I have in the past not sewed up a single pattern more than twice because there are so many patterns to try. This changed when I first sewed up the Love Notions Prisma dress which has become my tried and tested little girls dress pattern. It offers many mix and match options while being a great scrap busting project too. It can be made up as either a casual or dressed up dress depending on the fabrics used.
I am both a pattern tester and an ambassador with Love Notions patterns. This means that any purchases you make using the Love Notions patterns links I share on here earn me a small commission which goes to support this website. However, this comes at no extra cost to you and you are under no obligation to use them.
Three neckline options: scoop, Peter Pan collar and button boatneck
Three sleeve lengths: short, elbow and long
A-line, drop-waisted flare of pleated skirt
Two-pocket styles
Recommended for a confident beginner
The Fabric
This pattern is recommended for Knit fabrics such as cotton jersey, rayon jersey, Ponte, ITY, Liverpool and Scuba. However, if you are sewing the pleated skirt, a more stable knit is recommended.
The Making
I sewed up four dresses for my daughter using the Prisma Sewing Pattern and I have played around with various fabrics and features.
I sewed up size 6 for version 1 with the bodice lengthened to size 7. And I went for size 7 for the rest which I lengthened by two inches. I added an inch to both the bodice and skirt pieces.
Version 1
I went with a scoop neck and short sleeves for this version. I used cotton jersey fabric pieces which were leftover from previous projects. I did not have enough fabric for the flared skirt and I instead gathered the skirt. I used an elastic (braided) to gather the fabric which gave it more even gathers.
Version 2
This version was her Christmas day dress and I wanted to make it more festive. I went with a scoop neck, elbow-length and flared skirt options. I used stretch velvet fabric for the bodice and gold sequined fabric for the skirt. The Gold sequined fabric is a woven fabric which I lined with gold satin fabric.
I was confident to use a woven fabric for the skirt because it has a dropped waist which does not need to fit over the body. This pattern allows for woven fabrics that match the stretch bodice fabric.
Version 3
This is a flared skirt version with elbow length and a boat neck. The boatneck option comes with buttons for easy access. I opted for plastic snaps for my version which are way easier than sewing buttonholes on jersey fabric. I also used a cotton jersey fabric in a ballerina print from Minerva.
Version 4
This was made out of an animal-print cotton jersey fabric I bought from Fabrics for all. I went with a flared skirt, elbow-length and a scoop neck. This version was the fastest to make because it was basic with no complicated options.
Conclusion
I love all the versions of the Prisma dress I have made and I know there are more to come. This pattern offers very many options to work with ranging from the pattern features to prints and types of fabric you choose. I hope you will give the Prisma pattern a go.
Everyone needs a robe in their wardrobes. I thought I should put it out there before I tell you all about the newly released sewing patterns by Love Notions. Love Notions has just released the Compose robe for ladies and /he Compose kids robe. Both these patterns are on release sale until 07/12/2020. The Compose robe can be sewed up for Christmas presents for both kids and the ladies in your lives. How timely is this pattern release!
I am both a pattern tester and an ambassador with Love Notions patterns. This means that any purchases you make using the Love Notions patterns links I share on here earns me a small commission which goes to support this website. However, this comes at no extra cost to you and you are under no obligation to use them.
Pattern Description
The compose pattern is drafted for both children and Ladies. Unfortunately, there is none for the men but I am so sure you can hack the pattern to sew up for them too.
The instructions are well-written and so easy to follow by a confident beginner.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
This pattern is recommended for both knit and woven fabrics ranging from light to heavyweight such as French Terry, Fleece, Waffle knit, Ponte, Double knits.
Fabrics Used
I made two Compose robes: a summery one in Viscose twill and a wintry version in cuddle fleece fabric.
Viscose Twill Fabric
I made a lightweight robe in a Camouflage Viscose twill fabric also known as rayon twill. I went with the collar version in this fabric however I skipped the pockets. This is mostly because the fabric easily slips and slides when working with it.
Bonus: the lightweight version can also double as a beach cover-up even better when made in a knee-length.
Cuddle Fleece fabric
My second version is the wintry version made out of an orange Cuddle Fleece fabric from Pounds Fabric, UK. This fabric is also known as Minky fabric. It was quite affordable considering I needed 3 metres for the project.
