker 3™
handles it all. Your appliqué will be immaculate, embellishments
exacting - fabric cutting fast-tracked, and with a community of
over 9 million Cricut crafters worldwide, you’ll have access to
myriad sewing projects in the Cricut Design Space®. Reimagine
your sewing with the Cricut Maker 3™.
Get ready, set, craft at cricut.com – where making is just the
beginning. Head over to gathered.how/sew_comps to enter.

Prize includes: Cricut Maker 3™, Rotary Fabric Blade & Housing, Fabric Grip Mats, Rotary Cutter Set, Applicator Tool Set, Cricut Iron-on Vinyl

See gathered.how/sew_comps to enter today!

Promoter: Our Media Limited, a company registered in England and Wales with company number 05715415. Residents of the UK and Channel Islands aged 18+
can enter. The closing date for entries is 23:59 on 18th December 2024. For full T&Cs, see the relevant competition page at www.gathered.how/sew_comps.

16 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 Download Handmade
Christmas − your

Download bonus gift!

Today!

Sign up to our newsletter to download your

digital copy of Handmade Christmas – for
free! There are 20 easy-to-make gifts and
decorations to sew for the season, from
patchwork Christmas stockings and
present sacks, to penguins! Create a lovely
cosy feeling of craft and care and create
a gift for those special people in your life
for the festive season. Sign-up for yours at
try.simplysewingmag.com/bonus-gift.
Already a newsletter subscriber? Check
your email inbox for the download, which
will be included in your weekly newsletter.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 17
 Crimbo tops
Create these customised Christmas Jumpers
with the help of Cricut Iron on Vinyl™. Craft
pro Kate Smith shows you how.
Crimbo tops
01 02 03

07 08 09

YOU WILL NEED CREATING THE DESIGN placement, it's time to start pressing the design
■ Sweater (cotton jersey style) Step one If using a Cricut machine: measure in place. If using a Cricut EasyPress: refer to the
■ Cricut Iron-On Vinyl or Smart your sweater to decide how large you'd like your Cricut Heat App or Guide to set the correct time
Iron-on Vinyl™ snowflakes or fairy lights to be. 01 and temperature. 06
■ Scissors Step two If using a Cricut cutting machine: Step three Set your Cricut EasyPress to the
■ Tape measure Upload the svg files to Cricut Design Space, or correct time & temperature for your sweater
■ Cricut weeding tool search 'Fairy lights' or 'Snowflake' in 'Images'. fabric and Iron-On Material. Or preheat your
■ Cricut heat mat or towel Resize and duplicate as necessary. If cutting iron to the hottest setting (no steam). 07
■ Pencil manually: download and print images and cut Step four If you're making the fairy lights
■ Lint Roller out as your templates. 02 design, remove the coloured bulbs from the
■ Greaseproof paper sweater and start by pressing the wire first. (You
■ Cricut EasyPress™ or iron CUTTING THE DESIGN may need to use the heat-resistant tape to
■ Cricut heat-resistant tape Step one If using a Cricut machine: click 'Make it' secure the wire to the jumper (matt side down/
■ Cricut Maker 3™ or Cricut Joy Xtra™ and follow the on-screen prompts. Load your shiny side up). 08
(Optional) chosen colours of Cricut Smart Iron-On Vinyl Step five Place a piece of greaseproof paper
■ Computer, tablet or smartphone one by one, to be cut. If cutting manually: trace over the design to protect it, then place the
with Cricut Design Space™ the templates onto the corresponding colour preheated EasyPress/iron carefully onto the
downloaded (Optional) Iron-On Vinyl (draw on the matt side), then cut design for the required length of time and
out with scissors. 03 pressure, as directed. 09
NOTES Step two If using a Cricut machine: weed the Step six When cooled, carefully peel off the
■ Download the templates from negative Iron-On Vinyl using your weeding tool, shiny carrier sheet leaving the iron-on vinyl on
gathered.how/ss-templates to leave the positive design remaining on the your sweater. 10
■ Cricut is available from cricut.com, shiny carrier sheet. 04 Step seven For the fairy lights design, place the
Hobbycraft, John Lewis, Very and coloured bulbs onto the design and repeat the
Amazon. TRANSFERRING THE DESIGN heat transfer process. Important: You must
■ Find Cricut help and inspiration at Step one Iron your jumper and ensure it's free of ensure no pieces of the design overlap as you
help.cricut.com and @cricut_uk lint etc. Place on a flat surface with a Cricut heat press them in position. And place a sheet of
■ Find more Cricut tips from us on mat or towel underneath. 05 greaseproof paper over your design, to protect
Instagram @simplysewingmag Step two Design your sweater by placing the any pieces previously pressed which now have
■ It is possible to download the cut Iron-On Vinyl pieces onto the jumper, shiny no carrier sheet. 11
images, trace, and cut by hand. side facing up. When you're happy with the Step eight For the snowflake design, you can

20 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 crimbo tops
04 05 06

10 11 12

tape all the snowflakes in position at the start

(making sure there are no overlaps), then work
your way around the sweater with the EasyPress
or iron, pressing the design in place and
allowing each piece to cool completely before
you peel off the shiny carrier sheet. 12

s are
All template nload
ow
available to d.how. Scan
ed
from gather o straight to
the code to g s page!
the template

Craft Pro, designer and

author Kate Smith (she/her)
launched The Makery in 2009
on a mission to spread the
joy of craft. @themakerykate
and makerykate.com

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 21
 THIS MONTH...

It’s time to get cosy with our guide

to making your own stylish DIY
nightwear
Written by Sophie Tarrant

DESIGN DETAILS
A chic Mandarin collar and
bound edges give this classic
set a stylish update.

COMFORT MATTERS
An elasticated waistline with a tie-
front detail keeps these pyjamas
feeling comfy all night long.

SOFT AND WARM

This set is designed to be made
up in comfortable fabrics such as
cotton lawn, rayon, and silk satin.

PICCADILLY PYJAMAS
This new pattern from Nina Lee creates
a chic sleepwear set with stylish accents
– including a soft and open Mandarin collar
and gently curved hems. Choose from shorts
and a cap-sleeved shirt, or cropped trousers
and a shirt with three-quarter length sleeves.
Both bottoms have a flat-front waistband
with an elasticated back, and are finished
with a cute ribbon tie. ninalee.co.uk

22 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 3
PATTERN INSPIRATION
Snuggle up with our pick of the best nightwear STRETCH STYLE
patterns to make before bedtime. Sew up a capsule collection of
nightwear-friendly designs.
2 With five patterns, 10 variations,
1 and numerous other tips and tricks
included, The Loungewear Edit
– Stretch Edition from Workshop
provides an entire capsule collection
of slouchy, stylish nightwear-friendly
4 designs. The booklet not only
includes patterns but teaches how
to work with jersey, elastic, and other
stretch materials, with tips and tricks
to conquer any fears you may have
about working with knit fabrics.
helloworkshop.co.uk

5 6

1 PIPIT LOUNGEWEAR SET Primrose Dawn creates a comfy chemise with

Though not strictly sleepwear, the Pipit princess seam cups, adjustable straps, and a
loungewear set from Common Stitch is flared skirt. Multiple cup sizes are included,
a timeless wardrobe staple that can easily alongside mini and mid-thigh skirt length
be taken from day to night. It features fluted options. Other variations include an elastic-
sleeves, a casual-fit top with a button front, finished or folded edge contrast necklines,
and shorts with a comfy elasticated waist. and lace cups. primrosedawn.com
commonstitch.com.au
5 S9931 LOUNGEWEAR
2 SYLVIA ROBE DRESSING GOWN ADD-ON This set by Norris Dánta Ford for Simplicity
This pattern gives Sew Over It’s popular Sylvia creates an entire ensemble that’s perfect for
robe a night-time upgrade. New pieces have relaxing around the house. It includes
been drafted to add a tie belt, belt loops, and a wraparound robe with dropped shoulder
practical patch pockets to the original design, sleeves and a tie belt, a fitted tank top, and the
which must be purchased in addition to this option to make a pair of elasticated trousers or
add-on. sewoverit.com shorts with in-seam pockets. sewdirect.com

3 WINNIE PYJAMAS 6 511 JULIETTE'S DREAM LINGERIE

This design from Merchant & Mills makes a set Inspired by vintage lingerie, this pretty pattern
of classic button-down pyjamas with long or from Folkwear can be used to make two
short sleeves, and the choice of long, short or different looks. View A has a lined bodice and
micro-short bottoms. Optional piped edges layered circle skirt, while View B has an unlined
give the set a smart finish. Can be made up in bodice with a double-tied front, an open front
a variety of fabrics. merchantandmills.com full circle skirt, and double ribbon straps. Both
have an empire waist and three cup sizes to
4 JACINTA CHEMISE choose from, and an above-knee skirt that
Made from soft stretch knits, this pattern from drapes beautifully. folkwear.com

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 23
 tips & tricks
Settle in for the evening with our guide to creating your own collection of comfy, cosy nightwear.

STAY WITH STRETCH

For ultimate comfort, pick a fabric that has
a slight stretch to it. Knits feel comfortable
against your body and allow an extra degree of
flexibility, which is vital for those who move
around a lot in their sleep. If working with knits,
make sure to use a stretch stitch, such as a zig-zag
or an overlocker stitch, and a ballpoint or stretch
needle for best results.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT FABRIC

It might seem obvious, but opting for soft, ALWAYS PRE-WASH
breathable fabrics like cotton, jersey, flannel, or We always recommend you pre-wash your
bamboo can make all the difference when fabrics, and that’s especially important when
making your own nightwear. Choose a material making nightwear. Many materials shrink
that feels gentle against your skin, regulates your during their first wash, so pre-laundering the
temperature, and won’t feel restrictive as you fabric ensures your garments will fit as
move around. If possible, try to stick to natural intended – nobody wants to wear PJs that feel
fibres and avoid synthetics like polyester and too tight!
Nylon, which can trap heat and irritate your skin
during sleep.

…OR GO FLAT INSTEAD

Flat-felled seams are another strong contender
when making nightwear. They’re similar to
French seams in that the raw edges of the fabric
are completely enclosed, but they take the
comfort level one step further – stitching the
new seam allowance down flat, for the
OPT FOR FRENCH SEAMS maximum smoothness. To work a flat-felled
French seams are ideal for nightwear projects. In this technique, seam, start with a seam allowance of at least
the raw edges of the fabric are enclosed within the seam, lessening 12mm – any less than this and the technique
the chances of irritation on the skin. To work a French seam, place might not work. Stitch your fabric pieces
your fabric pieces together with right sides out, and sew your seam together, then with an iron, press the seam
with a 6mm allowance. Trim the allowance back to around 3mm, allowance open. Trim one side of the allowance
then press it to one side. Fold the fabric back along the seam so the down to 3mm, then press the wider edge over by
right sides are facing, and the raw edges are enclosed within. Stitch 6mm and wrap it around the trimmed edge,
the seam again, 6mm in from the folded edge, then press it to one enclosing it within. Lay the seam flat and
side to finish. top-stitch into place, securing the fabric and
hiding the raw edges.

24 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 GO FOR A WALK
MEASURE TWICE If you've opted for a slippery material such as
On that note, making sure you cut your pyjamas satin, silk, or rayon, using a walking foot when
to fit you well will make all the difference between sewing your project can make the process much
having a stuffy, uneasy night’s sleep and a pleasant easier. It’ll help guide the fabric evenly through
slumber. Nightwear should feel comfortable and your machine, preventing bunching or
non-restrictive, without being so oversized that stretching, and keeps your stitches even.
it bunches up or falls down. Always check your
measurements twice before cutting your fabric!

USE AN ELASTIC WAISTBAND ADD EXTRA DETAILS

Adding an elasticated waistband to pyjama Piped edges can elevate the look of your pyjamas
trousers or shorts takes the faff out of fastening even more, giving them a polished, classic finish.
and can add another level of comfort to your Piping works especially well along the edges of
make, too. Choose a soft, wide elastic that won’t collars, cuffs, hems, and pocket openings. You
dig into your skin or twist around as you move, can buy pre-made piping, or create your own by
and enclose it within a waistband casing, rather wrapping bias tape or fabric strips around
than stitching it directly to the material. lengths of cord.

BUTTON UP
For pyjama tops or nightgowns, use buttons or
snaps as closures. Plastic snaps are relatively easy
to apply and feel soft, whilst buttons offer Sophie (she/her) is a craft writer
a classic look. Avoid metal fastenings if you can, and embroidery artist who lives
as they can be cold and uncomfortable. with her husband and four cats.
Self-cover fabric buttons are softer still, and give She loves dressmaking and
your finished make a luxurious high-end feel. collecting way too much fabric.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 25
 lounge wear
Whip up these quick-to-sew
gender neutral pyjamas bottoms
in plenty of time for Christmas.
Designed by Becky Perry for Prima UK, November 2023.
 george pyjamas

T
he long, dark winter nights are made for
early, cosy nights in, so why not get as
comfortable as you can in these relaxed-fit
pyjama bottoms! They are a fab first make or a
super quick one to get you back into
dressmaking − and for lounging about it! Make
them for yourself or loved ones − or kit the whole
family out in matching Christmas pyjamas! Don't
forget to share your makes with us online using
#simplysewingmag

YOU WILL NEED

■ Fabric:
115cm wide: Sizes A-1: 2.5m
145cm wide: Sizes A-F: 2.3m
145cm wide: Sizes G-M: 2.5m
■ 1.5cm of 25mm waistband elastic
■ Matching thread
■ Basic sewing kit

NOTES ELASTICATED WAIST

Relax in comfort with
■ Seam allowances are included and are 1.5cm, a made-to-measure
unless otherwise stated. elasticated waistband.
■ Pin or tack the main pieces together first to
check the fit and mark any alterations needed
before sewing.
■ Sizes J-M will only fit on 145cm wide fabric if cut
on the fold.

FABRIC SUGGESTIONS BOOT CUT

■ Light to medium weight woven fabrics, such as They have a loose fit like
cotton lawn, brushed cotton, cotton poplin or a boot cut jean so great
for lounging around in.
viscose. We used brushed cotton check from
Oddies. Email [email protected] for
your local stockist.

Mak
ea
for ev pair of co
eryon m
e in t fy pyjam
he fa a
mily s
!

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 27
MY SEWING
WORLD
By Blanca Blak
Blanca’s love of fashion kick-started her
sewing hobby. She took dozens of online
courses now sews whenever she can. Check out Bla
n
hopping on Instagram late one night… and
Instagram @ ca's creations on
blakandblan
most of the pieces I wanted to own were ca
made by the men and women wearing
them! What? Sewing is a thing? The next
morning my dusty sewing machine was
taken out of the hall closet and stared at me to have access to in-person
while I searched for the manual, thread, and a cloth
napkin to see if the old girl was still running.
classes take advantage of them."
Online deadline
It took three months to make a denim shirt, and two
pairs of fly-front casual trousers with pockets. I found
a challenge on Instagram to give me a deadline and
motivation and they offered some prizes which looked
great. Well, sometimes good things happen to bad
sewists because although I didn’t win prizes those
pieces are still loved and worn five years later. After
taking many online courses (dozens and dozens as
I live in a no-sewing zone) my skills improved.
Honestly though almost everything I know was
offered in the way of posts on Instagram by generous,
talented, and also humorous sewists around the
planet, and open 24hrs a day for the sleepless ones
out there. If you are fortunate enough to have access
to in-person classes or group meet-ups do take
advantage of those as your base for better sewing.
The face-to-face support and knowledge is my dream.

