Monthly Archives: November 2025

Sew Thankful Sale at Love Notions & The Weekly Stitch~ November 28, 2025

…………Welcome to My Sewing Room

Love Notions Fall Sale~ Sew Thankful Sale

I know many of you are busy checking out all the Black Friday Sales today 11/28/2025~ but Love Notions is having one of their rare site~wide sales beginning NOW! All patterns and courses are 40% off. If you use my special code 10MACSEWS45 you’ll get an extra 5%~ that means 45% off!! The sales runs from today through next Friday 12/3/2025. Printed patterns will be 25% off. You have a whole week to decide what patterns you “need”. (The only pattern excluded from the sale in the new Opus Vest)

But Wait~ There’s More!!!!!!!!!

With every purchase made during this sale using a code will allow you to get the Sewing Tool Kit PDF (print yourself at home). The Sewing Tool Kit is full of lots of helpful sewing tips guaranteed to bring your makes up a notch! But that’s not all~ for the first time EVER making a purchase (and using a sale code) will also get you the complete LOOK BOOK PDF (print at home yourself).

There are 2 ways to get this free Tool kit.

  • Use my 45% off code (10MACSEWS45) to get 45% off the order and I will send you the tool kit for free. Simply send me your order number and along with your email and I will send the PDF to your email.
  • Use Love Notions code SewThankful for just 40% off and you will get the Tool Kit added to your Love Notions account automatically. If you choose this method, please consider using my affiliate link so I will get credit for the sale. Purchase your patterns from this link.

Use code 10MACSEWS45 for 45% off your pattern order. In order to receive the Sewing Tool Kit & Love Notions LOOK BOOK for free simply send me your order number and email address and I will send you the PDF for free!

Which 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 the Meadowlark Pants, Bridget Trousers, Bluegrass Shirt, Geneva Pullover and Evanston Vest are good ones to buy. These patterns may have released during the Spring and Summer months, however they will work perfectly for Fall and Winter 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!  

I’ll have another blog post out next week with all my favorite Love Notions patterns to use for layering this winter.

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

  • See how I created a Coastal Preppy Fall Wardrobe with Love Notions pattern on this blog post.
  • You can check out my personal top 5 Love Notions patterns HERE. Note there might be some overlap on these lists. My favorites are constantly changing~ but these will always be patterns I love!
  • Want to get the most bang for your buck?  Check out this blog post to find some Love Notions patterns give you the most bang for your buck!

And Now On To The Weekly Stitch!!

What I Wore This Week~

As I’ve been doing the past few weeks, I dug into the back of my closet to pull out things I haven’t been wearing. A few of those items I wore for the day and then decided to donate. A few others, I remembered why I use to love them. Others, I’ve decided on some minor adjustments I can make to them to make me love them again. And of course, some were actually a bit too small, but I wore them anyway (Hey June Halifax Hoodies).

  • LN Rockford Raglan in Hacci Sweater Knit
    • LN Oakley Vest in a Cable Sweater Knit
  • LN Breckenridge Vest Hack in a Sweater knit (Link to LN Blog with instructions below)
    • LN Rockford Raglan in a rib knit
  • Hey June Handmade Halifax Hoodies in Raspberry Creek Fabrics Oatmeal French Terry
  • LN Boyfriend Cardigan in a sweater knit from Surge Fabrics
    • LN La Bella Donna in a rib knit
  • True Bias Marlo Sweater in an “Urban Rib” knit
    • Hey June Santa Fe top in a rib knit from the NYC garment district. (Chic Fabrics)

What I Sewed This Week (and last week)~

Well, I haven’t gotten much sewing done these past 2 weeks. I’m still working on the new pattern test for Love Notions which releases 12/5. I just finished sewing up my final version and I can’t wait to show you all!

I was also busy prepping for my family coming for the holiday and hopping into the city to see Moulin Rouge with my sister. While in the city I grabbed a bunch of zippers from my favorite source, SIL, for the LN Oakley vests I’m sewing up.

My Fall Sewing Plans

Sometimes we need to pivot. That’s what I’ve decided I needed to do with one of the items on my Fall Plan. I knew I needed/wanted a few new LN Oakley Vests for my Fall and Winter wardrobe. I sewed up the Sage Quilted Knit that I had purchased a few years ago for the Oakley. Although I love the fabric itself, it just doesn’t work as nicely for the Oakley as my other quilted sweater knits did. This particular one has a bit more stretch to it and the recovery was not as good. I know as I wear it, it will become baggier and not be the look I’m going for. So~ I have 2 pieces of quilted sweater knit in my stash~ a gray and a purple~ which I will use instead. I have used this sweater knit in burgundy already for the Oakley and I love it. (See photos below)

Now I need to get binding and a zipper to match so I can sew them up! Update: I got the zippers on my trip into the city last week at my favorite spot SIL, ~ now I just need a purple binding! Whenever I go into the city, I cut tiny swatches of the fabrics I need zipper (or buttons) for to make matching them up easy. SIL also has an online store you can order from. The color chart on their website is pretty accurate~ I’ve ordered zippers I needed quickly and they matched perfectly!

