Tag Archives: handmade

Me Made May Continues & The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ May 8, 2026

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

Hooray For May and $5 Patterns Each Day!!!!!!

In honor of Me Made May, Love Notions has been doing something really special this May! Each day of May LN has been featuring a different pattern for just $5! The schedule won’t be announced ahead of time~ so check back to this email each day(until the next Friday’s Weekly Stitch) for the $5 pattern of the day and my link to the pattern and related blog post! Remember each pattern is on sale for just 24 hours.

**I would truly appreciate if you could use my affiliate link below to give me credit for your purchase. Thank you so so much for visiting and helping to support my blog! The small amount I get with this affiliate link helps to keep my blog ad free! 🙂 If you don’t want to return to my blog each day~ you can simply go to the Love Notions Website to see the $5 pattern. You can bookmark/save this link which will also give me credit for your purchases~ Love Notions Patterns

Today’s $5 Pattern~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Tinley Short, Skirt and Skort!

Why Buy The Tinley?

  • 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. I included photos of three of these, but I have so many more Tinleys in other fabrics on the blog posts listed below!

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.

Buy this pattern HERE.

Visit these 3 blog posts for more details and to see all the different Tinleys I’ve made!

Screenshot

Pattern Emporium Sale!!!~ Sale ends Monday 5/11 (time depends on your time zone). NOTE: Anytime you purchase 3 PE patterns you get 20% off!!!

There is an exciting sale beginning at Pattern Emporium that I wanted to share with you! PE patterns will be 20% off for a few days in honor of Mother’s Day. The only exclusions are their two newest releases~ the Making Moves Pants and the All Good Asymmetric Tee. I am definitely planning on purchasing a few. I own 3 now and recently made my wearable muslin of the About Town Popover that I LOVE! I’ve already purchased the nicest white washed linen to make another one! I HIGHLY recommend these patterns. Here is a link to the About Town Popover Shirt & Dress.

What I Wore This Week~

  • LN La Bella Donna Dolman~ in Waffle knit (made years ago!)
  • LN Timbre Top~ in Double Gauze I bought during Joann’s clearance sale 😦
    • This is another top I’ve decided I will alter. I plan on washing it in warm rather than cold water and putting it in the dryer first. Them I will take out the hem(at side seams) and sleeves and taking in the sleeve and side seams.
  • Grainline Studio Thayer Jacket ~ in a “Nantucket Red” cotton twill with a seersucker lining.
    • This is probably my all-time favorite make ever!!! I remembered how much I loved wearing it when I threw it on this week (it had been too small for a bit). I now need to make a third! I tested the size expansion(addition of cup sizes) for Grainline Studios way back in 2019 and it was my first (sad attempt) Sew Mary Mac Blog post.
  • LN Rhapsody Blouse ~ in a rayon crepe (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)
  • LN Aria Button down~. Linen blend purchased in the NYC garment district (2024?)
    • LN La Bella Donna in a cotton modal from Style Maker Fabrics (this is my most worn LBD)
  • LN Timbre Top Hack ~ in a border eyelet from It’s A Material World/H & M Fabrics in the NYC Garment District

Visit this blog post to see how to underline the Timbre top .

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week I sewed up a few Brindle & Twig Baggie Tees for my newest great nephew, Jacob. To date he has only worn hand-me downs I made for his older brother! So it was time for him to get some of his own. I went through my HUGE remnant stash of cotton jersey prints from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. I was able to whip up a couple new shirts for him (although the hand-me downs are so so soft).

When I put on my blue and white LN Rhapsody earlier this week I remembered how much I enjoy wearing AND sewing this blouse. So I sewed up a new cap sleeve version in a Ditsy floral rayon challis from Style Maker Fabrics that I purchased in March from their Spring Release. Luckily I have the Rhapsody traced out in 3 different sizes. I’ve finished that Rhapsody and I’m perusing my stash for a second one. I’m also altering a few of my favorite ones that are too large.

My Me Made May Goals

My Spring Sewing Plans have been set aside a bit~ mostly because of Me Made May. What are my goals this year for Me Made May? In past years I have vowed to try to wear me made garments every day, photograph them and post them online. However, since I really do wear me made almost every day and since I post what I wore each week in my “Weekly Stitch” I decided to do something a bit different.

This year I am pulling things from my closet that I haven’t worn much or at all the last 2 years. (Mostly because they were too tight as I had gained some weight). So, I am trying things on and wearing them~ even if they are too big (note the green double gauze Timbre) and deciding if I want to keep it and alter it or to donate it. This is my goal for May~ to try on everything in my closet that I haven’t been wearing. Then I need to get to altering!!

Everything other than the green Timbre top I wore this week had been too small to wear last year and a bit too tight the year before. For example the pink striped Aria blouse, I used to think I didn’t care for the fabric~ but I wore it for a 22 mile bike ride this week and it’s fine! Clearly it was just a bit too small across the back when I finished making it.

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 stash which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns. Using the affiliate link also helps me cover the costs of maintaining my website. I have tried to avoid placing ads on my website so using my link helps me to continue to do that! 🙂

Love Notions Patterns

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MARYMAC. 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). I highly suggest adding on a kid’s pattern or a “Sale” pattern to your Feature Friday pattern order so you can get that discount!