Talented dressmaker
My interest in sewing was sparked as a pre-teen with
an absolute obsession for a menswear-inspired pants
suit. Our local dressmaker who was actually the most
elegant, talented, and kind person who agreed to
Blanca in two of her
guide me through the sewing process. It was handmade jackets.
thrilling to go to a fabric store and it was my first
outing to a pattern counter with huge
catalogues with many choices. In the end it
turned out well but that’s because the
dressmaker really made it happen. That
suit was the joy of my small closet for
years even though I had no place to
wear it except running errands and
v i n tag e pattern
earing a
Blanca w striped shirting.
in a
 patterns offered today and some of them
just work better for my frame."
a few celebrations. Young ladies were supposed
to wear dresses to dances back then and that
r excluded this outfit from many occasions but it left

c a l i k e s to baste to s.' me with a love of bespoke clothing and wearing what

Blan uckup you want, except of course if it is a wedding or
'pat the m a funeral.

Androgynos streetwear
I didn’t sew again for many years but my interest in
fashion always left me longing for the perfect colour,
fabric, and fit while buying clothes off the rack and at
most changing the buttons for a better look and
having them altered. Today I sew when there is time
and when I can’t get to the process I will cut and paste
and doodle in my sewing journal while I am on the
go. Adapting patterns for my difficult fit issues is
a process that most sewists struggle with along
the way to making any clothing. There are so
many wonderful patterns offered today and
some of them just work better for my frame
and that results in lots of variations on one
trouser or jacket pattern before trying a new
design. Next on the late summer sewing plans
will be my seventh couture jacket in wool and silk
inspired by more tailors and sewists than I could ever
list. There is just something about the tailoring and
hand-stitching and steaming the wool. It is exciting
and satisfying if you just remember that it is meant to
be a slow process, like letting your hair grow, it takes
Blanca loves wearing her 'floppy a certain amount of time. The jackets I have made are
wrinkled linen trousers' on hot car not special occasion but actually all occasion pieces
journeys or train rides. Hacked that I wear with sweatpants or wool, tailored trousers.
Closest Core Pattern.

Keeping me inspired...
My inspiration and
motivation comes from so
many sorces: First are the
people I see on the street,
yong and r
ll sizes. Instagram is
my go-to and there is no
excluding the impact that
film and theatre costumers
r
runway shows on YoTube
r cosy and fabric shops.
Blanca in on Blanca in one tops.
r Theory
− e r fave mak
es
ls.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 29
Turn the
PSST :
pag
styling i e for fabric and
nsp
your Dan iration. Share
ni
using #S Dress with us
implySew
ingMag
 comfy chic!
This trending elegant drape dress designed by
Claire-Louise Hardie has everything going for
it − style, elegance and comfort!
Danni dress

W
e love the stylish, comfortable and versatile
Danni Dress. It is the epitome of comfy chic
− perfect for a day in the office or lunch
date but will also take you through to the
evening. Sew a short-sleeved version for warm
days or the longer-sleeved block-coloured
version for the cooler ones. The recommended
fabrics − stretchy double-knit jersey, Ponte Roma
CLASSIC LINES
or Milano Rib − are warm and durable so you Sew a stylish and
won't feel the cold, especially if teamed up with delicate V-neck for
thick tights and boots. Don't forget to share your a timeless look.
makes with us using #simplysewingmag on
social media.

YOU WILL NEED

■ Fabric:
Sizes 6-16: 2mx150cm
Sizes 18-30: 2.5mx150cm
■ Lightweight iron-on knit or bias
interfacing: 35x75cm
■ 12/80 Stretch machine needle
■ Optional stretch twin needle for hemming
(either a 4.0 or 2.5 width)
■ Matching thread
■ Basic sewing kit

NOTES
■ Seam allowance 1cm, unless otherwise stated
■ The dress can be sewn either with
a zigzag/lightening stitch on a sewing
machine, or with an overlocker

SUGGESTED FABRICS
■ Double-knit jersey, Ponte Roma or Milano Rib. VERSATILE
This pattern is not suitable for fabric with Sew your Danni
Dress with short
a large amount of stretch or long sleeves.

FABRICS USED
■ Colourblock sample: Meet MILK Two Tone
Tencel Lyocell Ponte Roma in Blueberry and
the Minerva Core Range Stable Ponte Roma in
Orange, minerva.com
■ Monochrome sample: Minerva Exclusive
Monstera Street Ponte Roma Double Stretch
Knit Fabric, minerva.com

The Dann
iD
of style an ress is the epitom
d comfort e
− perfect
everyday fo
wear
 Danni dress

Woodland Trail
wear it with
Simple style
Ponte Roma, minerva.com

Petrol heavy Ponte Roma, Style the Danni Dress with

minerva.com these winter beauties.
£22, bettyandbiddy.com

Maroon MILK Pilu sweatshirt,

minerva.com

Leony, Midnight, Cross body maroon bag,

atelierbrunette.com £18 directasda.com

FABRIC INSPIRATION

dark & mysterious

Choose from a range of darker prints for
Make it casual with a denim
a sophisticated, enigmatic Danni Dress to jacket. £45, very.co.uk
see you through the colder months.

Painters patchwork Ponte

Roma, minerva.com Pearl link t-bar, £23,
bettyandbiddy.co.uk

Stable Ponte Roma, Step ot in wine patent

minerva.com platform heels, £165,
oliverbonas.com

Animal
Glow Ponte Roma,
Mauve MILK Pilu minerva.com
sweatshirt, minerva.com

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 33
Business owners Rebecca Reid and Amy
Gaunt allow us behind-the-scenes of
their thriving sewing company.
Written by Rachel Avery.

Photographs: Fabula Images.

 a good read

hen one door closes another one Above Rebcca and Amy with some of their
opens. This is a great way to look sewing kits Right Rebecca is the sewing
technician, writing and filming the tutorials while
at life when things aren't going to Amy edits them and illustrates the beautiful kits.
plan. But sometimes, that door
needs to be thrown open yourself "We definitely stick to our own skillsets in the
and that's exactly what work designing process, but I’ve actually sewn a few
colleagues Rebecca Reid and Amy Gaunt did of our projects by following Rebecca’s fantastic
when faced with redundancy in 2020. step-by-step tutorials," reveals Amy. In fact, their
Determined not to let their winning dynamic first sewing kit, Thatched Cottage, was Amy's
go to waste, they took the plunge and started first ever make! Reminiscing about her own
Amber Makes together (ambermakesco.com), introduction into sewing, Rebecca recalls being
launching their first sewing kit in the May of very young and crafting a Mr Bump felt toy for
that year. Now, the company sells a selection of her sister. Perhaps from that moment her whole
sewing patterns and kits as well as sewing- career was set in motion.
themed gifts and essential haberdashery.
Friends Amy and KIT IT OUT
Rebecca explain that From handy shopper
their cut-and-sew
"sewing is such a mindful hobby so if bags and adorable

you get frustrated with it walk

fabric panel kits are book covers through
"designed to simplify to a set of storage
the process of making
a project." The kit away and come back tomorrow.” boxes, there are so
many different Amber
contains pre-printed Makes sewing kits
fabric pieces ready to to try your hand at.
be cut out and sewn together. Easy, peasy. We've spied a snowman family for Christmas,
Making them great for beginners, but also ideal handy vegetable bags and even a super-sweet
for crafters who are time poor. Rebecca robin doorstop!
implores customers and fellow sewists in As like many Simply Sewing readers,
general to not "get too hung up on perfection" crafters are typically big fans of makes that are
when crafting. "Sewing is such a mindful and both pretty and practical and that's proven
pleasurable hobby so if you find yourself perfectly by the Amber Makes consumers
getting frustrated with it – walk away and come because the Needlecase collection steams
back again tomorrow," she advises. ahead as the most popular set to buy.
Playing to your strengths is another key Available in a variety of different designs, you
philosophy for this duo, as Amy designs the can craft a cute case to keep your needles
beautiful kits and Rebecca is the sewing beautifully organised. Rebecca explains: "This
technician, writing and filming all the tutorials. is something I designed and made a very long

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 35
 a good read
BUSINESS 101
Crafty entrepreneurs Rebecca
and Amy offer up their insights
and best business advice

What's the hardest thing about running

your own business?
"It’s all been a steep learning curve as we
started off just sewing and designing lovely
things we like but then you have to learn
about websites, social media, accounts, tax
and lots of other really boring things. We’ve
got there eventually with a lot of advice
and googling!" RR

"The hardest thing for me is dealing with

the sheer volume of stock that has taken
over both of our homes. Being surrounded
by it all the time can be overwhelming. I’m
also not the most organised person so
keeping myself focused and organised can
be a challenge." AG

What's your best piece of advice for

someone wanting to turn their hobby
into a business?
"I would say that, if you can, set up your
Above Amber Makes have started to print some
business with someone else. It’s so much time ago for myself but realised it was the kits on velvet which is supersoft, vibrant and
easier if you can work with someone who perfect kit for digitally printed fabric as it has gorgeous − and it does make a beautiful bag.
has complementary skills and also it’s lot the names of all the needles printed on all the
easier to spread the workload." RR little pages." inspiration comes from my love of travel,
Those may be a hit with the customers, where I immerse myself in different cultures
"My best advice is to go for it but start but we also want to know which kit would and experiences. Whether it's the vibrant
small. Launch with a few products and let win first place for Amy and Rebecca? While it street markets of Marrakech or the stunning
your business grow organically. This makes was a hard decision due to the wide range of landscapes of Vietnam, these diverse
the process much more fun, reduces stress sets, Rebecca plumps for Freddie's First Aid environments spark new ideas for colour,
and avoids the pressure of needing to make Case for sentimental value. "I designed this patterns, and artistic styles."
a lot of money straight away." AG for my son Freddie when he went to uni as he Daily life back in the UK also conjures up
didn’t even own a plaster and I filled it with ideas, as Amy turns to nature to feel inspired,
Any tips for female business owners? all the supplies," she "for example, the
"Employ women! That’s not really a policy reminisced. "Amy did intricate patterns in
of ours to be honest but so far, all the the most wonderful
"A big part of my inspiration comes flora and fauna or the

from my love of travel, different

people who have worked with us have design for it – it’s so textures of natural
been women." RR retro and so useful landscapes.

"Support and collaborate with other

too which sort of
embodies what cultures and experiences.” I often capture these
elements through
business owners. There’s plenty of room for Amber Makes is about photographs or
everyone and creating friendships within – beautiful things sketches, which later
the business community can be incredibly people actually want!" For Amy, she's won influence my fabric designs."
rewarding." AG over by the giraffe animal tote kit where the
giraffe neck goes all the way around the tote TEAMWORK - DREAM WORK
How do you manage to switch off from handle. "It's not only fun and clever but also Working with a friend may be a cause for
the business and enjoy downtime? perfectly captures our unique selling point concern for some folks, but not for these two.
"For total getting away from it all – I love − our products can’t be made using ordinary "We just really get on well and we nearly
a festival and my annual dancing in the fabric!" Amy explains. always agree on what we’re doing. But even
fields of Glastonbury is where I completely we don’t agree we always come to
unwind." RR DESIGN INSPIRATION a compromise quite easily," says Rebecca.
As well as running one half of the business, "Someone asked us recently what our
"I love clearing my head on dog walks, but Amy finds time for her other passion − business plan was, and Amy’s reply was 'Can
that's also when some of my best ideas travelling. But luckily, her destination we say – making pretty things?', which pretty
come to me!" AG downtime provides a whole wealth of much sums up both our attitudes to the
inspiration for new kits. "A big part of my business."

36 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 a good read

Above Rebecca and Amy work together as a team "Supporting small UK-based businesses is
deciding on the projects. Rebecca makes it up in really important to us," tells Amy.
plain fabric and Amy designs the print .
"We make sure our kits are printed in
So how does an Amber Makes kit go from the UK, and we're committed to creating
just an idea to real-life physical set? Once and producing items on demand, which
they've both agreed on the next project it's helps reduce waste and is better for the
over to Rebecca. "I make it up in plain fabric environment.
then write the instructions for it as I go," she Plus, producing locally means fewer
reports. "I then send a brief to Amy with all the shipping emissions. And we’re proud to say
measurements and templates, and she draws we never use plastic in our kits or packaging."
it out and designs the print and orders us Looking to the future, Rebecca and Amy
a test sample." reveal that Amber Makes customers should
Priding herself on knowing exactly what look out for new materials on the company
a crafter needs thanks website soon.
to her background Rebecca divulges
as a technical sewing
"supporting small uk-based businesses plans for more velvet

is really important to us. We print in

writer, it's then a case additions to their
of going over the stock of kits.
instructions multiple
times to make sure
the Uk and produce on demand.” "Most of our kits are
printed on Panama
they are just right. cotton canvas and
It's a collaboration quilting weight
when it comes to the video tutorials cotton. We have started to print some kits
as Rebecca records them and does the on velvet which is supersoft, vibrant and
voiceovers, while Amy is left to do the gorgeous so we’ve got plans to print more kits
technical wizardry of putting all the clips on velvet – it does make a beautiful bag!"
together into a handy video for the customers. If you want to learn more about Amber
Makes head over to ambermakesco.com and
GOOD FEEDBACK follow them on Instagram @amber_makes.
Although the videos are a lot of work, Rebecca
admits: "It’s really worth it though as we get Rachel (she/her) writes about the
lots of good feedback from our customers as celebrity homes and interiors
I think a lot of sewists are visual learners so trends for HELLO! magazine. She
they can understand instructions better by shares lifestyle tips and reviews at
watching rather than reading." rachel-recommends.com.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 37
 TIP: an half a
n e e d l ess th is
You
f f ab ri c for th
metre o at for scraps!
gre
make -
 take a bow
Sew Debbie Wainhouse's smart
bowtie and pocket square duo to
elevate a plain suit − a perfect gift!
Bowtie
01 02 03