Did you read my blog post on shopping in the NYC Garment District? You can read more about SIL and other shops HERE.

When I finish the Oakley Vests, I plan to move on to my new LN Constellations!

  • LN Aria Button-downs ~ ALL COMPLETE!!
    • Corduroy ~Woodland print that I purchased last fall from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Sweatshirt fleece, pink plaid that I ordered from RCF 
    • Jacket hack in Navy linen~ just received from Mood Fabrics~
      • I’m going to push this ahead to my Spring Sewing Plans list
  • LN Timbre Top long sleeved button front version ~ ALL COMPLETE!!
    • Block print cotton voile ~has in stash from Blackbird Fabrics.
    • Perhaps a Rayon challis version? Found perfect rayon challis in my deep stash (10 yrs old?)
    • Bonus Sew~ Green Double Gauze from last big Joann Fabrics haul
  • LN Constellation Pullovers
    • Navy Speckle Sweatshirt Fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Oatmeal and Fuchsia floral sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Clef Coats
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from ????
    • Navy Boucle purchased a few years ago from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Oakley Vests
    • Two Quilted Sweater knits from stash (Sage and Plum)~ from Style Maker Fabrics(2023 & 2024)
      • Sage Quilted knit completed.
      • Added Gray Quilted Sweater Knit in place of the Plum. See photos below.
      • Added Purple Quilted Sweater knit in place of the Purple Puff quilted fabric below.
    • Purple Puff quilted fabric ~Style Maker Fabrics from last year~ still trying to find fabric for binding I like!! Note: I’m not finding anything I like, so I’m rethinking my plans for this fabric.
  • LN Coda Coat ~ADDED 10/4
    • Quilted Jacket~ will be shopping at Home Goods to find a new quilt to cut up.
    • Update!!!! I found a quilt at Home Sense in the clearance section! A Draper James quit for just $30!
  • LN Sloane Sweaters~ Added 10/20 / ALL COMPLETE
    • Wearable muslin of the Sloane~ since I needed to make some size adjustments.
    • Rose Floral Reverse French Terry (Style Maker Fabrics 2024)
    • Teal Striped Ribbed Sweater Knit (Style Maker Fabrics 2024)
    • Houndstooth Hacci Sweater Knit~ Promo for Raspberry Creek Fabrics

You can found these quilted knits at Surge Fabrics is several colors. They are $10.99 per half yard. (I may just need to order another color since this fabric is perfect for the LN Oakley Vest! Shop for them HERE.

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

Love Notions Patterns

The Love Notions links are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

During this week long Sew Thankful Sale use the code  10MACSEWS45. This coupon code gives you an extra 5% off the 40% off sale. This code is good for all patterns (printed patterns will be 25% off) and courses.

My code will change back to 10MACSEWS after the sale. My code does change quarterly, so please always check the newest blog post for an update if you find a code isn’t working. This code will be good through the end of 2025.

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

Fabric Shopping Resources For The LN Octave Coat & The Weekly Stitch~ November 21,2025

……..Welcome To My Sewing Room

Something Big is Coming!

Get your wish lists ready for the Fall Love Notions Sale! Look for all the details in next Friday’s Weekly Stitch. Remember if you use my code you will get an additional 5% off the sale prices! (Check next week’s Weekly Stitch for the special code!) Also, go to your Love Notions account and leave a review for any pattern you have purchased for a chance to win the Love Notions “Look Book”. Check the Love Notions Facebook page for more details on that!

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~

The Octave Coat is the $6 Feature Friday pattern today, 11/21/25. If you are new to sewing coats, this is a great place to start! If you purchase the Octave Coat Sewing Course for $25, you will get the Octave Coat pattern for free. Be sure to use my code 10MACSEWS for an additional 10% off. (the course or the pattern)

 The Octave Coat Sewing Course is an on-demand course can be watched on YOUR time. No limits, no expirations. Binge it or watch it in chunks. Replay the tricky spots until it clicks for you. Tami walks you through each every step the way. Tami takes the mystery out of intimidating subjects like size, fabric selection, common pattern adjustments, sewing techniques, sewing the pockets, sewing the lining, and more. You’ll also get access to a module all about installing a zipper!

The Octave Coat can be dressed up or down depending on your fabric choice. From a nice classic wool to a thick flannel and even a fleece your choice can give you a completely different look! Be sure to check out the Love Notions Facebook page (type Octave in the search bar) to see all the Octaves made by LN Ambassadors and customers.

I haven’t made the Octave Coat YET! However, I do have all my fabric together for it. I have a gray melton wool blend for the coat, a plaid flannel for the lining and a thermal satin lining fabric for the sleeve lining. I’m planning on making the shawl collar version with the tie belt. I will for sure be watching the Octave Sewing Course before I even begin to cut out my fabric pieces! Stay tuned!!!

