Tag Archives: Pattern Review

The New Serenade~ A Pattern Worth Singing About!

……………..A New Pattern Release From Love Notions

This is one pattern I am soooo excited to share with you!! Being petite, yet full busted~ I have never been a fan of woven wrap shirts, mainly because they NEVER fit me right! Imagine how surprised and elated I was when I made my Serenade top! I love it so much I’ve made 3!!!! I’ve already got several ideas for ones I want to make next Spring and Summer!! (Be sure to scroll to the end to see the Serenades I’m already planning for Spring/Summer!)

The Serenade is one pattern I highly suggest you grabbing! It’s on sale now through, 9/14 for just $9.50. Be sure to use my code MARYMAC10 for an additional 10% off.

Serenade Sew Along~

Even more exciting news!!!! For the first time ever Love Notions will be having a Private Serenade Sew Along that will last for 6+ weeks on a private Facebook group. The Serenade Sew Along is a 6+ week guided sewing experience designed to help you do more than just purchase a new pattern — but to help you sew it successfully! This won’t be free~ but it’s something new and I think it will be a great resource! The cost will be $15.00 and you can use my code MaryMac10 to get 10% off! You can purchase the pattern and Sew Along HERE.

  • WHEN: September 14-October 30th
  • WHERE: Private Facebook Group
  • COST: Pattern + SAL = $24.50 Use code MARYMAC10 for 10% off!
  • or
  • SAL only = $15
  • Weekly live videos
  • Targeted sewing and fitting help
  • Weekday check-ins
  • Detailed email digest
  • Private Facebook community
  • Motivation to sew
  • Accountability & “sewjo” boost!
  • Fitting help
  • Fabric help
  • Exclusive discount codes
  • Prizes & giveaways (including a $230 Reliable Steam Iron!). See below for all the Sponsors!

For more details on the Sew Along visit the LN website HERE.

  • Sponsored by:
  • Surge Fabric Shop – $50 giftcard. (This is where my plaid fabric came from)
  • Sincerely Rylee – 8 yard woven bundle prize, 
  • LA Finch Fabrics – $50 giftcard, 25% off
  • TomKat Stitchery – Mastering the Art of Fabric Selection Course, $109 value
  • Minerva
  • Reliable Irons – 2701R Steam Iron, $230 value
  • PDF Plotting – 25% off for Serenade print, good through 9/14
  • Amanda’s Bundles – $25 giftcard
  • Sitka Fabrics – 20% off (no US shipping)

The Details

  • Top and Dress Options
  • Full Bust Option included
  • 5 Sleeve Options: Sleeveless, Short, Flutter, Puff, Bishop
  • Designed for woven fabrics
  • Front darts for fitting on both the top and dress
  • Fisheye darts in the back for fitting on the top version
  • Elastic back waist on dress
  • Dress includes pockets!
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner (bias tape may be more challenging for some beginners)

Sizing & Fit

First let me just say this~ the fit of this shirt is amazing!!!! I have never had a slightly fitted top that fit me so well from the get go. I few little minor tweaks and I have a shirt pattern that will now be a staple in my me made wardrobe! (See my modifications below)

The Serenade is available in sizes XS-5X. A Full Bust pattern piece is included (like all new and updated LN patterns). Choose your size based upon your high bust measurement. Use the full bust piece if full bust minus high bust
is 4” or greater. If in-between sizes be sure to choose the smaller size. The Serenade Top is is a semi-fitted top with front and back darts. The tutorial includes excellent information for getting the right fit with the darts. The Serenade Dress is slightly fitted on the front with a looser fit in the back (no darts).

As all other Love Notions patterns, the Serenade is designed for a 5’5″ individual. . You can easily shorten or lengthen the pattern by using the lengthen/shorten lines. Refer to the tutorial for further help doing so. The Top is designed to hit at the high hip while the dress hits just below the knee.

Notice in the picture below how the inside fully crosses over to the left side seam. So even on windy days, it says in place and secure!

* Please note that the black gingham version appears to be deeper at the V in these photos. I had yet to sew the small snap on to it yet. The lightweight flannel I used also has more drape than the other 2 versions It is not lower. (The top version is about an inch lower than the dress version.). There is no need to wear anything underneath the Serenade. Typically V necks are often too low for me and this was perfect!