NOTE: This code isn’t designed to work for the Me Made May Daily Sale, however it may work if you add another one of the “Sale” patterns on the LN website(simply click on SHOP, then SALE)

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

Me Made May Is Here ~ The Love Notions Trunk Show & The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac!

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

Hooray Hooray It’s Me Made May~ $5 Pattern Every Day!!!

In honor of Me Made May, Love Notions is doing something really special ALL MONTH LONG! Each day of May LN will feature a different pattern for just $5! The schedule won’t be announced ahead of time~ so check back to this email each day(until the next Friday’s Weekly Stitch) for the $5 pattern of the day and my link to the pattern and related blog post! Remember each pattern is on sale for just 24 hours.

**I would truly appreciate if you could use my affiliate link below to give me credit for your purchase. Thank you so so much for visiting and helping to support my blog! The small amount I get with this affiliate link helps to keep my blog ad free! 🙂 If you don’t want to return to my blog each day~ you can simply go to the Love Notions Website to see the $5 pattern. You can bookmark/save this link which will also give me credit for your purchases~ Love Notions Patterns

Thursday 5/6 $5 Pattern ~~~~~~~~ Aurora Tunic & Dress

The Aurora is a classic yet modern dress or tunic. The Dress version is fitted at the waist, while the Tunic has more ease in the waist and hip areas. The Aurora is so versatile~ it can be dressier or more casual depending on your fabric choice. My favorite things about this pattern~ the fit, the pockets and the ruched sleeve!

Buy this pattern HERE.

Be sure to check out my blog post with all my sizing details, alterations, fabric selection and changes I used to create my beach coverup. Read it HERE.

Although I love the look of the more fitted Aurora

dresses made in Ponte knit that I have seen, I don’t

really have the need for a dress like that in my wardrobe.

After I tried my white tunic version on, I absolutely fell in

love with the pockets. That got me thinking~ how can I

make this pattern work for my lifestyle? Then I realized,

these pockets are just perfect for collecting seaglass on

my morning beach walks! 

Sale Over 😦 ~ Love Notions Newest Pattern~ The Interlude Jacket

You can still purchase the Interlude Jacket at regular price of $12.50. You can use my code 10MARYMAC for an additional 10$ off. You can read all the details about my pink twill jacket over on this blog post.

You can grab the Interlude Jacket pattern HERE.

What I Wore This Week~

I’ve started my Me Made May pledge a bit early this year. Since I almost always wear something me made, my goal for this May was to really evaluate the memades in my closet. I have so many that never get worn. I’m trying to wear something different each day(I mean I’ll try). I’m going to reach for things that haven’t fit well in the past to see if they fit me now and then decide if I want to make them fit, wear them as is, or donate.

I’ll be honest, I REALLY, REALLY hate altering clothing! So, I must really love the fabric if I want to “save” it. This week, I’ve determined that the Floral Linen Melody Dolman will get a new hem line. I’m going to redraw the front hem curve and bring it up about 2 inches. (Note: I’ve already altered the hem on my pattern pieces for other Melody dolmans I’ve made.)

  • LN Clef Coat ~ Patchwork Madras and lined with Loop French Terry.
  • LN Constellation ~ Custom printed fleece from Raspberry Creek Fabrics
  • LN Rhapsody Blouse ~ Custom printed rayon challis from Raspberry Creek Fabrics
  • LN Constellation ~ French Terry from the RCF Spring Collection, still available HERE.
  • LN Melody Dolman ~ Floral Linen blend from Mily Mae a few years ago.
    • I’ve decided to shorten this shirt a bit in the front by redrawing the lower front curve.
  • LN Timbre Top~ in a Cotton Voile Block print from Blackbird Fabrics
    • I love this fabric, so I am planning of washing and the putting it in the dryer(I usually hang this fabric to dry) and then I will take out the hem and take it in down the side seams.

What I’m Sewing This Week~

I finally received my Strike-Off fabrics from Raspberry Creek Fabrics, so I have been busy sewing them up! I absolutely LOVE their cotton lycra jersey for nightgowns in the summer. This fabric just gets softer and softer the more you wash it! RCF French Terry is also a favorite of mine~ especially for the Constellation! This new Salt Water Collection is just perfect for me! I mean every NJ girl needs a salt water taffy pullover! I also sewed up this cute Pineapple print into a tee-shirt for my great niece. You can find all these fabrics HERE.

Constellation Pullover
Juliet Top hacked to a nightgown

You can find the details on my LN Juliet nightgown on this blog post.

My Spring Sewing Plans~

Sometimes we think we make the best plans~ but when it comes to sewing they aren’t always easy to follow (or stick to!). I’ve gone “off plan” a bit, but I will get to some of these. I will definitely get to my linen Aria Button downs. When in NYC I bought 3 new colors for a color blocked version and the purple from Mood keeps calling my name! I still want to sew up the Caprice skirts, but I have some newer fabrics I really want to sew up first! I did get the perfect zippers for my Pink/Green swim fabric and Coral Loop French Terry while in the city as well for more Constellations. I do wear my Constellations all spring AND summer, as when bike riding the front pocket is perfect for my phone/keys/wallet. The evening by the coast are always cool and we also spend some much time at or on the water.

