Tag Archives: Surge Fabrics

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

……..Welcome To My Sewing Room

Something Big is Coming!

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

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Details

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

Fabric Recommendations

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

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

Fabric Resources for the Octave Coat

Cali Fabrics~

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

Here are a few of my favorites:

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

Style Maker Fabrics

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

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

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

This just in!!!!

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

Screenshot
Screenshot

Surge Fabrics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fleece

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

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

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

Additional Resources~

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fur For Collar

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

Cuddle Lux Wild Rabbit Driftwood

Cuddle Luxe Silver Fox

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

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

Lining Fabrics For the Octave Coat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What I Wore Last Week~

Last week was all about wearing layers it seems!

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

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

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

Mary Anne 🙂

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

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

Pattern Links

Love Notions Patterns

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

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

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

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

………….Welcome To My Sewing Room!!

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~

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

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

The Details ~ Sloane Sweater for Ladies

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

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

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

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

Sloane Sweater for Girls

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

What I Wore Last Week~

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

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

What I’m Sewing This Week~

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

My Fall Sewing Plans~

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

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

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

Mary Anne 🙂

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

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

Pattern Links

Love Notions Patterns

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

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

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

Fabric Resources For The Sloane Sweater

SURGE FABRICS

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

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

Cayambe Rib Knit
Nepal Rib Knit
Seville Rib Knit

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

RASPBERRY CREEK FABRICS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Fabric Resources For The Sloane Sweater

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

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

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ August 1, 2025

……Welcome To My Sewing Room

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions

The $6 Feature Friday patterns from Love Notions today,  8/01/2025 are the Lyric AND Dolce patterns, Yes, both patterns are on sale for just $6 each.

Remember to use my code 10MARYMAC for an extra 10% off.  You can grab the Ladies Lyric pattern HERE. You can get the Girls Dolce Pattern HERE. PS: Be sure to read to the end to see some photos from last week’s bike ride!

Continue reading →

Love Notions Lincoln Top~ Making it Longer ~ Updated Feb 2024

….A Mini Pattern Hack Blog Post

I don’t know about you~ but I’m ready to sew for Spring. I always like to add a few transitional pieces to my closet this time of year. Things I can wear now and right into the warmer weather. I tested the Lincoln Top pattern from Love Notions back in 2022. I fell in love with this pattern because of the cute button side detail and that it’s a pretty quick sew.  Last year I made I made a longer version and loved it so much! So for 2024, I made another long version and changed the neckline!

Have you made a Lincoln Top yet? The Lincoln Top is just $5 today, 2/7/25.  Use my code MARYMAC10 to get an additional 10% off.

Continue reading →

So Many Ways to Love the Juliet

…A new release from Love Notions Pattern

Be prepared to fall in love with Juliet! The newest pattern from Love Notions is THE perfect top for the summer! I was so excited to test this pattern and I’m sew excited for all of my readers to sew one up! The second I put on my first test version…it got the Sew Mary Mac stamp of approval! (And yes, I have made a total of 8 versions with another one cut out already!)

The Juliet Top is the $6 Feature Friday pattern today 6/20/25 for the FIRST TIME !!! Remember to use code LOVEMARY10LN for an additional 10% off!

The Details

The Juliet Top is another “not-so-basic” basic that is a great addition to any closet. This cute flowy top is such a quick and fun sew, I highly recommend cutting 2 at a time and batch sewing them! On top of that, it’s beginner friendly! This is such a versatile top, wear it alone or use it for layering!

Features

  • Yoke Options: Plain, Faux Placket, Pintucked
  • 4 Sleeve Options: Sleeveless, Short, Flutter and Long
  • Beginner Friendly, especially the plain yoke version
  • Color Blocking Friendly! Get Creative!
Continue reading →

The Lovely Lenox Top and Dress

…Love Notion’s Newest Addition

The Lenox top and dress pattern is here! I tested this pattern, and I am putting the “Sew Mary Mac” stamp of approval on it! I’m so excited to share my versions with you! You know a pattern is a good one, when you already have plans for several more!

The pattern is on sale for just $6 today, 09/12/25. You can use my code 10MARYMAC for an additional 10% off. If you would prefer a printed paper pattern they will ship for free today(US residents). The Lenox paper pattern includes a printed pattern and tutorial, you also get the digital version included for $21. You may use my discount code to get 10% off.

