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Friday Pattern Company ∙ The Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern Review

Posted on July 12, 2021

My obsession with puff sleeves continues so as soon as The Sagebrush Top by Friday Pattern Company was released I just knew that I had to make it!

Friday Pattern Company Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern BlogI've seen some fabulous versions over on Instagram including ginghams, florals, stripes as well as plains and this style works really well in them all.

Friday Pattern Company Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern ReviewAfter a lot of deliberating I decided on a Nani Iro stripe called Libero. I wanted to use a fabric with a subtle design and this almost black stripe on dark grey is perfect.

Friday Pattern Company Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern ReviewI usually gravitate towards styles that are pared back but with an interesting detail so puff sleeves are quite a step change for me. I felt that the ruffle along the front yoke was a step too far for me personally, so I chose to leave this off which still works well. I've seen other versions were the ruffle has been replaced by piping which also looks good.

Friday Pattern Company Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern ReviewThis top was a joy to make, the instructions are really clear and easy to follow and there are helpful illustrations too. In terms of sizing I'm a UK size 8 and I made the XS size which fitted me perfectly with no alterations.Friday pattern Company Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern ReviewThe top has ties at the back which are another lovely detail, it also means that there are no buttonholes or zips to worry about and means that it's suitable for beginners, that said I think more experienced sewists would also enjoy making this style.

Friday Pattern Company Sagebrush Top Sewing Pattern Review

Friday Pattern Sagebrush Top Sewing ReviewThe Sagebrush Top is really wearable, not only that it's a style that's prefect for taking you from day to evening. I'll definitely be making more...

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Make Nine 2021

Posted on January 21, 2021

This year I wanted to try a more planned approach to my sewing projects and decided to join in with the #MakeNine2021 Challenge on Instagram. This challenge made me really think about the garments that I want to make, and secondly I'm hoping it will encourage me to find some valuable sewing time!

If you're not familiar with the #MakeNine Challenge, it was established in 2015 over on Instagram and is described as 'a gentle self-guided challenge for makers'. The founder, Rochelle, was inspired by the "Best Nine" hashtag and instead of looking at her best nine photos from the past year she decided to look to the future and share nine projects that she wanted to make in the future. If you'd like to join in it's not too late, you can find out more by clicking here.

Pictured below are my final nine choices....

Make Nine 2021 Sewing PatternsHaving chosen the styles that I'd like to make, I've tentatively paired these with fabrics that I think would work well. 

Starting with the top row and working from left to right:

1. Edie Top & Dress (Merchant and Mills) - I love the balloon sleeves on this otherwise simple top and dress pattern, they're all that's needed to create a standout style.

Merchant and Mills Edie Top & Dress Sewing PatternI haven't decided yet whether I'll make the top or dress, or possibly both! However, initial fabric choices include Nani Iro's Waltz design which is printed on a soft cotton double gauze; or possibly Robert Kaufman's Indigo Denim 4.5oz.

2. Cielo Top & Dress (Closet Core) -  another style with an (optional) statement sleeve! This pattern is really quite versatile, you can choose to make a fairly simple boxy tee or shift dress with a cuffed short sleeve or for a more statement look choose the gathered longer sleeve which is shown pictured below.

Closet Core Cielo Top & Dress Sewing PatternI have a definite look in mind for the top, inspired by a version made by French blogger Julie (@joliesbobines on Instagram) in a silk organza which she modified by adding an elasticated cuff to the sleeve to create a more dramatic statement sleeve. The fabric that I have in mind is the Kokka Seersucker Bubble fabric in Black which is semi-transparent and has a fabulous three dimensional quality to it with some structure.

The long sleeve dress would also look good made in our 8oz Denim in Black or Washed Indigo.

3. Cuff Dress (The Assembly Line) - the Cuff Top remains one of my favourite patterns and the dress version has been on my list to make since it was launched last year.