Honestly, the Metra Blazers may get put aside for late summer~ they will be perfect for New England in September! I think my Boucle Clef Coat will wait for then as well. I still have hopes on getting the Coda Coat done!!

  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District) DONE!
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?) DONE
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece to copy the viral “Gray Sweatshirt Blazer” 
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • Another color blocked linen version (will buy at Gray Lines Linen in NYC my next trip in) Bought Fabric!
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash)
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt 
  • LN Caprice Skirt~ will still sew at least 2, but may change my fabrics to new ones I’ve purchased in NYC
    • Denim Chambray (stash)
    • Navy Batik print (I’ve had for years from Fabric.com!)
  • LN Constellation
    • New Swim knit from RCF- lipstick pink and green ~Got zipper in NYC!
    • Coral Loop French Terry~ Got zipper in NYC
    • 2 new French Terry (RCF) prints
      • Cornflower floral DONE
      • Patriotic Block Print Floral
  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ It’s in time out and waiting it’s turn!  This Coat is cut out and I’m setting it aside and will come back to it.

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 stash which allows me to continue to test and review more patterns. Using the affiliate link also helps me cover the costs of maintaining my website. I have tried to avoid placing ads on my website so using my link helps me to continue to do that! 🙂

Love Notions Patterns

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code 10MARYMAC. 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). I highly suggest adding on a kid’s pattern to your Feature Friday pattern order so you can get that discount! NOTE: This code will NOT work for the Me Made May Daily Sale, however it may work if you add another one of the “Sale” patterns on the LN website(simply click on SHOP, then SALE)

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

Rhapsody Blouse ~

Constellation Pullover~ includes fabric suggestions for sewing the Constellation year round

Clef Coat~

Melody Dolman~ Detailed post about the Melody, sizing and fabrics.

Juliet Top~ Detailed blog post about the Juliet top including hot to hack it into a nightgown.

Timbre Top & Dress~

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ April 24, 2026

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

Be sure to read all the way to the end for the details of yesterday’s NYC fabric shopping trip!

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ Chorus Top & Dress

The $6 Feature Friday pattern from Love Notions today, 4/24/2026 is the Chorus top and dress.  Need a nice dress in a jiffy? THIS is your pattern!! I was amazed at how quickly I was able to sew my maxi dress version! If you plan on purchasing the Chorus pattern, please consider clicking on my link to do so. This is an affiliate link and it will give me credit for your purchase. (Read more about this at the end of my post)

The Chorus Top and Dress is a unique dress that has many options to choose from. Depending on options selected and fabric used, this dress/top can be casual or dressy. It’s comfortable to wear, flattering and fairly simple to sew!

Both of my versions are sewn up in ITY knit. Personally I love sewing with ITY (even though some are a bit slippery to sew) because they are cool to wear, don’t wrinkle and you can roll them up into your carry on bag!! They go on every vacation with me!

For all the details on my sizing and the alterations I made for my Chorus maxi dresses , visit this blog post.

Pattern Emporium New Release

Pattern Emporium has released a new pattern this week. The All Good Asymmetric Tee is 15% off right now. Visit their website HERE, for all the details. There are also 3 other patterns 15% off right now as well. Be sure to click on the Pattern Mashing “+” to see all the ways you can get creative with this pattern.

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week, I sewed up my first Pattern Emporium pattern. I’ve bought 3 so far, although this is the first one I have sewn up mainly because they are in Australia and their seasons are opposite of mine. The About Town Popover pattern released in the Fall, so I purchased it on sale during it’s release. PE also has weekly sales of one chosen pattern at 50% off. I now own 3 patterns and I look forward to sewing up the other 2 as well.

First up was the “About Town Popover” top and dress! This pattern is AMAZING and I look forward to making several more versions for spring and summer! I’ve popped in my wearable muslin of Front Style 1( front seam) that I sewed up to evaluate the sizing for me. FBA adjustments are already done for you, with 2 different FBA front pattern pieces to choose from. I chose the size 16 with the FBA2 graded out for my hips. This is the “tall” cropped length. For my next version, I will not grade out for my hips and I will shorten it 1″ at the shorten/lengthen line. I also plan to raise the neckline slit by one inch.

The pattern directions are amazing~ especially for newer sewists! The instructions are very detailed with so many photos to help you see exactly what your garment should look like at each step. However, if you’re a more experienced sewer, there is also a “basic” sewing order list as well. I loved how the tutorial even encouraged “block fusing” for the front facing pattern piece~ I’m am always “team block fuse”! In addition, at the end of the tutorial ideas are given for pattern mashing, such as what pattern sleeves can be swapped from other PE patterns.

The pattern drafting is excellent as well! I am a BIG fan of having the upper and under collar two different pattern pieces. When the under collar is drafted to be slightly smaller than the upper collar it helps the seam roll to the underside, which keeps the under collar from showing. I went fabric shopping in the NYC Garment District yesterday and got some beautiful white washed linen for another version! Read to the end of this blog for the details on my shopping trip!

You can find this pattern HERE.I

What else am I sewing? Raspberry Creek Fabrics has released their Summer 2026 Cotton Jersey, French Terry, Rib knit and Double Brushed Poly prints so I am working on sewing up my strikes for them. I’ve got a Cotton Jersey nightgown, a Constellation Pullover(of course!) and a dress for my great niece. Newly added this time~ these prints will be available on the Verona Stretch Poly as well. To read more about Verona~ just this Weekly Stitch post.

