With Make It With Us in May in full swing, we’re inviting you to choose any pattern from the In the Folds archive. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to begin.
So, this month’s Spotlight post is here to help!
We believe that sewing is more enjoyable — and more sustainable — when you meet yourself right where you are, then build your skills slowly and intentionally. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been making for years, choosing the right project for THIS moment can make all the difference.
How to find the perfect pattern for where you’re at — and where you’re headed
Here are a few ways to decide what to make this month (or whenever you are looking for your next project):
1. Reflect on your recent makes
What felt really satisfying? What left you stuck or frustrated? Look for a pattern that builds on the skills you already have, with one or two new techniques to try.
The key here is focusing on just a couple of new techniques at a time. For example, when we designed the Darlow bag we knew it had more than a few techniques that would be new to many —the zip insertion, working with hardware and piecing together fairly complex shaped pattern pieces, to name a few! But because it’s a bag and you don’t need to worry about fit. Therefore, it makes sense as a skill-building project that will stretch your skills without completely overwhelming you.
Projects like this or our Hove tote pattern (above) are really good options if you want to sharpen up your precision sewing without worrying about getting the right fit.
2. Start with your strengths
If you’re confident with woven fabrics but new to garment construction, something like the Collins top or Acton dress is a great entry point.
Reach for the Collins top if you prefer not to worry about fit. The shape of it means that most people won’t need to think about fitting alterations. The major fitting alterations makers have made to this pattern are to add length or changing it from a high-low hem to a straight hem.
3. Choose your own adventure
Maybe your goal is to make a matching set, create your first outerwear piece, or try lining a garment for the first time. We say, go for it! Sometimes you just need to take a step of faith and believe that you can do something!
But you don’t have to do it entirely alone. Our patterns and resources are made to support you step-by-step, and our community is here to cheer you on.
4. Sew for the season (or your lifestyle)
Sometimes the best place to start is your wardrobe. Sounds counter-intuitive, right? But considering what you already have is a great place to understand how and what you actually wear!
Start by asking yourself the following questions: What do you reach for often? What are the pieces you’ve noticed are missing from your wardrobe?
Think about designs that will get a lot of wear. Whether that’s comfy culottes for weekend adventures or a crisp button-up for layering, pieces that you can mix and match or layer up and down according to the season will always get more use!
If you need more help delving into wardrobe gaps and how to fill these gaps intentionally, I suggest looking at our Slow Sewing Planner.
5. Ask the community!
If you’re still not sure, why don’t you ask for help in the community group? It’s one thing taking advice from us, but a whole other thing to get advice from people who are just like you!
However you join us this May, we’re so glad to be making alongside you. Here’s to learning, experimenting, and sewing with joy and intention!
Happy sewing,
Emily