This version was made with the hood and the pockets. I am so happy with the final outcome, however, this fabric is not the easiest to sew up by any standards. This is because the pile on the fabric affects the way it feeds through the sewing machine.
Someone said to me that her sewing room looked like she had murdered a muppet from there after sewing up with Cuddle fleece fabric. Hahaha…
Tips on sewing with cuddle fleece fabric
These are my tried and tested tips which made the sewing process a bliss.
I used a walking foot which enables even feeding of both the top and the bottom fabrics.
Stretch / ball point needle size 90/14 is recommended and probably a brand new one.
Stitch length of 3.5 and above works best.
Lower presser foot tension of about 2.5 – 3 was perfect for me.
I also used long pins because they helped the hold the fabric together without shifting.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
There were no considerable changes made to the pattern apart from raising the belt loops because I have a short torso.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I have both my children asking for new robes already. I know I will be sewing up some for the kids. I recommend this pattern to anyone who can use a sewing machine.
Conclusion
I love the two robes I have made and this is a pattern that every sewist needs These robes would also make the perfect Christmas presents.
Here is a brand new Henley pattern with no buttonholes. Yes, you heard right. Love Notions has just launched the Breckinridge Henley sewing pattern which is sure to be a favourite of many. I am honestly not a fan of buttonholes but I can’t always avoid them. However, my sewing machine and I hate sewing buttonholes on knit fabrics. I have already made two tops from the Breckinridge Henley pattern and I don’t think they will be my last. My final version is in pink in honour of Pink October for Breast Cancer Awareness.
Here is a pattern review video if you would rather watch instead of read.
I am both a pattern tester and an ambassador with Love Notions patterns. This means that any purchases you make using the Love Notions patterns links I share on here earns me a small commission which goes to support this website. However, this comes at no extra cost to you and you are under no obligation to use them.
I made my first version out of a Striped cotton jersey fabric which was generously given to me by Fabrics for All. I am a blogger for Fabrics for All and I am given fabric in exchange for a review. The stripe pink and yellow fabric is the perfect fabric for pink October which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This fabric also comes in other colourways which are still in stock online. I really enjoyed sewing up with it because it is quite stable and has a good weight to it.
My second version was made with two viscose jersey fabrics. The main fabric is a floral red which I picked up from a local fabric store a few years ago. And the grey viscose jersey I used to colour block was a scrap fabric I had in my stash.
The Making
I sewed up both my versions in size XS he sewing process these tops was straight forward. The one part in the process which would be a bit of a challenge is sewing the placket but the instructions come with a video tutorial which simplifies that part.
For the pink top, I sewed up the long-sleeved version with the tabs. The cotton jersey fabric gave me a more relaxed and almost boxy fit.
Alterations
I took in the top at the side seams for a more close fit.
I shortened the top by 1 inch mostly because I have a shorter torso compared to the rest of my body.
The red floral viscose jersey version was made with the short sleeves. The viscose fabric has more drape and fits better on the body. I did not find the need to take in this top because I was happy with the overall fit. This version was not shortened and it comes past my hips.
The finished projects
I am really happy with my final makes from this pattern. I am so sure these will not be my last. I hope to sew up the dress variation next with probably short sleeves. I hope you give this amazing pattern a go. You will not be disappointed. Thank you for stopping by. xx
I am so sure we can all agree that this year, 2020, has gone by so fast. I do not need to get into details because we all probably have personal stories to tell. Where did the summer go? I do not remember enjoying wearing my me-made summer clothes out of my house much. And right now we need to start sewing for Autumn/Fall and Winter. And I would like to offer you some inspiration for your cold season wardrobe featuring Love Notions patterns.
Love Notions is currently running a 40% off site-wide birthday sale from Monday 5th October to Friday 9th October. This is also the last sale of the year. I hope you are inspired to pick up a few patterns before it ends.
I am both a pattern tester and an ambassador with Love Notions patterns. This means that any purchases you make using the Love Notions patterns links I share on here earns me a small commission which goes to support this website. However, this comes at no extra cost to you and you are under no obligation to use them.
