November Indie Pattern Update!

Following the hug October round-up this one feels almost as big! This month designers seem to have been focusing on providing us with lots of advice for sewing their new designs with handy tutorials and sew-alongs being posted. This is one of my favourite aspects of the indie pattern design community, the support and care provided to help you make something beautiful that you'll love. I learnt to sew using indie patterns and wouldn't have progressed anywhere near as quickly without the wealth of online help that is out there. Indie designers I appreciate all the hard work and time you put into creating this content! As well as the sew-alongs many designers had big Black Friday sales. I picked up a couple of patterns I'd had my eye on, did you?

New Patterns

• Louis Antoinette Paris released the Swing Dress and Blouse which has a classic shift shape with dramatic sleeves gathered into the shoulder and cuffs plus optional patch pockets. Great to showcase a special fabric.
• New from Jennifer Lauren Handmade is the Sorrel Dress; a clean, fresh and modern take on the classic shirt-waist dress. The pattern is currently available exclusively as part of the new kickstarter campaign to fund paper versions of her patterns. The campaign was nearly fully funded within one day so we can look forward to seeing those next year!
• Folkwear released the Lindy Shirtdress which is based on a classic 1940s day dress with pleats, darts and gathers cleverly used to create shape. The design features a shawl collar and elbow length cuffed sleeves.
• Megan Nielsen released four gorgeous new designs. I've just made up the Dawn Jeans and they are stellar; designed for non-stretch denim with a high rise and four cuts to choose from. Also launched were the Wattle Skirt and Jarah Sweater, both great for improving beginners. The Floreat Dress & Top features a fun asymmetric hemline and can be made in both woven and knit fabrics.
• Ready To Sew are nailing modern day workwear chic with their new collection. Jean-Paul is a boiler-suit/coverall with a relaxed fit and lots of lovely little details. A plethora of pockets, two sleeves to choose from and a pleat across the bust and back. The second release is James - a beautiful fisherman's smock. Traditionally made from sailcloth this is a classic piece of workwear with button fastening at the neck, interesting pocket options and plenty of decorative topstitching!
• The new patterns released with the November edition of Seamwork Magazine are the Elli Henley Top and Francis Coat. This month's issue includes three hacks for the top, including how to turn it into a dress and the member bonus is an add on for the coat which includes a hood with new neckline.
• The Perrine Trousers are the latest release from Coralie Bijasson at C'est Moi Le Patron. These are a classic tapered trouser with on trend contrasting stripe down the side seam. They'd also make a nice sewing challenge with Italian front pockets and rear welt pockets.
• The new downloadable releases from Mood Fabrics this month included the Maple Culottes Avelia Bomber Jacket, Azara Top, Brya Pants, Brassia Dress and the Poplar Overalls.
• I missed it last month but the new Adley Shirt from Alice and Ann is a classic beauty for pairing with slim legged trousers. I love the relaxed fit, squared off shirt tail hem and v-shaped partial placket. 
• Also last month, new to me pattern company Made By Jack's Mum released the Heyday Dungarees. I love this relaxed fitting style, perfect for sewing in linen and this particular pair feature tie on straps and the best thing about all overalls; plenty of pockets!
• Anne Kerdilès Couture released the Taormine Blouse and and Tromsø Coat. Taormine has a tiered bodice, option to make with a ruffled collar and keyhole fastening at the back of the neck. Tromsø is a classic straight fitting coat with single welt pockets, tailored sleeves and stand collar.
• Our Lady of Leisure released the Manhattan Skirt which would be a great choice of project for any of you who love topstitching as much as I do! It is a short style with hip pockets, curved waistband and central back zip fastening.
• New from Hot Patterns are the Serape Lounging Sweater and the Metropolitan Slouchy Coatigan; both perfect for getting cosy as the temperatures drop. My favourite is Serape with its v-shaped faux wrap neckline and short grown on sleeves. 
• Papercut Patterns released their Geo collection which is packed with stunning details. The six new gorgeous designs include the Ravine Dress (bias cut with a plunging back neckline), Pinacle Top/Sweater, Sierra Jumpsuit (wrap style and straight on my wish list), Fjord Cardi, Meridian Dress and Palisade Pants (which have amazing pockets). I'm now rethinking all my sewing plans!
