October Indie Pattern Update!

Happy Halloween everyone! The end of October already. The indie sewing community has certainly been embracing the changing season; this month's update includes more new pattern releases than ever before! I've been eagerly eyeing up the new designs for my winter wardrobe and my travel sewing plans which I discussed here on the blog last week. The colder weather has hit London and it is the perfect time to stay indoors, stay cosy and spend some quality time with your sewing machine!

New Patterns

• Thread Theory released two patterns for men's jeans! The Fulford Jeans have a classic regular cut and straight leg with a fairly high rise and the Quadra Jeans have a more modern slim fit with a slightly tapered leg and have a moderately low rise. If you're struggling to decide which is the right pattern for you they wrote a very handy post about the differences between the two patterns to help you choose.
• New from Seamwork are the Dani Pinafore and Tacara Dress. I fell in love with the clean lines and deep v-neck of Dani and sewed one up straight away. It is exactly what my winter wardrobe needs layered over merino Nikko tops. Tacara would be great in merino jersey, the drape would suit the cocoon shape and fitted drop sleeves.
• To celebrate New York Comic Con and halloween this month Mood released a couple of new cosplay patterns. The Helios is their version of a star-lord jacket to be made in faux leather or twill and Galatea is a ladies style designed for stretch fabrics which looks amazing made up in their shiny performance spandex. The seventies vibes of the Cherry Jumpsuit are definitely tempting me. They also released the Aspen Ensemble, Ash Pants, Alder Top, Blackthorn Coat, Dogwood Ensemble, Elm Jacket and Hazel Coat.
• The Carlsson Sweater is new from Style Arc. I love the style lines of this. It has an extended shoulder line and rounded yoke as well as an angled hip band and diagonal seams. You can buy it in a discounted bundle with their popular Joni Track Pant. They also released the Venice Knit Dress which has a cocoon shape, angled seams and slit pockets. Their new freebie of the month with any purchase was the Iris Woven Dress; a simple sleeveless shift dress with a slight cocoon shape and patch pockets.
• The new collection of two patterns from Deer and Doe is a knock out! I adore the drama of the maxi length variation of the Magnolia Dress combined with plunging neckline and big sleeves. It also comes with a variation much more wearable on a day to day basis. The origami welt pockets on the Opium Coat are such a lovely detail on this beautiful swing style. 
• Ensemble Patterns and Chalk & Notch have worked together with their latest releases, the Parasol Jumpsuit & Trousers and the Orchid Midi Dress. Elements of both patterns can be mix and matched together and you can buy them together as a bundle. I love the feature pockets on the thigh of the trousers and wrap front of the dress and am excited to see this kind of collaboration between pattern designers.
• Making Patterns Fly released the Mangas Dress which is a mini tunic style designed to be made in knits. As well as large patch pockets the main feature of this design is the dropped sleeves which are extra long to be worn ruched up the arm.
• New from Coralie Bijasson at C'est Moi Le Patron is the Eliane T-Shirt and Dress. This knit design features a twist front and deep v-neckline and cap be sewn with or without sleeves.
• The Heron Culottes are the latest release from Afternoon Patterns. These are bang on trend with their high waist and wide leg. The shape is created by inverted box pleats a the waist and they have an invisible zip and button closure on the side.
• Kommatia Patterns released the Beatnik Dress. A bodycon stretch style, this features a mock turtleneck and cap sleeves and looks great on all the testers. I think it could be particular good in a classic black.
• CocoWawa Crafts released the ideal snuggly pattern to make as we head towards winter in the northern hemisphere. The Pumpkin Cardigan and Cardi Dress has a simple scoop neckline of two depths, two lengths, two pocket styles and a flat band or hem ruffle to choose from as well as the option to make sleeveless. 
• The Blouse is the latest addition to the The Avid Seamstress collection of classic and timeless designs. It has a loose fit, elegant slim stand collar and three quarter length sleeves with elasticated cuffs giving shape. A great choice for anyone looking to make their first blouse.
• Hot Patterns released two new patterns this month. The loose fitting cocoon shape of Beatnick Sweatshirt created by darts at the hemline combined with the wide funnel neck has a real retro feel. It would look great combined with the slim fit of the new City Slicker Pull-On Pants. These come with the option to add stirrups too. 
