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In this special roundup episode, we're sharing what we're currently sewing, answering listener questions about finding time to sew, and discussing our latest pattern releases. We'll also dive into the myth that muslins take too much time and share some practical ways to speed up your fitting process.
Sewing Roundup: What We're Making and Your Questions Answered
This episode covers a range of topics from our current sewing projects to practical advice for busy sewists. We're answering your questions and sharing recommendations to help you sew with more intention and joy.
Listener Question: Finding Time to Sew
A listener asked: "You've previously done episodes on sewing in 'bits'... Do you have any new ideas on how to carve out time to sew (and not fail sewing the garment)?"
This is such a common challenge for sewists juggling busy schedules. The key is breaking projects into manageable chunks and being strategic about your sewing time. Consider prepping multiple projects at once during a longer sewing session, then you can tackle quick assembly tasks when you only have 15-20 minutes. Also, choosing patterns that work well for your current lifestyle and time constraints can make a huge difference in actually finishing projects you love.
Sewing Myth: Muslins Take Too Much Time
Let's address the common belief that making a muslin is always time-consuming and delays your project. While there's some truth to this concern, there are several ways to make the muslin process more efficient.
When muslins are worth the time investment:
- You're working with expensive or special fabric
- The pattern is new to you or significantly different from your usual style
- You're making fitting adjustments
- The garment is fitted through the bodice or has complex construction
Ways to speed up your muslin process:
- Use a cheaper, similar-weight fabric instead of muslin—you might even end up with a wearable version
- Make a partial muslin focusing only on fit-critical areas like the bodice
- Baste major seams instead of sewing them completely
- Skip details like hems, facings, and closures that don't affect fit
- Use your serger for quick seam finishing if you have one
Remember, the time you spend on a muslin often saves you from disappointment and wasted fabric later. Download our free fitting journal to help you track what you learn from each muslin and make the process more efficient over time.
What's New at Seamwork
We're excited to share two brand new patterns that are available now to Seamwork members:
Thyme Popover Shirt: This versatile shirt features a band collar and relaxed fit that works for so many occasions. It includes bust darts for a flattering shape, a shoulder yoke for structure, and a center back box pleat for ease of movement. The partial placket at the center front neckline and chest pocket add classic shirt details that never go out of style.
Rhoda Boxy Lined Jacket: Perfect for layering, this relaxed-fit jacket hits at the high hip with a sophisticated boxy silhouette. The high, round neckline and rounded corners give it a modern edge, while the full lining construction ensures a professional finish. You can choose between hand-attached pockets or edgestitched ones depending on your preferred level of detail.
Both patterns will be available for individual purchase in March, but Seamwork members can download them right now along with our full library of 250+ patterns.
Our Design Your Wardrobe program is also starting soon! If you're a member, you can still join and catch up. This hands-on course helps you think like a designer and plan an entire wardrobe that works together.
What's your current sewing project? Are you working on something that challenges your skills, or are you sticking with tried-and-true patterns? We'd love to hear about what you're making in the Seamwork community!
