February Indie Pattern Update!

Well it has been another whirlwind of a month with an awful lot going on in the indie sewing pattern community and it looks like a lot more to come in March! I'm heading to the Knitting & Stitching Show at Olympia at the weekend and am hoping to discover some new patterns and companies. We've had a tiny taste of spring sunshine here in London last week (as well as a very un-springlike storm!) and I'm well and truly ready for winter to be over. I can't start wearing my spring wardrobe yet but I sure can start planning my sewing and gathering the supplies! I'm excited to see what new season patterns are going to be released.

New Pattern Companies

• Sew Sin City launched with two new knicker patterns; the Linda Mid-Rise Panty and the Rhyanne Low-Rise Panty. Taylor is hoping to release a handful of new underwear patterns every few months and is focussing on functional yet pretty lingerie. I like the classic shapes of these first two and the sheer polka-dotted sample in particular! 
• Also launching with a small collection of classy basics this month is Just Patterns. Their designs are inspired by high end RTW and are refreshingly aimed at experienced dressmakers. Relying on established sewing skills they include a suggested order of construction (laid out in a clear chart) rather than in depth instructions although there are resource pages on their site for further guidance. Starting with the Pleated Skirt, Slip Dress and Bias Top they have two more soon to follow!
• Not strictly new but new to me and a company I couldn't resist sharing with you all are DP Studio. This French design studio have some incredibly inventive and contemporary designs amongst their collection of patterns printed in both french and english. Alongside the 'couture' designs they have a basics section from which you can purchase sleeve, collar and hood patterns to mix and match with their vast array of garment shapes. I can't wait to try.

New Patterns

• Style Arc released another bang on trend pattern; the Giselle Dress is a wrap style with ruffles which I am seriously tempted by for summer cocktails on balmy evenings. Also new from them this month is the Brooklyn Knit Top (with oversized roll neck) and the Brooklyn Knit Pant which can be bought separately or in a discounted bundle.
• There are two new patterns from Tessuti this month. The Iris Dress is a lantern shape maxi dress with the option to include an exposed binding between the panels of the skirt. The Leni Top is has a boxy shape with clean v neck. I think it would be gorgeous in a crisp, fresh linen.
• February's edition of Seamwork Magazine was all about silohuette. The patterns released with it are the Ariane Bodysuit and Eliza Slip Skirt. I like the thin gores in the slip and the idea of having a strappy bodysuit in my wardrobe is really growing on me.
• One of a number of beautiful lingerie patterns released this month, the new Harriet Bra from Cloth Habit seems to have gone down a storm within the blogging community. Its an underwired soft cup bra with balconette neckline. I'm particularly fond of the beautiful pale, sheer versions that have been popping up on social media.
• Ready to Sew released the Jimmy Jumper. The swinging shape of view A is gorgeous but I love the little darts running along the raglan seams and seams of the side panel on view B. One of those subtle little details that really elevates a basic garment.
• Made by Rae launched the Cleo skirt late last month and has been posting an assortment of stunning printed skirts made with it throughout February. Its a pleated skirt with pockets and a waistband which is elasticated at the rear making it super comfortable and omitting the need for any fastenings.
• The Zadie Dress is the latest release from Tilly and the Buttons. There has been some great creative colour-blocking going on over on Instagram and I love that the pockets are concealed within the z-shaped seaming.
• Orageuse released their Borealis collection this month, comprising of the Riga Coat, Berlin Skirt and Helsinki Blouse. The skirt is probably my favourite (those pockets!!) but I'm taken with the details of the coat such as the super wide belt loop at the rear. They are also offering a free downloadable booklet to draft and sew your own Oslo Wrap.
• On my cutting table at the moment is the new Delphy Ballet Top from Half Moon Atelier. Its a classic cami with a variety of strap options. I love the low scoop back of view A and the gathering at the centre of the bust brings back fond childhood memories of ballet leotards!
• So Sew Easy released a free pattern for Women's Sweatpants. The download is accompanied by and in depth photo tutorial on their blog showing how to construct them.
• The Julia Pocket Top is new from Sew Me Something, available in both paper and PDF formats. Its a comfortable, boxy style with pockets cleverly concealed in a seam running across the stomach.
• Ohhh Lulu Lingerie released both the Romy Bra and Celeste Bikini Cut Panties. The Romy is slightly more complex than her other bra patterns with a three piece lined cup and scooped back. The knickers are designed for knits and if you're feeling confident there is a free version available with less detailed instructions and options.
• New from Boho Banjo is the Two Pegs Skirt. This one certainly lives up to her 'art to wear' moto with its bell shape and options to make the panelled front design either curved or square.
• Also with a skirt pattern this month is Wear Lemonade with the Ada Skirt. Another knock out chic design from them with a button front, tie at the waist and deep pockets set into the side panels.
• Its been a while since Maria Denmark treated us to a new pattern and she hasn't disappointed with the 407 Annika Boat Neck Dress. Form fitting and designed for heavier knits, its described as the perfect winter dress.
• Sew Caroline released the Primrose Peplum Top. Its form fitting through the body with gathered or circular deep peplum options starting at the waist. It also has no less than 5 sleeve options!
• The February PDF pattern release from Sew Over It was the Lizzie Pleated Skirt. Perfect to showcase special fabrics it is a fully lined, classic pleated design.
• Hey June Handmade launched the Mountain Pose Yoga Pants. I adore the lovely dipped front shape of view A created by the overlapping wide waistband. You can get the pattern for free at the moment by joining the Facebook group.
• The Scarlet Swing Dress is new from Greenstyle Creations. The swing shape is perfect as we head into warmer weather and the wide variety of options include on trend bell cuffs and cold shoulders.
• Hot Patterns released the Milano Dolman T's pattern. It is currently only available in paper format but PDF is soon to come. I really like the wide neckline and panelled style lines.
• The Mid-Rise Ginger Jeans pattern from Closet Case Patterns was originally only available as part of their online jeans-making workshop but can now be purchased as a stand-alone PDF patten. Very tempted to try these out with the flared leg expansion pack now!
• Straight Stitch Designs released the Phinney Ridge Cardigan. Its a classic relaxed style and Kimberley has published a tutorial on how to lengthen it. I adore her striped duster length version.
• Sew This Pattern launched the Daphne Day Dress which has a flattering fit and flare shape thanks to the wide waistband. It also features a lovely semi circular back cut out with button fastening at the nape.
• New from Scroop Patterns is the Fantail Skirt. I love their concept of releasing a historical and modern version which can be bought separately or as one. Its a 5 gored a-line style with a fan of pleats at the centre back. The historically accurate version is full length with loose pleats and the modern version is knee length with pleats sewn down to the lower hip.
• Wardrobe By Me launched the curvy version of their Asta Dress in sizes US 14-24. It features the same three neckline options and sleeve lengths as the original pattern but drafted from a plus size block.
• Its been quite the month for skirt pattern releases, spring must be on its way! The Megan Skirt is new from Designer Stitch and is a panelled a-line design which would be perfect for colour-blocking or mixing prints.
• Ann Normandy Design released the Short Sleeved Dress pattern. Its a loose fitting tunic style with square neckline which features a deep v shaped slit at the centre front. I can see this turning into a totally different dress when using different weight of fabric.
• If you sign up to the new How To Do Fashion newsletter you will receive an exclusive new free PDF pattern. Full details of the pattern are yet to be released but the preview picture includes a gorgeous simple sleeveless top. An ideal opportunity to try out this company is you haven't yet.
• The final pattern release I've spotted this month is the Blackwood Cardigan from Helen's Closet. Its designed for lightweight knits and to be worn open so is perfect for layering and comes in two lengths with the option for patch pockets.

