Introducing the Samara sewing pattern – perfect for beginners!
Ever wished you could sew your own clothes but didn’t know where to start? Finding a beginner-friendly pattern that’s actually easy can feel overwhelming – but don’t worry, we’ve got you!
The Samara top pattern is simple, stylish, and oh-so-satisfying to sew. Whether you're brand new to sewing or just looking for a speedy wardrobe refresh, this versatile top is designed with beginners in mind.
With its relaxed fit, V-neckline, and a choice of four sleeve options and two hemlines, Samara is a wardrobe staple that will take you through every season in handmade style.
But that's not all – we've also launched a brand new online workshopLearn to Sew an Easy Top to guide you through making Samara step by step! Whether you're sewing your first ever garment or brushing up your skills, this course is perfect for building confidence and creating clothes you’ll be proud to wear.
Are you struggling with clothes that are tight across the bust and have excess fabric pooling above? If so, a full bust adjustment (FBA) might be the solution to get the perfect fit when making your own clothes.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to do a full bust adjustment on a dartless bodice - no darts necessary! Whether you're working with patterns like our Samara top, Alexa jumpsuit, Stevie tunic, Bettine dress, Suki dress or Safiya wrap playsuit, these simple adjustments will ensure your handmade clothes fit perfectly.
We've previously covered how to do a bust adjustment for a darted bodice which is definitely worth checking out too.
If you’re new to fitting adjustments, don’t worry - it’s easier than it sounds! Just follow the steps below, and you’ll soon be creating clothes that fit like a dream.
When should you do a full bust adjustment?
Generally speaking, dartless garments are less fitted as they don't have darts which would ordinarily be used to add shaping. Because of this, you might be able to get away with not doing a full bust adjustment on these types of garments, even if you normally do them on other patterns, as there's a bit more leeway in the bust area than on a more fitted garment.
But if your boobs are on the larger side and you usually find that even easy-fitting garments are either too tight in the bust area, or fit across the bust but have a lot of excess fabric pooling above, then you probably need to make a full bust adjustment.
I'm going to briefly cover how you would work out how much to add or subtract from your bust in the adjustment, but do remember this is just a rough framework, and you might not need to do it at all.
Making your own jersey yarn is so quick and easy! This is a great trick to know if you’re making a sewing pattern that features a drawstring – such as the waistband of the Cece joggers or sweat shorts, the hood of the Stella hoodie in my book Stretch, the Jaimie pyjama bottoms, Tabitha T shirt dress in my book Make It Simple... and more!
Read on for what you need to make your own jersey yarn and how to make it – with video tutorial.
Are you planning to make the Cece joggers or shorts and have some questions on fitting? Then look no further as this post is for you!
Cece is available in printed and PDF formats, in sizes UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62 / AUS 6-34 / 84-155cm (33-61in) hip.
I'm happy to report that the Cece joggers and shorts are designed to have a relaxed fit, so you might find you only need to make a couple of adjustments, or perhaps none at all!