04 05 06

YOU WILL NEED CUTTING OUT Step two Add the slider onto the raw end of the
■ 0.5m fabric Step one From the main fabric, cut: Collar strap. Insert the raw end through one of
■ Set of 19mm bow tie clasps Bow: two 25x14cm the openings in the clasp then fold the fabric
■ Lightweight iron-on interfacing Bow Centre: one 4x8cm back on itself as in the step image. Turn the raw
■ Loop turner or chopstick Collar: one 5x55cm edge under and stitch in place.
■ Matching thread Step two From the iron-on interfacing cut: Step three Attach the hook onto the strap with
■ Basic sewing kit Bow: two 25x14cm the hook facing out. Thread the other end back
Bow Centre: one 4x8cm though the slider to make the strap adjustable.
NOTES Attach the last piece of the clasp to the other
■ Seam allowance is 1cm, unless MAKING THE BOW TIE end of the strap and stitch in place. 04
otherwise stated Step one Apply the iron-on interfacing to the Step four Pinch the centre of the Bow, bringing
wrong side (WS) of the fabric. top and bottom edges in to meet the middle.
FABRIC USED Step two Take one the of the Bow pieces and Handstitch in place. Handstitch the bow to the
■ Liberty London Strawberry Thief measure the centre point on each short end. neck strap between the adjuster and clasp. 05
Augusta Linen Cotton Fabric Navy Fold the fabric lengthways to meet this middle Step five Take the Bow Centre and wrap around
from minerva.com point and press. 01 the middle of the Bow and Collar. Hand stitch in
Step three Fold the short ends in to meet in the place at the back of the bow. 06
middle. Stitch down either side of the middle
seam as close as possible to the raw edges. 02 MAKING THE POCKET SQUARE
Step four Repeat with the other Bow piece then Step one Cut a square of matching fabric
with seams facing each other, sandwich the two measuring 35x35cm.
Bows together and stitch down the centre. 03 Step two Press each edge in to the WS by 5mm
and then again by 5mm. Stitch all the way
MAKING THE BOW CENTRE AND COLLAR around the edge.
Step one Fold the Bow Centre piece in half so
the long edges meet. Stitch along one end and Debbie (she/her) has always
one side. Trim the seams and turn through to been an avid maker and
the right side (RS). Press. Repeat with the Collar hasn't met a craft she doesn't
piece to create the bow tie strap. Use a loop like! She lives in Bristol and
turner or a blunt item such as a knitting needle makes bike bags. See more
or chopstick to help push the fabric RS out. of hehr makes @hila.studio

40 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 Sew your exclusive
shoulder bag pattern
from Amber Makes

Brighten up your outfit with the Amber

Bag made in a funky print. We love how
you can add colour and joy to any casual
outfit with this easy-to-make shoulder bag.
This fully-lined bag, designed by Amber
Makes, is the perfect size for all your
essentials for a day out and comes with
a handy zip pocket to keep your valuables
* GIFTS MAY VARY ACCORDING TERRITORY.

safe. This pattern also shows you how to

sew an adjustable strap, so you make it to
the perfect length for you. See more Amber
Makes sewing patterns and kits at
ambermakesco.com

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 41
Sew this gorgeous full circle, multiwear dress
to see you through the party season. Fashion
designer Portia Lawrie shows you how.
Self-draft
01 02 03

07 08 09

YOU WILL NEED NOTES this is specific to this measurement, and yours
■ 3m Light to medium weight jersey ■ The hem and the sides of the front panels are may vary depending on your waist size. 01
fabric (150cm wide) with 2-way left raw so recommend taking care during the Step two Now, on the corner of a large piece of
stretch and 30-40% stretch cutting process to avoid scissor jags. A rotary paper, draw a quarter circle. The straight edges
■ Tape measure cutter can be beneficial here if you have one. of this quarter circle should be the same length
■ Paper ■ The length of your circle skirt will be limited as your WR or slightly under, if that makes the
■ Compass (optional) by the fabric width remaining after the waist process easier for you. Since your fabric is
■ Matching thread hole has been cut, since both the waist radius stretchy and quite forgiving, it doesn’t have to
■ Basic sewing kit and desired skirt length must fit within the be exactly your WR measurement or a perfectly
fabric's folded width. This method will precise quarter circle − just ensure it’s in the
therefore yield a maximum skirt length general area. 02
somewhere between midi and knee length, Step three Once you are satisfied with your
depending on your waist size and the width quarter circle, carefully cut it out. This cut out
of your fabric. now represents one quarter of the hole we need
■ Because it’s a circle skirt, it’s a good idea to to cut in the fabric for the waist opening, and
let the dress hang overnight, as the hem may we’ll use it as a sort of “negative space”
drop to a certain degree (dependent on the template for marking. Make sure to keep the
stretch and composition of your fabric). If the paper template in a safe spot, in case you want
hem becomes uneven after this, it can be to reuse it. 03
trimmed/evened out in line with the floor. It’s
for this reason that a 4-way stretch fabric is CUTTING OUT
not recommended Step one Now, cut a 150cm length of your
■ *Waist Radius (WR) = Waist divided by 6.28 fabric. Lay it flat, then fold it selvedge to
■ **Strap width (SW) = (Bust x 0.6) divided by 2 selvedge, and fold again from top to bottom,
effectively folding the fabric into quarters. This
CREATING THE PAPER PATTERN method ensures symmetry when cutting. Pin
Step one Measure your waist and divide the your paper template into the folded corner of
number by 6.28. This calculation will give you a the fabric, as pictured. 04
“waist radius” measurement, often abbreviated Step two From the curved edge of your
as WR*. For example, our model has a 26” waist, template, extend a ruler or tape measure and
which results in a WR of 4.14”. Keep in mind that begin marking the desired skirt length from

44 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 04 05 06

10 11 12

that curved edge. Be sure to keep your ruler at centre front for a little extra “coverage.” 10
the same distance from the curved edge of your Step two Next, you’ll need to create the
template to maintain a smooth, even hemline. waistband: For this, cut a band of fabric 18cm
Work your way around the arc, marking the skirt wide and just slightly smaller than your waist, to
length at multiple points, starting from one account for stretch. You may need to try it on to
selvedge edge and finishing at the other folds. establish the perfect width, so cut it the same
It’s important to take your time here so that length as your waist measurement to begin
your final skirt has an even hem. 05 with then check for fit and trim as required. It
Step three Next, cut along the curved edge of needs to fit your waist but also be able to
your template through all layers of the fabric to stretch over your hips. Once you are happy, sew
create the waist opening. 06 the short ends RS together to form a loop, then
Step four Then, cut along the hemline through fold it over wrong sides (WS) together so that
all layers, carefully following the marks you the raw edges are aligned. 11
made to ensure the skirt length is uniform and Step three Now, pin the waistband to the waist
symmetrical. 07 of your skirt, RS together and raw edges
Step five From the full width of your fabric, cut aligned, sandwiching the basted tie panels
two panels that are SW** wide, which will be between the waistband and the skirt itself. Sew
used as part of the waistband and possibly for them all together carefully. 12
the straps. 08 Step four Once complete, press the waistband
Step six Next, notch your waistline (cut little away from the skirt to achieve a clean finish,
snips or triangles within the seam allowance), and you’re done. Now you get to enjoy styling
marking the centre front and centre back your dress in all the ways possible! Check out
points. This will help to ensure an even the next page to see how many different ways
distribution between the waist and waistband you can wear this versatile self-draft dress.
later on. 09
Portia (she/her) is a writer,
STITCHING THE DRESS designer, mum and advocate
Step one With the panels laying downwards for recycling and reusing
towards the hem of the skirt, proceed by textiles. She works from a log
basting the panels right sides (RS) together to cabin in her garden. See
the front waist, slightly overlapping them at the more @portialawrie.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 45
Self-draft
Wear the dress
as a plunge Go asymetrical
neck with with the one-sided
twisted belt. twisted strap.

Do the twist -
have a central
back strap.

Style the straps

to cross over at
STYLE YOUR DRESS the back.

8 ways to wear
Twist it, tie it, drape it, there are
lots of ways to style it, but here’s
some ideas to get you started!

Make a high
halter neck
at the front.

You can even create

a sweetheart neckline
or capped sleeve.

Change the look of

the dress by styling
it with a wide belt.

46 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 SA
O N N OW
CROCHET INSPIRATION

LE
FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON
Start your Christmas crafting with fantastic decorations,
gifts, accessories, clothes and more!

JUST
£9.99!*
WHAT’S INSIDE
★ GORGEOUS CROCHET
PROJECTS FOR ALL LEVELS
★ EASY-TO-FOLLOW PATTERNS
AND STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOS
★ TRY NEW TECHNIQUES:

GRE AT
GIF T
IDE A!
ORDER ONLINE www.ourmediashop.com/crochetxmas24
OR CALL 03330 162 138+ and quote ‘Your Crochet Christmas 2024 Print 1’
+UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff).
Lines open weekdays 9am to 5pm. Overseas please call +44 (0)1604 973 746. Price. EUR price £11.99, ROW price £12.99. All prices include P&P.
Please allow up to 28 days for delivery. Offer subject to availability.
blanket revival
Upcycle old wool blankets and create this
gorgeous warm patchwork quilt.
Xanthe Grundy shows you how.
patchwork quilt
01 02 03

07 08 09

YOU WILL NEED PREPARE THE FABRIC CREATING THE PATCHWORK

■ Six old wool blankets Step one Starch the blankets using the spray, Step one Attach the walking foot to the sewing
■ Old brushed cotton sheet then press until flat. Be careful not to leave the machine. Sew the pieces indicated by arrows in
■ 75x100cm wadding iron in one place as this may scorch the wool. the diagram, placing the fabrics right sides (RS)
■ Spray starch Step two Using the cutting mat, rotary cutter together. Sew along the indicated edge. 02
■ Rotary cutter and ruler, and taking care to avoid holes or Step two Press the seams open, then top stitch
■ Cutting mat blemishes in the blankets, from Blanket One, cut the seam allowance 0.5cm from the seam, using
■ Long quilting ruler the following: a longer stitch length for a neat finish. 03
■ Walking foot for sewing machine three 15x15cm pieces Step three Sew the pieces indicated by arrows
■ Tapestry needle one 15x27.5cm piece in the diagram shown, as per Step one. Press
■ Basting spray Step three From Blanket Two, cut: open and topstitch the seam allowances as per
■ Perle cotton thread one 15x15cm piece Step 4, then sew the final sections together to
■ Erasable fabric marker one 15x27.5cm piece complete the quilt top. 04
■ Basic sewing kit two 15x52.5cm pieces
Step four From Blanket Three, cut: ADDING THE BACKING
NOTES one 15x15cm piece Step one Cut the sheet to 75x100cm for the
■ Use a 1.25cm seam allowance one 27.5x27.5cm piece backing fabric. Lay the wadding out, spray
throughout, unless otherwise one 15x40cm piece lightly with basting spray, then lay the backing
advised. Step five From Blanket Four, cut: fabric on top, with the RS up. Add the quilt top
two 15x15cm pieces RS down, then smooth out the fabrics and align
one 15x27.5cm piece the edges. 05
one 27.5x27.5cm piece Step two Using a small cup and the erasable
Step six From Blanket Five, cut: pen, mark curves at each corner. Trim the fabric
one 15x15cm piece to the curve, then pin around all four sides of
one 15x52.5cm piece the quilt to secure the layers in place. 06
one 27.5x27.5cm piece Step three Sew around all four sides of the quilt,
Step seven From Blanket Six, cut: leaving a 30cm gap in one side for turning, and
one 15x15cm piece backstitching at the beginning and end. Cut
two 15x27.5cm pieces. notches into the seam allowance at the corners,
Step eight Lay out your pieces as per the taking care not to cut through the stitching. 07
diagram above. 01 Step four Turn quilt through to the RS, then

50 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 patchwork quilt
04 05 06

10 11 12

press the raw edges at the gap to the wrong

side (WS). Pin the gap closed. 08
Step five Top stitch around the edge of the quilt
top, approximately 0.5cm in from the edge,
sewing the gap closed as you go. If necessary,
increase the stitch length to sew through all
three layers. 09

FINISHING THE QUILT

Step one Lay quilt RS up, as per the diagram.
Mark a 1.25cm cross using erasable pen every
other 12.5cm, using the image as a guide. 10
Step two Thread a 20cm length of perle thread
through the needle. Insert the needle down
through the quilt at one corner of a marked
cross and back up at the opposite corner,
leaving a 5cm tail. Repeat, then double knot the
tails together. 11
Step three Repeat Step two, this time starting at
the opposite corner to complete the cross.
Double knot all the tails together.
Step four Continue repeating for all the marked
crosses on the quilt, then trim the tails to 2.5cm
to finish. 12

Australia-based Xanthe
(@wifemade) designs
contemporary quilt and
sewing patterns inspired by
mid-century modern design
and handcrafts nostalgia.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 51
 GET A
Sirdar Dolls
calendar bundle
WHEN YOU SUBSCRIBE TO Make these gorg
eous
festival dolls!
Dear reader,
We’re so excited
about our new
2025 Calendar -
Festival Dolls from
Around the World!
Featuring 12
adorable doll patterns, each one tells
the story of their celebration. To
celebrate, we’re offering you an
extra-special LIMITED TIME offer!
Subscribe to Simply Crochet today
and you’ll receive the calendar along
with a 44-ball Sirdar Happy Cotton
WorTH

£ 5 5!
yarn pack, worth £55!* With this
yarn, you’ll be able to make the
6 dolls shown, plus their adorable
accessories too. You’ll also save on
the magazine shop price – paying
only £39.95 every 6 issues (usually
£54.40).
Every issue’s bursting with more
than 20 beautiful crochet patterns for
gifts, garments, accessories and
more, not to mention a FREE gift too.
Don’t miss out – subscribe today!

Editor, Simply Crochet

2 EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

VISIT www.ourmediashop.com/festivaldolls
PHONE 03330 162 146 (quote code SCFDCHA)
†

†UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your
phone tariff ). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm for orders and
enquiries. *Offer ends 31st January 2025. This is an introductory offer for new UK print subscribers paying by Direct Debit only. Your yarn pack will be despatched within 28
days of payment clearing and is subject to availability whilst stocks last. Our Media Company reserves the right to send an alternative product of the same or similar value.
Prices correct at point of print and subject to change. Your subscription will start with the next available issue.
snow scene
Create your own miniature winter
wonderland scene with Louisa
Burtonshaw's appliqué stocking.
felt stocking
01 02 03

07 08 09

YOU WILL NEED PREPARE THE FABRIC – STOCKING CONSTRUCT THE APPLIQUÉ SCENE
■ 1 x piece of bondaweb 30x100cm Step one Fold the large piece of blue/green felt Step one Take the Stocking Base piece where
■ 1 x piece of felt 50x70cm: pale in half and lay the stocking pattern piece on the toe points to the left and lay it on a flat
blue/green top. Pin and cut through both layers to create surface. Lay the large snow pieces and the pink
■ 1 x piece of felt 50x30cm: white two Stocking Base pieces. 01 path on top of the blue base piece. Refer to the
■ 1 x A4 sheet of felt in the following Step two From the red felt, cut: final photo of the stocking as you do this, NOT
colours: bright red, pale blue, mid Binding Strips: 2 rectangles 22cm x 4cm the pattern drawing as this drawing is
blue, dark green, mid green and Hanging Loop: 1 rectangle 14cm x 4cm a reflected image of the final stocking.
pale pink Step two Iron the pieces into place, pressing
■ Scraps of felt in the following PREPARE THE PIECES firmly to make sure they are stuck down. 05
colours: bright pink and black Step one From the template, trace all of the Step three Next place the blue mountain pieces
■ Matching thread elements of the snow scene onto the bondaweb into place and iron them down. Place the snowy
■ Basic sewing kit in pencil. When tracing the elements like the mountain tops in place over the top and iron
house and car, each piece that is a different them down. 06
NOTES colour will need to be traced separately. For Step four Continue placing all of the pieces in to
■ All seam allowances are 1cm, example, for the car you will need to trace the place, working from the bottom layer to the top
unless otherwise stated main body, the windows, the tyres and the and placing and ironing one at a time. Don’t be
■ Download the template from hubcaps all individually. Don’t forget to trace tempted to iron a lot of pieces at once as this is
gathered.how/ss-templates the large pieces of snow that make the base of where movement may occur. 07
the scene. 02
MATERIALS USED Step two Cut around each piece roughly leaving EMBROIDER THE DESIGN
■ 100% pure wool felt from a border around the pencilled shape. Step one Set up the sewing machine for free
cloudcraft.co.uk Step three Place the shapes onto the correct motion embroidery. Matching the thread to the
colour of felt and iron in place glue side down. colour of felt, stitch around each shape 2mm in
Make sure they are stuck firmly. 03 from the edge. 08
Step four Cut neatly around the pencilled Step two Add the embellishments to the house
shapes, you should now have all of the shapes and car. On the house, stitch the wreaths
that make up the snow scene. Remove the around the door and gable and the smoke from
backing paper from each piece carefully, the chimney. On the car, stitch the exhaust pipe,
making sure the glue stays on the fabric. 04 smoke and rope holding the tree to the roof. 09

