Sewing For Spring & Summer With Love Notions Patterns

………….The Big 40% Off Sale Is Here! (45% off if using my code!)

Today, March 23 through Friday-3/27, 2026, all Love Notions digital patterns and sewing courses will be 40% off! This doesn’t happen very often, so I highly suggest grabbing any patterns(and courses) you really want to sew up soon! The only pattern excluded is the new Muse Blouse. If you use my code 10MACSEWS  you can get an additional 5% off the sale prices for a total of 45% off!!!!

What Patterns Should You Grab?

Need help deciding which patterns to grab during this sale?

First, I recommend buying the recent new releases that you didn’t buy during the release sale. Patterns typically don’t become a $6 pattern until one year after they have released. Patterns such as the Opus Vest, Bridget Trousers and the Palmer Dress are good ones to buy. These patterns may have released during the fall and winter months, however they can work for spring and summer too!

This is also a great time to pick up any of the recent $6 Feature Friday patterns that you may have missed. Patterns are only featured for $6 once a year, so if you missed one~ now is the time to grab it! 

The 5 Patterns I’m Sewing This Spring~

1. Constellation Pullover

Why?

  • Perfect Summer Pullover!!
  • Half-zip front makes it so easy to put on and take off(much easier than a hoodie!)
  • The half-zip makes it breast feeding friendly too!
  • Great alternative to a hoodie
  • Comfy as a hoodie~ but looks so much nicer
  • Can be color blocked
  • Huge front pocket! No worrying about your phone falling out! I ride my bike with my phone in that pocket!!
  • Available as the North Star for men, or the Navigator for kids so you can make them for the whole family!

Many times someone might think of the Constellation as a something you’d sew for Fall or Winter. However, sewn in the “right” fabric, this pullover is PERFECT for cool spring and summer mornings or evenings! . I love the longer zipper, which means you can lower the zipper if you get a tad warm.

My newest Constellation is one I just sewed up in a brand new fabric from Raspberry Creek Fabrics called Verona Active Stretch Poly. For all the details on that fabric, visit this “Weekly Stitch” blog post. Although the Constellation is designed for knit fabrics, I have made it from Sweatshirt fleece that has very little stretch, so I decided to modify it to work for this woven stretch fabric and it worked out beautifully!

I absolutely LOVE this pullover and I can’t wait to wear it! This fabric is simply amazing to sew with! It’s fast drying, lightweight and has 2 way mechanical stretch! It is available in various solid dyed colors, all the prints in the RCF current Swim Collection and even is available for custom printing. My husband actually said this was one of my favorite makes! (Check out last week’s “Weekly Stitch” to see his Band Camp shirt in the solid French Blue Verona Active Stretch.)

Changes to made for a Verona Active Stretch Woven Constellation~

  • Added 1/2″ to all side seams (upper and lower bodices, pocket)
  • Added 1/2″ to the sleeve seam at the underarm while grading it out 2″ at the wrist (on both sides). This was for fit and comfort while wearing.
  • Used cotton/lycra knit for the cuffs and pocket bands.
  • Used tricot knit interfacing along the center front edge for more stability when attaching the zipper.
  • Finished the center front edges of the upper bodice after applying the interfacing. (Since this fabric is woven & will fray unlike a knit)
Loop French Terry

This time of year, I LOVE sewing up the Constellation in Swim Fabric. Above you’ll see my newest Swim Constellation. The Navy Lobster is part of the 2026 Swim Collection. I just had to throw in a picture of the Swim Constellation that started it all many many years ago!! Other fabrics that work great for the Constellation this time of year are French Terry and Loop French Terry.

My Constellation plans for this spring/summer are another Loop French Terry in coral and one more swim knit. I’m also going to be working on altering a couple of my favorites from the past year or so to fit me better.

If you’ve been reading my blog you know how much I love sewing every day clothes in swim fabrics.  You can read more over on this blog post. There you might find some helpful tips for sewing with swim.

You can read all about my Constellation collection HERE.

Purchase the Constellation Pullover HERE.

2. Aria Button down

Why?

  • Great layering piece
  • Long Sleeve version is perfect for cool evenings or chilly air-conditioned stores
  • Perfect when worn open over the LBD or a Summer Basics Tank
  • Short sleeve version is great for hot and humid days(when sewn up in a linen or cotton voile)
  • Sleeveless dress version is a great summer staple!

If you can only pick one pattern, then it has to be the Aria button down. A classic button down is always a staple in any classic wardrobe. I also love to use the Aria pattern as a vest or “jacket”.

Nervous about sewing a button down shirt? No need to be! There is an awesome sewing course you can purchase that holds your hand every step of the way. The 40% sale include all the sewing courses too!!  You can find the Aria Course HERE.

One of my favorite things to do is to modify the Aria into a “jacket” or vest. For the “jacket” basically I’m tweaking the cuff and the hemline. The Kelly green linen Aria “jacket” I made last spring is one of my all time favorite makes. I wore is so often that I knew I needed to make another version this spring. I’m planning a Navy Blue linen version for this year.  Visit this blog post for all the details.

A few years ago I purchased the light blue floral linen online. When it arrived, I loved it but it was a tad too heavy for a shirt~ so I recreated the wool vest I had made a year earlier. You can get all the details for the vest on this blog post.

I LOVE sewing and wearing the Aria in linen! It may wrinkle, but the coolness of it totally makes up for the wrinkles. My FAVORITE Aria is still my color blocked linen version that I made over 2 years ago. On my to-sew list this spring is an another color blocked linen version and a lt. purple linen version. My favorite place to buy linen is GrayLines Linen in the NYC Garment District. If you don’t love the wrinkles of linen, seersucker is also a great option for the Aria in spring and summer time!

You can read more about my Aria Button downs at the links below:

You can grab the Aria HERE.

3. Compose “Cardigan”

Why?

  • Makes THE perfect gift! (as a robe or cardigan)
  • Easy to fit (another reason it makes a great gift)
  • Quick and easy sew.
  • Beginner Friendly
  • Can be made in knit or woven fabrics.
  • Banded or hooded options
  • 2 different lengths available: Knee and Calf
  • Hanging loop included in pattern.
  • Can easily be made into a cardigan!

This is the most worn cardigan in my closet. It goes on every vacation with me! And yes, I made it from the Compose Robe pattern. This pattern is a great option to use when you have a knit that may not have enough stretch to it for a traditional cardigan pattern.

My first Italian Boucle Cardigan fabric is one that I purchased from Kashi at Metro Textiles in the NYC garment district. I already know this will be getting packed for my Italy trip next year! I also have a second boucle Compose “Cardigan” planned for this blue boucle that I purchased at Chic Fabrics in the NYC garment district as well. I’m hoping that perhaps this week before the sale is over I will get it done!

Visit this blog post for all the modifications I made to the Compose Robe pattern to create my cardigan.

Yes, I have actually made several Compose Robes! To learn more about the Compose Robe pattern~ read this blog post.

You can grab the Compose Robe pattern HERE.

4. Caprice Skirt

Why?

  • Five skirt styles to choose from
  • Easy to sew and comfortable elastic waist
  • Beginner Friendly~ especially View C
  • Quick Sew
  • Optional Pockets!

The Caprice skirt pattern includes so many options! Made with different fabrics it can bring you through the spring and summer and then right on to fall and winter. It is all about fabric choice.

Two times I have chosen to use the Caprice to make a “Faux Dress”! I love dresses, but as a retired teacher I just don’t need that many in my wardrobe. This is the perfect option for me!! I made one version for fall and another last summer. I have worn all of these pieces together and separately.