Here are the fabrics that I have purchased for my Octave Coat.

  • Gray Melton Wool blend from the Garment District of NYC
  • Gray Plaid Robert Kaufman Flannel for the body lining. (Raspberry Creek Fabrics)
  • Ivory flannel backed satin for the sleeve lining. (Local fabric store)

Keep Reading Below for Fabric Resources For The Octave Coat!!!

The Details

  • Sizes XS-5X
  • Choice of Wide lapel, shawl collar or hooded option
  • Fully lined option
  • Integrated pockets in princess seams
  • Optional belt or button closure
  • Designed for heavy weight woven fabrics or stable knits
  • Full Bust option
  • Drafted for winter layering (plenty of ease)
  • Optional Sewing Course available for purchase
  • Tip: Sew a muslin with the lining pieces
  • Skill Level: Intermediate

Fabric Recommendations

  • Medium to heavyweight woven fabrics such as~
    • Boiled wool
    • Boucle
    • Melton Wool
    • Bonded Suede
  • Heavyweight Stable Knits such as~
    • Fleece
    • Sweatshirt Fleece
    • Sherpa
    • The above fabrics would be perfect for the unlined version

Use a light weight woven fabric for the hood lining when using a bulky fabric for your coat. A slippery fabric such as satin, bemberg rayon or a silk-like fabric is best for the sleeves.

Fabric Resources for the Octave Coat

Cali Fabrics~

You will find several fabrics here that are perfect for the Octave Coat. They have a variety of wool and wool blend coatings that are Designer Deadstock along with a great selection of lining fabrics. You can find them all here. FYI~ you may also order swatches from Cali Fabrics!

Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Navy Herringbone Wool Coating #30523 at $22.99 per yard
  • Designer Deadstock Charcoal Heavy Wool Tweed #30521 at $19.99 per yard
  • Dark Ocean Blue Wool Boucle #30526 at $24.99 per yard
  • Moss Green Melton Wool #30528 at $22.99 per yard
  • Charcoal Melton Wool #30520 at $22.99 per yard
  • Pink Monica Boiled Wool #WL-25730 at $18.79 per yard
#30523
#30521
#30526
#30528
#30520
#WL-25730

Style Maker Fabrics

This is one of my favorite shops, however I know that they are a tad more expensive than some. That being said~ the quality is ALWAYS top-notch! They also sell swatches for just $1 or $2 with free shipping. When ordering from Style Maker, they will also match thread for you. If you have trouble matching a lining fabric, you can contact them via the website and they are always glad to help!!

There are a few of the favorites that I found when looking through their “Boucle & Coating” section. You can see all of them here. Below are a few of my favorites.

  • Cozy Reversible Sherpa Fleece, available in 5 colors, $29.99 per yard
  • Large Scale Plaid Plus Boucle Fleece, $24.99 per yard
  • Teddy Boucle Fleece, available in 2 colors, $24.99 per yard

This just in!!!!

Style Maker Fabrics just added a few brand new coatings to their shop! They are PERFECT for the Octave Coat! If wool is too itchy for you take a look at these! They look AND feel like Wool Melton yet are made from a blend of poly, acrylic and rayon. They are 60″ wide and have 40% stretch. Don’t forget you can always order swatches from Style Maker Fabrics.

Screenshot
Screenshot

Surge Fabrics

Surge has several different types of fabrics suitable for the Octave Coat. You can see them ALL HERE.

They have a great selection of Melton Double Weave Wool (sold by the 1/2 yard). Many of them are on sale. Here are a few of my favorites. Be sure to visit their website to check them all out!

  • Cream & Gray Check Melton Double Weave Wool, $10 per half yard.
  • Denim/Linen/Cinnamon Box Plaid Double Weave Wool, $10 per half yard
  • Toasted Almond/Navy/Powder Plaid Double Weave Wool, $10 per half yard

There are also several other types of Wool Coating to choose from. These are a few classic fabrics to choose from.

  • Rainbow Flecked Black & White Herringbone Wool Coating, $14.49 per yard
  • Golden Beige Herringbone Wool Coating, $14.49 per yard
  • Salt & Pepper Tweed Wool Coating, $15.49 per yard

Surge also has 2 Faux Wool Coating available for just $7.50 per yard which would be great to use if you’re newer to sewing or just want a budget friendly option.

  • Black & Tan Harlequin Plaid Faux Wool Fleece Coating~ On Sale and Almost gone!
  • Black & White Diagonal Plaid Faux Wool Fleece Coating

Surge’s Polartec Thermal Pro Double Sided Fleece(shown below) would make a great unlined Octave Coat. This fleece is designed to keep you warm without weighing you down. It is available in 3 colors for $17.99 per yard. You can see them all HERE.