54 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 felt stocking
04 05 06

10 11 12

ADD THE BINDING

Step one Fold the red Binding Strips in half
lengthways and iron. Place these over the top
edges of front and back stocking pieces and
stitch in place 2mm from the edge, making sure
the bottom half is caught with the stitches. 10

CONSTRUCT THE STOCKING

Step one With right sides (RS) together, pin and
sew the front and back stocking pieces together
using a 1cm seam allowance and leaving the top
edge open. 11
Step two Trim any bulk from the seams and clip
the curves to the seam line, being sure not to
cut through the stitches. Turn RS out and push
out the curved seams as much as you can. Iron
the whole stocking, paying particular attention
to the seams to flatten.
Step three Fold the red Hanging Loop in half
lengthways and stitch together 2mm in from
the edge. Fold in half to make a loop and attach
to the top right-hand seam with a double row of
stitching to secure. 12

Louisa (she/her) is the owner

and maker behind Stitch
Happy, a textile craft site
dedicated to eco-friendly
craft kits and supplies. See
more @stitchhappystudio

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 55
 2.90
Give a gi�t they’ll really appreciate month a�ter M
FRO T
JUS
£2
month with a subscription to one of our magazines.
CRAFT LIFESTYLE

13 ISSUES FOR £44.99 13 ISSUES FOR £36.99 13 ISSUES FOR £32.40

SAVE 49% SAVE 50% SAVE 50% SAVE 52% SAVE 50% SAVE 51% SAVE 55%

HOMES & GARDENS SCIENCE & NATURE

13 ISSUES FOR £34.99 13 ISSUES FOR £34.99 13 ISSUES FOR £22.90 13 ISSUES FOR £22.90 14 ISSUES FOR £39.99 12 ISSUES FOR £38.50 13 ISSUES FOR £32.40
SAVE 55% SAVE 55% SAVE 41% SAVE 41% SAVE 52% SAVE 51% SAVE 55%

CRAFT SPORT

13 ISSUES FOR £42.99 13 ISSUES FOR £39.99 13 ISSUES FOR £39.99

SAVE 50% SAVE 50% SAVE 50% SAVE 50% SAVE 56% SAVE 56%

GREAT REASONS TO SUBSCRIBE

Gift subscriptions from just £22.90! • Free delivery direct to your door • Fantastic Christmas savings
YOUR TWO EASY WAYS TO ORDER
Visit ourmediashop.com/x24ha
Call 03300538660 quote code x24ha
This offer closes on the 31st December 2024 and is valid for UK delivery addresses only. The discounts shown are savings calculated as a percentage of the full shop price. For overseas rates visit www.ourmediashop.com. All Christmas gift subscriptions will
start with the first issue available in January 2025. Should the magazine change in frequency, we will honour the number of issues and not the term of the subscription. †UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and
are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm.
ice ice baby
Sew Lucy Ward's cute snowman toy,
complete with hat and scarf set,
for a loved one this Christmas.
 01 02

05 06

YOU WILL NEED ■ Finished size: Approximately 31cm CUTTING OUT

■ White plush fur fabric: 68x55cm tall Step one From the white plush, cut:
■ Grey star print flannel fabric: ■ The templates include 6mm seam Body: four
55x29cm allowances, unless otherwise Base: one
■ Light turquoise plush fabric: indicated. Arm: two pairs
21x31cm ■ Arrows on the templates indicate Head: five
■ Orange cotton fabric: 9x8cm direction of plush pile or pattern Step two From the orange plush, cut:
■ Lightweight quilt wadding: direction. Carrot Nose: one
10x9cm ■ Fasten off at the beginning and Step three From the grey fabric, cut:
■ 1 pair of 9mm black safety toy end of stitching, unless otherwise Scarf: one rectangle measuring 55cm x 12cm
eyes indicated. Hat Outer: one pair
■ 2 black buttons ■ Remove tacking stitches after Step four From the turquoise plush, cut:
■ Small ball of light turquoise wool sewing. Hat Inner: one pair
■ Polyester toy filling: 200g ■ Use the blunt end of a large
■ Extra-long pins needle to tease out trapped fur MAKING THE BODY
■ Basic sewing kit from the seams. Step one Pin a pair of Arm pieces, right sides
(RS) together, leaving a gap in the outer side for
FABRICS USED turning. Tack and add clips to add extra stability
■ Luxe Cuddle Seal in Snow and to the fabric layers, to avoid the fabric puckering
Cuddle Plush Solids in Aruba, both underneath as you work. 01
by Shannon Fabrics. Step two Sew slowly. Trim the seam and clip the
■ Hang in There Starry Flannel corners at the top. Clip a notch between the
Moon, by Dear Stella. thumb and hand to ease the seam in the tight
■ Kona Cotton in Tangerine, by corner. Turn the arm RS out. Leave unstuffed.
Robert Kaufman. Repeat the steps to sew the second arm and set
both arms aside.
NOTES Step three Take the four Body pieces and fold
■ Find the templates on page 75 or each one over to the RS along the dart mark
download and print from straight lines. Pin and sew the darts, tapering
gathered.how/ss-templates. them towards the top. 02
■ Fabric measurements are W x H. Step four Pin and sew a pair of Body pieces, RS

58 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 03 04

07 08

facing, between points A and B. Repeat to the top, turn over the raw edge and add a and secure them with the washer, according to
attach the second pair of Body pieces RS running stitch along the very top, close to the the manufacturer’s instructions. 07
together in the same way. folded edge. Gather slightly, then fasten off. 05 Step four Complete the head ball shape by
Step five Lay one body side facing up towards Step nine Add a little more stuffing to top up if sewing the final seam, to join all the pieces. This
you and place the arms in position where required. Stuff the arms, firmly into the hand time leave a 40mm gap in the middle of the
marked on the template, facing in. Check the and thumb, using a small stuffing stick, and seam for turning the head RS out. Trim all the
orientation of the arms, so they will be facing adding less stuffing as you move upwards, with seams to reduce bulk, then turn the head RS
the correct way when the body is turned RS out. no stuffing at the very top, so the arms lie well out. Stuff firmly, rounding out the shape. Once
The top end of the arm should overlap the raw against the body and remain a little floppy. happy with it, ladder stitch the opening closed.
fabric edge of the Body piece to avoid catching Ladder stitch the openings of the arms closed. Step five Lay the Carrot Nose piece RS up on the
the top seam of the arm in the body seam. Tack slightly larger piece of quilt wadding. Sew the
the arms in place. 03 MAKING THE HEAD six quilting lines, using a darker coloured
Step six Lay the opposite body side over the top Step one With RS together, pin and sew one thread, as shown on the template. Make sure
and tack the two pieces RS together. Sew down Head piece to a second Head piece along the not to sew too close to the top edge, as this will
the sides, leaving the top and bottom ends long edges. Start and stop the seam 6mm away be turned under later. Do not fasten the stitches
open. Leave the body turned WS out. from the ends. Continue to sew a second pair of on and off before and after sewing, instead
Step seven Pin the Base piece with its RS facing Head pieces in the same way. 06 leave the threads loose. 08
the bottom edge of the body. Match and pin Step two Sew these two pairs RS together along Step six Trim the wadding to size, snipping the
the front mark on the Base piece with the front the long edge, sewing up to the seams threads at the same time. Carefully fold the
seam of the body first. Match and pin the three previously sewn, so you now have four Head Carrot Nose over in half to the RS, along the
other marks next. Add more pins and ease the pieces joined. length. Pin and sew the long open edge, leaving
fabric until the Base edges lie smoothly with the Step three Use a tailor’s awl or small sharp the top end open. Trim the seam, then turn the
Body pieces. Tack, then sew slowly from the top pointed scissors to make a hole in the fabric nose RS out.
side, making sure not to catch the fabric of the where you marked the position of the eyes on Step seven Stuff the nose, leaving about 8mm
body sides in the seams and checking the fabric two of the joined Head pieces. Note that when unstuffed at the open end. Turn the raw edge
does not pucker underneath. Clip notches in the you mark the position, you should mirror it under by 6mm and using a matching thread,
seam to ease it. 04 when transferring from the template – double sew a running stitch just inside the edge of the
Step eight Turn the body RS out through the check each eye measures the same distance fold. Pull the thread to gather in the edges
opening at the top. Stuff the body, using fingers away from the outside edge of each Head piece, slightly. You can add a few more stitches to hold
and a stuffing stick, pushing firmly into the slightly nearer to the outside than the inside it all together. 09
seams of the base. Leaving 10mm unstuffed at edge. Push each eye in from the RS of the fabric, Step eight Pin the carrot nose to the snowman's

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 59
 09 10

11 12

face, centrally over the front seam, between and out. Sew the seam. Stitch it in place on the top of the hat, ensuring
just a little lower than the eyes. Use the images Step four Turn the scarf RS out through the to sew right through the very centre of the pom
to help you guide the position. Ladder stitch the opening. Press with an iron to remove creases, pom to keep it securely attached.
nose to the face around the very edge of the folding the raw edges of the opening under to Step five Position and sew the two buttons to
nose, using a matching thread. Sew around the WS. Ladder stitch the opening closed with the front of the snowman’s chest, positioning
twice to secure it well. a matching thread. Trim the ends of the yarn so the top button approximately 5cm away from
Step nine Position the head centrally on top of they are all the same length. the join of the neck.
the body and secure it with extra-long pins. Step six Pull the hat onto the snowman’s head
Check the position from all angles to make sure MAKING THE ACCESSORIES and wrap the scarf around his neck.
you are happy with how it sits. Use doubled or Step one Pin and sew an Outer and Inner Hat
extra strong thread to ladder stitch it to the piece, RS together along their straight edges,
body. Sew around an extra time or two to between C and D. Repeat to sew the opposite
ensure the head is securely attached. pair of Outer and Inner Hat pieces. Lay these
two new pieces RS together, matching up the
MAKING THE SCARF seams just sewn. Sew up both side edges, from
Step one Cut approximately 60 lengths of the point C to E and point D to E. Leave the darts
wool yarn, each one 9cm long, and divide into unsewn and a gap in the inner lining side for
two equal clumps. turning the hat RS out. 11
Step two Fold the Scarf piece in half Step two With their RS facing, pinch the darts
lengthways, with RS facing. Pull back the top together on both the inner and outer Hat sides.
side of one short end and arrange half the yarn Sew each dart up to the top seam, tapering
pieces, laying them neatly on the RS of the towards the bottom. Trim the seam. 12
fabric, facing in. They can be tacked in place if Step three Turn the hat RS out through the
you wish, to keep them lying neatly. Carefully opening in the lining side. Ladder stitch the
lay the top side of the Scarf piece back over the opening closed. Push the inner lining up into
wool pieces. Pin the fabric layers. Repeat to add the outer hat. Pull down slightly to leave part of
the remaining half of the yarn threads at the the inner side showing at the bottom edge. You Lucy Ward (she/her) is
other short end of the scarf. 10 can add a couple of stitches on each side to help a designer-maker based in
Step three Pin the rest of the scarf along its keep the lining in place and on show. Shropshire, UK. Follow her on
open long edge, leaving about a 50mm gap in Step four Make a fairly loose pom pom, using @thewhistlingcowgirl and at
the middle of the seam for turning the scarf RS your wool, measuring about 5cm diameter. thewhistlingcowgirl.etsy.com

60 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 No33
SCRAP BAUBLES

Use your tiniest fabric

scraps to make festive
baubles for your tree!
CUT OUT & KEEP
stitch
01 02 03

04 05 06

YOU WILL NEED PREPARE THE FABRIC

■ Fabric scraps Step one Cut your fabric scraps into 1.5 cm
■ Paper-backed fusible web (9cm squares. You will need 36 squares in total, but it
square) helps to have a few extra so you can arrange them
■ Wool-blend felt (2x10cm square) as you like. 01
■ Glitter/metallic felt or other wool Step two Iron the fusible web to one of the felt
felt (3.5x5cm) squares. Peel off the paper backing. 02
■ Stranded cotton Step three Arrange the squares of scrap fabric on
■ Wadding the fusible web adhered to the felt in your chosen
■ String or perle cotton design. Keep the pieces as close together as
■ Rotary cutter, ruler, and cutting mat possible. Carefully cover the fabric squares with
■ Basic sewing kit the paper backing or a press cloth and iron it to
fuse the fabric to the felt. 03
NOTES
■ Download the template from CREATE THE ORNAMENTS
gathered.how/ss-templates Step one Trace the circle template onto the back
of the felt and cut out the circle. Cut a second
circle from the plain felt. Use the template to cut
the ornament topper from the glitter felt. 04
Step two Layer the fused and plain felt circles and
stitch around the edge using a running stitch in
stranded cotton. Leave a small opening and add
some stuffing. Stitch the opening closed using
a running stitch. 05
Step three Fold the ornament topper over the top Mollie Johanson (she/her)
edge of the stuffed ornament. Stitch across the lives near Chicago and is
bottom edge of the folded top piece using happiest with a cup of coffee
running stitch. Cut a 20cm piece of string and and some stitching. She
thread it through the folded ornament top. specialises in contemporary
Step four Tie the ends together to form the hanger embroidery. Find her on
for your ornament. 06 Instagram @molliejohanson

62 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 THE BEST V LUE
AT S E A
We offer an authentic, no-fly cruise experience with
the warmest welcome at sea. Plus, with our onboard
currency in GBP£, avoid exchange rates and enjoy
quality sailing at an affordable price.

