Sewing

Pattern reviews, garment construction tips, and project inspiration from indie designers

Indie Pattern Reviews & Sewing Projects

Here you'll find detailed reviews of indie sewing patterns, with a focus on Love Notions alongside other favourite designers including Nina Lee Patterns, True Bias, Jennifer Lauren Handmade, and Burda. Each post covers sizing guidance, construction notes, and fabric recommendations to help you get the best result from your next make.

Select projects also include video reviews so you can see the garments in motion and follow along with key techniques.

Featured Pattern Reviews

Two children's robes in soft cotton flannel hanging side by side — one in a playful star print, the other in a cosy plaid, both with shawl collars and tie belts.

Kids' Compose Robe

Love Notions · October 2021

A cosy robe pattern for children sizes 2T–16. Josephine shares tips from sewing two versions, including fabric choice and construction details.

A flowing knee-length sundress in a vibrant floral print on a dress form, featuring a fitted bodice, gathered skirt, and thin adjustable straps.

Tempo Sundress

Love Notions · July 2021

A warm-weather staple with multiple bodice and length options. The review covers fit adjustments and fabric suggestions for drapey wovens.

A relaxed-fit knit sweater in a rich oatmeal colour, worn casually with jeans, showing a flattering crew neckline and slightly dropped shoulders.

Arlington Sweater

Love Notions · September 2021

A cold-weather wardrobe staple designed for knit fabrics. The review includes sizing notes and tips for achieving a professional finish on neckbands and hems.

A midi-length knit skirt with a subtle asymmetrical hem drape, shown in a deep charcoal jersey fabric against a neutral background.

Sybil Illusion Skirt

Love Notions · 2020

Seven skirt variations in one pattern — pencil, a-line, swing, gored, asymmetrical wrap, pleated, and drop yoke — all designed for knit fabrics with optional inseam pockets.

A sleeveless pinafore dress in leopard-print needlecord fabric, layered over a simple long-sleeve top, photographed against a brick wall.

Camden Pinafore

Nina Lee Patterns · August 2019

A stylish pinafore dress made up in leopard-print needlecord from Minerva Crafts. The review covers fit through the bodice and practical pocket details.

A lightweight camisole-style dress in soft ivory crepe, hanging elegantly with a gentle bias drape, photographed in natural window light.

Ogden Cami Dress Hack

True Bias · July 2019

Extending the popular Ogden Cami into a dress. The post walks through the pattern adjustment and fabric considerations for this versatile hack.

Indie Designers Featured

Josephine has reviewed patterns from a growing list of independent sewing designers. Each review brings honest sizing guidance, construction notes, and fabric recommendations.

Love Notions Nina Lee Patterns True Bias Jennifer Lauren Handmade Burda

Video Reviews

Select pattern reviews include video walkthroughs on Josephine's YouTube channel. These videos offer a closer look at garment details, fit, and fabric movement — helpful when deciding whether a pattern is right for you.

Visit the It is Josie YouTube channel to watch pattern reviews, sewing tips, and project showcases.

Explore More

Looking for projects beyond garment sewing? Visit the DIY section for jewellery, crochet, baking, and other handmade crafts — or head to the About page to learn more about Josephine.