Sewing patterns have come along a great deal since I first started making my own clothes back in 2007 (!). In fact, there are so many patterns out there currently that I would have loved to have tried and I really wish that I’d had access to. But let’s not digress.
If you or anyone you know is looking for an easy-ish sewing pattern, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourites. Some are tried and tested and some have been on my ‘to make’ list for ages, but look simple enough to make. All of the patterns below are perfect starter projects for newbies.
This dress was actually a freebie with Love Sewing magazine but it’s such a great make that the magazine rereleased the pattern a few months ago. I got mine on its original run but stashed it away for a future make. Recently I found some fabric I didn’t have a use for and, on a break from another sewing project, I decided to make it.
I’m glad I did as I really love the shape of the dress and it has a great circle skirt. One major thing I’d change (and should have done differently this time but I didn’t have enough fabric) is lengthen the skirt considerably. I really don’t like the dress length at all and even in the drawings it appears to be short. I think that’s even why I didn’t use the dress pattern straightaway. Looking at these photos I think next time I’ll also lengthen the bodice. I wonder whether other people have felt the need to lengthen the pattern?
I’m definitely planning to make more Rubies, especially as they’re perfect for the hot weather that we’ve been having lately! I guess next time I’ll order far more fabric to be able to make these changes.