For the Navy Double Gauze version I paired the 3 tiered Caprice Skirt with the Timbre Top. I added a touch of white rick rack for fun. Because, who doesn’t love rick rack? Want some tips on sewing with Double Gauze? Visit this blog post.

This Floral Caprice Skirt is made from the View A/B back pattern piece. I used that piece as both the front and the back so it has just a single bottom ruffle. It is paired here with a Long Sleeved Band Camp Shirt and a Boyfriend Cardigan “Vest”. You can read more about this outfit here.

My Caprice plans for this spring and summer include a denim chambray version to start with. I also would like to find a nice linen plaid or check and perhaps another double gauze version. I do have a piece of batik lawn that I ordered from Fabric.com years ago~ that I think I might sew up into a Caprice as well!

To read all about my Caprice Skirt Collection, visit this blog post. This blog post also includes directions on how to line the Caprice skirt as well as many sewing tips!

You can get the Caprice Skirt pattern HERE.

5. Tinley Skort and Skirt

Why?

  • Casual and comfortable~ I actually live in mine all spring summer!!!
  • Great alternative to shorts
  • Perfect for bike riding and hiking, when made in swim or athletic fabrics
  • Super quick sew
  • Pattern includes shorts and skirt options
  • Easy to get a custom fit with back elastic

My absolute favorite way to make and wear the Tinley skort is with swim fabrics from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. I have been making them for a few years now and I simply still grab for them all the time.

On a typical spring or summer day I may wear one to the grocery store, out to lunch, for a bike ride around the neighborhood, for a walk or just relaxing on the porch with a book.

They have also become my go-to for vacations! Perfect for hiking and more serious bike rides(20-30 miles)! The swim knit is cool to the touch and UPF 50 so it’s perfect for hot sunny days. I use cotton lycra for the shorts underneath. You could also make these in athletic knits. I purchase all my swim knits from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. I love having fun “Lilly P” type prints custom printed on swim fabric.

The straight skirt option of the Tinley is my alternative to shorts. I simply don’t wear shorts~ I don’t find them comfortable and I hate how they bunch up on me! To me, the Tinley straight skirt is cooler and more comfortable to wear. I love using midweight to heavier weight cottons for the Tinley skirt.

The floral faux patchwork skirt is a stretch cotton poplin(from the NYC garment district) paired with a La Bella Donna. The Madras Patchwork skirt is also from the NYC garment district and it is paired with a white linen Aria button-down. This was the perfect outfit for a lunch date in Newport (RI) with my husband last summer.

For more detailed information on the Tinley Skirt and Skort visit this blog post.

Visit this blog post for a run down on all the fabric types you can use for the Tinley.

Want to simplify your Tinley with a single piece of wide elastic? Check my hack our here.

You can get the Tinley pattern HERE.

Additional Pattern I’m Planning To Sew

Metra Blazer

I haven’t sewn up a Metra Blazer in a few years. Mainly because the pattern I have traced (yes I am team trace) was a size too small. But, luckily not that pattern will fit me again! I really enjoy how comfortable the Metro is to wear. My plans include a Navy blue Ponte and a Bright Pink Ponte with a linen look. The Metro gives you an elevated with the comfort of a cardigan!

Still need inspiration? Check out some of these other blog posts!

Thanks for stopping by! I truly appreciate all of you that visit!  If you enjoyed this blog post, consider subscribing to my blog to stay up to date with all my posts!  On most Fridays I publish my “Weekly Stitch” blog with updates on what I’m sewing, pattern sales, fabric resources and sometimes random parts of my life!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

You can purchase any Love Notions pattern HERE. Remember this sale includes the sewing courses as well!

Love Notions Constellation Pullover

Love Notions Aria Button Down

Love Notions Compose Robe (Cardigan)

Love Notions Caprice Skirt

Love Notions Tinley Skirt and Skort

To receive a total of 45% off the pattern and sewing course prices, use the coupon code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used anytime on any pattern. This code will be updating on April 1st. Please visit my newest blog post in April for the new code.

I am currently a Love Notions Ambassador. I am given access to all new patterns for free. I purchased some of the patterns above on my own before becoming an ambassador. As always all opinions are my own.

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac ~ March 20, 2026 PLUS The New Add-On To the Olympia Dress!

…………Welcome To My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions ~

This week the Feature Friday pattern is the Olympia Dress with an added bonus! A shirt version has been added to the pattern and the dress/shirt pattern is just $6 today(and often through the weekend)! If you’ve made the dress, then you already know that the neckline is really the star of this design~ which is why a shirt hack was needed! *If you already own the Olympia Dress pattern, simply redownload it from the LN website for the update which includes the shirt pattern pieces.

The star of the Olympia is the integrated reverse shawl collar with a V-neck~ it gives this shirt/dress such a timeless classic look. Plus it’s much easier to sew that you may at first think. (Be sure to click on the video link for help if needed.)

I”ll be honest, I have never made an Olympia Dress, however when Tami asked the Ambassadors to test the new shirt addition I figured it was time. You can grab the Olympia Dress & Shirt pattern HERE. Please remember to use my link so I will get “credit” for this sale.

Using just the existing bodice pattern pieces didn’t work for this “hack” as the bodice has negative ease for the dress. Simply adding length to the bodice pattern pieces wouldn’t work due to natural hip curves. So Tami redrafted the bodice pattern from the waist down for the shirt version~ adding the length and additional ease to the hip area. This shirt is designed to be close fitting to be tucked in when worn. To get the best fit for yourself remember to choose your size based on your high bust measurement! You can always grade for the waist and hips!

My Sizing & Modifications

I started with the XL with a DD cup size, since my high bust is 39.5″ and my full bust is 44″. (Note the Olympia is designed with 5 different Cup sizes to get the best fit.). I then graded out for my larger waist and hips. Because I have that extra “fluffiness” around my waist (which is always fluctuating day by day), I did remove some of the shaping at the waist. I also did this because I knew I wouldn’t be wearing this top tucked in. If you are built “fluffy” like me I would suggest doing the same when cutting out your fabric. You can always go back and take it in at the waist after trying on your top.

I am only 5 feet tall (but not short waisted) and I did not remove any length from this top. It is designed to hit at the high hip, which it does. In the future I will probably add an additional inch in length for my personal preference.

I sewed this Olympia Shirt up in an ITY knit from the NYC garment district. It was pouring outside when I tried to get photos and inside photos are just terrible in my house! I do wish you could see that some of the polka dots are actually light blue! (See photo below)

BIG NEWS!!!!!!!

The Love Notions 40% off site wide sale is beginning on Monday 3/23 and ends on Friday 3/27. If you use my code 10MACSEWS you will get 45% off your total purchase. (as long as your order is $8 or more). All digital patterns and courses are included in the sale with the exception of the newly released Muse Blouse.

Getting 45% off the sewing courses is a HUGE bargain!! Be sure to add one or two to your cart! Not sure what patterns you “need”? I’ll have a blog post out early next week to help you decide. You can also check out some of my past Spring Sale sewing blogs below for more ideas.

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week I finished up the garments I made with the new Verona Active Stretch poly fabric that is available at Raspberry Creek Fabrics. If you want more details on the Verona fabric visit last week’s Weekly Stitch. There will also be a blog post on the Raspberry Creek Fabrics blog (written my me) in the next week or so. I’ll keep you posted.

I finished up my final Olympia shirt for Love Notions as you can see above. In addition to that, I did a lot of writing about sewing (I think that counts!).

New Pattern News~ I’ve begun testing the new jacket pattern from Love Notions! I think you’re really going to like this!! I’m very excited about it. Be on the look out for sneak peeks from Tami! I found a great source for a denim with a tad of stretch and great drape. I’ll be sure to share that on the blog post for that new pattern!

