How Our New Size Ranges Work

You may have noticed that for our first patterns of 2021 we have increased our size ranges. This is something I have wanted to do for a while now, but with wearing so many hats running a business it has meant that this project has had to go on the back burner while dealing with everything else. 

One of the upsides to the COVID 19 pandemic is that I have had more time to work on projects that had been shelved, as we were unable to run workshops or attend shows. 

This has meant I could focus on increasing our size range. We really wanted to be as inclusive as we possibly could as we know how important and empowering it can be to make and wear your own clothes, whatever shape or size you are.

So we have created two size ranges to better reflect the body shapes of our customers – Misses and Curvy.

Misses is drafted to a C cup size and starts at a UK 8 going up to a UK 20

Curvy is drafted to a DD cup size and starts at a UK 18 going up to a UK 30

The Curvy is drafted so there is less of a difference between the bust, waist and hips reflecting a fuller waist and hip in relation to the bust measurement. And the Misses is drafted for a shape with a greater difference between the bust waist and hip. These measurements are based on anthropometric data gathered to create a better fit for each size. 

Having two separate size ranges means we can better cater for the customised changes better suited to each size range. For example, some styles will be better with bust darts for a large cup size. Having separate patterns layouts and instructions means it is much easier for us to include these small nuances to each size range to help you make better fitting clothes. 

The body measurements of each size range are below.

There is a slight overlap with the sizes 18 and 20, so it is best to go with what you know about your own body, if you have a slightly fuller waist or cup size, then opt for the Curvy range as you will have a slightly larger waistline in relation to the bust and hip already incorporated into the pattern sizes. 

You can still blend between sizes to make sure you get a better fit. For Dresses and Tops choose the size that is closest to your bust measurement and cup size, and for Trousers and Skirts choose the size that matches your waist to hip ratio.

All our patterns from January 2021 will be drafted to our new size ranges. So you will be able to choose which one you purchase or download. I hope the changes we have made will enable more people to make up and enjoy our patterns.

Happy Sewing!

Jules x

Dairy-Free Brookies Recipe

Brookies, Brownies, Cookies, Dairyfree, Dairy-Free, Recipe

I first heard about Brookies from Lily Pebbles, a blogger who’s sister created this dairy-free brownie-cookie hybrid. They’re squidgy, chocolatey, stunning and easy to make, this recipe makes around 70, although they will probably be gobbled up pretty quickly!

Here’s what you’ll need:

85g good quality cocoa powder
400g caster sugar
125ml vegetable oil
eggs
teaspoons vanilla extract
250g plain flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
60g icing sugar
100g white chocolate chips (optional)


Prep: 20 min 
Cook: 12 min

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together the cocoacaster sugar and vegetable oil. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Combine the flourbaking powder and salt; stir into the cocoa mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips. Cover dough, and chill for at least 4 hours.
  2. Preheat oven to 180 c/ gas mark 4. Line baking trays with parchment. Pour icing sugar onto a plate and using a metal tablespoon, spoon and roll mixture into 2.5cm balls coating each one with the icing sugar before placing onto prepared trays (I find it easiest to roll them on the plate of icing sugar).
  3. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Let them stand on the baking tray for a minute before transferring to wire racks to cool.

Emma 🙂

Get to know the SMS team

JULES, Chief Cook and Bottle Washer (left)

Do you sew? If so, what do you sew?
Yes, actually I can’t remember a time when I didn’t know how to sew. Clothes mainly but I’ll give anything a go.

Tea or coffee?
Coffee absolutely! It has to be Monsoon Estates Nicaraguan Elephant (when I can get it) 

Favourite cake?
Rose and Pistachio it’s like the cake version of Turkish Delight!

The last book you read?
After it Happened – I like a bit of Post Apocalyptic Dystopian Future fiction – because you never know!

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A vet after I watched all Creatures Great and Small, but then I realised how long I would have to study for so decide on being a Fashion Designer instead. 