The Assembly Line Cuff Dress Sewing PatternThis style looks great, as shown above, in a plain fabric but I also think it would work equally well in a pattern. I like the idea of something to make a statement and think it would look fantastic made in Nani Iro's Chant et Poesie in Pinks and Blues. I also think it would look in the laundered linens by Merchant and Mills, in particular Scuttle Black, or the new lightweight denim by Robert Kaufman. Another possibility is the Homespun Essex Linen fabrics by Robert Kaufman, the woven structure of this particular weave would create subtle added interest.

Middle row left to right:

4. V-Neck Jumpsuit (The Assembly Line) - the relaxed fit of this jumpsuit is what clinched it for me, plus it looks like a great first make for this type of garment and is classed as suitable for beginners.

The Assembly Line V-Neck Jumpsuit Sewing PatternI like the idea of using either one of the Washed Cotton Twills by Mind the MAKER or for a lighter weight version any one of the Laundered Linens by Merchant and Mills would be lovely for spring/summer.

5. Wilder Gown & Top (Friday Pattern Company) - I made the top last summer which I really enjoyed making, so much so that I'd love to make another one.

Friday Pattern Company Wilder Top & Dress Sewing PatternI'm undecided as to whether it'll be another top or the dress version at this stage, or possibly both. For the top I'm looking at Nani Iro's Birds Eye design, an abstract equivalent of a ditsy floral which would look great in any of the colourways. I've seen some lovey linen versions of the dress on Instagram and that would be my choice too. 

6. Mersis Dress & Top (Pattern Fantastique) - this brand are relatively new to me, it was this style that first alerted them to me. Of course it's those statement sleeves again...

Pattern Fantastique Mersis Dress & Top Sewing PatternI'll be adding these patterns to our collection in mid February. If you'd like to reserve a copy of the above pattern please email me via the Contact Page. I love this style exactly as is, so will be looking to make this in a linen such as the Sweeps Scrim Laundered Linen by Merchant and Mills.

Bottom row left to right:

7. The Pocket Dress (Nani Iro) - from the Nani Iro Sewing Book, this style has a beautifully designed unique silhouette, the clever use of buttons down the back creates a subtle waistline but at the same time it has a relaxed fit.  

Nanni Iro The Pocket Dress

I think this shape would work well in a multitude of fabrics, and it works particularly well as a print vehicle. The Zebra Print by Kokka Fabrics would look great, however if you prefer as more understated look then any one of the fabrics from the Driftless Collection would work equally well.

8. Array Top (Papercut Patterns) - more statement sleeves! I've seen this top made in all sorts of fabrics and it looks fabulous whether it's in a plain or a pattern, drapey or structured, a lightweight lawn or a velour.

Papercut Patterns Array Top Sewing Pattern

This is the only style that I haven't quite landed on in terms of my fabric choice, at the moment I'm leaning towards the Santa Barbara Tencel/Cotton fabric which has a lovey drape and sheen to it. 

9. Gyo Dress & Top (Merchant and Mills) - having made the top which was fun to make, and which I've worn a lot, I'd really like to make the dress version too.

Merchant and Mills The Gyo Top & Dress Sewing PatternFor the dress I'm thinking a subtle stripe such as Nani Iro's Libero or one of the new designs from her 2021 Collection launching in February.

I've invested quite a lot of time on this challenge, firstly choosing the styles that I wish to make this year and, secondly carefully considering what fabrics would not only work well, but which ones I'd really like to work with and more importantly wear. I'm hoping this will really encourage me to make more time for sewing in 2021. 

My aim is to write a review in the form of a blog post for each garment that I make, I really hope that you'll be part of this journey and possibly join in too.

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Christmas Gift Guide

Posted on December 06, 2020

It's been the strangest of years and I know that lots of you have found sewing to be a very welcome distraction from all that's been going on. But Christmas is here now and with that in mind I've added some lovely sewing related gift items to our online store and thought I'd share a few of these with you here to give you gift inspiration for the "sewist" or "stitcher" in your life... or perhaps even as a treat for yourself...

The Draper's Daughter Christmas Sewing Gifts

The new Label Collector's Tin, pictured below, from Kylie and the Machine makes a great gift either on its own, or you can add 1 or more packs of their fun woven labels to suit your budget.