This is the Love Notions Constellation Pullover. The Verona Stretch is available in any of the Swim Collection prints along with several solid colors. (You can also custom print on it!) Next week’s Spring Sale Blog post will include all the modifications made on this pattern~ since the pattern is designed for actual knits as opposed to a stretch woven.

Below is a picture of my husband Love Notions Band Camp shirt in the solid French Blue Verona Stretch. This fabric has such nice drape. This will be perfect to pack for all our summer getaways~ it doesn’t wrinkle!!!!

My Late Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

Needless to say, I haven’t made any additional progress on my early spring sewing plans. Once I get other commitments out of the way, I will finish up my Navy Boucle Clef Coat. I’m hoping to jump into my Boucle Compose “Cardigan” next and then the Coda Coat.

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use. Edited~ this is cut out and I’ve chosen the gold zipper! Can’t wait to get this sewn up! 3/18~in progress still!
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

Love Notions Patterns

Love Notions Olympia Dress with Shirt Add-on

Love Notions Constellation Pullover

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off one $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ March 13, 2026

…………Welcome to My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ The Geneva Pullover & Jacket

The Geneva is the $6 Feature Friday pattern today~ its first feature ever since its release last year! Extra surprise~ if you order the Geneva Sewing Course for $25 you will get the digital Geneva pattern for FREE! If you use my code 10MACSEWS you can get 10% off the price of the course. That means the course and pattern would be just $22.50 instead of the regular price for both of $31! So today is really a great time to grab this pattern (and sewing course)!

The Geneva is an excellent pick for the transitional weather of early spring/spring. It’s a great lightweight layer with a beautiful fit. I’ve added this to my never ending of “things I want to sew” list!

The Details~

  • 3 Body styles to choose from
    • Classic pullover
    • Sleek full-zip jacket
    • Edgy asymmetrical zip jacket
  • All views feature raglan sleeves and princess seams
  • Choice of welt or zippered pockets
  • Designed for knits
  • FBA included
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week I was finally able to get all my Raspberry Creek Fabrics swim knit strike-offs sewn up, photographed and shared in the various Facebook Groups and Instagram. You can see my finished pieces below, as you can see I fell in love with the Ocean Collection! You can read all the details on these garments along with fabric information and sewing tips on this blog post:

Sewing Up Swim With Raspberry Creek Fabric~2026

Love Notions Constellation
Love Notions. Tinley Skort
Made For Mermaids Jordan Dress

RCF has also just announced a new fabric in the shop, Verona Active Stretch Poly~ a stretch woven designed for active wear! In between typing this week’s blog I have sewed up a new LN Constellation in this new fabric. Let me tell you~ I love it! It’s such a breeze to sew with. Below is a sneak peek. I’m in the process of sewing up a Band Camp shirt in the French blue solid for my husband. He’s excited for this one!

I am in the process of writing a blog post for Raspberry Creek Fabrics all about this fabric and how to sew with it. In the mean time, here is some basic information about this new fabric. I will keep you updated when that blog post gets published.

Verona Active Stretch Poly

  • Fast Drying
  • Lightweight
  • 2 way mechanical stretch
  • Available in dyed solids
  • Available printed in any Club swim print
  • Available for custom printing

The Verona Active Stretch woven will work great with any woven sewing pattern such as:

  • Shorts
  • Golf, fishing or hiking shirts
  • Sun hats
  • Windbreakers and jackets
  • Hiking pants and shorts
  • Boardshorts and swim trunks
  • Fitted Princess seamed blouses

Basically Verona is great for any woven pattern where a little bit of stretch will make it more comfortable to wear.

SNEAK PREVIEW

This is the Love Notions Constellation Pullover. Although this particular pattern is designed for knits, I have sewn this up in RCF sweatshirt fleece (which has very limited stretch) and it works well.

I went ahead an added an additional 1″ of ease to the side seams and sleeves for comfort while leaving the shoulders and neck area as is.

I used cotton jersey for the pocket bands and cuffs.

I will have more detailed information of this sewing project and detailed photos in the weeks to come Be on the look-out!

This print is from the new 2026 Club Swim prints which can be ordered at regular retail pricing. You can find these prints HERE.

My Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

I haven’t made any progress on my sewing plans this week due to a few different commitments as stated above. I’m still hoping to get to all of these things before the end of May.

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use. Edited~ this is cut out and I’ve chosen the gold zipper! Can’t wait to get this sewn up! 2/24~ this is still cut out and waiting it’s turn!  3/5~ in progress. 3/11~ set aside for a few days due to other commitments
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another!

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

Love Notions Patterns

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off one $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code. This week is a great time to grab the Geneva Sewing Course to get the pattern for free~ plus the 10% off.

Sewing Up Swim With Raspberry Creek Fabrics 2026

……………Swim Fabrics Aren’t Just For Bathing Suits!!

DISCLAIMER: If you’re expecting to see cute swimsuits sewn up in beautiful Raspberry Creek Fabric swim fabrics- you won’t find them here. (ok~ maybe at the very end.) BUT– you will see some other ways you can use this awesome swim fabric from RCF! Hopefully my blog post today will inspire you to grab some of these awesome swim fabrics and make something other than a swimsuit! Because we all know swim fabric isn’t just for bathing suits anymore!!! The fact that Raspberry Creek Swim fabric is UPF 50+ makes it great for any day/activity out in the sun.

Project #1 ~ Pullover ( my ‘Lilly P” dupe)

So what did I make this year?  The first thing I sew up EVERY year is a new pullover! I LOVE the UPF50+ pullovers sold by Lilly Pulitzer. I love the bright colors and prints, but I don’t love the price tag on them or how they fit me. I’ve made a new one every year, for the past few years and I wear them more than I ever imagined!  We live on the North East Coast, so our mornings and evenings are cool. We also spend a lot of time out on the water, so wearing UPF50+ clothing is a must! Therefore I can always use another one! They also go on all my bike rides all summer long as the sun protection and wind/breeze protection make them the perfect choice!

So naturally I knew I would be making another one this year. As a member of the Raspberry Creek Promo team I get to see all the new prints before they are released. The second I saw the Ocean Collection by Brittney Laidlaw I knew I needed the Minimal Navy Lobster print. Every single design from this collection is to die for! I’m sure I’ll be ordering up a few more of these prints. My first Constellation is swim is pictured below~ it has always remained by favorite, but I think this years might take over!!

I was even able to find a source for a zipper exactly like the ones LP uses! Downside ~ I had to purchase 10 yards of zipper~ but I’m sure I’ll eventually use it all! Upside~ the zipper for one Constellation wound up costing $1.18!

This was my very first swim Constellation and still my favorite!

Note~ All of my new swim makes this year are from the Ocean Collection by Brittney Laidlaw simply because these prints are all “me”. Brittney admitted that she did think of me when she was designing me!!!

A Few Tips About This Project

  • Before attaching the zipper to the upper front, place a strip of tricot interfacing along the front edges to stabilize the edge. This will help prevent the fabric from stretching out while basting on the zipper.
  • When using swim fabric, it would be best to interface both the main collar and the collar lining with tricot interfacing. This will help the collar lay a bit nicer, yet it won’t be too stiff.
  • Tighten the cuff just a tad, so if worn for any water activities, it will prevent water from running down your arm. I wear this over a kayak dress sometimes (keep reading) and if the cuffs are too loose, the water will run down the paddle and down my arm.

