March Indie Pattern Update

Well I don't know how it's been for you but for me March has been one of those months that has flown past yet the start of it feels forever ago! I was looking back over my notes for the round up this month and started to wonder if some of the bits at the top of the list were actually from February it seemed such a long time since I'd read about them. Anyway there's a lot of juicy news to get through so I'm going to crack on...

New Patterns

• Marilla Walker released two new PDF skirt patterns this month. The first is the Ilsley skirt and it's free! It features a hem which curves at the side seams and elasticated waist. The second is the Evan Skirt which is a classic a-line skirt with jeans style fastenings, pockets and yoke; perfect for sewing up in on trend denim!
• The Pinot Pants and Cabernet Cardigan are the new releases from Skinny Bitch Curvy Chic. Both patterns are made for knits, the Pinot Pants look super comfy yet flattering and the Cabernet is a casual boyfriend fit cardi with three silhouette options. Betsy is publishing free add ons for the patterns on her blog so keep your eyes peeled; I love the idea of the yoga waistband.
• Melissa from Fehr Trade has yet again tempted me to start sewing my own running gear! She released the Steeplechase Leggings this month which are as usual very cleverly thought out; including no inner leg seam (making them perfect for sports such as horse riding too!). I'm really intrigued by how these would sew up.
• The latest release from Straight Stitch Designs is Laurelhurst. It's a pattern for knits for a simple yet chic wrap style cardigan. I like that the sleeves are still fairly slim which keeps the design looking balanced and flattering.
• I'm always excited about a new release from Sewaholic Patterns and their latest is the Davie Dress for knits. I love it. I'm getting it. That's all I have to say!
• The Melissa Dress, Blouse and Skirt is the new release from Muse Patterns. It's got loads of cute V shaped design features and provides lots of opportunity for playing around with contrast fabrics.
• The Named spring collection was released! Called Ticket, it is inspired by a dream trip around the world. As usual I'm severely tempted by more than one, particularly the Asaka Kimono and Beverly Twisted Bikini. Thinking about wearing them together has got me desperate to get on a beach!
• Sew Over It released their PDF Knicker Pattern which was originally available as part of their knicker kit. I think they'd make a lovely gift for someone or treat for yourself!
• The most recent pattern from Gray All Day is the Athena Top. It's a casual draped top which can be made in knits or wovens and is the kind of design that you don't realise you're missing from your wardrobe until you have one!
• Schnittchen released the Tina Jacket for which they have provided a step by step tutorial for sewing up on their blog. I love the model's plaid version and there's also a sleeveless vest variation.
• French company Republique du Chiffon released a free PDF pattern this month! It's called the Caroline Dress and I love the relaxed style and shaped 1920s dropped waist. Just remember that the instructions are in French so prepare to wing it or spend a lot of time on Google translate if you're not a french speaker!
• Kennis from Itch to Stitch released her next pattern hot on the heels of the last. They're called the Emily Culottes and they look so lovely and on trend in any length I've seen them made up in!

Sew-alongs

• The sew-along for Sew Over It's recently released Cowl Neck Dress pattern is currently happening over on their blog. I'm really intrigued by this pattern as it looks so simple yet so chic on Lisa!
• Jennifer Lauren's sew-along for the Felicity Dress has started over her blog. She's going to be taking the pace nice and easy, the last post isn't scheduled until mid june, which I think sounds like a lovely way to tackle a project and takes all the time pressure off!

Upcoming!

• Steph from Cake Patterns has a whole new collection coming soon! She pre-released the new patterns at the Brisbane Stitches & Craft Show but it will be available internationally at some point in April.
• Tilly and the Buttons gave us a little tip off that she has two new patterns being tested and due for release in the spring. Sure to be big hits no doubt!
• Willow and Co currently have two women's patterns out for testing which should be due for release in their online shop fairly soon. They are the Aberdeen Jacket and Valencia Women's Tunic which you can see sneak peeks of on their Facebook page.
• Katie from Papercut Patterns has hinted at her new collection over on Instagram.

Other Exciting News

• Waffle Patterns Luffa Jacket and Pancake Blouse patterns are now available in a wider size range; from 34-48 in European sizing.
• Sewaholic Patterns are not going to be printing any more of their Lonsdale Dress or Gabriola Skirt patterns, although they will of course still be available in PDF form. If you've had your eye on either of them and like a paper pattern make sure to get in quick to get one of those left.
• The Jennifer Lauren Vintage Bronte Top PDF pattern now has two additional larger sizes.

I can't get over how many new releases there have been this month! We're spoilt for choice! As usual let me know in the comments if you think there's anything I've missed. I'm going to finish up with a little dose of indie sewing inspiration to get you motivated to sew! Don't forget to share your projects on Instagram and Twitter with the hash tag indiesewing so we can all check them out.

• Sallie's military inspired version of Sewaholic's Minoru Jacket is jaw droppingly awesome and professional looking. She made some fairly substantial changes to the pattern including those lovely bellows pockets and I love the combination of navy with gold hardware.
• Carly in Stitches' midi length Tania Culottes are such a great garment! The body of the fabric she's used is perfect to hold the shape. I'd been eyeing up a couple of recent releases from the big 4 but hadn't thought to just lengthen my Tania pattern!
• Charlotte's version of the Goldstream Peacoat is so cool! What a lucky man! And while you're at it check out her amazing Carolyn Pyjamas which she marbled the fabric for using shaving foam!
• Sew Busy Lizzy's green Eliana Dress is a beauty. That style suits her down to the ground. I've got a very similar RTW dress which I love and it might be about time for me to recreate!
• I think I might need a navy duffle coat after seeing Jenny's version of the Cascade Coat from Grainline. It's a real classic garment that I don't think will ever get dated.