Sew News

Sew News magazine is a complete resource for sewers of all skill levels. Each issue of Sew News magazine is packed with practical sewing information, how-to guides and the latest on fashion, fabrics, books and new products.

SEW NEWS

EDITOR

COMING UP

READER TIPS

HIDE & SEEK

STAFF PICKS

Rosy Peña of ROSY PENÑA patterns

SEWING MACHINE NEEDLES • Using the correct sewing machine needle is integral to successful stitching. Oftentimes problems that occur are remedied simply by installing a different size needle or a brand new needle. Read on to learn how to select the correct needle for any project.

NEEDLE TIPS

JACKET FITTING • Get prepped for cooler weather with tips for sewing your first jacket, adding linings for warmth and refashioning jackets.

MICHAEL A. TAYLOR JR. • TaylorAntonio brand is spearheaded by self-taught Washington, DC, tailor Michael A. Taylor Jr. While he first worked as an electrician for the area transit system, Michael’s early influence in sewing came from his grandmother, a Jamaican native and entrepreneur, the first to teach him how to thread a machine, sew on buttons and hem a pair of pants.

SERGING ORDER • Planning the right serging order before you begin a project can save you time and result in a more professional-looking garment.

BODYSUIT blouse • Combine your favorite blouse pattern with a panty pattern to create a bodysuit blouse that will never come untucked. The pussy bow adds a touch of retro ’70s elegance.

A MESSAGE FROM MEG, ONLINE EDITOR FOR BURDASTYLE

5 WAYS SEWING CAN HELP US love our bodies

barcelona BUCKET BAG • Add designer details to a basic leather bucket bag. Learn how to hand stitch leather and paint raw leather edges for a high-end, polished finish.

AUTUMN BLOOMS button dress • Add a unique touch to a kimono or raglan-sleeved top or dress by inserting buttons into the shoulder seam. Choose your buttons to make a splash or go subtle on one shoulder or two.

FALL FLIP jacket • Maximize your sewing and wardrobe by constructing a custom reversible hooded jacket. Use two complementary lightweight wovens, one a print and the other solid, for the perfect fall layer.

REVERSE IT • Learn some tips for turning patterns into reversible garments.

WEAVE ON pillows • Create two distinct felted wool pillows to add texture and dimension to your home décor.

the TAMARACK JACKET • Customize a basic coat with quilting and color blocking to make it your own.

COUTURE QUILTING

DENIM DAZE • Transform basic flared jeans into an exciting, one-of-a-kind look with curved inserts featuring different denim hues.

IT’S A CINCH tote • This tote can be adjusted to be bigger or smaller depending on your needs. Pull the straps on the sides to create a shorter, slouchy bag.

WITH OPEN ARMS • Easily hack a basic long-sleeve button-down shirt to create trendy open sleeves. Use the altered pattern for two different styles.

VENTS & SLITS • Learn techniques for making perfect vents and slits in your tailored garments.

tip

PLAID PERFECT • Plaid is enjoying a spot in the limelight this fall. Learn the special techniques required to make the most of this classic fabric.

LOVELAND LEGGINGS

OFF THE SHELF

Cardi Party • I’m a bit of a cardi queen. There is a not a garment in my wardrobe that gets more use year round, but especially in fall, as the temps dip. Cardigans come in a zillion shapes and sizes, and there’s good reason to have at least a few in your pattern library.

FURRY FINERY

EXPERTS