Your favourite cereal?
Skandi Noir

What’s on your Christmas wish list?
More house plants – I want to live in  a jungle!

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RACHEL, Production Assistant  (second from left)

Do you sew? If so, what do you sew?
My degree was in Fashion Design and back then I used to sew, pattern cut etc but as my career progressed I moved into more the digital design side of the industry! I am hoping to get back into sewing when moved into my new home. 

Tea or coffee?
Depends, I’m partial to a coffee in the morning and then tea throughout the day.

Favourite cake?
So hard to decide, I love everything and I LOVE baking. Salted caramel cake is delicious 

The last book you read?
French children don’t throw food by Pamela Druckerman, my friend gifted this to me to read during my pregnancy.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A vet or a wedding dress designer. I did work experience at both and realised that vets didn’t spend much time with the animals so went down the fashion path instead. 

Your favourite cereal?
Porridge or crunchy nut cornflakes

What’s on your Christmas wish list?
National Trust membership, Lucy & Yak Dungarees

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SHARON, Sous Chef and Bottle Dryer (second from right)

Do you sew? If so, what do you sew?
Yes, I sew my own clothes in my Sheshed, I also like to make things for the home.

Tea or coffee?
Tea, I have just discovered Yorkshire Biscuit tea, however I do love a strong coffee in the morning.

Favourite cake?
Has to be Battenburg, I love all things marzipan

The last book you read?
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, which is my 38th book this year, my goal is 40

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a Journalist, as I do like to know everything

Your favourite cereal?
Weetabix with a sliced Banana

What’s on your Christmas wish list?
As it’s also a significant birthday for me, I am keeping everything crossed for a coverstitch machine and Ernest Wright scissors.

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EMMA, Digital Marketing Assistant (right)

Do you sew? If so, what do you sew?
Yes, I like to upcycle clothes so I rarely make anything from scratch. It’s a challenge but I love creating new clothes with as little environmental impact as possible.

Tea or coffee?
Tea, always! Either english breakfast or mint.

Favourite cake?
Anything with chocolate, even better if it’s got some salted caramel.

The last book you read?
Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I really wanted to be an archeologist, I’m not sure why as I didn’t really enjoy history, I think I liked the idea of discovering things.

Your favourite cereal?
Curiously Cinnamon, it’s so sweet it’s basically dessert!

What’s on your Christmas wish list?
Some Lucy & Yak dungarees, and a label maker.

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CLAIRE Sample Sewist, Sewing Tutor. At home: Mum, chef, dog walker (centre)

Do you sew? If so, what do you sew?
Yes, I learnt to dress make when I was a teenager, it was cheaper to make clothes than buy them back in the 80’s! I still make clothes but rather like quilting now.

Tea or coffee?
Tea

Favourite cake?
Victoria Sponge

The last book you read?
All The Light We Cannot See. Anthony Doerr

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A fashion designer

Your favourite cereal?
I don’t usually eat cereal, I’m a toast girl

What’s on your Christmas wish list?
Long socks, headphones & champagne truffles!

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CHARLIE, Videographer (we couldn’t pin him down)

Do you sew? If so, what do you sew?
I leave most of the sewing to Jules, but I’ve had a go and made a cushion and a little bag. I’ve cut out a Throw It All In Bag… but not sewn it up yet. Maybe 2021 will be the year to do that. 

Tea or coffee?
First tea, then coffee, then tea, then coffee, then tea, then coffee… preferably with cake. 

Favourite cake?
Quantity. 

The last book you read?
David Attenborough – A Life On Air, as an audiobook. Totally recommended, he’s had an amazing life. 

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I was six foot by the time I was 5, so it’s been a long time since I was little. But as a young child I wanted to be in the army, like my Dad. Then a vet. Then an environmental scientist. Then a photographer… 

Your favourite cereal?
Oats – whether as porridge, or in flapjacks, or crumble…

What’s on your Christmas wish list?
Some time off not shooting videos, photos, or editing them. And a nice walk. 