• New from DG Patterns is the Aida Top and Dress which is a shift style with short dolman sleeves finished with a dramatic ruffle. I love the drama of this and my favourite view is the belted dress.
• Cashmerette launched the Pembroke Dress and Tunic. Designed for knits this is a t-shirt style with three neckline options to really change up the look and two sleeve finishes. I'm particularly taken with the optional tie belt which looks great colour blocked.
• The latest My Handmade Wardrobe pattern from Crafty Sew & So is the Ready to Party Dress. A classic princess seamed party dress with two neckline styles and two skirt options. My favourite is the wrap style pencil skirt!
• Fabrics Store released the Leena Dress which is a simple a-line shift style with pockets concealed in the side seams and ruffled little cap sleeves. They also released the Anna-Rose Knife Pleated Button Up Dress. Shape is created by knife pleats into the waist from both the bodice and skirt and I love how the puff sleeves add drama to the shape.
• Designer Stitch released the Harper Pants which promise a contemporary tailoring aesthetic but with the comfort of a yoga pant! Designed for heavier knits they have two leg widths and three style options including a centre front pin tuck.
• I don't often include patterns for children in the updates but thought it was worth mentioning that Style Arc are now doing a limited number of kids designs! At the moment there are three knit styles (the Sammi Sweatshirt, Lily Leggings and Billie T-Shirt) and one woven (the Andie Dress).
• New from Sew Different is the Geo Dress. It has a relaxed batwing shape with raglan seam lines that reach all the way down to the hip, incorporating deep pockets. The style lines also provide opportunity for interesting colour blocking.
• The Sew Over It PDF pattern release of the month was the Ava Skirt. A classic, simple and versatile a-line skirt with two hem lengths.
• Pattern Fantastique released the Calyx Smock which has a seventies utilitarian vibe. It is gathered around the neck with raglan sleeves and ties at the nape of the neck with a keyhole opening.
• New from Alice & Co is the Intrepid Boiler Suit. It has lovely utilitarian features including a centre front zip fastening, classic collar and patch breast, hip and rear pockets. 
• Trend Patterns released two new designs in November. TPC21 Dropped Shoulder Coat has an oversized shape and double breasted front with large lapels. TPC22 Raglan Dress is part of their basics collection. The front neck is gathered into a high collar which ties at the back and the lovely voluminous sleeves have an elasticated cuff. 
• The Medellin Top and Cartagena Cami are both new from Itch to Stitch. Both designed for knit fabrics Medellin is a faux wrap style that works in both lighter weight and heavier knits and the cami is a wonderful basic for layering with little spaghetti straps.
• Atelier Scammit released three new designs which have dozens of variations between them! The Bonjour Skirt is a simple flared style with elasticated waist and side seam pockets. The Merci Coat has a straight cut and options to make with or without collar, with a zip or button fastening and to add an elasticated back and pocket ruffles. The Petit Choses Dress or Blouse has a bohemian feel with gathered details and optional v-neck or keyhole at the front and full or open back options.
• If you're after a handmade gift idea for children the new pattern from Carolyn & Cassie could have been released at just the right time! The Kimberley Doll includes the rag doll pattern and a full seasonal wardrobe to make for her including accessories.
• Another great Christmas gift idea is the new Serpentine Hat pattern from Elbe Textiles. This fully lined design is completely reversible and has a wide brim. I think it could be a great make for me ahead of my safari holiday in the new year!
• New from Boho Banjo by Pearl Red Moon is the Zambeesie Jacket. It is an unlined collarless style formed of many pieces to create a pat work effect. I love the idea of the decorative seam treatment, turning them to the outside and topstitching. 
• Fehr Trade released the Kinetic Tee; a loose fitting activewear top packed with interesting seaming across the front and back which look great colour blocked. The intersecting panels create cut outs on the shoulder and collar bone. 