The Details

The Lenox Top and Dress pattern is such a versatile pattern. Designed for knit fabrics, it can be casual or dressy depending on your fabric choice. The princess seams make it flattering on all body shapes and sizes. It’s that pattern you didn’t know you needed! It’s a great basic~ that’s not so basic! It includes so many options you can actually mix and match them to create 30 different looks! If you’re a confident beginner, this should be next on your to-sew list! It’s a really quick sew which will make it easy to fill your closet with a few. For my next Lenox I want to find a perfect weight solid white! No boring white tees for me!

Features

  • Princess seams
  • 2 Neckline options: square and sweetheart
  • 4 Body styles: Midi and knee length dresses, shirt and cropped tops
  • 4 Sleeve options: long, 3/4, short and puff short

Sizing And Alterations

The Lenox is available in sizes XS- 5X. There is a full bust pattern piece included. The Lenox is designed to be fitted with negative ease at the bust, 1″-3″ ease at the waist and 0″-1″ ease at the hips. To get a great fit on the Lenox, be sure to take accurate body measurements and use the body measurement and finishing garment measurement charts to select your size.

When selecting your size make sure you choose by using your high bust measurement. With a wider neckline opening like this square and sweetheart design, this is especially important! If your full bust is 4 or more inches larger than your high bust, you should be using the full bust front piece. Remember that the full bust option adds an additional 2″ to the waist and hip finished garment measurements. Keep this in might when deciding to grade in/out for your waist and hips.

The shirt length is meant to hit just above the full hip. The crop top length hits between the natural waist and the high hip. The midi-length dress hits at the calf, while the knee length dress hits just about the knee on the average 5’5″ woman.

If adjusting for your height(or lack of it like me) remember you must adjust the front, back AND center front pattern pieces. Be sure to use the length/shorten lines indicated on the pattern. Since the Lenox is designed to be closer fitting you want to make sure the waist hits you in the correct spot. You don’t want to just add or delete length at the bottom of the top/dress. See my notes below about the length. I prefer my tops to be just a tad longer, so on my first version I did NOT shorten the top for my lack of height. My later versions did include some additional length.

My Adjustments

My high bust measurement of 40″ puts me into an XL. Since my full bust of 45″ is more than 4″ larger, I used the full bust front piece. I graded out to the 2X at the waist and hips. My hips are just over the 2X measurement ~ but that will be fine because of the extra 2″ of ease at the waist and hips when using the full bust front piece. When cutting, I use the XL for the neckline and shoulders, then grade to the 2X.

Edited to add: Since I am petite in height, I found the neckline a bit too low for me and my larger bust. Read below how I adjusted the neckline to be perfect for me!!

Version 1~ Navy Floral

The Navy Floral rib knit was my first version (after my first tester version). I did not make any length adjustments on this version. The length is a bit shorter than my personal preference, but it would probably be fine for most others. This version included the square neckline and the short sleeves. Overall, I was very pleased with the fit (other than the length). I did feel when I leaned forward that the neckline was a tad too low for me while standing up straight it was fine,

Version 1

Version 2~ Magenta Smocked Knit

This version is also an XL with the FBA front graded to the 2X hip. For this version, I raised the neckline by 1″ and lengthen the top 2″. I love where this neckline falls on me. I feel it is exactly how the pattern was designed to fit. I am only 5 feet tall, and I know this is why necklines are sometimes too low on me. These are the puff short sleeves. The only thing I didn’t love about this version is the hem(all me)~ stitching a hem on smocked fabric caused some rippling. I’m going to wash it and then try and steam it a bit to see what happens. If that doesn’t work, I think I will shorten it 1″ and re-hem it.

Version 3 ~ Magnolia Floral Bamboo Cotton

Version 3

This version fits me perfectly!!! The only difference between this Lenox and the magenta one, is the overall length. I only added 1″ in length to this one. Moving forward, this will be the version I stick with.

Raising the Neckline

Raising the square neckline of the Lenox was simple to do. Only 2 pattern pieces need to be adjusted, the center front and the side/back neckband.

To maintain the curve of the top of the neckline, I cut and spread my center front pattern piece about just a tad over an inch below the top edge. Since I raised the neckline, thus making the neck opening smaller, I needed to shorten my side/back neckband as well. For the neckband, I needed to take off 1″ from the end opposite from the fold marking. If you take it off the folded end, your notches will not match up when trying to attach the side/back neckband to the top.