My Sizing Alterations & Modifications

For my Serenade top, I made the Large with the Full Bust option and graded out to the XL hip. This is exactly where my measurements fall. For reference, I am just 5 feet tall, but I am not short waisted. I did make a few modifications, listed below~

  • Coral Linen version is sewn exactly as stated above with no other modifications
  • Gingham Flannel~ only change made was the shorten the bishop sleeve 1″
  • Fableism Plaid~ For this version I did cut the XL hip, but then after trying it on I took it back into the large. I thought it looked better that way with this particular fabric. I also lengthened the length of the shirt by 1″for personal preference. The fullest part of my hip is my high hip, so I am more comfortable if a top doesn’t hit me exactly at that point. I also shortened the sleeve by 1″

Inside Closure Options~

The right front piece gets secured to the left side seam when worn. There are few different ways you can do this. The tutorial shows the method I have shown with my plaid version. ( I actually came up with this method during testing and Tami used!) But you do have other options!

  • Coral version was our first Final test~ this was designed to have 2 snaps or buttons on the edge of the right front attach to the left side seam. With my full bust~ there was no way I would make that work for me. Therefore I attached a small piece of my leftover bias binding to the right edge and snapped that to the side seam.
  • Black Gingham version~ for this version I went ahead and tested something out. I extended the bias binding past the right edge and used this extension to attach to the left. I added another piece of bias binding to the left side seam and tied them together to secure. I did like this option because it gave you the ability to adjust it. However it may have been too bulky for some fabrics. (You could use this option and use ribbon instead).
  • Plaid version~ The bias binding is extended past the edge of the right front. A loop is attached to the left front side seam. For the loop you can use ribbon, elastic thread/ties or a fabric loop. The bias binding is then slipped through the loop and secured with either small buttons or snaps. I like that this gives you the ability to adjust if needed. If I need to tighten mine up I can simply move the snaps!

In addition you may attach a small snap at the neckline to keep the opening secure. Honestly, you may not even need it~but it does help keep everything in place. I added it to my plaid version and honestly when I wore it I never needed to adjust the shirt at all. With a large bust that is really saying something! So I’ll say it again~ I LOVE the fit of this shirt and how easy it is to wear. I wore this all day and was pretty active and I was NEVER tugging at the neckline to adjust it! So, that makes the Serenade a big YES for me!

Fabrics & Notions

The Serenade is designed for light to medium weight woven fabrics. Fabrics such as chambray, linen, quilter’s cotton and rayon challis or poplin would all work nicely. Flannels that are light weight would work too! I also think Double Gauze would work as long as you stay stitched the neckline edges as soon as it is cut out. Double Gauze will create a slightly boxier look.

I used a variety of fabrics for my versions. You can see how different fabrics can create different looks. Be sure to check out all the tester’s versions to help you decide what fabric you’d like to use. Fabrics with more drape will create a softer “”balloon” shape when using the Bishop (or Flutter and Puff) sleeve. The Black Gingham fabric has much more drape than my Cotton plaid or Coral Linen. Fabrics with less drape, such as quilting cottons will create a difference look (many with the sleeves).

  • First Fit Version~ rayon challis which will give a much softer flowy look
  • Final Version 1~ Coral linen (a DKNY deadstock from Metro Textiles, NYC)
  • Final Version 2.1~ Lightweight flannel gingham from my deep stash
  • Final Version 2.2~ Fableism 100% Cotton from Surge Fabrics.

Notions~

Top and Dress~ Thread, 2 yards 1/4″ – 1/2″ double fold bias tape, one sew on snap to secure front wrap, One 1/2″ button for front closure if not using tie

Bishop or Puff Sleeve~ 1 yard 3/8″-1/2″ elastic

Dress~ 1 yard 3/8″-1/2″ elastic

Additional needed to secure the inside wrap on the shirt~ include 2 snaps and a loop (made from your fabric, an elastic tie or ribbon.