THE W R M E S T W E L C O M E AT S E A

B O O K Y O U R S A I L I N G T O D AY

Discover our
ambassadorcruiseline.com Best Value for
Money (Ocean)
Best UK Mid-Size
Cruises Overall
flagship,
Ambience Call 0808 258 0682

4.7/5
USE CODE SEW5 FOR AN
Service Rating 1,846 Reviews ADDITIONAL 5% BONUS DISCOUNT
The promotional code SEW5 cannot be combined with other charity/member/association/media or affliate promotion codes or onboard future cruise offers. It may only be combined with an Ambassador Campaign
Promotional code advertised on the Ambassador website. The promotional code is not valid on Ambassador’s Festive Events, selected charters and cannot be used over Ambassador’s Black Friday promotional period. The
promotional code can only be used for new bookings only made directly on Ambassador’s website or through our call centre, it cannot be used for bookings made through travel agents or other third parties. Promotional
code is valid on all new bookings from 24 July 2024 to 31 March 2025, closing at 23.59 for all 2024/2025/2026 sailings. The promotional code may be discontinued at any time at Ambassador’s discretion. Fares subject
to availability and may be withdrawn or changed without notice. For full terms and conditions of booking visit www.ambassadorcruiseline.com. Extras not included: Travel insurance, travel costs to/ from the port of
embarkation, port parking, onboard gratuities and service charges where a package has not been purchased (automatically billed to the onboard account), optional shore excursions, discretionary expenditure of a personal
nature including hot and cold alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks, gifts, shopping, laundry, Wi-Fi and communication, and any visa & health certificate charges that may apply. Ambassador Cruise Line reserves the right to
cancel, change or amend any theme cruise activities/speakers/acts at short notice. In the event of your cruise being cancelled, you will be guaranteed a full refund. Cruise holidays booked with Ambassador Cruise Holidays
Limited, trading as Ambassador Cruise Line, are financially protected in accordance with the Package Travel and Linked Arrangements Regulations 2018. Copyright 2024. Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited is a company
registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 13299365.
 pick up a penguin
Come in from the cold this winter with these
gorgeous penguin pyjama trousers and hot
water bottle cover by Jessica Entwistle.
Model: HARVEY JONES
Self-draft
01 02

03 04

PYJAMA CREATING THE PATTERN

Step one Lay the paper flat with the pyjamas
the raw edges. Repeat for the Back pieces. 02
Step two Pin and sew the Front to the Back RS

TROUSERS
YOU WILL NEED
folded so that one side of the front of the
pyjamas is showing. Smooth out the sides to
mark the true outline. As the top is elasticated
together along the side seams. Finish seams.
Step three Pin and sew the inside legs RS
together, finish seam and press to the Back. 03
■ Fabric A: 1m* the pattern piece from both sides will go
■ Elastic: 25mm width x 1m* straight up and not curve inwards. Draw the CREATING THE WAISTBAND
■ Paper to create the pattern outline and add a 1cm seam allowance to the Step one Fold over the top edge of pyjamas to
■ Pyjama trousers that fit your child sides. Add 3cm to the bottom for the hem. Note the wrong side (WS) by 1cm and press in place.
■ Matching sewing thread where the waistband is sewn – ours is 3.5cm Step two Fold over this pressed edge by 8cm to
■ Erasable fabric marker deep. Add 4.5cm to the top of the pyjamas for the WS and press.
■ Basic sewing kit the elastic channel and seam allowance. Mark Step three Sew the elastic channel, leave a 6cm
the pattern piece “Front.” gap for the elastic. Sew close to the folded
FABRIC USED Step two Repeat for the Back of the pyjamas. 01 edge. Then topstitch close to the top edge.
■ All seam and hem allowances are Step three Cut out the paper patterns and use Step four Work out the length of the elastic by
included them to create a mirrored pair for both the measuring your child and subtracting approx
Front and Back pieces from the fabric. 20%, then add 4cm.
NOTES Step four Mark the top and bottom hems. For Step five Using a safety pin, thread the elastic
■ Use a 1cm seam allowance. the leg hems mark 1cm up from the bottom of through the channel all the way around and out
■ *Fabric and elastic needed is the pyjamas, then 2cm up from that. For the the other side, making sure not to twist it. 04
dependent on the size of the waistband, mark 1cm down from the pyjamas, Step six Stitch the elastic together with a zig zag
pyjama. Our pyjama’s fit an 8-year then 3.5cm down from that 1cm mark (this is stitch. Pin and then sew the opening closed,
old child. where the top edge of the waistband will be) pulling the fabric straight as you go.
■ Pay attention to fabric placement then 3.5cm down from there (so 8cm from the
if your fabric is directional. top edge of the fabric – this is where the HEMMING THE PYJAMA TROUSERS
■ Line up the bottom short straight folded-over waistband will line up). Step one Fold over the edge of one leg by 1cm
edge of your pyjama paper to the WS and press. Fold over again by 2cm to
pattern along the cross grain SEWING THE FRONT AND BACK the marked line. Press then pin in place.
when cutting out your fabric. Step one Take the two Front pieces and pin Step two Topstitch along the folded edge. Press.
them right sides (RS) together along the curved Step three Repeat for the second pyjama leg to
crotch seam and sew from top to bottom. Finish finish your garment.

66 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 01 02

03 04

HOT WATER CUTTING OUT

Step one From main fabric, cut:
lengthways, press. Open out then fold the two
long raw edges inwards to the WS and press.

BOTTLE COVER
YOU WILL NEED
Bottle Outer/Lining: four 30x45cm
Step two From contrast fabric, cut:
Binding Strip: two 25x4.5cm
Finally fold in half again. Close with a topstitch.
Step three Sew the second Binding Strip to the
horizontal edge of the Front Upper piece. Fold
■ Main fabric: 1m Loop Strip: one 9x4cm the strip over, tuck the raw edge to the back.
■ Contrast fabric: 30x5cm Step three From Thermolam cut: Pin/clip in place.
■ Vlieseline Thermolam: 60x45cm Bottle Wadding: two 30x45cm Step four Pin the folded Loop Strip to the back
■ Button: 25mm of the Front Upper on top of the folded binding.
■ Matching sewing thread MAKING THE OUTERS Step five Topstitch the Binding twice to secure
■ Erasable fabric marker Step one Place one Bottle Lining right sides (RS) the Loop. 02
■ Basic sewing kit down, place one Bottle Wadding piece on top, Step six You should now have a Front Upper,
then a Bottle Outer RS up on top, all sides Front Lower and Bottle Back pieces. 03
FABRIC USED aligned. Baste/pin together. Quilt as desired –
■ Rose & Hubble CP0378 cotton we quilted vertical lines 3cm apart. ASSEMBLNG THE COVER
poplin penguin fabric, supplied Step two Repeat steps with your second Bottle Step one Place the Bottle Back WS down, the
by minerva.com Lining, Bottle Outer and Thermolam pieces. Front Upper on top RS facing, then the Front
■ Plain grey solid cotton poplin Step three Place your whole bottle template Lower RS facing on top. Clip together. 04
■ Vlieseline products supplied by centrally on top of one of the quilted sections Step two Sew together, trim excess fabric and
vlieseline.com and draw around it, then cut out. This is your sew a zigzag stitch all around the outside edge.
Bottle Back. 01 Turn RS out, push out corners and seams.
NOTES Step four Repeat steps to cut out the Front Step three Hand sew the button on to finish.
■ Use a 1cm seam allowance. Upper and Front Lower pieces.
■ Templates include seam
allowance. ADDING THE BINDING AND THE LOOP
■ Download the template from Step one Take a Binding Strip and place it RS Jessica Entwhistle (she/her) is
gathered.how/ss-templates together along the horizontal edge of the Front a freelance designer maker.
■ Pay attention to fabric placement Lower piece. Sew with a 1cm seam allowance. She shares her makes at
if your fabric is directional. Fold the strip over, tuck the raw edge to the @jessjellybgood - a name
■ Use a walking foot to help sew wrong side (WS) by 1cm, press, then topstitch. inspired by her childhood
through thick layers. Step two Fold the Loop Strip in half WS together nickname, Jelly!

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 67
 The

Discover how the fabric colours

you choose can boost your mood
and confidence
Written by Michelle Rowley

Photograph: d3sign Getty Images

 Having your colours analysed simplifies the
process of choosing which fabric you
should buy for your next me-made.
Photograph: Dougal Waters Getty Images

e’ve all been there; remains sat in the stash for months on end.
standing in the fabric “I’ve had clients who sew who have rooms
shop, staring in filled to the brim with amazing fabrics.
wonder at rolls up on They’ve been like magpies when they’ve
rolls of enticing fabrics seen and loved them but now don’t know
and feeling slightly what to do with them,” says personal stylist,
giddy at all the possible options for our Lindsay Edwards.
next make. So many exciting possibilities
can, however, not only be thrilling but TRANSFORMATIVE
also somewhat overwhelming. Who When Lindsay lost her confidence with how
hasn’t felt a little bit fraught when trying to dress, she had her colours analysed and
to reach a decision with limited time and found it to be transformative. She explains:
money to spend but “I had a wardrobe full
a wealth of tempting of clothes but didn’t
fabrics to choose feel good. After
from? “ Discovering my discovering my

LIMITLESS
colours simplified colours, it simplified
getting dressed and
As someone who sews get ting dressed." my eyes and skin
their own clothes, looked better in the
with the ability to clothes I wore.”
create almost anything Having benefitted from
you want, it might seem like the world is your the process, Lindsay trained in colour analysis
oyster. However, such limitless possibilities to help other women feel more confident
can sometimes be a hindrance. It’s no and elevate the way they look. Colour
wonder we sometimes face analysis paralysis analysis considers whether you have cool or
when choosing fabric because we’ve all warm undertones to your skin, as well as
experienced the frustration of getting it whether you have high contrasting features
wrong. Lured by the bright and beautiful, the (a la Courtney Cox with pale skin, dark hair Lindsay identifies the best 15 colours based
drapey or dotty and stripy or shiny, the and blue eyes) or less contrasting. Starting on her client's hair, eye and skin colouring
must-have fabric in the shop can end up as with a wallet containing 135 colour swatches, fom a wallet containing 135 colours.
a garment that just doesn’t work for us or Lindsay identifies the best 15 colours to suit

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 69
A GOOD READ

Lindsay suggests choosing fabrics with your

best colours to be worn by your face and
less flattering colours away from your face.

her clients based on their hair, eye and

skin colouring.

INVEST IN YOURSELF
“Getting your colours analysed is an
investment that in a very short amount of
time pays off hugely,” says Lindsay. Learning “I aim to turn your
which colours suit you best can reduce the wardrobe into a wellbeing
overwhelm without needing to limit your tool,” says Kate. We all know that ‘eating
fabric choice options, whilst also helping to a rainbow’ is good for us. We know how
decide which garments to make in which much better a blue sky makes us feel and
colours. “You want to how the sight of
wear your best colours sunflowers can bring

"Yo can supplement

up by your face and us joy. So why not the
less flattering colours colour in the clothes
away from your face,” your wellbeing we wear? “Colour

through colour."
explains Lindsay. “It therapy and colour
can help sewists know healing has been
how to niche down around since Stoic
their ideas. If you see times, when it was
a fabric you love, but it used as a healing
isn’t your most flattering colour, you might method prior to antibiotics and mediation to
decide to leave it or buy enough for a skirt heal different ailments of the body, often
instead of a maxi dress.” through the use of stained-glass windows or
fabrics." Colour healing is based on the belief
ENERGY HEALING of seven chakras, or energy points, within the
Personal stylist Kate Harrison believes that body. “Each chakra boosts different areas of
colours not only have the power to make us your wellbeing and has a colour connected
look better but also to feel better. Through to it, with the lower the point on the body
Colour healing is based on the belief of her 20 years’ experience in the style industry, linked to lowest colour vibrations,” she adds.
seven chakras or energy points within the Kate has developed her own system of “We can introduce people to colours to
body and has been used since Stoic times. styling people using not only colour analysis help them with certain things. It’s like
but also energy healing through colour. vitamins, you can supplement your well-
Illustration: Ramziya Abdrakhmanova. Getty Images

70 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 A GOOD READ
being through colour. We are being affected
Kate believes how you feel when
by the colours around us whether we know it
wearing a certain colour is going to
have an impact on your life and future. or not, so we may as well harness them in
something that we have to do every single
day − getting dressed.” According to Kate,
brighter colours have a stronger impact on
the chakras but it’s not always the case
that we want colours to be energy giving.
When choosing a colour for your next
sewing project, you first need to decide
what you want to achieve. Take for
example sewing a dress for a first date.
“Whilst red is a great colour for giving
off confidence, what you might
actually want is something calming, so
green would be a better colour,” says
Kate. “What’s important is how it makes
you feel because that’s what’s going to
have a bigger impact on your life and
future.” Both Lindsay and Kate believe
everyone can wear every colour, what
matters is finding the best tone and shade
for you. One of the easiest ways to ABOUT LINDSAY
introduce colour into your wardrobe initially Lindsay Edwards is a personal stylist,
is to choose scarves in your colours. based in Bedfordshire and online,
providing colour analysis, style
consultations, wardrobe edits and

What’s your favourite primary colour? personal shopping. Discover more at

lindsayedwardsstylist.com

RED considered a balancing colour as it has

As the colour with the lowest vibration, red is a mid-range frequency at the centre of the
linked to the root chakra at the base of the spine body. “Most people think red is the colour of
and thus feeling ‘rooted’ and self-confident. love but it isn’t. It’s green − it’s self-love," says
“Red can really boost confidence but if you’re Kate. According to Lindsay, people with light
not confident in yourself, it can feel very colouring suit the lightest tones of green, whilst
overpowering,” Kate explains. If that’s the case, those with deeper colouring suit deeper
you could bring in hints of the colour in a print stronger richer greens. “If you have a warm
fabric. “There is a red for everybody,” says colouring, you’ll look best in autumnal greens
Lindsay. “If you have a warm colouring, orangey (such as moss, olive and khaki) and those with
warm reds (like tomato red) will suit you better. a cooler colouring suit bluer greens (like
Whilst those with a cool colouring, will suit turquoise and aquamarine.) “If you have high
a bluer based red.” contract features choose bright, neon or lime
green whereas people with less contrast suit
ORANGE softer greens.”
Linked to the sacral chakra, located below the
bellybutton, orange is associated with trusting BLUE
your gut and is thought to stimulate creativity As the colour linked to the throat chakra, blue is
and appetite. “It’s considered a friendly colour, connected to communication and speaking
so wear orange to be approachable,” says Kate. your truth. “It’s the colour for opening up
“As it’s the colour linked to the ability to go with communication channels and has a calming
your own mind, rather than seeking validation and trusting energy,” says Kate. It’s perhaps no ABOUT KATE
from others, it’s a good colour for those wanting surprise then that the NHS, banks and insurance Kate Harrison is a colour therapist and
to believe in themselves more.” companies often use this colour. personal stylist with over 20 years’
experience in the fashion and style
YELLOW INDIGO / VIOLET industry. She helps women feel
“Yellow is joy!” says Kate. “It’s the happiest colour “We seem to get more attracted to purples as confident and excited to experiment.
in the spectrum. As it’s linked to the solar plexus, we age and with age comes wisdom,” says Kate. Find out more at thesoulfulstylist.com
it is the biggest energy giver (like the yellow sun) Could this be because indigo is the colour of the
as it vibrates right in the middle of the body.” third eye chakra and violet the colour of the
Wear it for an energy boost! crown chakra? “The third eye reflects a knowing Michelle Rowley (she/her) is a
spiritual awareness of things other than dressmaking tutor and writer with
GREEN ourselves,” says Kate. The crown chakra, at the a love of fashion history. She lives
Associated with the heart chakra, green is top of the head, is linked to intelligence. in the Northwest with her family.
See more @stitchywhitney

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 71
 Craft your
masterpiece at sea
Follow your passion, explore the world by water with the best deals,
discounts and inspiration from Cruise Collective
For those who delight in creativity, an arts and crafts cruise is
the perfect way to combine a memorable holiday with artistic
exploration. From sketching sessions inspired by picturesque
landscapes, to engaging workshops led by onboard professionals.