Just in case you are wondering why Love Notions patterns? I have been a pattern tester with Love Notions for over 2 years. I have loved how the patterns are drafted and with the extra attention given in writing up the instructions. These patterns come in a wide size range not forgetting the full bust pieces included on all ladies’ patterns. These are PDF patterns so you should not expect them to come in the mail. The PDF patterns come in 3 versions: A4/ Letter size, AO size and a projector copy. This gives you instant gratification with many options to work with.
Love Notions patterns are drafted for ladies, gents and children. And many adults especially ladies’ pattern come with coordinating kids’ patterns. I would like to share with you patterns I have both sewed up or plan to sew up in groups.
Tops
La Bella Donna (Ladies) and Girls La Bella Donna – This pattern comes in both ladies and girls and can be throughout the year. It comes with various sleeve options. The long-sleeved and the cowl or hood options are perfect for the cold weather.
Terra Tunic – This is a straight fitting tunic which comes with 5 neck options and 4 sleeves lengths. The long-sleeved with wither a funnel neck or hoody is perfect for the cold weather in a cosy fabric.
Rockford raglan and Wrigley raglan – These are raglan tee patterns which feature various hem options and sleeve lengths. The Rockford is the ladies whereas the Wrigley is the girls’ version.
La Bella Donna (Cowl and Long-sleeves)
Rockford Raglan
Bottoms
Glissando Pattern – This is the newest pattern which is exempted from the sale. It features shorts, cropped pants and a knee-length skirt. The cropped pants can be lengthened to make them suitable for the cold weather. And the skirt in a heavy-weight fabric would also be perfect when paired with tights and boots. This is exempted from the sale.
Resolution bottoms – This is such a versatile pattern which I plan to sew up really soon. It features 5 variations; plain leggings, moto leggings, bootcut yoga pants, straight cut yoga pants, and joggers. All these options are suitable for cold weather if made in cosy fabrics.
Glissando Cropped pants
Jumpers
Sloane sweater for ladies and Sloane sweater for girls – This is a pullover with various options. It can be made more fitted or with a relaxed fit. It also features any hem options. I have made to ladies’ Sloane sweaters which I hacked to be more fitted.
Constellation and Navigator Hoodie & Pullover – This is a great layering piece with a zipper option which can be made either as a hoodie or a pullover. I made both of these during pattern testing.
Canyon Cardigan – This cardigan is a great layering piece which can be made as either a waterfall, gathered or A-line.
Coat
Octave coat – This was the very first coat I ever made. It features a shawl collar, hood and a wide collar option has recently been added.
Octave Coat
Men and Boys
Dockside and Driftwood Henley & Polo: The Dockside is the men’s whereas the Driftwood is the kids. Both these patterns feature 3 variations: a crew neck tee, a polo and a Henley which when sewn with long – sleeves are perfect for the cold weather.
North Star and Navigator hoodie and pullover are similar to the ladies’ constellation jumper.
Samson Sweater: A boy’s shirt pattern which comes with two shirt hems and a hood option. It is a great winter wardrobe stable if made in cosy fabrics.
Vanguard Kit: This contains cargo joggers and a colour-block long sleeved it.
Dockside Henley
Navigator Pullover
That is a round-up of my Autumn/fall and winter LoveNotions pattern recommendation. I hope you get round to sewing up some. Which of the patterns shared would you love to have a go at making?
I made woven fitted pants!! I would like to introduce you to the newest Love Notions pattern Glissando. I am not saying these are the very first pair of pants I have made. I have previously made a pair of culottes before (the flint pants by Meghan Nielsen) and loose-fitting viscose pants. Both of these didn’t require much fitting at all. I am speaking of making high-waisted pants which needed to fit my somewhat long body.
I am not that tall by any standard but an average 5’4” woman, however, my natural waist sits quite high up. That only means that a lot needs to be done in regards to adjusting the crotch length of the pattern pieces. I also need to make adjusts for the bum too (I thought I would put it out there).
I am both a pattern tester and an ambassador with Love Notions patterns. This means that any purchases you make using the Love Notions patterns links I share here earns me a small commission which supports this website. This comes at no extra cost to you and you are under no obligation to use them. Thank you.