Inspiration Pics…

The pullover below is from the Lilly Pulitzer 2026 collection. The pullover is made with fabric very similar to RCF swim fabric. It retails for $98. The Constellation Pullover I made would cost someone just $45 to make!!! (even less if you already own a pullover pattern)

Project #2 ~ Kayaking Dress

Another one of my favorite things to make with RCF swim fabric are my kayak dresses. I use these dresses for kayaking, but they are also perfect for play dates at the water park! I make a new one every year and while we are away it always handy to have 4 or 5 clean and ready to go! For this year’s version I chose the Navy Periwinkle Blue Ocean Life print also from the Ocean Collection by Brittney Laidlaw.  I just love the classic navy prints that are so perfect for living and vacationing at the seaside.

A little background about me: My husband and I both grew up and spent all of our lives on the Atlantic Coast(me in NJ and him in RI), therefore we love the water! We spend much of our summer (and vacations) on and in the water. One activity we love doing together is kayaking. The Atlantic is pretty chilly in New England(even in August!). 

My husband and I spend a lot of time in Mystic, CT. We have been known to kayak down the Mystic River at 7:00AM , pull our boats up onto the dock at a local marina and grab breakfast at Kitchen Little. Or sometimes we take an afternoon paddle for lobster rolls at Fords in Noank. This little kayak dress so comfortable to kayak in- yet looks cute when we go on our little excursions! I can’t tell you how many people ask where I get them! I’ve even had Kayak shop owners ask me if I want to sell them in their shops. (But then sewing isn’t fun for me!)

Port Clyde Maine
Mystic River, CT
Burnt Island, Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Above are a few of the kayak dresses I have made over the years in action!

A Made for Mermaid Jordan dress makes a perfect dress to wear kayaking when shortened to tunic length! I made 3/4 length sleeves for sun protection when out on the water. The only change I made was to tighten the sleeve so that water doesn’t run from the paddle down inside my sleeve (did I mention how cold the Altantic is in New England?).

You can read more about the M4M Jordan dress pattern on this blog post.

Project #3 ~ Skort

I LOVE sewing up the Love Notions Tinley Skort in swim fabric! When the Tinley pattern first released 3 years ago I made one during testing from swim. I wore that one so much that I immediately sewed up a second one. The next year, 2 simply were NOT enough so I quickly made 4 more!. I purchased some super cute “Lilly” like prints from Etsy and uploaded them to the RCF website. I can’t tell you enough how much I loved wearing these for bike riding, hiking and site seeing on vacation. Last year, I began wearing these skorts for my daily beach walks along with bike rides and all my other activities while at home and on vacation. So…..I made even more. I do have a few new ones planned for this summer (sadly some of my older ones no longer fit me well and I honestly rather make new ones than alter the old ones~ which I know some of you will totally understand!)

I selected another print from the Ocean Collection, the Navy Periwinkle Seaweed. (I like to call them Sea Fans)

Below are a few of my older versions (all made in RCF swim knit) in action that were taken on vacation in Maine and Newport, RI. Best thing about packing garments made in swim knit is that they don’t wrinkle!!!

Bristol Bike Path, Rhode Island ~2025
Marshall Point Light House, Maine ~2024
Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor Maine ~ 2024

You can read more about the Tinley Skort pattern from Love Notions on these blog posts~

And Of Course You Can Make Bathing Suits!!!!!

Two years ago when Love Notions Pattern released their first ever bathing suit essentials pattern, I thought why not? I already LOVE to sew with RCF swim fabric so I figured I would give it a try. Guess what?!?!?!? I LOVE my swim dresses. Both of these prints are not available at retail pricing. The Navy Vine Floral is from the 2024 collection and the Navy Shell Print was a custom print. However you are able to custom print any design from the Designer Library onto swim fabric. Be sure to sign up for RCF’s newsletter, as the have custom printing sales ALL the time!!

You can read all about the Clearwater Swim Essentials pattern from Love Notions on my blog post HERE.

What Else Do I Sew With Swim?

Swing Dresses

Another thing I love making in RCF swim knit is the popular Laundry Day Tee Dress from Love Notions. (This pattern is always just $5!). It’s cool, it’s comfy and who cares if it gets wet! It’s perfect for beachcombing or splash pads for you moms of young kids. I have lost count of how many of these I have made.

For this dress I made a sleeveless version (not the tank version) by adjusting the shoulder width. I wanted a bit more sun protection for my shoulders and this also assured me my bra straps would be covered.

This dress is perfect anytime I need to be cool or those times I might get wet! Every morning I do water all of my flowers and plants wearing one of these dresses, somehow I always manage to get wet doing this. However, my favorite time to wear this dress is for morning walks on the beach. I don’t have to worry about the waves and I can leave the beach and run errands or do lunch with my friends without worrying about what I have on! I love throwing on a denim jacket on top of these dresses! I have also used these dresses as coverups, especially when I am going someplace after the beach. I also wear them when visiting my little great nephew and niece .They live across town and I watch them at their pool often. Getting wet always happens!

Below are a few of my older Laundry Day Tee dresses made in RCF swim knit fabric.

Did you know that there are many dress boutiques in the coastal towns of New England that sell simple swing and shift dresses made from swim fabric? And did you know they cost $212.00 and up?? WHAT!?!? Check out the Sailor Sailor clothing line- all swim knit! I’ve tried these dresses on and I’ve fallen in love with them- but even if I was willing to spend the $$$- many are shift dresses and aren’t made to fit us curvy girls! This is where I got the idea of using RCF swim fabric for making my own. dresses. Not only do my dresses fit me better than RTW ones but they cost me less than $30. (2 yards of fabric @ $14.70 per yard =$29.40! )

All About RCF Swim Fabric

Now that we’ve talked about what I’ve made, let’s talk a lil more about this awesome RCF FABRIC!


Raspberry Creek Fabrics Swim is high quality and UPF 50+. It’s the perfect weight for tops and dresses and isn’t too  clingy. And of course- it’s perfect for swimsuits! The best thing about RCF Swim is that it is available in the cutest prints with coordinating checks, stripes, polka dots and solids!  I also find RCF swim easy to sew with. It’s thick enough that the edges don’t roll and isn’t too slippery.

I often get asked if clothing made from swim fabrics is hot to wear. First, off, I live on the coast and I spend a lot of time in and on the water. Early mornings and evenings almost always require a jacket or sweatshirt~ hence my new pullover will be perfect!

When out on the water it’s important to wear UPF50+ clothing, and for me 3/4 length or long sleeves are a must. Would I wear longer sleeves during the day? Probably not.

However, during the day I LIVE in my sleeveless LDT dresses. I actually find them cool to the touch. I wear them for walks on the beach, out to lunch and taking care of my flowers and gardens. I kinda even wear them as loungewear/house dresses. After a day on the beach or on the water, I love coming home and putting one on.

I have these swim knits on the way right now and I can’t wait to sew these up too! The first will be another LN Constellation and the two blue prints will be more LN Tinley Skorts.

Sewing Tips For Sewing With Swim

I could write a whole other blog post on sewing with swim fabrics….but I won’t. My friend Whitney of Sew Whit Designs has written one of the best posts I’ve ever read. It’s got all the details you may need to know. You can read this over on the Raspberry Creek Fabrics Blog.  READ ME!

If you’d like to see all the other things I’ve made in the past with RCF swim fabric, you can visit these blog posts from past RCF Swim Tours. The exact prints shown here are not available retail, but many of them are available as custom order.

RCF Swim Tour 2020

RCF Swim Tour 2021

RCF Swim Tour 2022

Sew Mary Mac 2023 Swim Blog Post

Sew Mary Mac 2025 Swim Blog Post

Thanks for stopping by! I truly appreciate all of you that visit!  If you enjoyed this blog post, consider subscribing to my blog to stay up to date with all my posts!  

Mary Anne 🙂

Be sure to follow me over on Instagram @sewmarymac to keep up with my retirement wardrobe.