Below are the Spring 2026 collections. These are $1 off per yard through next Tuesday, 4/28/2026. You can find these prints HERE.

I also spent some time working on my shopping list for my jaunt up to the NYC Garment District. I went through my fabrics to see what zippers I would be needing (for Constellations mostly) so I could grab them at SIL. I made a list of what linen I needed from Gray Lines Linen~ a solid white for another PE Popover, various colors for my new color blocked Aria Button Down and of course anything else that I “need”.

Want to know more about shopping for fabrics and notions in NYC? Check out this blog post I wrote by request of many of my readers. Read it all HERE.

Do you have anything you’d like to learn more about specifically? Let me know in the comments!

What I Wore This Week~

Our weather has been all over the place this week! I actually had to turn the heat back on in the house at the beginning of the week, then we had 60*-70* weather towards the end! You can probably tell by the clothes I wore!

  • LN Constellation Pullover in French Terry from Raspberry Creek Fabrics
  • LN Constellation Pullover in a heavy Sweatshirt Fleece (Style Maker Fabrics 2025)
  • LN Oakley Vest in a Blizzard fleece from JoAnn Fabrics 😦
  • LN Compose Robe~ sewn as a Cardigan
    • Italian Boucle from Chic Fabrics in the NYC Garment District

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 stash 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 10MARYMAC. 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). I highly suggest adding on a kid’s pattern to your Feature Friday pattern order so you can get that discount!

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

Bonus Photos~ This Week’s Shopping Trip in the NYC Garment District

I went up to NYC yesterday for a bit of fabric shopping (ok, I bought way too much fabric!). I hadn’t been up for awhile and the weather was perfect!

To read full detail about shopping in the NYC Garment District visit this blog post. (This includes exact addresses too)

I went up in the morning and got to my first shop just as they were all opening. What I like to do is to start on 39th Street (between 8th and 7th Aves)and stop in to AK Textiles and It’s A Material Work(H & M Fabrics). I look around~ these are both shops that you need to spend some time and look through what they have. It’s totally worth it since you can get great bargains here. I took photos of what I liked and got prices~ but I wasn’t going to buy anything just yet. (Less to carry around this way).

I continued heading east on 39th up to 7th Ave then over to 38th Street.(Across 7th Ave you can see the “Big Yellow Button” although right now it is covered by scaffolding). On 38th St. My first stop was one of my favorites, Chic Fabrics to look around, get prices and take photos. Moving down 38th St. I went to my zipper supplier~ SIL. I had brought a half dozen fabric swatches to get zippers for. I continued down 38th St. to 8th Ave and then over to 37th St.

On 37th St. my first stop was Metro Textiles to see my friend Kashi. Here I began making some purchases, three pieces here. Next stop was my favorite shop to buy linen, Gray Line Linens, where I bought a white linen for another PE Popover top and 3 pastel linen for a colorblocked LN Aria button-down. Last stop before lunch was Mood where I bought a striped blue linen and a floral rayon crepe. I walked up to 7th Ave and then down to 30th St. for lunch.

There are many many options for lunch, but when I want a quick inexpensive lunch where I can sit and relax I always go to Bravo Pizza. Two slices of “Grandma Pizza” and a Diet Coke is perfect. There is plenty of seating and a clean bathroom(you just need to ask for the key). While eating lunch I went over my photos and decided what I was going to stop back in to make purchases. At this point I then headed back to the fabric shops on 39th. But if you wanted to visit the Museum at FIT, this is just a few blocks down 7th Ave.

I stopped in AK Textiles to pick up three pieces I decided I “needed” and another one at It’s A Material World, both on 39th. I had some time before I needed to catch the 3:00 bus, so I popped into Fabric House on the same street. I’ve never purchased fabric here before, and I found 2 awesome pieces that called to me! I also loved the workers here as well! There is a whole basement full of fabric neatly arranged. I actually found a plaid madras patchwork that is typically hard to find unless you want to pay $30 and up a yard. I got this for $15 per yard!

AK TEXTILES

I bought the 2 with the white check marks, both cottons
I may need to go back for this red plaid linen!
I grabbed the navy and tan linen plaid for a skirt

IT’S A MATERIAL WOLRD

This shop always has closing signs!
And a few different names!
A huge selection of coating fabrics!
I stopped back in after lunch for this patchwork printed challis.
Lots of seersuckers here.
Rows are tight, but no worries everyone knocks fabric over!

CHIC FABRICS

Always a big stack of remnants!
Lots of linen prints
Lots of linen solids too!
More linen prints and stripes
Linen plaids too

SIL

I love these Everbright metal zippers!

METRO TEXTILES

The entrance to Metro~ take elevator to the 9th floor.
So much fabric it’s out the door!
Kashi cutting my linen stripe
Beautiful eyelets~ I need to figure what I can make with that blue!
So much fabric in this small shop!
Kashi and I~ he is always up for a selfie!

GRAY LINES LINEN

I love the quality and price of their linen!
My light purple linen!

MOOD

Sign for Mood~ pass this sign and go through the revolving door
Go in this door and take elevator to the 3rd floor.
A full wall of Boucle!!!
I grabbed this blue stripe linen!
So much floral rayons at good prices!