Christmas Recipes from the SMS team

JULES
Traditional Christmas Cake

Why is it great?
We make a Christmas cake every year, it’s a classic recipe and my kids love decorating it.

Tell us how to make it
4 tablespoons brandy
4 tablespoons port
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
good pinch salt
300g raisins
250g currants
250g sultanas
75g chopped mixed peel
10g almonds, chopped (skin-on)
½ orange zest
½ lemon zest
175g self-raising flour, sifted
175g soft-dark brown sugar
175g butter, softened
4 medium eggs

The day before you intend to bake the cake, measure out the brandy and port, into a large saucepan.

Then add the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, dried fruits, mixed peel, nuts and zest’s. Now stir and bring the mixture up to simmering point, then, keeping the heat low, simmer very gently for 10 minutes. After that allow everything to cool then pour the mixture into an airtight plastic container and leave it in a cool place overnight. Remember to take the butter out of the fridge so it will soften.

When you are ready to bake the cake, pre-heat the oven to 140°C, gas mark 1.

All you do is measure out the flour, sugar and softened butter into a very large mixing bowl then add the eggs and with an electric whisk, beat until everything is evenly blended. (Use a wooden spoon if you don’t have an electric whisk). Now use a large metal spoon to gradually fold in the fruit mixture until it’s all evenly distributed. Then spoon the mixture into the prepared tin, levelling the surface with the back of the spoon.

Finally cover the top of the cake with a double square of parchment paper with a 50p-size hole in the centre (this gives extra protection during the long slow cooking).

Bake the cake in the centre of the oven for 4 hours until it feels springy in the centre when lightly touched. Cool the cake for 45 minutes in the tin, then remove it to a wire rack to finish cooling. When it’s completely cold, wrap in double greaseproof paper and then foil and store in an airtight tin or polythene box.

SHARON, Office Manager
Amaretto & Cranberry Christmas Cocktail

Why is it great?
Easy to make, only 2 ingredients. I love everything marzipan. Tastes just like a cherry bakewell.

Tell us how to make it
50 ml Amaretto 150 ml Cranberry Juice, add ice cubes 

RACHEL, Production Assistant
Shortbread from ‘The Cookbook’

Why is it great?
My nan used to make it for us every year with some tweaks and now my mum has taken over, it’s a wonderful shortbread recipe, tastes amazing! 

Tell us how to make it
225g Butter
100g Icing sugar
225g flour
100g cornflour
Pinch of salt

  1. Preheat oven to 170c or 145c fan 
  2. Cream fat and sugar thoroughly until soft and light.
  3. Gradually work in flour and cornflour and knead until smooth.
  4. Press into a tin 30 x 20cm
  5. Bake for 30-40 mins

EMMA, Marketing Assistant
Port-soaked Apricots with smoked bacon

Why is it great?
My mum’s made these for years, and has always been complimented on them.  They’re great as Christmas party nibbles, with Christmas dinner and with the post-dinner buffet.

Tell us how to make it
24 dried apricots
150ml port
12 rashers of smoked bacon
a little oil for brushing

  1. Put the apricots in a bowl with the port and soak overnight in a lidded container.
  2. Halve the bacon rashers lengthways. Place apricot at one end of the bacon rasher and roll up. Place in a lightly greased oven dish.
  3. Brush with a little oil and cook at 200 C / Gas 6 for 20 minutes or until golden

Sewing With Sequins

It’s time for a bit of Sparkle and Glamour on the run up to Christmas. I’ve been busy making my Christmas day outfit and wanted to show you that you really don’t need to be scared of working with “tricky” fabrics like sequins and velvet.

I have used our ‘everyday’ Regan Sweatshirt pattern but in a fabulous fabric combo. I think this is spot-on for the perfect Christmas Day top. Comfortable and relaxed but with a bit of sparkle. It would look great paired with the Ariel Cargo pants for some informal glamour. Or maybe even a pair of soft wool Portia trousers. Obviously with comfy socks and slippers too!