You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

As a member of the Raspberry Creek Fabrics Promo Team, these fabrics were given to me in return for posting pictures of my makes on Social Media. I did not receive any compensation for writing this post on my personal blog. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own

Fabric Links

Raspberry Creek 2026 Swim Fabrics

Ocean~Minimal Navy Lobster

Ocean~ Navy Periwinkle Blue Ocean Life

Ocean~ Navy Periwinkle Blue Sea Fan

Pattern Links

Love Notions Constellation

Made For Mermaids Jordan Dress

Love Notions Tinley Skirt, Skort and Shorts

Love Notions Clearwater Swim Essentials

Love Notions Laundry Day Tee Dress

Zipper Resources

Gold Metallic Nylon zipper~ sold by the roll from Amazon. Can be purchases HERE.

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ March 6, 2026

………….Welcome To My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ The Glissandos

The Glissnado is a great bargain for $6 as it includes pants, shorts and a skirt! One of the main features is the button fly, however there is a tutorial available to help you swap it for a zipper. You can find that HERE.

You can purchase the Glissando pattern HERE. This is my affiliate link and it costs you nothing to click here to purchase the pattern. (I simply get credit for the sale). Using my code 10MACSEWS will only get you and additional 10% off if you add another pattern to your order. Read more about this below.

  • Sizes 0-32
  • Meant for woven fabrics
  • Three options: crop pants, shorts or skirt
  • Exposed button fly
  • High waisted
  • Fitted hips and thigh with wide legs or straight skirt
  • Back darts for shaping
  • Full belly adjustment option
  • Front curved pockets and back patch pockets
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner

What I’m Sewing This Week~ Raspberry Creek 2026 Swim Line!

This week I’ve been finishing up my Raspberry Creek Fabrics swim knit strike-offs. Due to the blizzard we had my fabric was sitting in a few regional post offices and got to me pretty late. I’ll be finishing them all up over the weekend and then getting photos. It’s been pouring rain the last 2 days with heavy rain and thunderstorms for Friday and Saturday, so I’m hoping to get modeled photos of them on Monday. Below is a sneak peak of the Love Notions Constellation that is all ready for photos along with the 2 other fabrics I am sewing up.

The Swim knits and board short fabrics are $1 off per yard through Monday, 3/9/26. They can be purchased by the half yard. All the collections are just soooo good this year! Be sure to visit the Raspberry Creek Fabrics Facebook page to see all the amazing fabrics sewn up! I’m adding more and more to my own “want/need” list!

You can find the new Swim and boardshort fabrics HERE.

Scroll to the end of this blog post to see the new swim collection.

Remember~ swim fabrics aren’t just for swimsuits!!!

Visit this Weekly Stitch to see all the garments that I love to sew with swim knit from RCF.

My Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

Not much progress this week on these plans due to the Strike-Offs I needed to sew for Raspberry Creek Fabrics. I did get some work done on my second Clef Coat~ the boucle version.

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use. Edited~ this is cut out and I’ve chosen the gold zipper! Can’t wait to get this sewn up! 2/24~ this is still cut out and waiting it’s turn! 3/5~ in progress!
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another!

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

Love Notions Patterns

Love Notions Glissando

Love Notions Constellation

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off one $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code

Raspberry Creek Fabrics 2026 Swim Collection

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ February 27, 2026

………..Welcome To My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~The Vivace Dolman

The LN Feature Friday pattern this week is the Vivace Dolman! This is a great pattern to begin your spring sewing with. The relaxed fit makes it airy and breezy for warmer weather~ yet is also is a perfect layer underneath a cardigan for those cooler days! The V-neck and pleat elevate it from just a simple tee. You will surely want several of these in your closet!

When this pattern first released, I really didn’t think it would suit me. However, a year later I sewed one up and guess what? I loved it!! I’m usually not a huge fan of dolman sleeves, however I must say that the LN dolman sleeves patterns that I have sewn up fit me much better than any I have ever tried on. (The La Bella Donna and Melody Dolman are also favorites of mine!)

You can purchase the Vivace Dolman pattern HERE. This is my affiliate link and it costs you nothing to click here to purchase the pattern. (I simply get credit for the sale). Using my code 10MACSEWS will only get you and additional 10% off if you add another pattern to your order. Read more about this below.

The Details

For complete details on the Vivace Dolman including my sizing, modifications and sewing tips be sure to visit this blog post.

Viva La Vivace Blog Post

The Vivace is a classic dolman style with a unique overlapped V-neck and an added offset pleat. The pleat creates extra ease below the bust which creates the most flattering drape on all shapes and sizes!

  • Dolman Style Sleeve
  • 3 Length Options: shirt, tunic and knee-length dress
  • Can be made with Knits OR Wovens
  • Easy Fitting
  • Quick and easy sew for a Confidant Beginner.

Fabric Resources

My absolute favorite fabric to sew up the Vivace Dolman top is Raspberry Creek Fabric’s rib knit. In fact it is the ONLY fabric I have sewn it up in simply because this pattern and fabric work soooo well together. One day I will try another fabric (and I will try a woven soon) but for now I’m obsessed with this pattern/fabric combo.

You can find RCF retail RCF Rib Knit HERE. You may also print any design from the Design Library onto this rib knit fabric. This is an 8 X 3 rib knit that is 92% polyester/8% spandex.

What I Sewed This Week~

This week, I worked on a pattern hack for an existing Love Notions pattern. It’s a secret right now~ so I’ll be able to show n tell about it in a few weeks.

I’m also sewing up some Raspberry Creek Fabrics swim knit fabric strike offs. Get ready to see a new LN Constellation and LN Tinley Skort! For my third piece of swim knit, I’m not exactly sure what it wants to be yet! The new RCF swim line is pure perfection for any of you that love nautical and “Lily P” inspired prints. I can’t wait to show them to you! These fabrics should be releasing next week. All the amazing prints will be available on swim knit and board short fabric. Don’t like to sew swimsuits? Visit last week’s Weekly Stitch to see all the garments that I love to sew with swim knit from RCF.

We had a Blizzard on Sunday/Monday that gave us lots of tree branches down along with 26″ of snow (with more perhaps coming on Thursday/Friday). Needless to say, sewing hasn’t been at the top of my list of things to do! The threat of losing power made me keep up on laundry and meal prepping just in case. Luckily we didn’t lose power, however our county (Ocean) had the highest outage numbers in the state.

My Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

Not a ton of progress on my list this week. I’m hopeful I’ll get some serious sewing down this weekend and next week!!

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use. Edited~ this is cut out and I’ve chosen the gold zipper! Can’t wait to get this sewn up! 2/24~ this is still cut out and waiting it’s turn!
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another!

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

Love Notions Patterns

Love Notions Vivace

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off one $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code

Bonus Photos~Our Blizzard of 2026

Screenshot

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ February 20, 2026

………….Welcome to My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ A Great Transitional Piece for Your Closet!

I’m just gonna put this right out there. I bet that if you make a Love Notions Oakley Vest, you are going to LOVE it. I’ll also bet that you will immediately make another one! There, I said it! This is THE perfect make to add to your closet right now. I’ve been throwing mine on everyday lately, every time I get a tad chilly. I honestly wear mine year round! They are part of my everyday wardrobe all fall and spring, yet I even wear them on summer evenings as it gets chilly by the coast.

And to top it off, the Ladies Oakley Vest and the Kid’s Acorn Vest are both just $6 today (2/20/2026) as the Love Notions Feature Friday patterns. If you buy both you can get an additional 10% off my using my code 10MACSEWS.

You can grab the Ladies Oakley Vest HERE.

The Kid’s Acorn Vest can be found HERE.

Want More Info On the Oakley Vest?