LUNCH BREAK~ BRAVO PIZZA

Corner of 30th and 7th Avenue, right past Madison Square Garden

OTHER GREAT OPTIONS FOR LUNCH

This new place took over the Houndstooth Pub and I am looking forward to going here. On the corner of 37th and 8th
Just want to grab a slice? Great place to stand at a table on the sidewalk and people watch!

FABRIC HOUSE

Wall in the basement

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ April 17, 2026

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

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ The Metra Blazer

UPDATED SALE INFO~ 4/17/2026~10:00 AM EST

Exciting news today! The $6 Feature Friday pattern today, 4/17/26 is the Metra Blazer. Even better news, is if you think you may need a little help with the tricky parts of this pattern~ the Metra Sewing Course is just $15 today. So you can get both the Course and the Pattern for just $21! You MUST use the code STITCH-9K4XQ2. Simply add the course and the pattern to your cart along with the code!

Already own the Metra Blazer pattern? If you already own the pattern but now would love the course, today is your lucky day! You too can purchase just the Metra Blazer Sewing Course for just $15! That’s a great deal. In order to get this fabulous deal you must enter the code STITCH-9K4XQ2

Note~ you can’t use my personal code for an additional percentage off, so please use my affiliate link for the pattern and/or course so I get credit for your purchase.

The Metra Blazer is such a versatile pattern. Depending on your fabric choice it can be dressier or more casual. It is much more comfortable to wear than a traditional blazer but looks more polished than a cardigan. I always wear one of my Metras when I go into the city for the day. I’m comfortable for the commute in, yet I still feel like I’m dressed nicely for the theater.

I just sewed up a new Metra Blazer in a Ponte Twill fabric and I just LOVE it. It has a bit more drape than a traditional ponte and just a bit lighter weight~ making it perfect for Spring and Summer!

Do you want more info on the Metra Blazer? Visit my previous blog post HERE. Here, I share my very first 2 Metra Blazers, fabric recommendations, sewing tips for the Metra and how I altered the Metra for my petite pear shape.

Above is one of the first Metra Blazers I every made! I love wearing them into the city for shows! This was a Funny Girl back in 2022!

What I Wore This Week~

Again, this week I’m trying to pull things from my closet that are a tad too large, wearing for the day, and then deciding if I will donate of alter them. I really really hate altering clothes! I simply would rather just make something new! However, some of the fabrics these are sewn up in are ones that I really love.

The first three I have decided to make alterations to them. The plaid Aria can simply be taken in on the side seam from the underarm to the hem and I will be happy with it. The hot pink double gauze is actually quite large. Before I take it in, I’m going to wash it in warm water and tumble it dry to see if I can shrink it just a tad. This swim knit Constellation looks pretty decent in this photo, when without my hand on my hip it kind of hangs like a sack. I also think it looks way too long now. I plan on cutting off the hem, taking it in through the sleeve and side seams, and then rehemming it.

The Colorblocked Seersucker Aria can be taken in just a bit on the side seams as well. My Caprice Skirt just needs to have the elastic in the waist tightened! The La Bella Donna still works so I’m happy about that since this Cotton Modal knit is my most favorite fabric to sew up basic tees in! (It comes in over 20 colors~ but the white is the best because it doesn’t show allow anything to show through!). You can find that fabric here. PS~ don’t worry if it is sold out, they always restock it!

  • LN Aria Button Down~ plaid cotton shirting from Style Maker Fabrics (2024)
  • LN Band Camp Shirt ~ in Double Gauze from stash
  • Ln Constellation Pullover ~ in Swim Knit from Raspberry Creek Fabrics (custom printed)
  • LN Aria Button Down~ Colorblocked in Seersucker from Mood MYC
  • LN Caprice Skirt ~ in a vintage embellished cotton gingham
    • LN La Bella Donna ~ in Cotton Modal from Style Maker Fabrics
  • Love Notions Aria Button Down~ Linen stripe from Gray Lines Linen, NYC Garment District
    • This is my favorite source for linen. I buy it in person, but they do have some linens online as well. You can find them HERE.

What I’m Sewing This Week~

I finally finished my final version of the new Interlude Jacket from Love Notions! If you follow Love Notions on Facebook or Instagram you may have seen a sneak peek of it! It is scheduled to release on April 28th if all goes well with this final stage of testing! I can’t wait to show you my pink version!

My daughters were both down this weekend. My one daughter bought a house out of the city while the other still enjoys city life. So what does that have to do with sewing? My youngest, although she has a machine and can sew brought down with her a few shirts to be shortened for her vacation. She’s just been so busy getting ahead at work so she can be gone for 2 weeks! So of course I altered them for her! (She’s 4’11” so everything is always too long for her.)

I also did a few alterations on a few of my favorite spring/summer Constellations to get them ready for my bike rides.

My Spring Sewing Plans~

I’m slowly working to complete this list, although the new pattern from Love Notions has taken up A LOT of my sewing time. We’ve had a bit of a “fake summer” this past week, so I haven’t had any interest in sewing up other Metra Blazer or Coda Coat. I’m getting ready to cut out one or two of my Aria Button Downs from these plans!