Sew Mary Mac’s Tips For Sewing The Serenade Shirt

  • Browse all through the tester photos (on the pattern listing and on their own posts in the Facebook group). Pay attention to the fabric type they used to help you select what fabric you’d like to use.
  • I highly suggest making a muslin! A woven wrap shirt(next to pants) is probably one of the hardest things to make fit well (especially with a fuller bust). If you’re not used to wearing wrap tops it’s a good idea too. Use an old sheet or something from your deep stash. No need to complete the entire shirt/dress, simply cut out the top front and back and sew up the darts. This is where the fitting matters! Tami has added a great resource to the tutorial on helping you to get your darts to fit your body perfectly!
  • You may want to purchase an additional 1/2 yard of fabric if you’re making your own bias tape, especially if you are matching a plaid or your fabrics is 45″. (My one fabric was actually only 43″ side after prewashing and it made a difference!!
  • MAKE YOUR OWN BIAS TAPE! Packaged bias tape is just too stiff! Some small shops may stock bias tape that is softer. I always prefer making my own (except for the LN Oakley Vest~ packaged works so well for it!)
  • Remember to cut your fabrics right side UP for the front pieces! Otherwise you won’t have the correct left and right sides.
  • If your fabric doesn’t have a right or wrong side(like my Fableism cotton) be sure to choose one side as the “Right” one and label all pieces correctly!
  • Stay Stitch the neckline edges immediately to prevent them from stretching out. Handle you pieces a little as possible until this is done!

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!  I can’t wait to see your Serenades!!

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 buy the Serenade pattern HERE.

You can sign up and purchase the Sew Along HERE.

These are an affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, it just helps fund my fabric stash which allows me to test and review more patterns. 

To receive an additional 10% off LN pattern prices, use my code MARYMAC10. This coupon code can be used on any purchase as along as the order total is $8 or more.  Since this change has been made I would truly appreciate it if you used my affiliate link so that I will get “credit” for the sale. (I do receive a small commission).

Final and Fit Test Versions~

One of the many reasons I love testing patterns for Love Notions, is that the tester’s thoughts and opinions are always taken into consideration and often lead to minor/major changes in the pattern.

Fit Version 1

Here is the very first tester version of the Serenade Top I made. After the testers submitted these~ the shirt pattern was completely redrafted to include front and back darts for shaping. The design was also changed to include just one tie/button.

Final Version 1

For this version, darts were added to the front and back pattern piece. You can also see that the left and right fronts were flipped to make tying or buttoning easier.(for right-handers)

Final Version 2.1

This was our second version of the Serenade Top. The darts have been shortened and changed a bit on this version and the method of securing the inside front changed. You can also tell that I shortened the sleeve 1″ on this one to make it work~ but I wound up liking wear this hit me. For the record~ I also shorten other LN patterns 1″ on the sleeve (Aria, Sloane, etc.)

This is a L with the FBA graded to XL at the hip. This is a very lightweight flannel that drapes nicely. I think it “might” be the Eddie Bauer Flannel that Joann Fabrics carried a few years ago? I wish I had more of this or could find something similar! (I did made a LN Presto Tunic in the navy/white version of this flannel. You can see that HERE.)

Final Version 2.2

For this version, I decided NOT to grade out to the XL. My cotton from the Fableism line didn’t have as much drape as my lightweight flannel. I tried it on after the side seams were sewn and decided to take that grading back out. I’m very happy with the fit of this one, but in the future I think I will determine my hip size taking my fabric into consideration.

I’ll be sure to update this post as I sew up new Serenades! With Fall weather arriving soon(hopefully) I want to sew shirts I would wear now. But, I have so many ideas for Serenade tops for the Spring and Summer. Here’s what I can’t get out of my mind!!!!

  • If you follow me, you know I LOVE to color block! I can not wait to make a color blocked with different colors of linen. I’ve color blocked a few Aria Button downs and I may have enough left over for this!! *** I just went through my linen bin and I found enough to make the Serenade right now~ I think I’m going to do it NOW!!
  • Colorblocked again~ with different striped seersuckers. Each from piece a different color with the bias binding yet another!
  • A gingham seersucker version~ I have the perfect royal blue and white gingham seersucker from NYC Garment District.
  • Red/Pink gingham linen~ I’ve been holding on to this fabric for over a year waiting to decide what to make with it. I was thinking a Melody~ but it may become a Serenade! This fabric is from Blackbird Fabrics
  • Block Print Cotton Lawn~ this is also from Blackbird Fabrics and another one I’ve been holding on to!
  • I think I’d like to try this in an eyelet. I think perhaps I’d only have to line the back~ but I’ll have to test it out.
  • One of the above will be a flutter sleeve and I’d love a sleeveless version as well!!

Here are some of the fabrics I have in my mind for Serenades next year!!