My first blog post about the Oakley Vest will give you all the details on the Oakley Vest, along with:

  • Sewing Tips for the Oakley Vest
  • My Fit and Sizing modifications
  • Instructions for my pocket modification
  • Instructions for my collar/zipper modification
  • Tips for purchasing thread

You can read this blog post HERE.

I wrote a blog post about how I quilted my own fabric for an Oakley Vest. Note: I am NOT a quilter! (So this may not be the way some of you would do this!). This vest is made from linen and lined with cotton poplin and it is simply one of the best SRPING makes I have made! I wear this constantly!

Click HERE to read this blog post.

Yes, It was snowing while I took this photo!

As you can see from some of my photos, that I LOVE layering the Oakley Vest over RTW sweaters. However, I also LOVE layering it with several LN patterns! This photo shows the Oakley paired with an sweatshirt fleece Aria button down and a rib knit La Bella Donna.

Visit this blog post to see how I layer up with my Oakley Vests.

Need a great resource for zippers for your new Oakley Vests?

Visit this Weekly Stitch Blog for all the details on which zippers I use and where I purchase all my zippers from. (Note: This post was written for the Fall pattern sale, this is not a current sale.)

New Pattern Release From Chalk & Notch~

I was honored to test the new Rivi Blouse and Dress pattern from Chalk & Notch! I highly recommend this pattern. Gabriela really listens to her testers and any issues that may arise and does whatever is needed to correct the issue or to provide additional instruction when needed. This is an elevated pattern designed for woven fabrics with details that definitely set it above the rest. It was designed with striped fabrics in mind, but is beautiful in any fabric.

I found this pattern so enjoyable to sew!!! Is it a super fast sew, not exactly. It actually took me almost as long to get the pattern pieces laid out and cut as it did to sew it up. But, it was worth it! I absolutely LOVED the collar construction and directions. If you are new to sewing a collar with a separate collar stand~ this is a great one to start with. It’s the little things in the directions that can really make a difference in the finished garment. Trimming directions for the collar were amazing~ NOT trimming the seam allowance at the center front means you get a much cleaner finish!

Be sure to check out Chalk & Notch’s Instagram, @chalkandnotch for even more info and fabric discount codes!!!

The Details

  • Blouse or Dress option
  • Blouse finishes at the hip
  • Dress finishes above the knee
  • Side Slits for blouse and dress
  • Dropped shoulders
  • Unique angled yoke seams on front and back yokes
  • Long or short sleeve option
  • Inseam pockets on dress (optional)
  • Size 0-30 (Up to 58″ bust)
  • A/B or C/D cup options
  • C/D option includes bust dart
  • Sewing Level: Intermediate

Get more info on the Rivi HERE.

My Tips for the Rivi Blouse and Dress

  • Make sure to pay attention to your seam allowances, as some seams are finished with French seams.
  • Be sure to mark ALL “T” markings.
  • Don’t skip Step 1~ staystitching!!!!!
  • Step 4~ take extra care when matching up the “T” marking. Take notice how the center front edges DO NOT align up yet. Eventually they will!
  • I highly suggest cutting ALL pieces on a single layer.

Below you will see my test garment that I made during testing. I plan on making another one soon. I wasn’t able to get great photos as we had 18″ of snow and frigid temps~ so inside photos had to do.

I sewed up a size 16 C/D and graded to the 18 hips. In the future I may not grade out quite as much at the hip/

What I’m Sewing (Doing) This Week~

This week I didn’t really get much sewing accomplished. I did however go through my closet to weed out the memades that I just don’t wear. I pulled them all out, made sure they were all labeled with the correct size and then took some to a local consignment shop and donated the rest to a local nursing home. I was amazed at how long it took me to accomplish all of that!

It was also my FAVORITE time of year! Prepping for the Raspberry Creek Fabrics Swim Fabric Release!! I began planning my Raspberry Creek Fabrics swim fabric sewing plans. As a member of their promo team, I was given early access to the new 2026 Swim fabric designs. I selected three and decided what I would make with them. Now I’m just waiting for them to arrive!!! These fabrics are tentatively scheduled for an early March release.

RCF swim knit fabric is one of my most favorite things to sew with. Have I made a swimsuit~ yes~ but I LOVE sewing up regular clothing with it. Interested? Visit these blog posts to see what I’ve sewn up with RCF Swim Knit fabrics.

Here are just a few of my favorite RCF Swim knit makes!

  • Made For Mermaids Jordan dress hacked into a kayaking dress
  • Love Notions Tinley Skort
  • Love Notions Laundry Day Tee Dress
  • Love Notions Constellation
  • My VERY FIRST RCF swim make~ a LN Constellation
  • Love Notions Clearwater Swimdress

My Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

I’ve done a good job of sticking to. my list~ however that’s mainly because I haven’t gotten much sewing done! I must say I am really looking forward to Spring sewing!

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use. Edited~. this is cut out and I’ve chosen the gold zipper! Can’t wait to get this sewn up!
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another!

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

Pattern Links~

NOTE: Some of these are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

Love Notions Patterns

Love Notions Oakley Vest

Love Notions Acorn Vest

Chalk & Notch Rivi

To receive an additional 10% off Love Notions pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off one $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code~ in this case grab the Kid’s Acorn Vest pattern! It makes a great gift!

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ February 13, 2026

………Welcome To My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~

Today, Friday 2/13/26 isn’t a bad luck day, it’s actually a lucky day because the $6 Friday Pattern is actually 3 patterns! The whole Clef Coat Collection is on sale today, each one just $6 a piece. If you purchase 2 or 3 of the Clef Coat pattern you can get an additional 10% off by using my code 10MACSEWS. This means the Ladies Clef Coat, the Mens Bass Clef CoatAND the Kids Treble Clef Coat are all on sale

The Clef Coats are a relaxed fit, yet classic coat that can be both casual or dressy depending on options and fabrics selected. It is suitable for Confident Beginners, so if you haven’t attempted to sew one up yet~ NOW is the time! Don’t like to sew zippers? There is also a button front option!

Want More Info On The Clef Coats?

For complete Clef Coat pattern details, sizing and modifications I made on all my Clef Coats visit this Sew Mary Mac Blog Post. You’ll also find lots of tips to make sewing your own Clef Coat a breeze.  You can find this blog post HERE.

Want to see my complete collection of Clef Coats (9 all together with one more currently being sewn)? Visit this blog post.

This blog post also has details on the changes I made to the Rose Corduroy version shown.

I’ve made 2 versions of the Men’s Bass Clef Coat. I made this corduroy version for my husband.

I sewed this version with French seams and a few other elevated finishes.

You can read all the details on this and the Bass Clef Coats on this blog post.

 This is a patchwork Madras plaid fabric and it is lined with loop French Terry. This was my most favorite make of 2024.

All the details on this Clef can be found on the blog post. This blog post also contains directions on lining your Clef. Read all about it HERE.

Remember the new MUSE Blouse is still available at release week pricing!

If you haven’t purchased the Muse Blouse yet, you could combine this week’s $6 Feature Friday pattern and you’d be able to get the 10% off the $6 pattern as well! Remember to use my code 10MACSEWS for the 10% off.

For all the details along with my sizing and modifications on the Muse Blouse, visit this blog post.

What I’m Sewing(Doing) This Week~

This week I sewed up another Clef Coat to add to my collection. I used a very heavy sweatshirt fleece that I had ordered from an online store sometime in the last few years. It was way too heavy for a regular sweatshirt and had no stretch~ thus making it perfect for the Clef Coat! It’s also been perfect for the extra low temps we’ve been having. I’ve actually been wearing it around the house all week! You can see that above.

I also got my Navy Boucle Clef Coat cut out and ready to be sewn. Hopefully this weekend that will get sewn up.