The pattern is recommended for non-stretch medium to heavy weight woven fabrics ranging from denim, linen, chambray, quilting cotton, Cotton poplin, twill and many others.
For my version, I decided to use a lightweight an indigo blue denim fabric I purchased from Fabrics for All in Leeds, UK. The lightweight denim was much easier to work with compared to the heavy denim which was my first choice. The fabric was much easier to fit around my body which also gives both a casual and dressy look.
The Making
I would want to say that this was such an easy make, but I won’t. I know we can all agree that we do not always find perfectly fitting pants in ready to wear. The same goes for sewing patterns because they are drafted for a standard body and size. It is not surprising to see that even people with similar around the body measurements have other different adjustments they always need to cater for such as Lengthening or shortening the torso, swayback adjustment and many others.
During the pattern testing process, I made 3 toiles/muslins to get the perfect fit. Yes, I wanted to pattern test the skirt version because it was the easier option. However, that did not happen as I ended up making the cropped pants. I embraced the challenge and I knew by the end of it all I would have learnt a lot about fitting pants on me.
I sewed up the cropped pants version in size 4 with the alterations mentioned below.
Alterations
I made two significant alterations to the pattern that gave me the fit i was finally happy with. I lengthened the crotch length and also made a sway back adjustment.
Adjusting the crotch length
I measured my crotch length with an elastic tied around my natural waistline. I took the measurements from one end of the elastic to other (as shown in the picture below).
Where to measure for crotch length
This helped me determine both the front and back crotch measurements which I later accommodated for on the pattern pieces. I added 7/8 of an inch to both the front and back pieces by cutting across both pattern pieces as shown.
Front PieceBack piece
Sway back adjustment
I made a swayback adjustment to the back piece , a common adjustment to me, that I accommodated for when I was lenghtening the back crotch.
The Finished Project
I am super proud of myself that I did not give up in the middle of the process. I have always considered sewing pants like the Love Notions Sabrina Slims but the thought of fitting pants always terrified me. I am now ready to sew more pants. I also plan to sew up the Glissando skirt in A heavy denim which Is likely to become a winter staple when paired with tights and boots.
I recently made the Love Notions La Bella Donna pattern for the very first time during a pattern testing process. I really loved the tunic version I made and I knew it was not going to be my last. I wrote a pattern review of the La Bella Donna sewing pattern then. Today, I am sharing with you how this pattern can be worn in both warm and cold seasons.
I have been a pattern tester with Love Notions for over two years and recently became an ambassador. This means that any purchases you make using the Love Notions patterns links I share here earns me a small commission which supports this website. This comes at no extra cost to you.
I Chose two different fabrics: a cotton jersey for the warm weather and the sweater knit for the cold or winter months. I realised that the fabric chosen for the La Bella Donna greatly contributes to the fit and shape of the final garment. I sewed up my first version in a viscose jersey which was a drapey fabric which gave a close fitted look.
I made my second version in a white cotton jersey for a classic Look however it came out more boxy than the first. This has a lot to do with the cotton jersey being less drapey compared to Viscose jersey. It also gave it a loose fit which I was tempted to take in but I decided to leave it at that. The loose fit pairs well with tight jeans.
My third version is a tunic version with a cowl neck and long-sleeves. I sewed it up out of two different sweater knit fabric with different shades of grey. I had no intention of a colour-blocked one however it turned out better than I had envisioned. I was not sure of the fibre content of both of the fabrics because I have had them in my stash for a while. The dark grey fabric was scratchy which I suspected to have some wool content whereas the lighter grey one was soft to the touch. That is why I opted to use the soft one for the cowl and the sleeves because i intend towearit with a top underneath.
The Making
I made all my three versions in size XS. This pattern is such a quick make which can be made up in one sitting. I sewed most of it up using my overlocker/serger and used my coverstitch machine for the hems.
The Finished Garment
I love my new La Bella Donna tops and it is about to become a wardrobe stable of mine. The pattern can be worn throughout of the year depending on the features and fabric chosen.
Josephine is an entrepreneur, blogger, public health professional who loves sewing, baking and is passionate about a healthy and natural lifestyle.