Join Cruise Collective for free today Scan to find out more

cruise-collective.com
 INCLUDES
£10.99
PAPER
GIFTS
PER ISSUE

ISSUE 127 ISSUE 126 ISSUE 125

Sew The Clara Dress, The Jesse Top, Erik The Gonk, Sew The Priya Dress, The Taylor Sweatshirt, robe and Sew The Ultimate Dungarees, The Bethan Blouse and
and quick-stitch Christmas gifts download. slippers and Janome Homesewn Christmas booklet. The Soleil Bag, plus kitchen makes and shirt dress.

ISSUE 124 ISSUE 123 ISSUE 122

Sew The Sali Dress, Aurora Beach Cover Up, Capsule Sew our cover star The Camille Dress. Plus, our Sew our cover star The Lucia Dress − ultimate ruffle-
Wardrobe Sicily Bag and 6 makes for the holidays. Capsule Wardrobe Swimsuit and many quick makes! hem sundress, Plus, wrap skirt and Sewing Bee book.

TWO WAYS TO ORDER

Visit: www.ourmediashop.com/sewing-back-issues
or call 03330 162 149
*UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff).
Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 9am–5pm.

Never miss an issue again; turn to page 14 and subscribe today!

templates
Here are the full-size
templates for the Snowman
s are
All template nload
ow
available to d.how. Scan
from gatheredo straight to
the code to g s page!
the template

Toy and Fabric Ornaments in

issue 128

SNOWMAN TOY
PAGE 57
ACTUAL SIZE

OPEN

Cut t ARM
wo p
ai rs

Eye
distance
from outer
seam

OPEN

HEAD
Cut five

CARROT NOSE
Cut one

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 75
 TEMPLATES
SNOWMAN TOY
PAGE 57
ACTUAL SIZE

A OPEN A

f bod osite
r)
(Mirr SERT ARM

y pai
side oor on opp
IN

BODY
Cut four

B B

76 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 TEMPLATES
E OPE
NING
ONLIN LININ
Y G

ter) )
T ou er D
HA air ( (inn
p ir
one e pa
t n
Cu ut o
C

C
Cut one
BASE

FRONT

SNOWMAN TOY
PAGE 57
ACTUAL SIZE

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING 77
 TEMPLATES
FABRIC ORNAMENTS
PAGE 61
ACTUAL SIZE

Thank you for making these projects from Simply Sewing.

The copyright for these templates belongs to the designer of the project.
They work hard to create projects for you to enjoy, so please don’t re-sell or distribute their work without permission. Please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through
your website or a third party, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Copyright law protects creative work and unauthorised copying is illegal.
We appreciate your help.

78 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC

TAPE MEASURE

measurements.

techniques on these pages.

THIMBLE
SHEARS Wear to protect
SEAM RIPPER Keep a pair of your fingers when
This sharp blade sharp shears just handstitching. MARKING PENCIL
cuts through and for cutting out Choose a colour
unpicks stitches. your fabric. that shows up on
your fabric.

TAILOR’S CHALKS
Chalk temporarily marks
fabric and can be easily
brushed away.

SMALL SCISSORS
Use for snipping
threads and
cutting notches.
FABRIC CLIPS
Use these instead PINS
of pins when sewing Stainless steel
thicker fabrics. pins with sharp
points are best.

PINKING SHEARS
These cut a
zigzag edge on THREAD
fabric to neaten. This forms the
top side of the
FABRIC WEIGHTS machine stitch.
Use instead of pins BOBBINS
to hold your This forms the
pattern in place. underside of the
machine stitch.
The guide
FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC

HOW TO MEASURE
HEIGHT:
BACK WAIST LENGTH Stand against a wall,
From the top of your barefoot, then measure
spine at the base of from the top of your

YOURSELF ACCURATELY
your neck to your head to the floor
natural waist

HIGH BUST/CHEST:
Across the back,
Always measure yourself before your garment as this can alter the under your arms and
you choose a pattern size to cut measurements slightly. Use a fabric BUST above the bust
out. The sizes do vary greatly from tape measure as it’ll curve around Around the
pattern to pattern, so it’s always your body well for accuracy. You fullest part
best to measure yourself accurately can measure on your own if you of your bust
and then refer to the pattern’s size stand in front of a mirror, but, for
chart to find your size. The chart best results, ask a friend to help so
will usually be printed on the they can check the tape measure is
pattern envelope or on the sitting in the right places. Make
WAIST:
instructions inside. sure the tape measure sits snugly
Your natural
Measure yourself in your around you but is not pulled tight.
waistline, around
underwear and preferably in the Take the measurements shown in
the slimmest part
bra you’ll be wearing underneath the diagram and note them down.
of your waist

HOW TO USE A PATTERN

Preparing your fabric and cutting size you’re cutting and the style of HIPS
out your sewing pattern accurately garment. Many patterns have more Around the fullest and
is just as important as the actual than one option (or view) and each widest part of your
sewing. Wash your fabric before one can have a different layout. thighs and bottom
you begin as fabric can shrink and

PATTERN MARKINGS
run. Once dry, press it well. CUTTING OUT
Lay your fabric flat and smooth it
PREPARING THE PATTERN out. Fold or place the fabric as
Patterns often come with several shown on the cutting layout. Lay
options of different finishes so you the pattern pieces in the order and
may have more pieces than you right side or wrong side up as Pleats: These lines are Arrows: Grainline arrows are used
need. The instruction sheet will tell shown. Check to make sure that matched up to create pleats to show which direction to pin the
you which pieces to use. Roughly the grainlines on the pattern are on the cut out fabric pieces. pattern on the fabric. The grainline
cut out all of the pieces outside the parallel with the selvedges by runs parallel to the fabric edge.
lines then press the pieces using measuring. Pin your pattern pieces
a dry iron on a low heat to remove carefully in place and cut around
the folds and creases. them through the fabric using
a pair of dressmaker’s shears.
CUTTING OUT THE PATTERN
Choose your size using your TRANSFERRING MARKINGS Notches: Shown as
measurements and the size chart. The markings on the pattern triangles or small
Cut along the corresponding lines pieces need to be transferred to lines, these are
Darts: These
on your pattern. When you reach the fabric. They’re really important marked on the
lines are for
any fiddly curves, take care to cut for matching up fabric pieces later edges and are
matching up to
along the correct size lines. and for positioning elements such mainly used for
create darts
as darts and pockets. You can mark matching up
within the
CUTTING LAYOUTS these with chalk, fabric markers, pattern pieces.
fabric pieces.
Choose the correct one for the snips on the fabric, or with small
width of fabric you’re using, the tacking stitches.

80 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
TRACING PATTERNS
We are a fabric shop and sewing school in the heart of the beautiful High Peak
Come and see us in our New Mills shop for all We sell dressmaking fabric
your fabric, sewing, bag-making and haberdashery from, amongst others, Fabric
needs. We organise and run a range of classes – Godmother, Lady McElroy and
group workshops, sewing bees and 1-on-1 sessions Art Gallery
– in our studio.
07792943332 | Shop 1, 2-6 Market Street, New Mills,
Derbyshire SK22 4AE | www.rubiesrags.com Rubies Rags
Here at Simply Sewing HQ we’re working hard to make our magazine
a welcoming and inclusive place for all members of the sewing
community. One aspect of this is to increase our pattern sizing. In order to
do this, we have decided to print our pattern sheets double-sided so that we
can fit as many pieces and size ranges on the sheets and still fit them inside
their paper envelopes.
Tracing pattern is the perfect way to keep your origina intact, should you
wish to make larger/smaller versions in the future, or make any pattern
adjustments. You can use any paper for this, but specialist pattern paper for Discover the
tracing is inexpensive and can be bought in rolls of ten+ meters. If you do 1,000s of free website packed
patterns with crochet,
a lot of dressmaking this is the most economical way to purchase the paper. Step-by-step knitting, sewing,
Many variations exist: dot and cross paper (with markings at regular intervals); tutorials papercraft
Video guides and stitching
plain paper; and Swedish tracing paper – this paper can be sewn through so
projects
you can turn a traced pattern into a toile.

PREPARING THE PATTERN FINISHING

Before you begin, make sure your Step one Label your pattern pieces
pattern is as flat as possible. with the pattern name, piece
A crinkled pattern will be difficult name, cutting information and any
to trace. If need be you can iron grainlines or foldlines to finish. This
your pattern on a low heat. is important as it will help you to
Step one Outline your size using a see if a piece is missing.
highlighter. Mark pattern markings Step two This method will give you
(darts, grainlines, notches). a copy of your pattern to use for
Step two Lay your pattern on a flat your project. Once you have made
work surface. Place the pattern any necessary adjustments to the
paper on top and secure with pattern (bust, shoulder, stomach
pattern weights. Weights are much etc.) you could also trace a copy
better than pins as they won’t onto manilla card. Card patterns
The
Possibilities
mark your paper or get in the way. can be used time and time again
Step three Alternatively you can and can be manoeuvred easily.
place your pattern paper
are
Endless
underneath the pattern and use
a tracing wheel to trace over your
size. If you are doing this make sure
to protect your work surface with
a cutting mat.

TRACING THE PATTERN

Step one Mark the highlighted line
with dots or dashes – straight lines
can be marked with a dot at each
end and connected later on with
a ruler. Marking curves in this way
will also help you to achieve a
more accurate result than tracing
directly from the pattern.
Step two Connect your pencil
markings and then trace over them
with a fine liner. Make sure to include Recycle your magazine and seven days
all pattern markings such as notches, later it could come back as your newspaper

www.recyclenow.com
darts, pivot points, gathering lines,
on your traced version.
 my favourite thing

Dream to Reality
Mallory’s journey to a perfect grad dress began when she
was 10, and her love of sewing has not stopped since
As a child, I sat in my Auntie’s sewing room, dress. I chose cupro fabric, which aligned with
carefully watching her sew. The intricacies of my values of using a natural fiber, and it gave
the craft intrigued me, as did the precision and off a lovely differing colour, depending on
attention to detail. I was drawn to its fluidity and the lighting and how it draped. I wanted it to
non-exactness. be something I could wear again, and would
At the age of 10, I began learning to sew cherish for years to come. I challenged myself
knowing one day I would make my grad dress. with couture sewing techniques, and kept
Sewing bags and pouches quickly evolved track of the time and cost of the project, to
into more difficult projects and I dove into then compare it to ready-to-wear dresses other
garment sewing. It became an outlet for me. graduates were purchasing.
When I began my grad dress, I didn’t feel the My dress felt perfect. I danced in it all night,
external pressure you would expect. I took it and even when I had to use my wheelchair,
on as a puzzle I needed to solve by thinking I didn't feel restricted due to the bias cut of the
dynamically. dress. It was everything I hoped it would be.
I mapped out six months for my grad dress, Mallory Stewart (she/her) is an Engineering
and after two toiles, I cut into my good fabric. student who lives in the Canadian Prairies. See
My vision was a simple, elegant, bias cut slip her sewing at @mallory_made_creations

82 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 S

4 GIFTS
Peter Pan collar
Capsule shirt set WORTH
Plushie cocoa toy
Easy-sew boxy jacket
£30!
Waterproof fabric tips
Metallic monogram
Sustainability feature
T-shirt upcycle
- UK sizes 6-30

4 GIFTS
for you!
ESSENTIAL ShirT set, cASuaL dress,
waterproof bAg + digITal book

dress pattern
digital download

handbag pattern ON SALE THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER

* CONTENTS AND GIFTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY VARY ACCORDING TO TERRITORY.
SOME GIFTS NOT AVAILABLE WITH DIGITAL EDITIONS.
 AUTUMN 2024

Gr n ge
e at a
offers across he

OFFER PRICE

£1,699
SAVE £200

MC6700 amli ned

PROFESSIONAL Spa ious, stre !
ast
and steadf

ery Only Magic!

mbroid

Hoops included:
• 200 x 360mm • 140 x 200mm
• 200 x 200mm • 140 x 140mm
BONUS OFFER

MC550E SPECIAL EDITION

£1,899

Promotion starts 2nd September until 31st December 2024.

(All offers subject to stock availability)
 THE DANNI
DRESS
DRESS A SIZES
FRONT 6-30
(US 2–26/EUR 30–54)

BACK

DRESS B
FRONT

BACK
 THE DANNI DRESS
Smart, comfortable, and stylish, The Danni Dress ticks all
the boxes, including the most important of all – pockets!

PACK INCLUDES SUGGESTED FABRICS

■ Pattern sheet x 2 (Tracing required) ■ Double-knit jersey, Ponte Roma or
■ Instruction sheet Milano Rib. This pattern is not suitable
for fabric with a large amount of
YOU WILL NEED stretch
■ Fabric:
Sizes 6-16: 2mx150cm
Sizes 18-30: 2.5mx150cm
■ Lightweight iron-on knit or bias
interfacing: 35x75cm
■ 12/80 Stretch machine needle
■ Optional stretch twin needle for
hemming (either a 4.0 or 2.5 width)
■ Matching thread
■ Basic sewing kit
f our
Shop more o
patterns
NOTES
dresmaking ered.how/
online at gathshop
■ Seam allowance is 1cm, unless
otherwise stated
sewing-
■ The dress can be sewn either with
a zigzag/lightening stitch on a sewing
machine, or with an overlocker

BODY MEASUREMENTS
UK 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
SIZE US 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26
EUR 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54

cm 78 82 86 90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135

TO FIT
BUST
in 31 32 34 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53

cm 63 66 69 72 76 81 86 92 98 104 110 116 122

TO FIT
WAIST
in 25 26 27 28 30 32 34 36 39 41 43 46 48

cm 86 90 94 98 103 108 113 118 123 128 133 138 143

TO FIT
HIPS
in 34 35 37 39 41 43 44 46 48 50 52 54 56

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
© Designed and printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Pattern designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.
Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST. For individual, private home use only.
Not for commercial/manufacturing purposes or resale.
 the DA
CUTTING LAYOUTS
BOTH VERSIONS BOTH VERSIONS
150CM WIDE FABRIC 150CM WIDE FABRIC
SIZES 6-16 SIZES 18-30

G
A
A

F
SELVEDGE

FOLD

SELVEDGE

D FOLD
B
D

C
G

E
F

DIAGRAMS
DRESS A DRESS B

FRONT FRONT

BACK BACK

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
ANNI DRESS
01 02 03

04 05 06

STITCHING TERMS
RS/WS: Right side/wrong side of the fabric. The right side usually has the print,
Back Facing (F): one on fold
Front Facing (G): one on fold
Step two From the interfacing cut:
design or texture and the wrong side is usually plain or duller in appearance. Back Facing (F): one on fold
Machine tack: Use a long stitch length to hold a section in place. Don’t Front Facing (G): one on fold
backstitch at the start and end.
Finish the seams: Finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or an overlocker.
Press: Pressing fabric is placing the iron down holding it for a few seconds,
lifting it and placing it down again. Ironing is the movement of sliding the iron
MAKING THE GARMENT
TRANSFER THE PATTERN MARKINGS
back and forth to remove creases. Step one Snip all notches with a small cut that is no bigger than 5mm. This is to
Understitch: Stitch close to the seam line usually on the side that will be on the ensure your notch doesn’t extend into the stitching line as the seam allowance
inside of the garment such as the facing. This will hold the seam allowance in is just 1cm.
place when the garment is worn. Step two Using your preferred method (tailors tacks, carbon paper or pin
Staystitch: Stitching in areas prone to stretching such as necklines to hold the marking) mark the position of all the circles from the pattern. These are
fabric in shape while it is being worked on. essential for the pocket construction.
Toile: A test garment, often made from calico or muslin to check the fit or test
a pattern before the real fabric is used. Known as a muslin in the US. PREPARING THE FACINGS
Step one Following the manufacturer’s instructions apply the interfacing to the