Why don’t you try making a simple pattern but with some glamorous fabrics to see you through the Christmas season. We have the whole project plus tutorials on how to work with sequins and velvet in the Technical Library section of our online Subscription Club; The Sewing Studio.

Join The Sewing Studio community here

Happy Sewing!
– Jules

The Ultimate Gift Guide to Support Small Businesses


This year, more than ever, it’s important to support small and local businesses through the festive season.

We’re spreading the love to some of our fellow independent businesses so that you can find the perfect gift while still shopping small.  There’s something for everyone, whether you’re buying for friends, family, little ones or just looking to treat yourself, which we all deserve this year.

Abode Livingfor someone with a beautiful home, look no further!  Abode stock a range of homeware products from candles to tableware, and they’re open for online delivery.

PaperSmiths – for that person who is *obsessed* with stationary, this is the perfect shop. They sell pens, notebooks, diaries, the whole lot!  Perfect for getting organised for the new year.  And, the online orders are wrapped beautifully so there’s less wrapping for you!

Shakespeare Distillery – for someone who likes a tipple, this is one of our local favourites, a small gin distillery where every beautiful bottle is handcrafted in a small batch.  They come in a variety of flavours, the Mulberry gin would make the perfect Christmas treat!

Berry Lune – for the person you’re struggling to buy for, take a look around the BeryLune website, they stock a wide range of gift ideas, from unique ornaments and homeware to skincare, books and stationery.

Little Pricks – for someone who’s plant-obsessed or someone who could add some extra greenery to their space. Choose from a range of quirky pots and planters and then select your plant of choice.

Lindsay King Design – for someone who likes colour, this Etsy shop sells beautiful handmade products in busy, colourful designs. We love the handpainted teacups!

Junior Edition – for the kids, this is the one-stop-shop for gifts! They sell a variety of clothes, books and toys at a range of prices, you’re going to find what you’re looking for here, promise!

Stitchfinity – for someone who likes to get crafty, these cute cross stitch kits make thoughtful gifts and great stocking fillers.  Or, make one into a card to send to friends and family you’re not able to see in person this year.

Wildfloss – for someone who likes to get even more crafty, these beautiful embroidery kits make great DIY gifts.

Chapter Clothing – for the hard-to-buy-for men in your life, Chapter sells a range of menswear and accessories, including a great selection of socks, because when in doubt, buy them socks!

Beth Pegler – for someone who likes unique jewellery, this is one of Jules’ favourites, you may have spotted her wearing these beautiful textile necklaces in our live streams, and now you know where to get your own.

Sighh – for teenage girls stocking fillers, Sighh sells pretty stationery, keyrings and accessories with empowering messages. The mirror decals make lovely unique gifts.

Monsoon Estates – for the caffeine addict, this locally made artisan coffee is seriously good. You can choose between a bag, as a little gift or addition to a hamper, or a subscription so they can enjoy your gift all year round.

Bear & Bloom – for whimsical hand-painted prints, Bear & Bloom make lovely posters and prints that look great in kids bedrooms, all beautifully wrapped and with a little gift in every order.

Bahari Blu – for someone who’s missing holidays, this handcrafted sea glass jewellery makes a gorgeous gift, and is made sustainably!

Sniff and Bark – for your pampered pooch, Sniff and Bark have plenty of adorable accessories for your pet from dog bowls to cosy coats, and they now offer a click & collect service.

And of course, if you’re still struggling for ideas you can always make them a Sew Me Something project.  We have plenty of fun projects and kits, make a tie, an infinity scarf or zippy bag, all available in the shop.  Or find courses for these and more in The Sewing Studio.

Why I love Linen

I love linen. Those who know me or who have been to a workshop, or even seen us at a show will already know this. Most of the patterns I design are with some kind of linen in mind. It’s my favorite fabric of all time. 

For many years I was a fashion lecturer and mainly dressed in the required uniform of a fashionista- black. Being involved in Fashion back then meant some incursion into the latest trends and fabrics. Which were usually “technical” and basically means man-made. There was very little ‘Natural’ anything including fabrics.