Fleece

Fleece makes a great option for the Octave Coat. Other than the Polartec fleece I have shown above, I really can’t give you an online resource for it since the quality really varies per manufacturer. If you (like me) have a stash of the Polar Fleece from Joann Fabrics~ this is a perfect fabric for a casual Octave Coat. There are several online stores that carry fleece, but since I haven’t ordered from them I wouldn’t want to recommend them to you. I would suggest check your local Walmart(mine never has decent fabric) and Hobby Lobby for fleece.

This Just In!!! Nick of Time Textiles has a limited selection of Polar Fleece. I HAVE ordered fabrics from them in the past and I’ve been very happy. You can check back often as their stock is always changing. You can also order swatches from them as well. Here are 2 that I think would work really well for the Octave

  • Navy Double-Sided Polar Fleece, SKU 7008B #S/LL, $5.50 per yard
  • Mint Single Sided Polar Fleece, SKU 7431B #S63,$5.50 per yard

Additional Resources~

Discovery Fabrics is a Canadian company that is a favorite of many LN Amabassadors. They also have a selection of various Polartec Fleece. You can see them HERE.

Minerva Fabrics were sponsors of the release of the Octave Coat back in 2020. They have many wool coatings in a several price ranges. I did see some nice Deadstock Wool Blend Coatings on sale for just $9.99 per yard. You can see all the coating fabrics HERE. Below are a few of the sale fabrics I saw.

If you are looking for a high-end fabric, Minerva also has a great selection of high quality coating fabrics. The great thing about Minerva is that is you click on a fabric, often you will see photos of other customer makes in that exact fabric!

I really liked some of the John Louden Coating fabrics. You can see those HERE.

  • John Louden Wool Blend Coating, various plaids, $17.99 -$19.99 per yard

Another great choice for the Octave Coat is Teddy Faux Fur. Minerva has it available in 6 colors for $19.99 per yard. I simply LOVE these colors. See all of them HERE.

Fur For Collar

My top suggestion for fur for your collar would be Shannon Fabrics Luxe Cuddle Fabrics. However, they only sell wholesale~ so you can visit their website to see where you might be able to purchase it near you. There is nowhere near me, however I did see that there are some available on Amazon. You can see them HERE. My favorites are below.

Cuddle Lux Wild Rabbit Driftwood

Cuddle Luxe Silver Fox

Minerva Fabrics has a few options. You can see the entire Velboa Faux Fur Collection HERE. Below are two favorites which would look great as a collar!

*****Another great option is to simply purchase a throw from Home Goods or similar stores and cut it up for the collar. This may be the most cost effective choice.

Lining Fabrics For the Octave Coat

Flannel backed satin is a great choice to add warmth to your coat. It is perfect especially for the sleeves as it allows you to slip your arm in easily but add needed warmth. I have a local fabric store where I purchase this, however I have found some reliable online shops that carry it. This is what I have purchased for my Octave Coat.

Vogue Fabrics~ available in 6 colors, $14.99 per yard.

Pongee~ a polyester fabric that is another great lining choice. It has a smooth surface and soft drape.

Cali Fabrics has about 40+ colors of Designer Deadstock Pongee lining for $3.99 per yard. You can find them HERE.

Charmeuse Satin~ is a slightly heavier lining fabric that is great for coats. Cali Fabrics has 40+ colors available at $3.99 per yard. You can see them HERE.

Flannel~ I have chosen to line the body of my Octave with flannel for added warm. Any flannel will work although I do have a few favorites. Be sure to use a good quality flannel for your coat~ especially after you put so my effort in to sewing it up!

My favorite flannel is Robert Kaufman Mammoth Flannel which is one the thickest and best quality flannels I have ever worked with. They can be found in many online shops (and even quilt shops). Simply search in your favorite online shop. They can also be found in the following shops.

Style Maker Fabrics also carries a “Cozy Flannel” which is very similar to Mammoth Flannel. I have sewn this flannel up as well and it just gets softer and softer with each wash. They have many plaids AND prints available. You can find them HERE.

***PS~ I don’t suggest using flannel for the sleeves of your Octave Coat. It would make it very difficult to get your arms in and out.

What I Wore Last Week~

Last week was all about wearing layers it seems!

  • LN Aria Button-down in Sweatshirt Fleece (Raspberry Creek Fabrics)
    • LN La Bella Donna in rib knit
  • LN La Bella Donna vest hack in loose weave sweater knit
    • LN Sloane Sweater in waffle knit
  • LN Sloane Sweater, View A with hood in a ribbed sweater knit
    • LN Oakley Vest in a Sweater Double Knit
  • LN Sloane Sweater with a hacked funnel neck ~sweater knit from Style Maker Fabrics (2024)
  • LN Presto Tunic in flannel~ Eddie Bauer for Joann Fabrics
  • Hey June Handmade Halifax Hoodie in a cotton French Terry
    • I made this way back in 2018? It’s a size too small, but now I just want to make a new one!

“What I’m Sewing This Week” and “My Fall Sewing Plans” will return in next week’s Weekly Stitch! See you then!!