CUTTING OUT
We recommend making a toile using fabric with similar properties before
wrong sides (WS) of the Front Facing and Back Facing pieces. 01

ATTACHING THE POCKET BAGS

cutting into your final fabric. Use your toile to check fit and make any necessary Step one With right sides (RS) together, matching the circles, pin and sew the
adjustments to the pattern. Pocket Bags onto the Lower Front. Sew between the marked circles only. 02
Step one From the main fabric, cut: Step two Working from the RS, press the pockets and seam allowances away
Lower Front (A): one on fold from the body section, and then understitch between the circles on the pocket
Pocket Bag (B): one pair side of the joining line.
Upper Front (C): one pair
Back Dress (D): one on fold ATTACHING THE UPPER AND LOWER FRONTS
Sleeve (E): one pair (version B only) Step one With RS together ensuring the raw edges, notches, and circles align,

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 the DAN
07 08 09

13 14 15

lay the Lower Front on top of one of the Upper Fronts. corners of the armhole, then pin the corresponding notches together. 07
Step two Pin along the seam and around the pocket. You might find it helpful Step four Fill in with more pins between the three pinned points, and then pin
to mark the stitch lines around the corners of the pocket bag using tailors chalk the other half of this armhole in the same way. 08
or an erasable fabric marker. 03 Step five Sew, then neaten as before if preferred. Note that placing pins at
Step three Stitch, pivoting at the marked circles around the pocket bags. 90-degrees to the edge holds the curved edges better and can hold them
Step four Repeat the above steps, attaching the second Upper Front to the more securely when you sew.
opposite side of the Lower Front. Step six Repeat with the opposite Sleeve. Either press the seam open and
neaten as before if preferred or press towards the sleeve if using an overlocker.
PRESS THE SEAM LINES
Step one Press the seams open from the neck towards the upper end of the SEWING THE UNDERARM SEAMS
Pocket Bag, then allow the lower section of the seam allowance to swing back Step one It’s helpful to pre-press the hemlines of the sleeves/armholes before
a little towards the centre front and press in place. This means you can avoid joining the side seams as they can be fiddly to do afterwards. Press up a 2cm
clipping into the corner causing a weak point on your dress. Neaten the seams hem along the WS of the lower edge of the sleeve or armhole depending on
if preferred, although double knit fabrics don’t fray so this isn’t essential. 04 which version you’re making. 09
Step two Using a seam allowance of just under 1cm, staystitch around the Step two Fold the dress in half at the shoulders, RS together. Unfold the
neckline with a stitch length of 2.8mm. pre-pressed hem so it’s flat.
Step three Pin the side and underarm seams plus the underarm seam of the
STITCH THE SHOULDERS sleeve if you are making version B, matching up the notches as you pin. 10
Step one With RS together, pin and stitch the Back Dress to the assembled Step four For version B (with sleeves) only: Stitch one continuous seam from
dress front at the shoulders. 05 the end of the sleeve through the armhole to the hem.
Step two Press the shoulder seams open if sewing on a machine or towards the Step five For the version A (without sleeves) only: Stitch one continuous seam
back if using an overlocker. from the end of the armhole to the hem.

ATTACHING THE OPTIONAL SLEEVE TRY ON AND MAKE ADJUSTMENTS

Step one Lay the dress out flat on your work surface, RS up. Match the Sleeves Step one The perfect time to test the fit is before your dress has been hemmed
to the corresponding armholes. Ensure the double notches are at the back and or had facings applied. If you need to make it smaller you can easily take the
the single notches are the front. side seams in. You can also lower the neckline at this point too Ð remember to
Step two With RS together pin the shoulder seam notch of the sleeve to the apply the same adjustments to the facing. Trim off any excess length if you
shoulder seam. 06 want to make the dress shorter.
Step three Now pin the underarm corners of the sleeve to the underarm Step two Neaten the side seams as before if preferred.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
NNI DRESS
10 11 12

16 17 18

HEMMING THE DRESS from the neckline. Understitch through the seam allowance and the facings. 17

Step one Set up your machine for twin needle sewing, following your machine Step five Turn the facing to the inside of the dress and press from the WS,
manual for instructions. Alternatively, you can machine stitch with a simple making sure that the seam sits just inside the neck.
zigzag stitch. Try 3mm for the stitch width, and 2.8mm as stitch length.
Step two Pin the pre-pressed hem around the sleeve/armhole ends. Ensure SECURING THE FACINGS
your pins are on the RS of the sleeve. 11 Step one Hand stitch the facings to the seam allowances at the shoulder seams
Step three Working from the RS, use a zigzag stitch to secure the sleeve hem and the two front seams to anchor them in place. 18
using a 1.5cm seam allowance. It is best to practice this first on some fabric Step two Give the dress a final press.
scraps and note the best stitch settings for your machine. Alternatively use
twin needle to secure the sleeve hem. 12
Step four Press a 2cm hem to the WS at the bottom of the dress. From the RS,
FINISHED GARMENT MEASUREMENTS
pin and machine stitch in place using a 1.5cm seam allowance. 13 SIZE UK 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
US 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26
EUR 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54
MAKING THE FACINGS
Step one With RS together, pin then stitch the Front and Back Facings together cm 99 103 107 111 116 121 126 131 136 141 146 151 156
FINISHED
along the short side edges to form a loop. 14 BUST in 39 41 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 57 59 61
Step two Press the seams open.
Step three Neaten the lower raw edges of the facing with either a zigzag stitch cm 91 94 97 100 104 109 114 120 126 132 138 144 150
FINISHED
or with an overlocker. WAIST
in 36 37 38 39 41 43 45 47 50 52 54 57 59

FINISH THE NECKLINE cm 88 92 96 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 140 145
FINISHED
Step one With RS together, pin the facings around the neckline, carefully HIP
in 34 36 38 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53 55 57
matching the centre of the fronts, the centre back, and lining up the shoulder
seams of the dress with the side seams of the facings. 15
Step two Sew in place, pivoting at the centre front to create a sharp V. For
a precise result, mark the centre of the V with chalk or an erasable fabric marker
so you know exactly where to pivot.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
Step three Clip into the seam allowance at the centre front V, clipping almost to
© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing magazine. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie. Supplied by
the stitch line but not through it. Clip the curved back neckline too. 16 Our Media Company Ltd, Bristol, BS1 4ST. To be used for individual, private home use only and
Step four Working from the RS, press the facings and seam allowances away not for commercial or manufacturing purposes. Not for resale.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 HOW TO PRINT THIS PATTERN
Print out the following pages on A4 paper at 100%.
Overlap the red lines and tape the sheets in place using the guide below.

92 97 102 107

30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6

93 98 103 C 108
THE DANNI DRESS
Upper Front

D Cut one pair

THE DANNI DRESS

Back
PART A (Attach to PART B along dotted line)
Cut one on fold

94 99 Centre Back
Cut on fold
104 Lengthen/Shorten line
109
Lengthen/Shorten line

TEST SQUARe
TEST SQUARe
10x10cm
95 100
Front pocket seamline placement
10x10cm
105 110
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie. SIDE 2 OF 4

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST. Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
purposes or resale. Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.
SIDE 1 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

96 101 106 111

SIZE KEY
6
SIZE KEY
6 8
8 10
10 12
12 14
14 16
16
18
18
Lengthen/Shorten line 20
20
22
22
24
24
26 26
28 28
ATTACH PART B HERE BEFORE CUTTING OUT
30

ATTACH PART A HERE BEFORE CUTTING OUT

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.
Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 4 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
30

pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
28 26

Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.

Scan the QR code to head to that page.
24 22

D
112 117 122 127
20 18
16 14
12 10
8 6

SIZE KEY
6
8
Back
10
30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6
12

F
14
16
18
20

THE DANNI DRESS 22

24
26

B
Cut one on fold - main fabric 28
Cut one on fold - interfacing 30

Leng
then/S
THE DANNI DRESS
Pocket Bag
horte
n line Cut one pair

113 118 123 128 Cut on fold

Centre Front
G

THE DANAN
TEST SQUARe
114 119 124 129
30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16 14 1210 8 6

Lower I DRESS 10x10cm

30
28 Cut on Front
26 e on
24 fold
22
20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6

Leng
then/S
horte

TEST SQUARe
n line

115 120 10x10cm 125 E

130
THE DANNI DRESS
30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing

SIDE 3 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY

116 121 126 131

6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
26 24 22 20 18
TEST SQUARe
10x10cm
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.

For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 1 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
 D
THE DANNI DRESS
Back

Cut one on fold

 THE DANNI DRESS
Back

Cut one on fold

Cut on fold
Centre Back

14 8

line
Front pocket placement
 Lengthen/Shorten line

PART B HERE BEFORE CUTTING OUT

28 26 24 18 16 14 10 8 6
 TEST SQUARe
10x10cm

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
SIDE 2 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
 C
THE DANNI DRESS
Upper Front
Cut one pair
THE DANNI DRESS
Upper Front
Cut one pair
26 24 22 20 18 16 10 8 6
 PART A HERE BEFORE CUTTING OUT

26 22 18 16 14
 T
30
26
24
22
20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
Leng
then/
Short
en line
D
Back
line
THE DANN A
Lowe I DRESS
Cut o r Front
ne on
fold
TEST SQUARe
10x10cm

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing

SIDE 3 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing

SIDE 3 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
181
6
8 6 B
 B
THE DANNI DRESS
Pocket Bag
Cut one pair
TEST SQUARe
10x10cm
 THE DA
S
30 26 24 18 14 12 10 8
Full sle
 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Claire-Louise Hardie.

Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 4 OF 4
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
6
8
10
12
14
16
8
18
20
F 22
THE DANNI DRESS 24
n fold
e Back

26
Cut one on fold - main fabric 28

Cut
Cent
Cut one on fold - interfacing 30

Cut on fold
Centre Front

G
fold - interfacing
fold - main fabric

DANNI DRESS
Cut
Cut
 G
DANNI
Cut fold -
Cut fold -
 E
E DANNI DRESS
Sleeve

sleeve fold line

 sleeve fold line

line

Full sleeve fold line

THE GEORGE
PYJAMAS
IN 13
GENDER
NEUTRAL
SIZES

PYJAMAS
FRONT

BACK
 GEORGE PYJAMAS
Sew the ultimate gender neutral pyjama bottoms in an
afternoon − the perfect beginner-friendly pattern!

PACK INCLUDES FABRIC SUGGESTIONS

■ Pattern sheet x 1 (Tracing required) ■ Light to medium weight woven fabrics,
■ Instruction sheet such as cotton lawn, brushed cotton,
cotton poplin or viscose.
YOU WILL NEED
■ Fabric:
115cm wide: Sizes A-1: 2.5m
145cm wide: Sizes A-F: 2.3m
145cm wide: Sizes G-M: 2.5m
■ 1.5cm of 25mm waistband elastic
■ Matching thread
■ Basic sewing kit

NOTES
■ Seam allowances are included and are
f our
1.5cm, unless otherwise stated. Shop more o atterns
p
■ Pin or tack the main pieces together dresmakinge shop at
first to check the fit and mark any in our olin /sewing-
alterations needed before sewing.
gathered.how
■ Sizes J-M will only fit on 145cm wide shop
fabric if cut on the fold.

BODY MEASUREMENTS
SIZE A B C D E F G H I J K L M

cm 61 64 67 70 74 79 84 90 96 102 108 114 120

TO FIT
WAIST
in 24 25 26 28 29 31 33 35 38 40 43 45 47

cm 85 89 93 97 102 107 112 117 122 127 132 137 142

TO FIT
HIPS
in 33 35 37 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
© Designed and printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Becky Perry for Prima UK,
November 2023. Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST. For individual, private home use only.
Not for commercial/manufacturing purposes or resale.
 THE GEORG

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
GE PYJAMAS
01 02

03 04

FABRIC KEY – STEPS

Right side Wrong side
CUTTING OUT
Step one From main fabric, cut:
Pyjama Front (1): one pair
Pyjama Back (2): one pair

STITCHING TERMS
RS/WS: Right side/wrong side of the fabric. The right side usually has the print,
MAKING THE PYJAMAS
JOINING THE FRONTS AND BACKS
design or texture and the wrong side is usually plain or duller in appearance. Step one With right sides (RS) facing, pin Pyjama Fronts together at the centre
Machine tack: Use a long stitch length to hold a section in place. Don’t front seam, matching notches.
backstitch at the start and end. Step two Stitch in place and finish the seam allowances. 01
Finish the seams: Finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or an overlocker. Step three Press the seam allowances over to one side.
Press: Pressing fabric is placing the iron down, holding it for a few seconds, Step four With RS facing, pin Pyjama Backs together at the centre back seam,
lifting it and placing it down again. Ironing is sliding the iron back and forth. matching notches.
Understitch: Stitch close to the seam line usually on the side that will be on the Step five Stitch in place and finish the seam allowances.
inside of the garment such as the facing. This will hold the seam allowance in Step six Press the seam allowances over to one side.
place when the garment is worn.
Staystitch: Stitching in areas prone to stretching, such as necklines, to hold the JOINING THE LEGS
fabric in shape while it is being worked on. Step one With RS together and matching the centre seams, pin and stitch the
Topstitch: Stitching usually from the right side of the garment to hold seam Pyjama Fronts to the Pyjama Backs at the side seams.
allowances in place or can be used for decorative purposes. Step two Finish the seam allowances and press them open.
Toile: A test garment, often made from calico or muslin, to check the fit or test Step three With RS together and matching notches, pin and stitch the inside
a pattern before the real fabric is used. Known as a muslin in the US. legs together, making sure the crotch seams match up. 02
Step four Finish the seam allowances and press them open.

NOTES
Seam allowances are included and are 1.5cm, unless otherwise stated.
STITCHING THE WAISTBAND
Step one With the shorts wrong side (WS) out, turn over 1.5cm around the
Pin or tack the main pieces together first to check the fit. waist edge to the WS and press.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 THE GEORG
CUTTING LAYOUTS DIAGRAMS
MAIN FABRIC (SIZE A-I ONLY) MAIN FABRIC (ALL SIZES) FRONT BACK
115CM WIDE 145CM WIDE

2
2
SELVEDGE

SELVEDGE
FOLD

FOLD

1 1

Step two Press under another 3cm at the waist edge to form the waistband.
Step three Pin and stitch to form a casing, leaving an 8cm gap in the stitching
through which we will insert the elastic.
Step four Using a safety pin or bodkin, thread the elastic through the gap. 03
Step five Overlap the ends of the elastic and stitch securely using zig zag stitch.
Try on the pyjamas at this stage to make sure the elastic is the correct length.
Step six Sew up the gap in the stitching.

FINISHING THE PYJAMAS

Step one Try on the pyjamas to check you are happy with the length, adjust the
length if necessary.
Step two Finish the hems of the pyjamas.
Step three turn under 3cm to the WS and hand or machine stitch in place. 04
Step four Give everything a good press to finish.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing magazine. Pattern design by Becky Perry, illustrations by
Terry Evans for Prima UK, November 2023. Supplied by Our Media Company Ltd, Bristol, BS1 4ST.
To be used for individual, private home use only and not for commercial or manufacturing
purposes. Not for resale.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
GE PYJAMAS

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
 HOW TO PRINT THIS PATTERN
Print out the following pages on A4 paper at 100%.
Overlap the red lines and tape the sheets in place using the guide below.