Fabrics and Notions

The Lenox top and dress is designed for knit fabrics with at least 40% 4-way stretch.. Fabrics such as rib knits, jersey blends, cotton lycra and interlock would work well. The knit you choose should have good recovery, without it, you might find that your neckline droops.

I made a my original tester version from double brushed poly. To be honest, it was my least favorite of all the fabrics I used. I will add that is was a rather think DBP from my stash that I held onto for pattern tests. I think knits that are super drapey, like rayon spandex, may not give you in intended look. I often don’t like using cotton lycra for myself, however this pattern is perfect for it! My suggestion is to always look at all the tester photos and see what types of fabrics they used, this can give you a good indication of how different fabrics work with a pattern.

One thing I love about the Lenox, is that the short sleeved top version requires less than 1.5 yards!! All you need is your fabric and thread!

Sew Mary Mac’s Tips for Sewing the Lenox

  • Remember to check the length BEFORE you cut your fabric. You want the waist to hit you in the right spot to get the intended fit of the Lenox.
  • It’s extremely important to transfer your pattern markings! This is especially true for the side front pieces so you know exactly how far to sew down the side neckband pieces.
  • Page 11, Step 3~ it is very easy to accidentally twist the side front pieces when pinning the center front to them. Just make sure both sides are laying the right direction when doing this step.
  • If using a drapier knit (such as DBP), you may want to tighten the the back neckband a tad. This would mean shortening the side/back neckband pattern piece.
  • Do not to any of the topstitching on the neckband pieces until you have tried on your Lenox. It’s much easier to take off a neckband and tighten it if there is NO topstitching.

A Little Bit About Pattern Testing

I was one of the testers for this pattern, and it always amazes how much time Tami(the designer) puts in to make each pattern the best it can be. As with all new releases, the pattern is pretested in every single size. During this pretest, we look at fit and construction issues. Testers make recommendations and Tami listens to everyone’s feedback. The pattern pieces and tutorial go through several versions before it ever gets to you!

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 Lenox top and dress 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 pattern price, use this coupon code 10MARYMAC. 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.

Fabric Resources

Magenta Smocked Knit is available from Surge Fabrics. It is available in a variety of colors. I really like the texture of this fabric. You can find this fabric HERE. EDITED 9/2025: This color is no longer available, however several colors of this fabric are now in the clearance section for just $5 per yard. (If you act quickly there is a remnant of the magenta in the sale section!)

The Light Blue Magnolia print is custom printed on Bamboo Cotton from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. The bamboo cotton blend is THE best fabric for hot weather! You can find this print HERE.

The Navy Floral rib knit is from Mily Mae Fabrics. This is from my stash and no longer available, but they always have a great selection of rib knits to choose from. Both Raspberry Creek Fabrics and Surge Fabrics both have a nice selection of rib knits as well.

An Odds-On Favorite ~ The Love Notions Oakley Vest

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 since I made them, every time I get a tad chilly. And to top it off, the Oakley Vest and the Kid’s Acorn Vest are both just $5 today (1/13/2023) as the Love Notions Feature Friday patterns.

(I promise the bottom edges are even~ it’s the way I was standing and it was TOO cold to do retakes!)
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Wrapping Up Winter~ in the Love Notions Whistler

If you’re looking for a great pullover pattern filled with options~ the Whistler just might be the pattern for you! I’ll be honest, I never thought it was really my style. Then last winter Tessa at Love Notions sent me the pattern and asked if I would sew one up for a promotion. And now~ it’s one of my favorite pullovers to wear!

You can grab yours TODAY only~ 1/31/25for just $5! Make sure you use my coupon code- MARYMAC10 for an additional 10% off!

Details

The Whistler sweater and hoodie is a loose fitting pullover with an interesting inset yoke. It can be made with a shawl collar (my favorite version) or a hood. The BEST detail about this sweater is the inset pockets. If you like to carry your phone around with you~ these pockets are the best!

The options are endless! There are three lengths to choose from: top, tunic and dress. You can also choose between a banded hem or a straight hem. At the inset you can opt for a flat or gathered front.(All my versions have the gathered front). This sweater requires 2 buttons( functional or not- I just sewed mine through all layers).

The skill level is listed as intermediate, but I think an advanced beginner could tackle this. The video links in the tutorial are excellent! This pattern looks a lot harder than it actually is! I found it to be a surprisingly quick, fun and satisfying sew!

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