• New from Fresh Press Patterns is the Evi Dress A lovely contemporary, flattering design with belted waist, body skimming fit and shaped hemline. My favourite aspect is the button detail around the v-shaped neckline.
• The Lemon Drop Dress and Top is the latest release from Our Lady Of Leisure. This chic and wearable little number features a boat neckline, curved hem and grown on sleeves with cuffed hems.
• Not technically a new pattern release but a great little summer top; The Hemming posted a tutorial guiding you through the process of cutting and sewing the Trudie Top. A strappy little cropped style with ruffled lower edge.
• Experimental Space released the Casey Sweater. A pull over top that is comfy to wear but packed with details that make it a lot more visually interesting. The collar with button detail and long shaped cuffs are great for playing around with contrasting fabrics. 
• I adore the new release from Tessuti and might be adding it to my holiday sewing list. The Romy Top is a square-necked top with slim straps and a slightly a-line shape. Beautiful made up in either a crisp linen or soft viscose.
• The new Salida Skirt from True Bias might be making its way into my wardrobe just as quickly! Beautiful made up in more structured fabrics to show of the shape View A is a tapered knee length style with rear slit and view B is a flared midi length. Both variations have a high waist, front fly, hip pockets and slanted yoke.
• Paper Theory released the Olya Shirt; a gorgeous contemporary twist on a classic oxford style. The front yoke conceals the opening for the hidden breast pockets and also turns into the dolman sleeve which fits into an armhole at the back for shape. A very clever design also including a midi dress version with belt.
• Dhurata Davies released the Lulu Knickers pattern. The pattern teaches knit sewing techniques and three methods of elastic application as well as offering three views; the retro high waist, a lower rise and a thong.
• New from DG Patterns are the Leslie Cardigan (a cocoon style with a circular shape and dolman sleeves) and Gabby Top and Dress; the stand out feature of which is the choice of lovely long petal or dramatic open sleeves.
• In The Folds released another free pattern download in collaboration with Peppermint Magazine. This time a really gorgeous little Playsuit with a relaxed fit, front pockets and tie-up straps.
• The Anya Basic and Tara Basic are new knit styles from Pipe Dream Patterns. Sleeveless Anya can be made as a bodysuit, top or dress and has a round neck or low cowl neck to choose from. Similarly Tara can be made as a bodysuit, sweater or dress and has long sleeves and the choice between scoop neckline or high cowl collar.
• Hey June Handmade released the Brunswick Pullover. This cosy style is packed with options such as a cowl, hood and zipped sleeved pocket plus the choice to make cropped and with optional button plackets at the hem of the side seam.
• Jimmy is one of the latest patterns from Kommatia and is a homage to the iconic white t-shirt of the 1950s...but as a bodysuit! It has a simple snap closure at the crotch and slim bands to finish the neck, arm and leg holes. Their second release this month is Vox; an oversized t-shirt dress/tunic with a 'boyfriend' style fit.
• New from Untitled Thoughts is the beautiful Matilda Wrap Dress. A classic wrap and tie around the waist style designed for knits. I think this looks amazing in a stand out fabric like the velvet used for the sample.
• I AM Patterns released a new collection; I AM Friendly consists of five designs! Charlotte is a classic pencil skirt with button front and Delphine is a straight cut jacket designed to be lined in faux fur but you can also purchase a traditional lining add on. Patricia is a relaxed sweater with dramatic bell sleeves and Perle is a chic little wrap dress with slim ruffles along the front opening, neckline and cuffs. My favourite of the bunch is Perrine, a faux wrap skirt with lovely crisp angles in the front. I can't decide if I like the mini or midi length more!
• New from Atelier Vicolo No.6 and perfect for the recent change in weather is Brunhilde. This pattern can be sewn as a jacket or coat and features a side buttoning closure, skirt that gathers into the waist seam and kimono sleeves. They also released Isidora and Berta; two skirt patterns with button fronts, one with gathered tiers and the other with box pleats.
• Sew Swimmingly released the Veronica Bralette, the perfect match for their Veronica Panty. It is a strappy halterneck style with inverted neckline and includes the option to use cut & sew foam or a mesh lining. You can also sew it with a tie back as a swim top.

