Monthly Archives: February 2026

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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