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.

EDITOR

WHAT’S NEXT?

What’s your favorite T-SHIRT PATTERN? • Find out about the talented experts featured in this issue, and visit their websites to learn even more!

READER TIPS

HIDE & SEEK

STAFF PICKS

Hi, I’m Dana

SWING TACKS • A swing tack is a chain of stitches that’s used when a small, lightweight and barely noticeable length of material is needed, such as for a belt loop for a sash or belt. It’s essentially a tiny crochet chain and can be used in several ways.

ALL ABOUT KNOTS

MENSWEAR FLAIR • Alter a classic men’s shirt pattern into a trendy off-the-shoulder tunic or dress.

A MESSAGE FROM MEG, ONLINE EDITOR FOR BURDASTYLE

KNIT FIT • From knit tees to exercise pants, learn how to create a better custom fit with stretch fabrics.

COVERSTITCH 101 • If you’re looking for a clean, commercial finish for knit garments, a coverstitch is your best bet. This specialty stitch covers the raw edge of the hem or neckline on the wrong side and straight stitches on top in one step. This stretch stitch exactly duplicates the look of readymade garments, particularly knit garments, and has many applications for both fashion and décor items.

TIPS TO STITCH BY • Employ these tips for cover-stitch success every time.

REAL WORLD wardrobe • Learn how to create a working wardrobe and prioritize the garments you make to wear.

PERSONALIZING WITH POW

DIVIDING LINES • Whether fine or bold, horizontal or vertical, stripes remain a major trend in the fashion world. Redesign a basic dress pattern with simple insets that change the stripe direction for a figure-flattering look. Plus, learn must-know techniques for perfect stripe cutting and sewing.

FINE LINES

KNIT STRIP FINISHES • Embellish garments with curled knit strips to add distinct style. Learn how to select the correct knit fabric, cut and sew the strips and discover different ways to use the trim and create unique accents.

EMBELLISH AWAY

POSH POCKET • Add a zippered pocket to the side seams of a simple sheath dress or tunic top. Not only does the zipper keep the pocket contents contained, but it also adds a bit of edge to an otherwise simple garment.

SIMPLIFY WITH SPROUT

DESIGNER details • Whether your next project is a simple T-shirt or a tailored wrap dress, these high-end details are sure to give your garment a cool, custom feel inspired by ready-to-wear designs.

SLEEVE ORIGAMI • Quickly enhance a simple sheath dress with origami-inspired pleats on the sleeves.

NOT TOO SHABBY PILLOWS • Stitch a sweet trio of porch pillows embellished with fabric flowers. Use scraps from your stash to easily create layered fusible appliqués to adorn three different pillows.

TRAPEZOID TOTE • Stitch a classically stylish faux-leather purse with unique shaping and topstitching details. Plus, learn how to make your own professional-looking handles to create a high-end purse that only looks expensive.

TOTE-ALLY FUN

GATHERED TO A TEE • Transform a standard T-shirt neckline into a statement with a ruched neckband. Learn how to easily create the look on a scoop or V-neck shirt.

CASUAL TO CHIC

THE T-Shirt EDITION

THE ART OF Topstitching • Topstitching is a basic skill that’s often challenging. Read on to discover tools and techniques to ensure perfect topstitching every time.

FROM THE TOP

STITCHING TIPS

#MEMADEMAY • We’re delving into all things Me Made May, also known (on Instagram) as #memademay and #mmm....