Sew-alongs

• Allie from Indie Sew has been running a sew-along for her Lonetree Jacket and Vest pattern over the last couple of weeks. Its super thorough with lots of tips and tricks for sewing all those fiddly jacket details.
• There have been a series of posts going up over on the Tilly and The Buttons blog to guide you through the essential points of sewing their new Zadie Dress. With its interesting seaming stabilising those knit seams is particularly essential!

Pattern Updates and Expansion Packs

• As well as her two new patterns this month Sarah from Ohhh Lulu Lingerie updated her Ava High Waist Panties to include an additional size, more in-depth instructions and further variations including a scalloped lace overlay which I love
• Blank Slate Patterns re-released their Shoreline Boatneck and it now includes a tunic variation. If you purchase the pattern you also receive a 'hack pack' including instructions on how to add bell sleeves, a button back, gathered skirt and more!

Upcoming!

• I'm super excited about the new collection from Named which is all set to be released tomorrow (1st March). I fell in love with this company last summer and can't wait to get my hands on more. Named 'Playground' the spring/summer collection includes 8 patterns including two which are 2 designs in 1.
• In the Folds has her next pattern in collaboration with Peppermint Magazine coming soon. The magazine has a collection of lovely designs free to download from their website.
• Pauline Alice hinted on Instagram that she has more than one new pattern ready to release very soon! I'm intrigued to see what unique touches she is adding this time.
• Kennis from Itch to Stitch is currently testing the Newport Top and Tierras Woven Joggers patterns
• Kristiann from Victory Patterns has hinted that she has a new pattern on its way soon! After the dramatic beauty of her Trina Dress I'm really looking forward to the reveal of this one.
• Tilly is already working on her summer pattern release. This one is to be named Etta.

Other Exciting News

• The first book from effortlessly chic patten company The Maker's Atelier is out now! Called The Essential Collection it includes 8 patterns for interchangeable separates essential to your wardrobe.
• The french indie pattern community seems to be booming at the moment. Paprika Patterns are getting in on the act, working on French translations of their patterns.
• Jenny from Cashmerette launched a new online workshop called Fitting for Curves: Pattern Adjustments for the Upper Body. You can learn to fit your body shape by following video tutorials and an ebook.
• Also with a new online class are Sew Over It. Learn to make your first coat with 'Intro to Sewing Coats: The Chloe Coat'. Chloe is a new pattern for them and such a gorgeous classic design with detachable scarf. It almost makes me wish I'd held off making my first coat so I could make use of all the tips!
• Colette Patterns have made some changes to Seamwork Magazine. They are planning quarterly bumper issues with smaller ones in between. The regular PDF pattern releases will continue and the mid month add ons will now be available instantly from an exclusive members only area.

With the huge list of new releases this month I'd be surprised to find out there were any that I missed! But as always feel free to contribute any extra news you've heard in the comments below. I'm off to do a bit of sewing now but will leave you with a bit of indie sewing inspiration from the blogging community.

• I was in love at first sight with Sonja's version of the Grainline Cascade Duffle Coat. Isn't that wide striped wool amazing?! She did such a great job matching them and I love the black leather toggles.
• Ange's sequin fabric choice for the Talvikki Sweater from Named is incredible! The drama of that collar and the added sparkle prove that sweatshirts don't have to be boring basics.
• Jade's pink and burnt orange Marlborough Bra is delicious. That colour combination is so unusual and super luxurious when you combine lace and satin.
• I had the pleasure of seeing (and touching!) Marie's awesome Martha Dress in person when we were in Denmark. How brilliant is the combo of tie dyed velvet and this style?!
• Yasmeen's maxi length Moneta Dress has made me see the pattern in a whole new light! That billowing striped jersey skirt is so beautiful.

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