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Becky Perry for Prima
UK, November 2023. Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.

TEST SQUARe
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 2 OF 2
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your
pattern pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly
from this sheet. Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/
tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

10x10cm
139 144 149 2
Back
154 SIZE KEY
A
B
C
D
Cut one pair E
F
G
H
I

K
L
M
J K LM

A BC D E F G H I J K LM
I

140 145 150 155

A BC D E F G H

J K L M
I
A BC D E F G H
PART B (Attach to PART A along dotted line)
THE george pyjamas

141 146 151 156

A BC D E F G H I J K LM
Cut one pair
Front
1

Cut one pair

Back
2
142 147 152 157
© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Becky Perry for Prima
UK, November 2023. Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 1 OF 2
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your
pattern pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly
from this sheet. Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/
tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
1
143 148 153 158
A
B
C
THE george pyjamas
Front
D

TEST SQUARe
E
Cut one pair
F
G
H
I
J
10x10cm
K
L
M
TEST SQUARe
10x10cm
A E F G H I J
ATTACH PART A HERE BEFORE CUTTING OUT
1
THE george pyjamas
Front
PART B (Attach to PART A along dotted line)
Cut one pair
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Becky Perry for Prima
UK, November 2023. Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 1 OF 2
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your
pattern pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly
from this sheet. Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/
tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
A C H I J K L
 1
THE george pyjamas
Front

Cut one pair

ATTACH PART A HERE

2
Back

Cut one pair

A I M
2
Back
TEST SQUARe
10x10cm
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Designed by Becky Perry for Prima
UK, November 2023. Supplied by Our Media Ltd, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private home use only. Not for commercial/manufacturing
purposes or resale.

SIDE 2 OF 2
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your
pattern pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly
from this sheet. Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/
tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

SIZE KEY
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
 K
L
M

A C H I J K L
 Back
(Attach to PART B along dotted line)
Cut one pair
CUTTING OUT
 PART A
ATTACH PART B HERE
 learn
m
baG- !A k i n g
skills

Adjustable strap

Handy pockets
This super-fun handbag from Amber Makes has handy
internal pockets and a thick adjustable strap

PACK INCLUDES ■ Wadding will give the bag structure and

■ Pattern sheet x1 softness. A fusible fleece is ideal as it’s
■ Instruction sheet the right weight and easy to work with.

YOU WILL NEED RECOMMENDED FABRIC

■ Main Fabric: 40x140cm ■ Main Fabric: medium weight such as
■ Lining fabric: 40x140cm needlecord, canvas, denim or twill
■ Wadding: 40x70cm ■ Lining Fabric: quilting weight cotton
■ 2 x Closed end zips No.3: 20cm fabric or lightweight waterproof fabric
■ 2 x D-Rings: 25mm
■ Slide Buckle: 25mm FINISHED SIZE:
■ Magnetic snap ■ 30x30cm
■ Matching sewing thread
■ Basic sewing kit
Amber Makes is run by friends
NOTES Amy and Rebecca. They create
■ Use a 1cm seam allowance throughout, unique sewing kits. See more
this is included in the pattern pieces. at ambermakesco.com

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing. Design by Amber Makes.

Supplied by Our Media Limited, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private use only and not for commercial or manufacturing purposes. Not for resale.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING WWW.AMBERMAKESCO.COM
 The AM
01 02 03

07 08 09

STITCHING TERMS
RS/WS: Right side/wrong side of the fabric. The right side usually has the print,
Step two From the Main Fabric, cut:
Bag Front Outer (A): one
Bag Back Outer (A): one
design or texture and the wrong side is usually plain or duller in appearance. Outside Pocket Front (B): one
Topstitch: This is a line of stitching worked 3-5mm from the fabric edge to Outside Pocket Back (B): one
neaten and decorate Strap Tab Outer (C): two
Slipsttitch: This is worked by hand using small, neat almost invisible stitches. Strap Outer: 4.5x110cm
These stitches are worked into the fold of the fabric on one side then into the Step three From the Lining Fabric, cut as follows:
fabric on the other side Bag Front Lining (A): one
Tack: Tacking is used to temporarily hold layers of fabric together to make the Bag Back Lining (A): one
assembly neater and easier. This can be done by hand using a long Running Inside Pocket Front (B): one
Stitch or by machine using a slightly longer stitch and worked within the seam Inside Pocket Back (B): one
allowance Strap Tab Lining (C): two
Glue: a specialist, water soluble fabric glue which won’t mark the fabric or Strap Lining: 4.5x110cm
make your needle sticky is ideal for holding zips in place whilst you sew them.
Nesting seams: The method of nesting seams really helps to get seams to
match up exactly when sewing two pieces of fabric together. Press the seam
allowances of the two pieces you’re joining in opposite directions. Place one
MAKING THE BAG
SEWING THE DARTS
seam RS facing on top of the other and if you slide the top seam gently then it Step one Place the Bag Front Outer and the Bag Back Outer right side (RS) up
will butt up to the seam on the bottom. Pin then stitch together. on top of the wadding and press into place if you’re using fusible wadding.
Turning gap: This is the gap left unstitched in a seam, that is used for turning Tack together all round within the seam allowance and inside the shaped
joined fabric pieces fabric right sides out through afterwards. corner dart sections if you’re using non-fusible.
For more sewing terms visit gathered.how/sewing-glossary. You’ll also find Step two Trim the wadding level with the outer edge of both pieces including
sewing guides and free projects there. the dart sections at the bottom edge. 01
Step three Take the Bag Front Outer and fold one of the dart sections RS facing

CUTTING OUT
Step one Trace or cut out all the pattern pieces from your pattern sheet. Pin
so the raw edges meet, and pin together. Sew together to create the dart by
stitching in a straight line from the top raw edge past the cut-out section. 02
Step four Repeat this to fold, pin and sew the other dart section in place to
them to the RS of the fabric and cut round them then label them as listed. create the second dart. This creates a curved and shaped bottom to your bag.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
MBER BAG
04 05 06

10 11 12

Press the dart seam over towards the side edges of the Bag Front Outer. Step six Pin or glue a zip beneath the post box and topstitch in place. Trim the
Step five Take the Bag Back Outer, Bag Front Lining and the Bag Back Lining ends off the zip to 2cm outside the stitched box. 07
and fold, pin and sew the darts into place in the same way. Step seven Place the Inside Pocket Back RS facing with the Inside Pocket Front
Step six Press the dart seam over towards the side edges of the Bag Front and pin together. Stitch together all round the edge taking care not to stitch
Lining. Press the dart seam over towards the centre of the Bag Back Outer and into the Bag Back Lining but only through the two Pocket pieces.
the Bag Back Lining. Pressing the Fronts and Backs in opposite directions Step eight Pin the top edges of the Inside Pocket Front and Inside Pocket Back
allows the seams to nest when you construct the bag for a neater, flatter finish. to the top edge of the Bag Back Lining and tack the three layers together to
secure the top of the Pocket in place. Your Zip Pocket is now complete. 08
MAKING THE POCKETS Step nine Make the Outside Pocket in the same way using the Outside Pocket
There are two pockets on the bag, the Outside Pocket is sewn to the Main Front and the Outside Pocket Back. Stitch it to the Bag Front Outer, if you want
Fabric and the Inside Pocket is sewn to the Lining Fabric. the Pocket on the front of the bag or the Bag Back Outer if you want the Pocket
Step one To add a pocket to the Lining, take the Inside Pocket Front and on the on the back of the bag. 09
wrong side (WS) measure 7cm down from the top edge and draw a line
horizontally across the fabric. Draw a second line 5mm below this and a third ADDING THE MAGNETIC SNAP CLOSURE
line 5mm below the second line so you have three parallel lines each spaced Step one Take the Bag Back Lining and place the backplate of the male section
5mm apart. Now draw a vertical line across each end of these three lines so that of the Magnetic Snap so the central hole is positioned centrally 4cm down from
they measure 15cm long and are placed centrally. Draw short diagonal lines the top of the WS. Draw lines through each of the slots. 10
from the centre line to the outer. The outer drawn box is the sewing line, and Step two Carefully cut along these slots - a seam ripper is ideal for this.
the inner central line and diagonal lines are the cutting lines. 03 Step three Cut a 4x4cm piece of wadding and mark and cut slots centrally in it,
Step two Place this marked Inside Pocket Front RS facing on top of the Bag Back in the same way as you did with the Bag Back Lining. This will make the
Lining, so the top raw edge of the Bag Inside Pocket Front is level with the top Magnetic Snap more secure.
raw edge of the of the Bag Back Lining and placed centrally across. Pin into Step four Push the prongs of the male section of the Magnetic Snap through
place all round. the cut slots so the Magnetic Snap sits on the RS of the Bag Back Lining then
Step three Stitch together around the outer marked box. 04 push them through the cut-out slots on the wadding square.
Step four Cut along the central cutting line and along the diagonal lines, taking Step five Place the backplate over the prongs then fold the prongs over and
care not to cut the stitching at the corners. 05 the Magnetic Snap will be neatly attached. 11
Step five Post the Inside Pocket Front through the slit to the WS of the Bag Back Step six Repeat this process to attach the female section of the Magnetic Clasp
Lining and press flat with the seams lying right on the edge to create a postbox to the Bag Front Lining, making sure you measure carefully so they meet up
shaped opening. 06 exactly when the bag is closed. 12

WWW.AMBERMAKESCO.COM
 The AM
13 14 15

19 20 21

ASSEMBLING THE BAG OUTER AND LINING from being pulled out. Tack into place. 16
Step one Place the Bag Front Outer and the Bag Back Outer RS facing. Pin then Step two Repeat this to pin and tack the other Bag Strap Tab RS facing centrally
stitch together all the way down one side, around the curved bottom edge and on top of the other side seam of the Bag Outer.
up the other side but leaving the top straight edge unstitched. Nest the dart
seams when you reach them, making sure they match up exactly. 13 ASSEMBLING THE BAG
Step two Press the seams open. This completes the Bag Outer. Step one Turn the Bag Outer WS out, then place the Bag Lining inside the Bag
Step three Repeat this to sew the Bag Front Lining and the Bag Back Lining RS Outer, so they are RS facing. Match up the top raw edges and the side seams,
together but leaving a 10cm gap unstitched centrally between the darts to then pin together all around.
create the turning gap. Step two Stitch together all round the top edge. 17
Step four Fold both edges of the turning gap over by 1cm to the WS, level with Step three Pull the Bag Lining out from inside the Bag Outer then press the top
the seams either side and press. 14 seam open and flat.
Step five Turn RS out. This completes the Bag Lining. Step four Turn the Bag RS out through the turning gap in the Bag Lining. Push
out the curved corners and slipstitch the turning gap closed by hand or
MAKING THE STRAP TABS topstitch by machine.
Step one Place one Strap Tab Outer and one Strap Tab Lining RS facing and sew Step five Push the Bag Lining inside the Bag Outer and topstitch around the
together down the long edges. top edge to neaten, making sure the both the Strap Tabs and D-Rings are
Step two Trim the seam allowances in half to reduce bulk then press open. facing upwards. 18
Step three Turn RS out and press, then topstitch down both long edges to
neaten and decorate. This completes one Strap Tab. MAKING THE STRAP
Step four Repeat this to make another Strap Tab in the same way using the Step one Turn the two short ends of the Strap Outer over by 1cm to the WS and
other Strap Tab Outer and Strap Tab Lining pieces. press. Repeat with the two short ends of the Strap Lining and press. 19
Step five Thread one Strap Tab through a D-Ring then match the raw short Step two Place the Strap Outer and the Strap Lining RS facing. Pin then stitch
edges and tack into place. Repeat with the other Strap Tab and a D-Ring. 15 together down the long edges, making sure that the short ends of both pieces
stay turned under so you are stitching over them.
ADDING THE STRAP TABS Step three Press the seams open then turn the Strap RS out and press, so the
Step one Place one Strap Tab centrally on top of one of the side seams of the short ends stay turned under.
Bag Outer so that the raw edges of the Strap Tab extend 2cm above the raw Step four Carefully topstitch all the way round the edges of the Strap to neaten
edges of the Bag Outer. This will make the Strap Tab extra secure and prevent it and decorate.

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING
MBER BAG
16 17 18

22 23 24

ATTACHING THE STRAP

Step one Thread one end of the Strap through one of the D-Rings so that it
overlaps by 3cm on the inside of the Strap and pin. Stitch the Strap end in place
with a small rectangle with a cross inside, so it is held securely in place. 20
Step two Making sure the Strap stays straight and isn’t twisted, thread the
other short end of the Strap up through one end of the Slide Buckle and down
through the other, over the central bar. 21
Step three Thread this short end through the other D-ring on the Bag from the
outside to the inside. 22
Step four Pull the Strap that goes through the Slide Buckle upwards, so it forms
a loop above it. Then thread the short end of the Strap up the left-hand side of
the central bar of the Slide Buckle, over the central bar and down the right-
hand side. 23
Step five Overlap the end of the Strap by 3cm onto the Strap and pin into place.
Step six Stitch the Strap end in place together with a small rectangle with
a cross inside so it is held securely in place. 24

WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING WWW.AMBERMAKESCO.COM
© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing magazine. Design by Amber Makes.
Supplied by Our Media Limited, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST.
For individual, private use. Not for commercial/manufacturing purposes. Not for resale.

WWW.AMBERMAKESCO.COM
 WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING WWW.AMBERMAKESCO.COM
© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing magazine. Design by Amber Makes. Supplied by
Our Media Limited, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST. To be used for
individual, private home use only and not for commercial or manufacturing purposes.
Not for resale.
SIDE 1 OF 1
Overlap the red lines and tape the sheets in place using the guide below.

Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.
169

170

171
Print out the following pages on A4 paper at 100%.
HOW TO PRINT THIS PATTERN

B
A the AMBER bag
Pocket
Cut two Outer Fabric
Cut two Lining Fabric
166

167

168
C
the
AMBER
bag TEST SQUARe
Strap Tab
Cut two
Outer Fabric
10x10cm
Cut two
Lining Fabric
the AMBER bag
Bag Front/Back
BER bag

C
the
AMBER
bag
Strap Tab
Cut two
Outer Fabric
Cut two
Lining Fabric
Cut two Outer Fabric
Cut two Lining Fabric

TEST SQUARe
10x10cm
WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING WWW.AMBERMAKESCO.COM

© Printed in the UK for Simply Sewing magazine. Design by Amber Makes. Supplied by
Our Media Limited, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST. To be used for
individual, private home use only and not for commercial or manufacturing purposes.
Not for resale.

SIDE 1 OF 1
Pattern sheets are printed double sided – you’ll need to trace your pattern
pieces onto pattern paper rather than cutting out directly from this sheet.
Find our guide to pattern tracing at gathered.how/tracing-patterns.
Scan the QR code to head to that page.

A
the AMBER ba
Bag Front/Back
ag
 B
the AMBER bag
Pocket
Cut two Outer Fabric
Cut two Lining Fabric