• Patrons les BG released The Bold. A classic underwear set for men, the patterns consists of a tank style vest and stretch trunks. A wardrobe essential and perhaps a great gift to make if you are starting to think about festive sewing. I had the pleasure of meeting them at the Knitting & Stitching Show and was really impressed by their patterns!
• The Hayden Sleeveless Blazer Dress is new from Fabrics Store. A great little wrap style with lapel detail this would be great for layering. As well as worn closed as a dress it could be left to hang open as a vest. They also released the Celine Pull On Jumpsuit which also features a wrap front, Jules Pleated Shorts and Aiko Ombre Maxi Dress which is designed to be made in two tones of linen. Love the front pockets on this. They post a handy tutorial for each of their patterns which is great for a bit of extra guidance.
• There's a new baby arriving in my family soon and I'm excited about the excuse to sew some tiny clothes! I'm taken with the new Poppy & Jazz patterns from Lisa Comfort. The Pansy Dress and Clover Reversible Trousers are both quick to make a super practical. I love that this new release also includes a dog coat!
• The new super basic Tank Top pattern from Halfmoon Atelier is free to download for newsletter subscribers! With a simple scoop neck and body skimming fit this is a handmade wardrobe staple and a great stash buster too. 
• DG Patterns released the Rebecca Top & Dress which is a fit and flare style knit design. I love the cowl neck and the pattern also offers two sleeve lengths to choose from.
• New from Elbe Textiles are the Fremantle Pants which are a unisex design with subtle shaping from rear darts and a tapered leg. They have front and back pockets and an elasticated waist with drawstring. They look great made up in natural fibres such as linen and cotton.
• The Screwdriver Top is the latest release from Our Lady Of Leisure. I love the drama of the sleeves with those origami folds and big bow which fastens the wrap bodice. Looking forward to the challenge of sewing this one up!  
• Helen's Closet released the Elliot Sweater & Tee which has two sweater views (one with a cropped length and one with a high-low split hem) and a classic t-shirt view. Perfect for the changing season and quick to make with those raglan sleeves.
• Tessuti released the Evie Bias Skirt. I could definitely do with one of these in my wardrobe. I love the chic midi length style in satin and can see it layered with fluffy jumpers, tights and boots in winter. I've not sewn much on the bias so would love to use Tessuti's tips to make this.
• The Citrus Leggings are new from Tuesday Stitches and come with the option to sew with a flat side panel or gathered detail along either the side seam or front and back seams from the knee down to the ankle. All the seam lines would make them great for colour blocking too.
• Athina Kakou launched two new patterns in October. The Rachel Jumpsuit & Trousers has a slight 'modern overalls feel and those clean lines and wide legs which I am so drawn to at the moment. The Nikki Cardigan has two lengths, a wrap front and optional self fabric belt with loops.
• New from Merchant & Mills are the TN31 Parka and The Costermonger which is a market tote bag turned backpack with leather straps. The coat is a relaxed interpretation of the classic fish tail parka with a drawstring waist and ribbed bomber style collar which I love. It can be made lined or unlined and is a perfect match for their oilskin and outdoor fabrics. 
• Hey June Handmade released the Kendrick Overalls. I love these! The two views provide the option to make either with a high waisted, wide leg cropped trouser or high waisted fitted skirt. The bodice pieces are like super wide straps complete with bust darts for shaping.
• The new Babydoll Dress pattern from Simple Sew is currently available exclusively with this issue of Sew Now Magazine. It has a sixties vibe with a button back and gentle bell shaped sleeves.
• The Mystic Bra is the latest release from Orange Lingerie. This is a smooth, seamless t-shirt bra style with foam cups and underwire. The frameless design can be adapted to fasten in front. If you enjoy sewing lingerie this is a must have style for your wardrobe!
• Another bra pattern released this month is the Amethyst from Pin Up Girls at Bra Maker's Supply. It has foam cups and great lift and uses lace edging along the cups and band for a professional look.
• October's PDF pattern release from Sew Over It is the Jesse Coatigan. An unlined jacket with shawl collar, dropped shoulder and deep pockets this would be great made up in either a snuggly knit or wool woven. They also released their popular Coco Jacket PDF as a paper pattern. Inspired by the classic Chanel boucle tweed jacket this cropped style features princess seams, a two piece sleeve, full lining and optional braiding. A true timeless garment.