Sewing With Stretch Crepe & The Pattern Emporium Spill The Tea Top

Raspberry Creek Fabrics just released their new designs on Stretch Crepe, Rayon Challis and Ponte. I have always been a HUGE fan of their rayon challis along with tons of other sewists. But, I have learned that not everyone is familiar with stretch crepe or how to sew it. SEW~ I’ve pulled together some info for my readers and visitors! I hope you find it helpful!

So let’s talk about Stretch Crepe.  To begin, we’ll  go over all the Pros and Con(s) of stretch crepe. 

Pros

There are just soooo many!

  • Doesn’t wrinkle easily, which makes it great for travel.
  • Simply wash and dry!  Hang up after removing from the dryer and no ironing necessary!
  • Soft to touch
  • Amazing drape!
  • Easy to work with, making it great for beginners!
  • No need for lining, even with light background colors
  • Has a touch of stretch, making it comfortable to wear.
  • Can be used for custom designs that are full coverage.  (darker backgrounds especially)

Cons

All great things always have a few, but don’t let it sway you.

  • Polyester fiber content
  • Doesn’t hold a crisp press (but a product like Sally’s Best Press helps a ton!)

That’s the only con I can think of.  I know that many sewists prefer to sew with natural fibers for a variety of reasons.  I’ll be honest, I typically do as well.  I love nothing more than rayon and linen, but this stretch crepe certainly has a place in my wardrobe.

So there you have the Pros and Cons of stretch crepe.  But what is it exactly?

First off, don’t let the name fool you.  It is a woven fabric, not a knit.  RCF stretch crepe is 98% polyester and 2% spandex.  That small amount of spandex content gives the fabric just a touch of stretch.  It makes movement when wearing it  just a tad easier.  This small amount of spandex does NOT mean you can use it for patterns designed for just knits.  FYI:  Not all crepes have spandex in them.Crepe is a woven fabric.  During weaving a yarn is twisted . That twisted yarn gives the fabric surface a slight texture.  This crepe texture adds dimension and interest to the fabric.  Some like to refer to it as “pebbled” or “bubble” crepe.  You can see this texture in the photo below

RCF stretch crepe is great for flowy dresses and pants, skirts, tops and blouses. It is a nice weight and drapes beautifully. It is heavier than RCF rayon challis. It also has more body than a rayon challis, so it creates THE best flutter and bishop sleeves. I absolutely adore a stretch crepe flutter sleeve! Stretch crepe is comfortable to wear, and can easily work for both a casual or work settings.

Tips for Working with Stretch Crepe

  • Because of the polyester fiber content, it is more difficult to press.  Always use a press cloth to avoid melting your fabric.  Because of this, I prefer to use this crepe for flowy and softer silhouettes.  I personally would  avoid more tailored styles that require crisp pressed details.
  • Always use a brand new needle when sewing stretch crepe.  
  • My first choice would be a Sharp(Microtex) needle.  This needle has a very fine point which helps to prevent snags in your fabric.  If you don’t have a Sharp needle,  you can try a Universal needle.  Make sure your needle is either 70/10 or 80/12.  Always test your needle on your fabric first!
  • Do not use a Ballpoint/Stretch needle~ remember this is a woven fabric.  These needles have rounded tips to prevent them from making holes in knit fabrics.  These needles WILL snag and damage stretch crepe.  See an example of this in the photo below.

Raspberry Creek Fabrics has added 4 new designs on Stretch Crepe to the shop. (See above photo) Stretch crepe is also available for custom printing as well. Colors print vibrantly on stretch crepe, making it perfect for bright and dark colors.

You can find all of there retail prints available on Stretch Crepe HERE.

Continue reading →

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ August 7, 2026

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

Sewing World News~

Love Notions~

The next “Collection” will arrive on Friday, August 14 and run through August 27. Again, it will include a group of patterns based on a theme. All patterns will be just $5 each. I think there are a few you may “need” so be sure to read next Friday’s Weekly Stitch!!

Sale Over~ Pattern Emporium Friday 50% Off Pattern Is~ True Romance Bishop Sleeve Top

The True Romance Top sewing pattern puts the spotlight on the beautiful bishop sleeve. This pattern walks you through, step by step, to create a banded, flared, or semi-fitted tee with a stunning bishop sleeve that you can style your way.

And the options don’t end there! Whether you prefer a subtle or bold sleeve, you’ll learn how to finish the gathered details with your choice of cuff, extended cuff, shirring, ruffle, or simple elastic for a truly personalized look.