  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District) DONE!
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?) DONE
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece to copy the viral “Gray Sweatshirt Blazer” 
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • Another color blocked linen version (will buy at Gray Lines Linen in NYC my next trip in)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt 
  • LN Caprice Skirt
    • Denim Chambray (stash)
    • Navy Batik print (I’ve had for years from Fabric.com!)
  • LN Constellation
    • New Swim knit from RCF- lipstick pink and green
    • Coral Loop French Terry
    • 2 new French Terry (RCF) prints
      • Cornflower floral DONE
      • Patriotic Block Print Floral
  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ It’s in time out and waiting it’s turn!  This Coat is cut out and I’m setting it aside and will come back to it.

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 stash 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 10MARYMAC. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more.(But not the Sewing Course deal today) 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).

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

Bonus Photos~ This Week’s Bike Ride In Cape May (NJ)

Once the weather gets warm, my husband and I try to do a long bike ride (15-30 miles) once a week. It was unusually warm this week, so we headed down the coast to Cape May. We LOVE riding our bikes here, but once the summer season begins the roads are just a tad too busy(and often with tourists who aren’t sure where they are going). We will most likely get one more ride in before the tourist season begins and then we will wait until September!

We biked down to Sunset Point, then to Cape May Point to that beach and the Lighthouse. Cape May is a historic Victorian town, I didn’t get any pics of the homes today.(Just one of a house that had a pretty tree that was blooming!). We rode through some farmland and then the historic village before heading back to Sunset Point for lunch at one of our favorite spots, The Fish House. I forgot to take a pic of my Crab Cake sandwich until I had already eaten half of it~ while my husband had a Little Gem Apple salad with Salmon. No trip to Cape May is complete without a Kohr Bros. custard~ my favorite it the chocolate/peanut butter twist!

(Notice the cute photobomber in the pic of my husband at the table!)

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac ~ April 3, 2026

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

My Ruffle Sleeve Hack

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ The Ballad Blouse

The $6 Feature Friday pattern from Love Notions today, 4/3/26, is the Ballad Blouse. This is such a perfect blouse for spring and summer. Sewn in the right fabric it will keep you looking cool and comfortable right through the summer no matter how hot it gets where you live! Please consider using my affiliate link to purchase your pattern. You can read more about that below in the “Pattern Links” section.

For details on my “Puff and Ruffle” sleeve hack for the Ballad Blouse, visit this blog post.

For complete pattern details, my sizing and alteration info and how to “Block Fuse” your interfacing, visit this blog post.

The Ballad Blouse is THE perfect blouse for spring and summer! It’s loaded with options that can easily help you fill your closet full of beautiful yet comfortable blouses. The relaxed fit will help you stay cool, yet look cute! The real star of this pattern is the shoulder detail! You can choose between shirring or gathers. I’ve only made the gathered version at this time. Consider trying the shirred version as well~ I did shirring for the first time in a LONG time for my Tempo sundress. It’s a lot easier than you might think! Plus there is a wonderful video to help you along the way! I can’t wait to make a few sleeveless versions for summer!

What I’m Sewing This Week~

I’m working on my final of the new Love Notions jacket pattern~ be on the lookout for sneak peeks from Tami on the Love Notions Facebook Group and Instagram! I’m working with a beautiful piece of stretch denim like twill from KiKi Textiles. This pattern doesn’t require stretch denim, but this was the exact color I was looking for. It’s available in several colors too! I’ll share that information when the pattern releases.

The Patriotic line from Raspberry Creek Fabrics released earlier this week, and I have been busy sewing up 2 designs! I choose 2 prints that are available on Double Brushed Poly or Rib Knit. I LOVE the rib knit from RCF for making basic tees, the Vivace dolman, nightgowns and the LN LDT dress. I love that so many of the designs in this release are just subtle red, white and blue prints~ they don’t all scream Happy 4th of July! However, if that’s what you love~ they have designs for you too! While my exact prints are only available on DBP and Rib Knit (due to the saturated and darker colors), there are also many prints available on Cotton Jersey and French Terry.

  • LN Classic Tee/La Bella Donna mashup. (my most sewn and worn tee)
    • Mini Patriotic Stripe rib knit
  • LN Vivace Dolman
    • Dusty Blue Block Print Floral rib knit
    • I’ll have better photos of this over the weekend! (it was 40* and raining all day yesterday)

You can find the entire RCF Patriotic line HERE. These fabrics will be $1 off per yard through Monday 4/6.

To read all about my Classic Tee/La Bella Donna mashup tees, visit this blog post.

To read all about the Vivace Dolman, visit this blog post.

And lastly I began to work on a Metra Blazer that I have planned for at least 2 years! I think I put it off for so long because I was going to have to trace a new size(because of weight gain 😦 . But now I’ve lost that weight and can go ahead and sew the size that I already have traced! YAY!

I purchased this “Fruit Dove” Ponte Twill from Surge Fabrics a few years ago specifically for a Metra Blazer. I’m so happy to be finally working on it! This exact color is no longer available but there are several other colors still in stock. I find it has a tad more drape than most Ponte knits making it perfect for a casual Metra! You can find the Ponte Twill fabric HERE.

For more details about the Metra Blazer, visit this blog post.

Visit this blog post to see additional Metra Blazers that I’ve sewn up.

Ponte Twill from Surge Fabrics
This was my most worn Metra~ but I don’t care for the color of this on me anymore.