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

Love Notions Patterns

The Love Notions links are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

To receive an additional 10% off the LN pattern price, use this coupon code 10MACSEWS.This coupon code can be used at anytime on any pattern….even a $6 Feature Friday pattern.  My code does change quarterly, so please always check the newest blog post for an update if you find a code isn’t working. This code will be good through the end of 2025.

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

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ November 14, 2025

………….Welcome To My Sewing Room!!

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~

The $6 Feature Friday pattern today, 11/14/25 is the Sloane Sweater! This is a MUST HAVE pattern in my opinion. Not only does it include great options~ it’s also a fun pattern to hack. PS~ the Kids Version is also on sale for $6 too! Be sure to use my code 10MACSEWS for an additional 10% off.

A few years ago some of my fellow sewists began calling me the “Sloane Queen” because I made so many! I found the last few years I had taken a step back from it (maybe because I needed to make a bigger size.) The last few weeks I’ve been pulling them out and wearing them anyway and I totally remember why I loved this pattern so much! I’ve altered my pattern and sewn up a few new ones too. Another thing I love about the Sloane is that you can size up or down depending on the look you want. I’ve been wearing my larges, and then just fit closer and are great for layering. I’ve also made then as size up as a relaxed sweatshirt! I’ve linked a few blog posts below so you can see all my Sloane versions and Sloane Hacks! Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for some online Fabric Resources for the Sloane Sweater!!

The Details ~ Sloane Sweater for Ladies

The Sloane is a drop shoulder pullover that includes two basic body styles. View A has a slimmer silhouette with a curved high/low shirt tail hem that falls about mid hip. View B has a boxier more relaxed fit. It features a waistband and hits a high hip. I have even sized up for View B sometimes to have a more oversized sweatshirt.

Both views can be sewn with or without the yoke. It can be made as a basic crewneck or with a hood. Other options include a kangaroo pocket and elbow patches. There are so many different combinations you can come up with! The possibilities are endless!! Just go to the Love Notions Facebook Pattern Support group and type Sloane in the search. It’s hard to believe all the versions you’ll see are all made from this awesome pattern!

  • Sizes XS-5X
  • Full Bust Option
  • 2 Body Styles
  • Relaxed Fit
  • Dropped Shoulder
  • Optional: yoke, elbow patches, hood and kangaroo pocket
  • Designed for knit fabrics
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner

For full details on the Sloane Sweater including my sizing and alterations, suggested fabrics and sewing tips be sure to visit this blog post.

Sloane Sweater for Girls

The Sloane Sweater for girls is available in sizes 2T-16 and includes all the options of the Ladies Sloane (except the full bust option). View B could also be used for boys.

What I Wore Last Week~

Clearly I love wearing the LN Aria all Fall as I wore it several times this week again! I also searched through the back of my closet for things I don’t wear very often. The day I pulled out my LN Evanston Vest to wear and photograph~ I decided when looking at the photos that I felt it was too long. When I first made this I had added to the lengthen ~ so now I added it to my mending pile to shorten.

  • LN Aria Button-down “jacket” hack in 100% linen (Metro Textiles NYC -2021?)
    • LN Classic Tee/La Bella Donna Mashup in Bamboo/Cotton Jersey (Style Maker)
  • LN Aria Button-down in a Japanese baby wale corduroy (Style Maker Fabric-2024)
    • LN La Bella Donna in wide rib knit
  • LN Aria Button-down in RK Mammoth Flannel from Raspberry Creek Fabrics
    • LN Oakley Vest in Fleece~ Joann Fabrics
    • LN Rockford Raglan in a rib knit
  • LN Terra Tunic with the V-Neck Hood option in RCF Oatmeal French Terry
  • LN Evanston Vest in a wide rib sweater knit ~ Joann Fabrics from my stash
    • LN Rockford Raglan in a rib knit
  • LN Sloane Sweater View B in Cayambe Knit from Surge Fabrics (still available in several colors)
  • LN Sloane Sweater View B in Cotton French Terry from Raspberry Creek Fabrics

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week I’ve been working on a new pattern test for Love Notions. (No sneak peeks yet~ Sorry!). That’s really about it! I’ve cleaned up my sewing space again and have pulled everything for my next few projects together. I’m moving on to my LN Oakley Vests as I have been wearing the ones I have nonstop with the drop in temperature!

My Fall Sewing Plans~

I’m proud of myself for sticking to my Fall sewing plan list! I’m still trying hard not to add anything. Clearly I won’t finish this list before Fall is officially over~ but I will continue to work on this into the winter. Come late January/February I like to begin spring sewing anyway.