  • 2 Bishop sleeve styles: 
    Subtle – one with a subtle flare, 
    Dramatic – the other very full.
  • Multiple sleeve finishes: 
    Cuff.
    Extended cuff.
    Shirred.
    Shirred with ruffle.
    Elastic.
  • 3 Silhouettes:
    Semi-fitted t-shirt.
    Flared.
    Banded.
  • Boat neckline.
  • Easily mash with the Besties Tee for more necklines.

You can grab the pattern HERE. Pattern is on sale for $5.50 USD

Remember PE in an Australian company so this sale will end Friday night at 10 PM EST.

New Fall Fabric Release From Raspberry Creek Fabrics

Earlier this week the new Fall Collections released. During release week, all new “Club” fabrics are $1 off per yard. Club fabrics are seasonal designs that are printed on 2 different groups of bases. Club Collections are released each new holiday season as well. The two different groups are as follows:

  • Group 1~ The “Natural Bases” French Terry, Cotton Lycra Jersey and the new Supreme Shirting Cotton 50’s
  • Group 2~ Double Brushed Poly, Rib Knit, Sweatshirt Fleece and Ponte Knit

Many of the designs are available in both of the fabric groups~ the difference will be the amount of print coverage. Full coverage designs don’t print well on the “natural fiber” bases. This is why all designs aren’t available on all the club bases. The “natural bases” designs have more white background as opposed to the others. Another thing to note is that anything printed on the Sweatshirt Fleece will have a slight “heathered” look to it.

When looking on the website, if you click on the design you are interested in it will show you the available bases. Be sure to click the one you want when ordering!! All of my promo makes this time around came from the Fall Florals Collection by Brittney Laidlaw. Brittney always does such a beautiful job with her designs! (PS is also coordinates the entire RCF Promo Team!)

Above is the Love Notions Constellation Pullover I made in the Fall Abstract Floral French Terry. (Sneak peek of the ribbing that will be coming to the shop in September!). Every release I “need” to sew up a new Constellation. I wear these year round. For more info on my Constellation collection, visit this blog post. You can find this fabric here.

I also sewed up a Cotton Lycra Jersey Bee and Hive Damask Floral print into my favorite nightgown pattern~ a hacked Love Notions Juliet Top. I always pick my favorite design to sew into a nightgown~ that way I can wear it more often! Note~ this cotton jersey gets softer and softer with every wash! You can find this fabric here.

Each release I also try to sew up something in either the DBP or Rib Knit. I typically choose the rib knit( as I find it cooler to wear), but this time I went for the DBP for the Love Notions Vivace top. I was drawn to this line drawn floral and apparently blue is my new color! I would like to note that the description for this fabric states “Navy”, but I don’t consider it a true navy. This is the “Navy Negative Line Drawn Floral~You can find this fabric here.

Here are a few more samples of the new designs you can find in the new Fall Club Collection! To see all the new Fall Designs visit the RCF HERE.

New Stretch Crepe, Rayon Challis and Ponte Designs Have Released Too!

This was a really big release from RCF this week. It even included new designs on Stretch Crepe, Rayon Challis and Ponte Knit. You may already know that I LOVE RCF Rayon Challis~ so this time around I decided to sew up a blouse in the Stretch Crepe. This isn’t a fabric that I would wear in the summer, but it’s perfect for the rest of the year. Later this week, I plan on sending out another Sew Mary Mac Blog with all the details on Stretch Crepe and tips for sewing it. I’ll also include my review of the Pattern Emporium Spill The Tea Blouse. Look for it at the beginning of next week. as I have a busy weekend. For the time being, here is the Spill The Tea Blouse that I made using one of the newly released stretch crepe designs.

Be on the lookout for these new releases coming soon ~

  • New Oxford Cloth stripes, solids and plaids next week!
  • New Denims at the end of August (various shades and weights, stretch and non-stretch)
  • New Club Halloween Release in French Terry, Cotton Jersey, DPB and Rib (also Supreme 50s Broadcloth, Ponte and Sweatshirt fleece)
  • New Ribbing in September
  • New French Twill in September
Continue reading →

Simply Perfect Set For Summer~ The Somerset

……………..A New Pattern Release From Love Notions

The Somerset is simply………….the perfect set for summer!!! The Somerset is on sale for just $9.50 through Thursday 7/2/2026. Remember to use my code MARYMAC10 for an extra 10% off. You can grab the pattern here.