• New from Tilly & The Buttons are the Nora Top and Ness Skirt. Nora is a quick and easy modern take on the sweater with high neck or neck band and boxy shape with dropped shoulders. Ness is a classic straight fly front skirt with shaped waistband and curved back yoke. I particularly like the below knee version with front hem split.
• Sew Style Me released the Nikki Blazer, a collarless tailored style. I love the shaping of this with the princess seams, neat nipped in waist and pointed peplum. A really clever, slimming design.
• The new Merlo Field Tee from Sew House Seven has caught my eye as a great wearable basic with interesting details. I'd love to make it up in two colours of merino to layer under dungarees and pinafores in the colder months.
• Republique du Chiffon launched an absolutely gorgeous collection of six designs for the new season. My personal favourites are the Leonard Coat and the Debbie Dress made up in velvet for festive parties just like the sample. It has that effortlessly which French vibe to it. I'm also quite taken with the unusual Yeta Blouson Jacket which combines a classic notched collar with ribbed cuffs and hem. The collection also includes the Zelie Blouse, Jocelyne Dress and Louis Trousers. Currently avaiable in French only but English versions are coming very soon.
• The Thrifty Stitcher released her third print pattern for Sewing Quarter in the form of the Melissa Breton Tee. This is a wonderful basic to have multiple of in your wardrobe and would be particularly made up in a think knit with classic stripe. blog series of hacks and tips 
• Itch to Stitch released the Montana Shirt. If you're looking for a classic button up women's shirt to make this looks like a great pattern. It features flat felled seams, tower sleeve plackets and a yoke constructed with the burrito method for a professional finish. I love the option to make it with a tie front too!
• New from Sew Swimmingly is the Veronica Panty pattern which is the first in their SewSexy collection of lingerie. They are a low rise knicker with a cheeky fit and cut out detail at the rear of the waistline.
• Rosy Pena launched a new collection of seven designs! The FW18 Classic Collection consists of the Sarah Cami/Slip (for soft knit fabrics), the Mariah Blouse/Dress (with beautiful trumpet sleeves), the Juanita Jumpsuit (palazzo style), Olga Cardigan (with classic v-neck), Krystal Coat/Duster (with waterfall front), Gina Culotte (great in structured or drapey fabrics) and the Rosalinda Top/Dress (with mock roll-neck & deep armholes). My favourite of these is Juanita; I need a wrap style jumpsuit in my wardrobe pronto!
• The Eli Monster released the Danser Skirt which is a quick to make half circle skirt. It has a slim 1" waistband and fastens with a zip.
• New from DG Patterns is the Gilliane Cardigan and Raven Pyjamas Set. The cardigan is a loose fitting style with open front in two lengths with optional patch pockets. The pyjamas have multiple options for sleeve length, leg length and also the option to sew as a shirtdress style nightie. They also released the Rebecca Top and Dress which is a fit and flare knit style with cowl neckline.
• I missed this last month but The School of Making from Alabama Chanin have been releasing a number of their designs as stand alone paper patterns. My highlights include the Ezra Coat, the Wrap Dress, Factory Dress and Car Coat but make sure to check out the full range here.
• Alina Sewing & Design Co. released the Fulton Sweater Blazer which is an open front knit jacket in two lengths with a slim but not tailored fit. A great layering piece. My favourite elements of the design are the contemporary twist on a notched collar and the contrast facing inside the cuffs which is exposed when sleeves are rolled up.
• New from Swim Style is the Reversible String Bikini pattern. This is a classic bikini with halter neck tie and side ties on the briefs. Definitely a contender for my holiday wardrobe, technically two bikinis in one!
• iKatee Couture are a French company who make gorgeous sewing patterns for children and have just launched their first designs for women! Ida and Louise Mum are the grown up versions of two of their popular girls blouse designs. Both feature sweet ruffle and gathering details. The PDFs are available now with paper soon to follow.
• Wardrobe By Me added two new designs to their menswear collection. There's a classic Men's Tank Top with bound neckline and armholes and stretch Men's Boxer Briefs which can be made with either a double front lined crotch or fly crotch.