  • LN Aria Button-downs ~ COMPLETE!!
    • Corduroy ~Woodland print that I purchased last fall from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Sweatshirt fleece, pink plaid that I ordered from RCF 
    • Jacket hack in Navy linen~ just received from Mood Fabrics~
      • I’m going to push this ahead to my Spring Sewing Plans list
  • LN Timbre Top long sleeved button front version ~ COMPLETE!!
    • Block print cotton voile ~has in stash from Blackbird Fabrics.
    • Perhaps a Rayon challis version? Found perfect rayon challis in my deep stash (10 yrs old?)
    • Bonus Sew~ Green Double Gauze from last big Joann Fabrics haul
  • LN Constellation Pullovers
    • Navy Speckle Sweatshirt Fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Oatmeal and Fuchsia floral sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from ????
    • Navy Boucle purchased a few years ago from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Oakley Vest
    • Quilted Sweater knit from stash~ from Style Maker Fabrics(2023 & 2024)
    • Purple quilted fabric ~Style Maker Fabrics from last year~ still trying to find fabric for binding I like!!
    • Fleece~ from Joann’s fabrics that I purchased just before liquidation(maybe)
  • LN Coda Coat ~ADDED 10/4
    • Quilted Jacket~ will be shopping at Home Goods to find a new quilt to cut up.
      • No luck at Home Goods~ I’m now looking at block print bed quilts on Amazon!
      • Update!!!! I found a quilt at Home Sense in the clearance section! A Draper James quit for just $30!
  • LN Sloane Sweater~ Added 10/20 / COMPLETE
    • Wearable muslin of the Sloane~ since I needed to make some size adjustments.
    • Rose Floral Reverse French Terry (Style Maker Fabrics 2024)
    • Teal Striped Ribbed Sweater Knit (Style Maker Fabrics 2024)
    • Houndstooth Hacci Sweater Knit~ Promo for Raspberry Creek Fabrics

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

Love Notions Patterns

The Love Notions links are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

To receive an additional 10% off the LN pattern price, use this coupon code 10MACSEWS.This coupon code can be used at anytime on any pattern….even a $6 Feature Friday pattern.  My code does change quarterly, so please always check the newest blog post for an update if you find a code isn’t working. This code will be good through the end of 2025.

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

Fabric Resources For The Sloane Sweater

SURGE FABRICS

One of the many reasons I like to shop at Surge Fabrics is the great quality and prices. This is a family owned business and Kayla is a sewist like us. She cares about the quality of the fabrics that she sells. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and join the Surge Facebook Group to keep updated on sales, restocks of staples and new fabrics!

Surge has a such a great selection of sweater knits(at reasonable prices) that are perfect for the Sloane Sweater. I like sweater knits for both View A and View B. Some of my favorites are the Cayambe Rib knit and the Nepal Rib Knit. The Seville Wide Rib Knit would make a great dressier version. These are just a few of the sweater knits available. Check out their entire sweater fabric selection HERE.

Cayambe Rib Knit
Nepal Rib Knit
Seville Rib Knit

For View B of the Sloane I also like to use French Terry (check the stretch %!). Surge has an amazing selection of solid color French Terry perfect for color blocking. See all the colors HERE.

RASPBERRY CREEK FABRICS

RCF has a nice selection of Hacci Sweater knits that are perfect for the Sloane. It sews up nicely in both View A and B. In addition to the “Club” selection found HERE you can also custom print any of the designs in the Designer Library on Hacci sweater knit. There is a big selection of plaids and stripes that would work so nicely for a Men’s Tailgate too.

“Club” or retail Hacci Details : about $13 per yard, Medium Weight, 8 oz, 90% Polyester/7% Rayon/3% Spandex, at least 50% stretch, made and printed in the USA

Here are a few of my favorites. I am finishing up a Sloane in the Houndstooth for a RCF Promo.

RCF also has a nice selection of seasonal French Terry that is perfect for a View B Sloane. Over the years I have sewn more than a dozen for RCF (promo work) in various French Terry Prints. (Check out my Sloane Blog above to see some of them). You can see all the current “Club”/Retails French Terry Prints HERE. Below are a few of the Fall/Winter and Christmas prints available now.

French Terry Details: about $14.00 per yard, 58”wide, 220 GSM, 95/5 cotton spandex, at least 50% 4 way stretch.

Of course if you have any of the infamous Oatmeal French Terry~ it sews up into THE BEST Sloane! I have used this fabric for several of my Sloanes over the years along with Terra Tunics. This is the fabric I used for my husband’s LN Tailgate. My husband absolutely loves this fabric! This French Terry has more drape than most other French Terrys so it works for both the Ladies View A and View B. You can find this fabric HERE. However once the stock of it is gone~ it’s gone!!!

Additional Fabric Resources For The Sloane Sweater

I would look for fabrics such as: Hacci sweater knits, waffle knits, baby French Terry, French Terry(View B), rib knits

  • Surge Fabrics*Favorite
    • Waffle knit, Brushed Waffle knit
    • Sibley Brushed Sweater knit
    • Vaeroy Rib knit
    • Seville Wide Rib knit
    • Brushed Rib knit
    • Brushed Hacci Sweater knit
    • Cayambe Rib knit
  • Mily Mae Fabrics
    • Aspen knit
    • Cable Sweater knit
    • Brushed Cashmere rib knit
  • Boho Fabrics now carries the Cable Sweater knit I used for the Sloanes
  • Style Maker Fabrics~ a bit more money, but amazing quality

New York City Fabric Shopping~ Sew Mary Mac’s Favorite Spots

Note: This blog post wasn’t planned. Due to a number of requests for NYC Garment District fabric shop recommendations I decided to quickly write up this blog post. As I make trips back into the city in the next few months, I will take better photos and update this blog.