My oldest daughter and her husband finally said goodbye to city living this week as she moved from NYC into a 100 year old house (in a NYC suburb) that they purchased in December. I’ve spent some time helping as needed (mostly babysitting the puppy to keep her out of the way!). Sewing has taken a back seat to endless conversations about paint colors and whatnot. When people ask her if she is renovating, she politely responds, “NO, we are restoring”. I am just in love with all the red oak crown moulding, picture rails and plastered walls!

My Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

I’m trying really hard to stick to this list and to not start adding things to it. I have however, started my Spring sewing plan list.

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use.
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another!

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac
You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns

Love Notions Patterns

Love Notions Clef Coat

Love Notions Bass Clef Coat

Love Notions Treble Clef Coat

Love Notions Muse Blouse

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off one $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code.

Meet Your Muse~ A New Timeless Blouse Pattern From Love Notions

…………A New Pattern Review

The New MUSE BLOUSE is now available at release week pricing, $9.50, today through next Monday 2/16/2026. You can get an additional 10% off my using my code 10MACSEWS. This is THE perfect addition to your wardrobe.

If you prefer the new printed paper patterns LN has been releasing, you can pre-order the paper pattern for $18 plus shipping. This is $3 off the regular price of $12. No additional discount may be applied. You will get the digital version of the pattern for free. Paper patterns will be shipped early March. Please consider using my affiliate link as it gives me credit for your purchase.

I was lucky to be able to test this new pattern. When testing we are assigned particular options. I was assigned the straight bodice with the balloon sleeves. That is why my first 2 versions were sewn with those exact options. Right at the end of testing, Tami decided to add the ruffle neck option and asked a few of us if we could quickly sew one up. I took that opportunity to sew the skirted bodice with the ruffled neckline. Be sure you read down to my sizing and modifications to see my thoughts on the fit of each of these. Let me just say this ~ I LOVE THE BALLOON SLEEVES!!

The Details

The Muse Blouse is a great transitional blouse for all seasons! This pattern includes so many options you can easily make a closet full and each one would be different.

Be sure to check out all the tester versions to see all the options sewn up! I can’t wait to make another Muse! (I may even get another one sewn up before the release sale is over!)

  • Sizes XS-5X
  • Full Bust Option
  • Darted Bodice
  • Designed for woven fabrics
  • 3 Body Styles: Straight, Skirted or Balloon
  • 3 Sleeve Styles: Short, Balloon or Lantern(tiered)
  • 2 Neckline Options: Classic banded collar or Ruffled
  • Faced V-neckline

Sizing & Fit

The Muse Blouse is available in sizes XS-5X. A Full Bust pattern piece is included (like all new and updated LN patterns). Choose your blouse size based upon your high bust measurement. If in-between sizes choose the smaller size. 

 If your full bust is more than 4″ larger than your high bust, use the included Full Bust Front pattern piece. Remember that if you use the full bust pattern pieces, 1″ will be added to the Finished Measurements of the waist and hip. (Note: this is slightly different than other LN patterns.)

The Muse Blouse along with all other Love Notions patterns is designed for the average 5’5″ woman. Please be sure to refer to the Finished Garment Measurements for the blouse finished lengths.

The Skirted view is designed to hit about 3″ above the natural waist.

My Fit & Modifications

My bust measurement put me in an XL with full bust option while my hips put me into a 2X. I am only 5 feet tall, sometimes I shorten top pattern and sometimes I don’t. Below I will indicate which blouses I shortened.

Version #1~ Floral Clip Dot Voile

For my first test version of the Muse, I made an XL with the Full Bust option graded out to the 2X for my hips. This is where my measurements put me on the size chart. This cream floral clip dot fabric is very light weight and hung nicely.

Because the full bust option adds some additional length to the center front you can see that this version is slightly lower at the center front. Many people who need the full bust options need this additional length at the center front to keep the blouse hanging level across the front. Very often I do NOT need this additional length. As we know, all of our bodies are so different.

I also felt that I didn’t need to grade out to the 2X hip. It all depends on the look you are going for. If you want your blouse to have a flowier look you may want the extra ease.

This fabric was purchased from Alyssa May Fabrics a few years ago. She often has several clip dots in her shop.

Version #2~ Black Floral Rayon Poplin

For my second version, I chose to use a precious piece of “Rifle Paper Co” rayon poplin. For this version I stuck with the XL with the FBA but when grading out for my hips, I graded out between the XL and 2X. The other adjustment I made on this version was to level out the full bust hem while shortening the full hem by 1″.

During testing, most testers found that the length of the shoulder seam was a tad short, so it was let out a tad. My first 2 tester versions were perfect for my shoulders~ therefore on my next version(s) I will make a narrow shoulder adjustment of about 1/2″.

Version #3~ Pink Floral Rayon Crepe

For the Ruffled neck/Skirted bodice version I made a straight size XL with the full bust option. As stated above, the pattern was adjusted, so I made a small narrow shoulder adjustment to match my first 2 versions.

I shortened the skirt of this version by 3/4″. When I make this version again (and I WILL be making another one) I plan on shortening the bodice 1″ as well. It is designed to hit about 3″ above the natural waistline.

This fabric is a true rayon crepe that I purchased from Metro Textiles in the NYC Garment District. Kashi (the owner) still has this fabric available online. You can find it HERE.

Fabrics & Notions

The Muse Blouse is designed for light to medium weight woven fabrics. Fabrics such as rayon challis/poplin, chambray, linen, silk, cotton voile and even Quilter’s cotton will all work nicely.

Your choice of fabric used can change the look of your Muse blouse. Fabrics such as rayon challis/crepe will give you a softer blouse with more flow. Fabrics such as quilter’s cotton and linens will give a slightly boxier look. Remember to keep that in mind when selecting your fabric. It’s always a good idea to check tester/Ambassador photos to see how different fabrics drape when sewn up in a pattern.

Note: Knit fabrics may be used but sizing down my be necessary.

Notions

  • Fusible interfacing
  • 1 yard 3/8″ elastic for balloon and lantern sleeves
  • 1-1/2 yard drawstring for Balloon bodice

Sew Mary Mac’s Tips For Sewing The Muse Blouse

The most significant tip I can give for sewing the Muse Blouse is to “Block Fuse” the banded collar and front facing pieces!

What is block fusing? Block fusing is a garment industry technique that can make home sewing so much easier!  Your interfaced pieces will in turn be much more accurate which is so important when working with collars and plackets.  I HIGHLYrecommend block fusing the collar band pieces and front facing for the Muse blouse!!

Block fusing is the process of cutting a block of fabric and interfacing the same size.  The two are then fused together.  Follow these simple steps.

  • Cut a block of fabric and interfacing the same size.
  • Fuse the interfacing to the wrong side of the fabric.  Use lots of steam.  It’s a good idea to use a press cloth as well.  Remember to press and lift the iron~ do not slide the iron.
  • Press the right side of the fabric as well.
  • Cut the pattern pieces that require interfacing.
  • Now you have perfectly accurate pieces to sew with.

Remember to always lay out ALL of your pattern pieces first before cutting away a block to fuse.  I like to mark out the area I will need for my interfaced pieces with chalk.

A Few Additional Tips

  • Staystitch your neckline edges!
  • Page 11, Step 10~ don’t skip this stitching. This stitching makes pressing the curved edge of the collar lining so much easier.
  • Pressing is very important especially on page 12, Step 15.

Tips For Sewing Rayon Challis

Since rayon challis/crepe is such a perfect fabric for the Muse Blouse, I thought I would include some of my favorite tips for sewing the rayon challis/crepe.