Escaping from that environment allowed me to rediscover the freedom of natural fibres. They take colour so well and feel just gorgeous next to your skin, there really is no substitute. Wearing linen is like wearing a breath of fresh air. It is light and breathable much more so than cotton. 

Durable

Linen is known to be the world’s strongest natural fibre and far more durable than cotton. In fact it has been shown to be up to 30% stronger than cotton. This is due to the length of fibres within the plant. As the fibres are twisted together the longer fibres are much less likely to break making the yarn much stronger than the yarn made from the shorter fluffier fibres of the cotton plant. 

A cotton t-shirt may last a couple of seasons but a beautifully made linen dress will last years. Think about the textiles you may have had handed down to you, I’m sure there will be a linen tablecloth or some bed linen in there. 

Easy to care for

Linen is incredibly easy to look after. It can be washed by hand or in the washing machine. You can even tumble dry it, but to be honest that probably isn’t the most eco-friendly way to dry linen. For the best results I dry my linen clothing on the line outside when I can. Pegged out properly linen clothes will dry beautifully flat and require minimal ironing. 

Yes it does crease a bit, but modern prewashed or laundered linen is much softer and will not crease much at all. And besides, the warmth from your body will help to relax the fabric and allow the creases to just melt away. 

I feel the creases should be embraced as part of the natural charm of the fabric. I try hard to rock  the ‘Crumpled Look’ now as opposed to the ‘Corporate Look’ these days. 

Hypoallergenic

Many people will have noticed that wearing different fibers can cause irritation and discomfort. This is not the case with linen. Fibres such as cotton allow moisture to stay trapped within its fibres creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. 

Linen’s hollow fibres allow moisture to be absorbed and wicked away from the skin quickly. These same hollow fibres enable air to circulate around the moisture so it can evaporate effectively leaving you feeling cool and comfortable. 

Versatile

Linen is a fabulous allrounder, and I do indeed wear it all year round. The hollow fibres mentioned previously help to keep you cool in the summer by wicking away moisture but then help to trap air next to the skin in the winter helping to maintain an even body temperature keeping you warm. 

Whereas cotton or wool might make you feel warm initially, they can cause you to sweat as well. Linen’s breathability allows the excess heat to disperse keeping you at a comfortable temperature. 

The flax/ linen fibres can also be made into a variety of different types and weights of fabrics making it incredibly versatile to work with. From heavier weight linen for workwear style jackets and trousers to the finest, softest linen for baby clothes and christening gowns it makes up beautifully and is a delight to sew with. 

Sustainable

The flax plants from which linen is derived is a hardy plant and will grow in even poor soil. It requires much less water to produce linen from the flax plant, unlike cotton, and far fewer pesticides are used in its cultivation making it a more sustainable crop to grow and more Earth friendly too. Flax / linen fibres can be processed without the use of chemicals so it’s a win – win as far as I’m concerned. 

If you haven’t tried working with linen you really should! And you should definitely be wearing some this summer at the very least. 

Have a look at the linen fabrics we have in stock, I’m sure there’s something that will take your fancy.  I have another linen project on the go right now!

Happy sewing with Linen

Jules x

Models required!

There has been rather a lot going on behind the scenes at Sew Me Something over the last few months. Some of which you know about and some you don’t – yet!

Lockdown has given a lot of people headspace and time to think and re-evaluate, including me. 

One of the things we have been re-assessing is our sizing. We have increased our size range gradually and hopefully more people have found it to their liking. But I have had a complete overhaul of our sizing system, something I have been wanting to do for ages and now I think we are in a much better place with it all. I will be writing more blogs on what we’ve done and how it’s changed later, but for now I have a special request. 

To reflect our change in sizing we want to find women that epitomise this. Real women, people like YOU.

Our style and ethos remain the same – relaxed, comfortable clothing for stylish, modern women. 