A Little About Me 🙂

HI, I’m Mary Anne~ often known as Sew Mary Mac on Instagram and my blog. You may see me post in various Facebook Groups as Mary Anne MacLean. I’m also an Ambassador for Love Notions Patterns, an avid pattern tester and confirmed Fabricholic. I’m a retired FCS teacher (Home Economics) but began my career as a Technical Writer then Fabric Library Coordinator for Simplicity Pattern Company back in the 80’s. (I still have a collection of fabrics I was gifted by various manufacturers when I worked there!)

I have ALWAYS loved fabric (my BS degree was in Textiles). I will admit to being a Fabric “snob”. I love good quality fabrics. Good quality doesn’t always mean expensive. So many of my favorite fabrics that I have sewn up are from the Garment District in NYC all purchased at great prices!

So many of the stores I visited in the 80’s as I walked through the Garment District to the bus station are gone. During the 90’s and early 2000’s I rarely visited the Garment District. (My children were young) However, back in 2006-2010 when my oldest daughter attended FIT in NYC, we began to visit all the shops again. I’ve been shopping there ever since!

Where Is The Garment District?

The Garment District is located in Midtown Manhattan, primarily between 35th and 40th streets between 6th and 9th Avenues. Within this district you will find:

  • Designer Showrooms
  • Designer Studios
  • Manufacturers Headquarters
  • Fabric Stores
  • Notions and Trims Stores

The area you will find almost all of the fabric stores are 35th-39th Streets between 7th and 8th Avenues. NYC is a big grid. The Avenues run North and South. The Streets run East and West. Addresses in the 200’s are between 7th and 8th Avenues. (100’s between 8th and 9th/300’s between 7th and Broadway/6th)

*Unless noted otherwise, all shops listed below are located between 7th and 8th Avenues.

**On the map below, 7th Avenue is labeled as Fashion Avenue as it also called. Avenue of the Americas is 6th Avenue. Note: Broadway runs diagonal between 6th and 7th Avenues.

Continue reading →

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ November 7, 2025

…………..Welcome To My Sewing Room

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ It’s All About Comfy Bottoms!

For the Ladies, we have the Resolutions Bottoms on sale for just $6 today, 11/7/2025. PLUS~For the Kids and Men, we have the Thomas Track Pants also just $6 each today! Remember to use my code 10MACSEWS for your additional 10% off.

The Details~ Resolution Bottoms

The Resolution Bottoms pattern is exactly what you need this cozy season! It includes 5 different views which will work for just about anything! Lounging~ YUP, Working out~ YUP! Casual Shopping trip~ YUP! Whatever your resolution~ this pattern has you covered!!!

  • Sizes XS-5X
  • Designed for knit fabrics
  • 5 Styles
    • Plain Leggings
    • Moto Leggings
    • Boot Cut Yoga Pants
    • Straight Cut Yoga Pants
    • Joggers
  • Shaped Back Yoke for all Views
  • 2 Waistband Options~ Contoured with 3/8″ elastic OR yoga style
  • Pockets~ Side Seam Pockets for Joggers and Yoga pants/Hidden front pocket for leggins
  • 2 Pages of Fitting instructions
  • Skill Level~ Confident Beginners

Fabric

For the Jogger and Yoga Bottoms light to medium-weight knit fabrics with at least 25% 2-way stretch are required. Fabrics such as: French Terry, Ponte, cotton/lycra, jersey blends and double knit poly.

For the leggings medium weight fabrics with at least 50% 4-way stretch are required. Fabrics such as: Ponte, spandex and supple.

The Details~ Thomas Track Pants

These pants are perfect for active kids and grown-ups! Yet, they are also perfect for lounging when made in flannel or sweatshirt fleece! Make them for all the kids and men in your family for the holidays!! Links to patterns can be found below along with some fabric resources.

  • Kid Sizes 2T-14
  • Men’s Sizes XS-5X
  • Designed for wovens and stable knits * RCF sweatshirt fleece!!!
  • Solid and Color blocked options
  • Lined option
  • Optional Zipper Hem
  • Side Seam Pockets
  • Elastic Waist
  • Two how-to video clips
  • Skill Level~
    • View A~ Beginner
    • View B ~Confident Beginner
    • Zipper Hem~ Intermediate

What I Wore Last Week~

I’m still pulling me made items from the back of my closet as I switch my warm weather clothes with my warmer clothes. The last 3 items listed/shown are old makes~ which I’ve decided to hold on to. They fit me a bit closer than the pattern intends, but I will continue to wear them.