Pattern updates and expansions

• Colette re-released their Laurel Dress pattern and it is now available in their full size range of 0-26. The silhouette has been slightly updated and there is a new curvy version available for sizes 18 and above.
• Victory Patterns relaunched their Lola Dress; a sweater style with princess seams and inset pockets with bands to finish neck, hem and cuffs. It is now available in print again and has a revised fit and enhanced instructions.
• Waffle Patterns released an add-on for the Bamboo Coat. This new 'mini pattern' includes a stand collar and double welt pocket with invisible zip to mix and match with the options already included with the coat.
• Aime Comme Marie posted a tutorial with downloadable pattern pieces for adding a lovely pieced v-shaped detail to their Mécano Sweater. The V runs right across the sleeves and creates the opportunity for mixing fabric colours, textures and prints; they've even used sequins for one of the samples! 
• Tuesday Stitches launched a Sleeve Expansion Pack for their Ultraviolet Tee. It includes six new options including short sleeves, cuffed sleeves, batwing sleeves and sleeves with tabs.

Sew-alongs, Tutorials and Online Courses

• Alice and Ann have been posting a sew-along for their recently released Adley Shirt pattern. it guides you through all the little details to making your project a success including achieving neat neckline binding and cuffs.
• There have been sew-alongs running over on the Megan Nielsen blog for the Jarrah Sweater and Dawn Jeans; two of her four new pattern releases this month. The sew-along for Dawn in particular is a whopper, packed with advice for creating professional looking jeans.
• Grainline Studio are running holiday gift sew-alongs for both their Stowe Bag and Dopp Kit element of their Portside Travel Set. Both designs would be wonderful handmade gifts and as I've juts got into knitting I'm considering making a Stowe for myself! 
• Ready To Sew have posted step by step tutorials for both of their new designs. Full sew-alongs for both the Jean-Paul Boilersuit and the James Fisherman's Smock can be found on the tutorials section of their website and their instructions also feature clickable links to the relevant posts.
• Designer Stitch have posted a series of tutorials on how to fit their latest release, the Harper Pants as well as advice on sewing the rear welt pockets. 

Upcoming!

• Friday Pattern Company have two new patterns coming out in early December - the Adrienne Blouse and Joan Trousers. 
• As well as the oversized unisex Cornell Shirt pattern, Elbe Textiles are currently working on a new zero waste dress pattern which I'm very intrigued by.
• Sugardale have been running a Kickstarter Campaign for their first collection of patterns. The designs all feature functional and flattering pockets. The Len Coveralls, Evelyn Overalls and Hilda Skirt make a gorgeous trio. Check out Trista's Instagram to see more.
• Maternity Sewing are a resource for all maternity and postpartum friendly patterns and are currently working on a design of their own; the Infinity Dress.
• The next release from Half Moon Atelier will be the Wrap Top Vondel, looking forward to seeing this one!
• Helen from Helen's Closet is working hard on her next new pattern. It will be a layering piece that will work well with her York Pinafore or Blackwood Cardigan.
• Common Stitch are working on their first menswear pattern!
• Made by Rae are working on their next pattern; the Rose Pants. Featuring a flat front, elasticated back waistband, high rise and wide leg these look both comfortable and chic.
• The next Charm Patterns launch from Gertie is on the way! The Jane Set promises a rockabilly vibe and lots of mix and match elements. I love the jumpsuit version she shared a peek of on Instagram.
• Bayron Handmade currently sell knitting patterns but are working on their first sewing design! Named the Phoenix Jumpsuit it looks like it will be bang on trend and perfect for layering.
• The new pattern from The Thrifty Stitcher, Dawson, is set for launch on the Sewing Quarter on Monday. I've been following the develop of this lovely pattern with feature darts on Instagram.

Other Exciting News!

• Breaking the Pattern - the new book from Named is out now! I got my hands on a copy at their London launch and have only praise for it. There are an extraordinary number of gorgeous designs included and I love the the patterns are available as PDF downloads so you don't have to trace off the layered pattern sheets at the back of the book.
• Blue Dot Patterns released their first paper patterns this month. A milestone in any indie designer's journey! Their Coffeehouse Pant and Margo Blouse are the first to be launched.
• Closet Case Patterns set up a resource library to house all their free ebooks, pattern add ons and downloadable tutorials all in one place! Newsletter subscribes receive the password to access this fantastic wealth of sewing goodies.
• The Sew House Seven Nehalem Pant & Skirt pattern is now avaiable in paper format. I was just eyeing this pattern up the other day for my holiday!
• Helen's Closet just announced they will be extending their size range into plus sizes in 2019!
• The Maven Patterns Barcelona Dress is now available in printed format. This would be great made up in a fancy fabric for the party season.

As always feel free to let me know about anything I may have missed in the comments and I'll update! The Sew Frosting challenge has certainly made my blog and Instagram feeds a delight to view this month and I've also been inspired by all the rich autumnal and festive colours popping up! Here's a few of the things that have been inspiring me to get your December sewing motivation going.

• Emanuelle's burgundy suit with oversized Amsterdam Blazer from Oraguese and the slim Clover Pants from Colette is totally inspired! So chic and modern and a lovely rich colour.
• Lori's colour blocked Blackwood Cardigan is so cool! I never would have thought to do this to this pattern and I love the combination of colours. She's also switched up the pocket construction which is really clever.
• Jasika took the Sew Frosting challenge and ran with it! She made this jumpsuit using the Winslow Culottes and strapless bodice pattern from one of Gertie's books. The fabric she's chosen makes the most incredible sculptural shape.
• Abolaji's Instagram feed is so inspiring as she gets so creative with the patterns she uses. This version of the Wiksten Kimono is no exception, dramatically lengthened and sewn up in a reversible wool knit.
• If I didn't already have a coat I adore in my wardrobe I'd be making the Opium Coat and after seeing Michelle's beautiful version I'd probably be copying and making it in a rich red! What a gorgeous job she has done.