What I Wore This Week~

As you can see, I’ve worn some springy makes this week along with some warmer makes. We had temps this week in the 80’s and today it was 40*!

  • LN Aria Button Down ~ color blocked in cotton seersucker. (one of the very first Arias I made!)
  • LN Vivace Dolman ~ in a rib knit from RCF (2023?)
  • LN Constellation Pullover for a bike ride along the coast (swim knit from RCF-2022?)
  • LN Ballad Blouse~ with a hacked Puff and Ruffle sleeve, in linen/rayon
  • LN Melody Dolman~ hacked to a popover top with peplum skirt, in a rayon(found at an estate sale)
  • LN Constellation~in a soft sweatshirt fleece(that actually has some stretch to it!) from Style Maker Fabrics (2024)

For details on my Melody Dolman Peplum hack, visit this blog post.

My Spring Sewing Plans~

I’m slowly working on my list and trying really hard not to add anything new to the list! I did add the Gray Sweatshirt fleece Metra Blazer because I’ve been seeing the “Gray Sweatshirt Blazer” all over for over $100!

  • LN Compose Robe “Cardigan”
    • Lt. Blue Italian Boucle (Chic Fabrics, NYC Garment District) DONE!
  • LN Metra Blazer
    • Navy Ponte (stash)
    • Bright Pink Linen look ponte (Surge Fabrics 2023?)~ Sewing right now!
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece to copy the “Gray Sweatshirt Blazer”
  • LN Aria Button down
    • Purple Linen~ long sleeved (Mood Fabrics, linen chambray)
    • Navy Linen hacked “Jacket”  (Mood Fabrics, midweight linen)
    • Another color blocked linen version (will buy at Gray Lines Linen in NYC my next trip in)
    • White Textured Cotton ~long sleeved (Stash
  • LN Coda Coat
    • Draper James bed quilt 
  • LN Caprice Skirt
    • Denim Chambray (stash)
    • Navy Batik print (I’ve had for years from Fabric.com!)
  • LN Constellation
    • New Swim knit from RCF- lipstick pink and green
    • Coral Loop French Terry
  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt Fleece (stash)~ I ordered a pink Vislon separating zipper~DONE
    • Navy Boucle (Style Maker Fabrics 2023?)~ It’s in time out and waiting it’s turn!  This Coat is cut out and I’m setting it aside and will come back to it.

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 stash 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 10MARYMAC. 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.

*******If this code is not working today, please use my old code~ 10MACSEWS********

Fabric Resources~

REMINDER~ Monday April 6, 2026 is the last day to order the new Spring fabrics at Style Maker Fabrics with the $5 shopping fee! Believe me, this is a great bargain!

Below you can see all the fabrics that I bought for this Spring and Summer from Style Maker. I can’t wait to get these prewashed and to begin planning what to make with them. I have some ideas for a a few of them already!

Shirred Cotton Shirting~Blouse/Top
Seersucker~Blouse/Top
Rayon with Textured Stripe~
Melody Peplum Hack?
Rayon Poplin~Caprice Skirt
Rayon Challis~Rhapsody Blouse?
Rayon Twill~Caprice Skirt
Rayon Twill~Caprice Skirt
Pucker Rib Knit~ No Clue Yet!
Organic Cotton Interlock Knit~
Perhaps a Cardigan?

Bonus Photos~ Sandy Hook National Seashore

We had an 80* day on Wednesday (not normal for us at this time of year!), so we headed over to one of our favorite trails at Sandy Hook to check on the seals before they headed north. It is truly one of my favorite places to ride, although it does get too hot on this trail in the summer since there isn’t a ton of shade. Sandy Hook has a little bit of everything~ the ocean, views of NYC, a historic lighthouse (250 years old), an amazing paved bike trail that winds through Fort Hancock (a historic army fort built in 1857). And within the old Fort grounds is an amazing tavern that was once the barn for the mules~ hence the name The Mule Barn Tavern.

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.

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!

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.

Love Notions Presents…… The Palmer Dress

…………… A New Pattern From Love Notions!

Presenting the Palmer Dress

I am so excited to share the new Palmer Dress with you! I was lucky enough to test this pattern~ and I’m really smitten with it! If you need a quick~ and I mean QUICK~ dress for the holidays this is the one you want! Oh~ btw it’s so comfortable to wear too!!!

The Palmer is on sale today, 12/5/25 through Thursday 12/11/25 for just $9.50. You can use my code 10MACSEWS45 (or 10MACSEWS) to receive 10% off. If the first code doesn’t go through, simply use the second one. NOTE: You can not get 45% off the Palmer Dress.

The Details

The Palmer Dress is such a classic and clean dress that’s perfect anytime of the year but it makes an awesome holiday dress! Depending on the options you choose and your fabric~ this dress can take you through all 4 seasons! Fabric choice can make the Palmer either dressy or casual~ the choice is yours! It’s a great versatile pattern that we should all have in our library! Personally, I can’t wait to make a version for spring! I simply adore the structured V-notch neckline (which is much easier to sew than you may think!). Simply put~ the Palmer Dress is a must have!