  • New LN Opus Vest in a baby wale corduroy
    • LN Rockford Raglan in a rib knit
  • LN Aria Button-down in Cozy Flannel from Style Maker Fabrics
    • LN Classic Tee/La Bella Donna mashup in a triblend knit
  • LN Constellation in a Sweatshirt Fleece from Raspberry Creek Fabrics
  • LN Sloane Sweater with Hood in a Cable Sweater Knit (2021?)
    • Note~ this is a size smaller than what I measure now
  • LN Terra Tunic in Sweatshirt Fleece from Raspberry Creek Fabric
  • LN Whistler Top in a Cotton French Terry, with reverse side used for the collar.
    • Note~ this is a size smaller than what I measure now

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week I’m finishing up my new Sloane Sweaters. I made a wearable muslin of the Sloane since it had been a few years since I had sewn up View A. View A is a slimmer fit than View B. (I’ve sewn plenty of the View B as sweatshirts) The pattern I had traced out was an XL with FBA graded out to a 2X. Lately I have been sewing a 2X graded to a 3X on newer patterns I’ve been making. Going by the fit of the purple knit version seen above, I kept the XL in the shoulder and neckline area (as my Upper bust measurement in just below the 2X). I graded to the 2X for the sleeve and side seams. I’m was happy with my “test” version and I moved on to sewing the ones from my Fall Plans list.

To see my full collection of Sloane Sweaters you can visit this blog post. These are mostly older versions as I had kinda stepped away from this pattern for a bit. I will eventually update this blog post with photos of my newer version.

I’ve been outside quite a bit taking advantage of the milder weather so I haven’t gotten as much done as I planned. I love riding my bike and I’m trying to get as many rides in before it just gets too cold!

My Fall Sewing Plans~

I’ve really stuck to my Fall sewing plan list! I’m really really really trying hard not to add anything. Clearly I won’t finish this list before Fall is officially over~ but I will continue to work on this into the winter. Come late January/February I like to begin spring sewing anyway.

  • LN Aria Button-downs~ COMPLETE!
    • Corduroy ~Woodland print that I purchased last fall from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Sweatshirt fleece, pink plaid that I ordered from RCF 
    • Jacket hack in Navy linen~ just received from Mood Fabrics~
      • I’m going to push this ahead to my Spring Sewing Plans list
  • LN Timbre Top long sleeved button front version. ~COMPLETE!!
    • Block print cotton voile ~has in stash from Blackbird Fabrics.
    • Perhaps a Rayon challis version? Found perfect rayon challis in my deep stash (10 yrs old?)
    • Bonus Sew~ Green Double Gauze from last big Joann Fabrics haul
  • LN Constellation Pullovers
    • Navy Speckle Sweatshirt Fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Oatmeal and Fuchsia floral sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from ????
    • Navy Boucle purchased a few years ago from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Oakley Vest
    • Quilted Sweater knit from stash~ from Style Maker Fabrics(2023 & 2024)
    • Purple quilted fabric ~Style Maker Fabrics from last year
    • Fleece~ from Joann’s fabrics that I purchased just before liquidation
  • LN Coda Coat ~ADDED 10/4
    • Quilted Jacket~ will be shopping at Home Goods to find a new quilt to cut up.
      • No luck at Home Goods~ I’m now looking at block print bed quilts on Amazon!
      • Update!!!! I found a quilt at Home Sense in the clearance section! A Draper James quit for just $30!
  • LN Sloane Sweater~ ADDED 10/20
    • Wearable muslin of the Sloane~ since I needed to make a few size adjustments Done
    • Rose Floral Reverse French Terry (Style Maker Fabrics 2024) Done
    • Teal Striped Ribbed Sweater Knit (Style Maker Fabrics 2024)Will be done by Sunday!
    • Houndstooth Hacci Sweater Knit ~ Promo for Raspberry Creek Fabrics

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

Love Notions Patterns

The Love Notions links are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

To receive an additional 10% off the LN pattern price, use this coupon code 10MACSEWS.This coupon code can be used at anytime on any pattern….even a $6 Feature Friday pattern.  My code does change quarterly, so please always check the newest blog post for an update if you find a code isn’t working. This code will be good through the end of 2025.

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

Fabric Resources

For the Resolution Bottoms

The first place I would shop for fabric for the Resolutions would be Surge Fabrics. They have a great selection of activewear fabrics. You can find them HERE.

For the Thomas Track Pants

Raspberry Creek Sweatshirt Fleece~ this fabric is perfect for the Thomas Track Pants! Warm and snuggly and stable enough to sew up nicely in this pattern!

I find this fabric so warm and cozy yet not as heavy or bulky as some sweatshirt fleece. It has a slight heathered appearance due to the rayon content which just adds to its appeal. There are so many color coordinated options in the shop right now. (And you can also print custom designs on it as well!)

Fabric Details: Medium Weight 10-11 OZ, 72% Poly/25% Rayon/3%Spandex, 58//60″ Wide 

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