Kylie and the Machine Label Collector's Tin

Another great gift idea, is to pair a sewing pattern with one of the KATM woven label packs for a beautifully bespoke and personal gift.

Sewing Patterns & Woven Labels

I have also added a selection of sewing tools and buttons by Arrow Mountain. The handmade sewing tools in particular, are all very giftable. You can view them by clicking here.

Arrow Mountain Sewing tools and Buttons

Our selection of stitch kits has been extended this season. Miesje Chafer's Embroidery Stitch Kits along with new designs by Nancy Nicholson are proving popular with our customers. These contemporary kits encourage the maker to create their very own unique piece of artwork, view our complete selection by clicking here

Embroidery Stitch Kit

Another great gift idea for your sewing friend is the Merchant and Mills Jack Tar Bucket Bag Sewing Pattern and Hardware Kit pictured below. 

Merchant and Mills Jack Tar Bag Sewing Pattern & Hardware Kit

Sticking with Merchant and Mills, all of their products are packaged beautifully, even the humblest of items, such as a box of sewing pins, is elevated to "must-have" status due to their stylish branding and packaging! If you've a modest budget, then why not select a few of their sewing notions and create your own bespoke gift. 

Merchant and Mills Sewing Accessories

To finish off your gifts we've these fun Cross Stitch Gift Tags, pictured below. They're available in both kraft and cream. You can stitch your own motif and they're a lovely way of adding a handmade touch to your gift wrapping.  

The Draper's Daughter Gift Wrapping

Finally, if you're not sure what to get then our E-Gift Card, is the perfect solution. Starting at just £5 and available in denominations up to £100, the lucky recipient can then choose their perfect sewing gift at their leisure.

If you're still unsure, please do feel free to email us via the Contact Page and we'll try our best to help you find the perfect gift for the creative in your life!

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Christmas 2020 Postal Dates

Posted on December 02, 2020

I think we can all agree that this has been, and continues to be, an unprecedented year! Below are the recommended dates from Royal Mail for posting to guarantee delivery in time for Christmas, however this year I'd strongly recommend that you place your orders asap.

The Draper's Daughter Christmas 2020 Shipping Dates

We're aware that there are delays within the postal service due to the on-going coronavirus crisis. This will most likely continue with the increased levels of mail being sent as we get closer to Christmas. With this in mind, we've temporarily suspended our 2nd Class service, you can find more information about this over on our Delivery Page.

For reference, please find below are the Royal Mail recommended dates:

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND: Friday 4th December

ASIA & FAR EAST: Wednesday 9th December

USA: Saturday 12th December

EUROPE: Wednesday 16th December

UK 1ST CLASS DELIVERY: Friday 18th December 12PM

UK EXPRESS DELIVERY: Friday 18th December 12PM

Please note that Friday 18th is the last date that we'll be sending out orders... any orders placed after 12PM on Friday 18th will be sent out when we return to work on Tuesday 5th January 2021.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all very much for your custom, and for supporting my small business throughout 2020, particularly in view of the extraordinary year that it's been. 

I know that times are still strange, however I'd like to wish you all a very happy and healthy Christmas and here's to life getting back to some sort of normality in the New Year.

All the very best,

Karen xx

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Christmas 2019 Shipping Dates

Posted on November 28, 2019

The Draper's Daughter Advent Calendar

I know that the festive period is a very busy time for everyone so here's some information and a useful guide to let you know the last dates that you'll need to place your orders by to guarantee delivery in time for Christmas!

ASIA & FAR EAST: Monday 9th December

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND: Thursday 12th December

 USA: Saturday 14th December

EUROPE: Monday 16th December

UK 2ND CLASS DELIVERY: Wednesday 18th December

UK 1ST CLASS DELIVERY: Friday 20th December 12PM

UK EXPRESS DELIVERY: Friday 20th December 12PM

Please note that Friday 20th is the last date that we'll be sending out orders... any orders placed after 12PM on Friday 20th will be sent out when we return to work on Tuesday 7th January 2020.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all very much for your custom, and for supporting my small business throughout 2019.

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful new year,

Karen x

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