This pattern includes three pieces that work together to create countless outfits for all your summer days and nights! They can be combined to create the perfect lounge set or a classic everyday look. Each of them are also great stand alone pieces!

The top features a cross-over V-neckline with gathers (and optional buttons). Pair the top with a cute pair of shorts or the best baby barrel capri pants. The shorts and capris feature roomy front patch pockets and a nice wide cuff that gives them a bit more style.

I tested the Somerset pattern as a Love Notions Ambassador. lLet’s be honest~ I’m not really a “barrel” pants kind of person, or so I thought. I love these Capri pants so much I plan on making more! I’ve tried on RTW barrel jeans and pants, but they have never looked right on me. (Being just 5 feet tall may have something to do with that!). So, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and give them a try. This pattern was a fairly quick and enjoyable sew, but be sure to check out my tips below!

Continue reading →

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

…………..Welcome To My Sewing Room

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

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

The Details~ Resolution Bottoms

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

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

Fabric

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

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

The Details~ Thomas Track Pants

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

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

What I Wore Last Week~

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

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

What I’m Sewing This Week~

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

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

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

My Fall Sewing Plans~

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

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

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

Mary Anne 🙂

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

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

Pattern Links

Love Notions Patterns

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

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

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

Fabric Resources

For the Resolution Bottoms

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

For the Thomas Track Pants

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

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

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

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~October 24, 2025

…….Welcome To My Sewing Room

Feature Friday Love Notions Pattern~

If you don’t already own the Coda Coat pattern~ now is the perfect day to grab it.

Two Reasons:

  • 1. It’s the $6 Feature Friday Pattern from Love Notions
    • Use code 10MACSEWS for additional 10% off
  • 2. This is perfect time of year to sew up a quilted coat. (And the perfect time to wear it!)

I tested the Coda Coat back in 2023~ and you can tell from the above photo taken yesterday I still LOVE this coat!!!! I find myself ALWAYS wanting to wear my pink quilted version (yes it’s made from a quilt from Home Goods). It really is the perfect coat to just quickly throw on on your way out the door. However, I don’t always want to wear pink. I’ve been on the hunt for a “block” type print in more neutral colors for a new version.

That is one of the great things about this pattern. You can create totally different looks depending on what fabric you choose. Your Coda could be Classic, Preppy, Boho, Eclectic or “Coastal Grandma” like mine all depending on what fabric you choose!

Head to the Fabric Resources at the bottom for more fabric talk!

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Love Notions Timbre Double Gauze Tips &The Weekly Stitch with Sew Mary Mac~ August 29, 2025

……Welcome To My Sewing Room

Feature Friday Pattern from Love Notions~

I am SOOO excited about the the Feature Friday Pattern from Love Notions this week. This is the very first time the Timbre Top and Dress has been the Feature Friday pattern! I tested this pattern last summer and immediately sewed up a closet full of them! It is perfect for hot summer days yet transitions into fall as well. The Timbre is just $6 today, 8/29/2025. Use my code 10MARYMAC for an additional 10% off.

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Vivi Lou Is Ready For Summer!

……..Love Notions Releases the Clearwater Summer Essentials for Girls!!

Last summer, Love Notions released the Clearwater Summer Essentials for Ladies and it was a smash hit! I like so many others dove into sewing my own swimwear for the first time ever! Well~ Love Notions customers begged for a Girl’s Clearwater and it’s here!!!

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The New Bluegrass Shirt ~With A Coastal Twist

…..A New Pattern Release From Love Notions

The Bluegrass Shirt and Dress is HERE! Are you as excited as I am?!?!?! Well, let’s get real here. The Bluegrass was intended to be a western style shirt. A Western style shirt doesn’t call your name? Well, If you follow me, then you know that I’m not a western shirt kinda girl. BUT~ this new shirt is THE perfect princess seamed shirt and as you can clearly see~ my version is casual, coastal and classic!!

When I signed up to test this new pattern from Tami (designer of Love Notions Pattern) I honestly really wasn’t that excited about it. While I do love testing patterns, this wasn’t a typical style for me. I have never worn princess seams~ most likely because I have always been fuller busted. But I have to tell you~ having a princess seamed button-down that I can actually button-down is amazing!!! I LOVE the fit I was able to get with this pattern! This pattern is definitely worth a try~ even if it take some trial and error.

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