Pattern updates and expansions

• Tessuti have updated their incredibly popular Mandy Boat Tee to include a range of four sizes from XXS-XXL! They've also added the option fo making with three quarter length or full length sleeves and have improved the neckline shape. And it is still free to download! 
• Named released an add on for the Anni Building Block pattern they launched earlier this year. The original pattern already included three different bottom options and endless design combinations but now you can download the Anni Wrap Skirt for even more variety.
• True Bias re-released the Emerson Pant and Short pattern. It is now available in both printed and PDF format and has a new high rise option in addition to the original mid-rise.
• The Wardrobe By Me Komi Kimono Jacket has been updated to include more style options and an extended size range. 

Sew-alongs, Tutorials and Online Courses

• Also as part of her new Pattern of the Month feature Megan Nielsen has been posting a series of tutorials for her Karri Dress which includes tips for how to incorporate your fabric scraps into the garment and also add piping.
• Thread Theory are running a men's jeans sew-along which covers all the essential steps to sewing a classic pair of jeans and applies to both of their new jeans patterns.
• The Dreamstress has been running a sew-along for the Scroop Patterns Otari Hoodie. The posts guide you in choosing your fabric right through to the finishing details and will include some pattern hacks too.
• The Thrifty Stitcher will be posting a blog series of hacks and tips for making the most out of her new Breton Tee pattern. Head on over to her blog to check it out.
• The Sewing Workshop are running a sew-along on their blog for their recently released Picasso Top & Pants. The posts cover sewing up both elements of the outfit and include helpful tips on sewing that lovely pieced front of the top accurately. 

Upcoming!

• Melissa from Fehr Trade is currently testing her next activewear pattern.
• Next up in the new SewSexy line from Sew Swimmingly is the Veronica Bralette following on from the panty pattern which was recently released. I love the unusual neckline on this design.
• I've just made the Persephone Pants and am about as in love with them as the rest of the sewing community seem to be so I am excited to see that Anna Allen is currently working on new patterns for slim leg pants and jeans.
• Pipe Dream Patterns are currently testing the Tara Basics and Anya Basics patterns. Each a collection of knit styles with a variety of necklines, sleeves, bodies, dresses and tops between them.
• Elbe Textiles is working on a pattern for a unisex, oversized shirt with dropped shoulder.
• Emily from In The Folds is currently testing her next two patterns. They are both jackets and you can find a bit more information about them on her blog. They will be released alongside another pattern which was tested earlier this year.
• Ann Normandy is set to release The Shorts sewing pattern soon.
• You Made My Day Patterns are working on a funnel neck coat pattern just in time for the onset of the cold weather. A sneaky peak on Instagram shows a cute little pocket detail.
• The Sorrel Dress will be the next release from Jennifer Lauren Handmade and should be with us later this week. She also hinted at paper patterns coming soon too! 
• Ready To Sew have a new collection coming soon.
• Alice & Co Patterns are working on their next design - the Intrepid Boiler-suit. There have been some great tester versions popping up on Instagram!

Other Exciting News!

• Unfortunately Smyly Magazine is no more but the good news is the patterns are still available as part of Athina Kakou's range. Currently available as PDF downloads are Sheona, Abi, Lisa, and Samantha.

And to finish up, here's your monthly dose of indie sewing inspiration! Happy sewing!

• Jasika's striped linen In The Folds Peppermint Jumpsuit hacked to have a wrap front.
• I love the longer length of Karen's second Myosotis Dress. Florals on dark viscose bases are perfect for this time of year.
• Boots & Cats Katryna twist dress - mash up of Sew Easy In A Twist pattern and Plantain Tee
• Chloe's Ulysses Trench is astonishing! She used both sides of an Atelier Brunette jacquard to create this amazing shimmering creation.
• Zoe's Burnside Bibs are possibly my favourite so far. I've been resisting making myself a pair as I feel like my wardrobe has enough overalls but when I saw these in the flesh at the Fabric Godmother open day last month I was powerless to resist!