some sewing inspiration

It seems like every time I turn around, I am inspired by something I see around blogland. Right now, this inspiration is focused around clothing... And my list of patterns I may want to try out keeps growing.  So, in order to get a handle on this and to be prepared when I actually encounter a pattern sale at the fabric store, I needed to start a list - an official list, pocket sized, perfect for my wallet. I came up with this business card sized “I need, I want sewing patterns” card. And it even has room for more... And I know that will fill up fast. If you want your own, click here.

So, where am I getting inspired? Well, to start, there are a few great flickr groups dedicated to sewing clothing:

• Simplicity Sewing Patterns
• Sew Stylish
• Built By Us
• Burda Style

And Burda also has a great site, full of sewing tidbits (named sewpedia), patterns (many are free) and user examples. I recently downloaded the Desira Top (a great wrap shirt) and the Charlie Bag (a grocery style tote bag). I sometimes find the site slow to load, but if you can get it to work, it is worth it.

If you are looking to search the pattern catalogs before heading to the fabric store, each has their own site:

• Simplicity 
• McCall’s 
• Butterick 
• Vogue

I love to do this. Especially if I see a pattern on someone’s blog or on Flickr and want to learn more about it, from the styles it is available in to how much fabric would I need to make it.

That is all I can think of for today, although I know there is more inspiration out there. I'll pass it on along the way.

Comments

[Jane]

Great idea to make a card. I always think I will just remember! LOL

[julie]

I love your sewing pattern list idea...is it OK if I link to you in my "things to try" list?

[Jen]

Great post (and I'm not biased just because you mention two flickr groups that I admin!). I often find inspiration on flickr and then go and see what the actual pattern looks like...because they can be so different.

[Thimbleanna]

Wow! Thanks for all the great links and especially for that adorable card. I'm always jotting pattern numbers down on scraps of paper, so I'll love having this adorable card. Clothing construction has always been my #1 favorite "crafty" thing to do!

[Ellie]

Congrats on a really cute top!! I finished the Amy Butler Lotus top the same day you finished the Anna tunic. . .do,doo,do,doo (hum to the Twilight Zone tune). . .and I'm in St. Louis. Looking forward to following your blog.

[Katie]

Hi there! I just found your blog through flickr...love your Anna Tunic! Anyway, this is a great post, I'm trying to get into sewing clothes too, right now I'm working on a super simple elastic waist skirt and a built by wendy top. Good luck with your projects, I look forward to seeing them!