  • Sizes XS-5X
  • Full Bust Option
  • 4 Sleeve Options
    • Short pleated
    • Flutter
    • Bishop
    • Long fitted
  • 2 Skirt lengths~ knee and midi
  • Inseam pockets (optional)
  • Waistband panel with elastic channels
  • 2 Waistband panel heights to choose from
  • Designed for knit fabrics
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner

Sizing & Fit

The Palmer Dress is available in sizes XS-5X. Choose your size based on your high bust measurement. If between sizes, choose the smaller size. Use the full bust piece if your full bust minus your high bust is 4″ or greater. Remember that using the full bust piece will add 2″ the the waist of the bodice.

All Love Notions patterns are designed for the average 5’5″ woman. The back length of the dress is 38″ or the knee length version and 48″ for the midi length version.

My Palmer Dress~ Sizing & Modifications

For my Palmer Dress I sewed up and XL with the FBA and graded to a 2X for the waist and hips. This is exactly where my body measurements fall on the chart. It truly is important to go by your high bust measurement, as this insured that I got a nice fit at the neckline and shoulders. I sewed up the flutter sleeve with the narrow waistband and midi skirt.

You may notice that my version seems just a tad short in the front bodice. This was my final test version and I suggested to Tami (the owner and designer of Love Notions) that the Full Bust version needed a tad bit more length in the front. I suggested this based on my version and versions of other testers that had sewn the full bust option. (They agreed with me). This is was is so great about Love Notions and the way that pattern tests are run. As testers, we help make decisions for changes to the fit of a pattern as well as construction techniques.

Another note about the fit of my Palmer Dress. I did cut my elastic a tad longer than the chart indicated. This was just a personal preference as I didn’t want the elastic to be as tight as it is designed. I suggest you check this before sewing your waistband.

I am only 5 feet tall and I did not shortened the midi skirt at all. I do prefer my midi skirts a tad longer, so when I made this I will add an additional inch. (Note: I am not short-waisted so I never need to shorten patterns above the waist.)

Fabrics & Notions

The Palmer Dress was designed for medium weight fabrics with at least 20% horizontal stretch. Fabrics such as:

  • Ponte (not too heavy)
  • Stretch Velvet
  • Interlock
  • Double Knits

Lighter weight knits such as Double Brushed Poly and ITY would work nicely as well, but they may give you a slightly different finished result as they tend to be thinner and would have more drape. I highly recommend doubling the interfacing on the placket for stability when using these fabrics.

NOTIONS

  • Fusible Interfacing ( I suggest Tricot Knit interfacing)
  • Thread
  • 3/8″ elastic, 3 yards for sizes XS-L, 4 yards for sizes XL-4X, and 4 1/4 yard for 5X.

MY FABRIC

For my Palmer Dress, I dove deep into my stash. I had this wool double knit that I was gifted to me back in the 1980″s!!! Back in my 20’s I was the Fabric Library Coordinator at SPC (IYKYK). Often fabric manufacturers would gift me fabric so that I could feel it (and sew it up) so that I could then recommend it to the pattern designers. This was one piece that I held onto not knowing exactly what I wanted to make with it. The company is Everex Textiles, who today only sell to RTW manufacturers.

Sew Mary Mac’s Tips For Sewing The Palmer Dress

  • Page 9, Step 1~ Double the placket interfacing if you are using a lighter weight knit interfacing.
  • Page 9, Step 2~If sewing the full bust version, you may need to stretch the back bodice to fit the front bodice. Stretch the back bodice front the bust point marking up to the armscye
  • Page 10, Step 5~ After pressing the seam allowances outward, I did a row of top stitching so the sam allowances laid nice and flat. This may not be necessary on some fabrics, but on my double knit it was.
  • Page 10, Step 6~. Sewing the channels evenly and straight is very important for when inserting the elastic. When sewing channels like this I like to put tape on my throat plate to help be guide the fabric.
  • Page 10, Step 7~ Check the fit of your elastic before proceeding!!
  • Page 10, Step 8~ Mark the center front of your waistband to help you align it up with the center front seam of the bodice. Also mark your 1/4 points as well. Two things to note about this step:
    • You must stitch close to the last row of elastic channel stitching
    • If using the FBA front you will need to stretch the waist band to fit the bodice since the bodice will be slightly wider.
  • Page 11, Step 9~ USE Tricot knit interfacing for the collar pieces!
  • Page 13, Step 16~If using a thicker fabric grade the top edge of the seam allowance
  • Page 13, Step 17~I highly recommend hand stitching here for a neater more professional looking finish.

Thanks for stopping by my blog! To follow me on my sewing journey and see all I’m planning and sewing up consider subscribing to my blog! Each Friday I send out my “Weekly Stitch Report”.

Mary Anne 🙂

Follow me over on Instagram to to see all of my makes!  @sewmarymac

You can purchase the Palmer Dress pattern HERE. This is my affiliate link. It costs you nothing to purchase from this link, it just helps fund my fabric addiction(and helps me to test more patterns).

Use my coupon code 10MACSEWS45 for an additional 10% off (yes even off the sale price!). Note: this is just a 10% code.

Fabric used for this make was gifted to me over 35 years ago from Everax Textiles in NYC. They do not sell to the public but only to manufacturers. Long Long ago I was the Fabric Library Coordinator at Simplicity Pattern Company.

As a Love Notions Ambassador this pattern was given to me during the testing process. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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
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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.

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