We are looking for new models to help us showcase our patterns, and we have lots planned for the future. It doesn’t matter what size you are as our patterns now go from a UK size 8 up to a UK size 30. We just want ladies that have a bit of sass about them and are happy in front of a camera. This is a paid gig. We don’t expect anyone to give up their time for free to do this. You will also need to be within easy reach of our Studio in Stratford upon Avon as that is where we hold the photoshoots. 

All you need to do is:

Tell us a bit about yourself in 100 words or less. 

Send us full length images of yourself, front, back and side views 

Let us know your:

Height

Bust

Waist

Full hip measurements. 

Send all your information to Jules at jules@sewmesomething.co.uk

This will be a lot of fun and I’m really looking forward to meeting you. 

Jules x

We’re Hiring – Production Assistant

Vacancy - Production Assistant

The lockdown situation and postponement of all our workshops has allowed me time to reflect and consider where we are, what we are doing and how we are going to move on from this.

First and foremost the reason Sew Me Something exists is to help people. I firmly believe that this is, or should be, the purpose behind every business. We strive to help as many people as we can learn to sew and make the clothes they really want to wear by creating easy to use dressmaking patterns, running workshops and providing quality fabrics and haberdashery. 

It has become clear over the last few months to me and the rest of the team that we can reach far more people, and help far more people, by being more focussed online which is why I created the Sewing Studio. The tutorials, videos and in depth courses can be, and indeed are watched by people all over the world who would never be able to join us in person. 

So now is the time to grow our team and invite someone to join us and help us to help more people learn and develop their sewing skills and techniques. 

I am looking for an assistant. Someone to work with me to help create and produce new products including new patterns and courses. 

This person will need to have a specific skills set. Ideally I am looking for someone who can pattern cut, have a good working knowledge of adobe software including Illustrator and InDesign and who knows about sewing. 

They will need to be an excellent communicator and extremely organised as we have a lot to do!

The post would ideally be full time but we may consider a part time post for the right candidate. We are located on a farm just outside Stratford upon Avon, so the new team member will need to have their own transport and a clean driving licence. 

When the world returns to semi-normal we will return to exhibiting at shows, so some travel away from home will be required as the shows are a team event. But it is a brilliant opportunity to meet our wonderful customers face to face and so gain better insight into who we serve. 

For more information about the role and how to apply click on the WORK WITH US section of our website. 

I look forward to meeting you. 

Jules x

Why I Love My Sewing Gauge

Measuring ah hem with a sewing gauge
It’s brilliant at remembering measurements with its little red slider.

I have had my sewing gauge for quite some time now. In fact I can’t actually remember purchasing it or even when it came to live in my sewing box it’s been around for so long. But I wouldn’t be without it now.

I always have it with reach, next to my machine or over on the ironing board. Tape measures are great particularly when worn as a skinny fashion accessory around your neck, but a proper metal sewing gauge is just that bit easier to pick up and use. Especially when it has that lovely little red slider that will remember how deep your hem is even if you forget. 

But this is also a Multi Tool! Measuring is only one of its many uses. I love the point at the end which is perfect for using as a point turner and pushing out little corners. It is pointy enough but with a rounded tip so it won’t poke through your fabric.  

The funny horseshoe shape at the other end is actually a button shank spacer. Yes who knew that was even a thing! There are two of them so you can use it ‘double height’ or slide one out of the way if you have a smaller button to sew on. Laying the button over the top of the horseshoe and sewing through the gap will lift the button off the fabric slightly. So you can wind the sewing thread around the thread shank to allow the opposite side of  the garment to sit nice and flat underneath the button when it’s buttoned up. How fabulous is that!

You can even use this wonderful invention to draw circles just like a pair of compasses. The outer corners of the little red slider have a hole in them so you can pop a pin through that to hold it in place at the centre of your soon to be drawn circle. Just under the point of the sewing gauge there is another slightly larger hole, you can put your marker pen through this hole to draw out the circle ready for cutting out. Genius!

You really need one of these in your sewing kit and to make more use of it. So if you haven’t got one already, You can. . . .

Buy Yours Here!