  • When cutting out “shifty” fabrics such as rayon- make sure NOT to let your fabric hang off your cutting table. The weight of the hanging fabric pulls on the fabric and can result in your pattern pieces being distorted.
  • Try not to over handle your cut pieces.  Rayons can stretch easily if you aren’t careful.  Stay stitching helps to prevent this.  Don’t skip this step in your tutorial.
  • Consider using Knit tricot interfacing for rayons.  Knit tricot interfacing gives the rayon the  stabilization  needed on the collar band and front facing without making them overly stiff.
  • How many times have you cut out your collars and facings , only to have them not match up to your interfacing when you go to fuse them together?  Any lightweight fabric, like rayon challis can shift before you get a chance to interface them.  Steaming and applying interfacing can often shrink your fabric pieces, which in turn prevents them from fitting correctly when pinning the collar/plackets to your blouse. The best way to prevent this is to block fuse. 

Thanks for stopping by! I truly appreciate all of you that visit!  If you enjoyed this blog post, consider subscribing to my blog to stay up to date with all my posts!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac

You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

You can grab the Muse Blouse pattern HERE.

This is an affiliate link. It costs you nothing to purchase from this link, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

To receive an additional 10% off the digital pattern price, use this coupon code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used at anytime on any pattern order over $8. My code does change quarterly, so please always check the newest blog post for an update if you find a code isn’t working.

I am currently a Love Notions Ambassador. I tested this pattern, therefore I was given an advance copy of the Muse Blouse before it released. As always, thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ February 6, 2026

………….Welcome To My Sewing Room (This post contains affiliate links)

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~

Today’s Feature Friday Pattern from Love Notions is the Sonata Dress! Today, 2/6/26 you can grab with classic dress pattern for just $6!

A true classic the Sonata dress is perfect for sewing up a late winter dress in a soft flannel or baby corduroy. Or if you’ve got Spring on your mind~ sew one up in a flowy rayon challis or chambray. This dress even sews up nicely in Quilter’s cotton! The 4 sleeve options make it a true year round pattern! Be sure to visit the Love Notions Facebook group (type in Sonata in the search bar) to see some lovely Sonata dresses for inspiration.

This dress has been on my to-sew someday for quite some time! I’m thinking seersucker or linen for spring and summer!

More Details~

  • Designed for light to medium weight woven fabrics
  • Empire waist line
  • A-line skirt
  • Elastic casing at back waist for shaping
  • No closures needed!

What I Wore This Week~

I will be 100% honest with you! I didn’t wear any me mades this week unless you count my sleepwear! I realize now, I could have taken photos of that along with my LN Compose Robe that I wear every day .Oh well! My sleepwear consists completely of LN Juliet and Game Day Jersey nightgowns that I have made over the past few years. I actually donated all the other sleepwear I had since it was never worn. I’ll share a few photos of my favorites. I’ll link the blog posts below with the info on how I hacked those patterns

  • Game Day Jersey Nightgown
  • Juliet Nightgown
  • Juliet Nightgown
  • All three fabrics are rib knit from Raspberry Creek Fabrics.

During the day, I honestly lived in jeans/sweatpants and sweatshirts. It has just been so cold and windy here. Our 17″ of snow with ice on top hasn’t melted because of the cold temps. I hardly left the house as most of my plans were cancelled due to the icy road conditions. I’m over it by now~ my husband (the New Englander) is loving it! Hopefully next week, I’ll get back on the me-made train!

What I Sewing This Week~

This week my sewing was all about new pattern releases!!!! I was busy finishing up some pattern tests and taking final photos of them for release. I also sewed up some strike-offs for Raspberry Creek Fabrics’ new Spring Collection. Let me tell you this~ the spring florals are awesome this year!! (See below)

The Love Notions Muse Blouse will be releasing next Tuesday!!!! I’m really excited about this one! I’ve sewn up 4 versions and may have time this weekend for one more! You may have seen Tami’s sneak peeks this week in the Facebook group. A few days ago, she decided to add a ruffle neck option that I quickly sewed up for her. I think it’s my favorite version yet! Below are a few sneak peeks of my Muse Blouses!

  • LN Muse will release on Tuesday, 2/10/26
  • Sale price will be $9.50 for one week (till 2/16/26)
  • You can get 10% off this price my using my code 10MACSEWS
  • If you prefer the new printed paper patterns LN has been releasing, you can pre-order the paper pattern for $18 plus shipping. You will get the digital version of the pattern for free. Paper patterns will be shipped early March.

The Chalk & Notch Rivi will be releasing this month as well!! As soon as I have the exact details I will pass them on. This shirt pattern was so fun to sew. It’s not a quick sew, but the details are just so fun. If you have any striped fabric in your stash~ pull it out!!!

I also sewed up a new LN Constellation Pullover and a LN Aurora Tunic in cotton French Terry from the new Spring Collection from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. These 2 prints just screamed to me! I think the pink one was designed just for me!

My Winter/Early Spring Sewing Plans~

I’ve been getting ready to get started on these plan! I prepped both fabrics for the Clef Coats and ordered zippers for them as well. My go-to zipper resource is listed below.

  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ I ordered 2 zippers, both a navy Everbright metal zipper, one silver the other gold and will decide when they arrive which one I will use.
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt
  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District)
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
      • I made a LN Melody in this fabric last summer and I reached for it so often so I’ll make another!

Fabrics for my next four makes!

Boucle For Clef Coat
Sweatshirt Fleece for Clef Coat
Quilt for Coda Coat
Italian Boucle for Compose

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac

You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.

Pattern Links~

NOTE: These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links but they do give me credit for your purchase and provide me with a small commission. This helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns


Love Notions Patterns

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more. This means that you can no longer get my 10% off the $6 Feature Friday pattern by itself.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links above to purchase the Feature Friday patterns so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission). To take more advantage of the $6 FF sale, I suggest adding another pattern or a children’s pattern to your order so you may use the 10% off code.

Blog Posts~ These will give you more details on each pattern, my sizing and alterations along with sewing tips for each specific pattern.

Where To Buy Quality Zippers?

My go-to resource for zippers is SIL in the NYC Garment District. They have a great selection of zippers in hundreds of colors. They will also cut a zipper to any size that you may need. The GOOD NEWS? You can buy them online! 

The zipper I used for my navy sweatshirt fleece Constellation is the new EVERBRIGHT zipper. It is part of YKK’s new luxury line of zippers. It is highly polished and glides so smoothly. It comes in shiny brass or shiny silver. I prefer the #3 size but it is also available in #5. Both sizes are available in separating or closed end. Oh, and did I mention they are available in 107 colors? The zipper for my Navy Constellation was just $6,50. I feel this can zipper really elevate your Constellation to the next level.  You can find these zippers HERE.

If you prefer plastic zippers, my favorite zipper would be the YKK, #3 Vislon zipper.You can find these zippers HERE. These zippers come in lengths of 4″- 28″ for just $3.50 in 146 different colors. You can also have them custom cut a zipper for you. These zippers are also available in #5 and #8 sizes and in closed, separating, and 2-way separating(limited colors). The online color charts are super accurate and shipping is fast! There is a YKK color chart available for $38.  You can find that HERE. Edit: the price has gone up at SIL for the color chart~ but I found it at WAWAK as well.

I highly recommend these zippers for any of your Love Notions patterns. I buy all my zippers from them for my Oakley Vests, Clef Coats as well as my Constellations. I am much happier with them than any I used to pick up at Joann Fabrics(RIP).


NOTE: The online color chart is very accurate, when I don’t have time to run into the city to shop in person, I have ordered online. Shipping is fast too! There is even an option to change the zipper pull for an additional charge. 

WAWAK YKK Color Chart $39.95 plus shipping and tax. Free shipping on order over $100. This is where I purchase my serger thread so throw a few spools of that in to get free shipping!

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