Showing posts with label sewing pattern. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sewing pattern. Show all posts

29 January 2025

NEW PATTERN! Meet the Cece joggers + shorts

Models wearing joggers + sweat shorts sewing pattern in pink and colour block
Are you ready to step into your cosy era? Let us introduce the Cece joggers + shorts sewing pattern!

Cece (pronounced see-see) is cute, cosy, and super comfy – whether you’re working out, working from home, or chilling out! Be warned, once you've put your Ceces on, you'll never want to take them off.

Read on to find out all about Cece...

5 June 2024

NEW NELL SEWING PATTERN + ONLINE WORKSHOP!

One model wears a v-neck button-front peplum blouse with flutter sleeves in green and pink viscose. The other model wears a v-neck button-front midi dress in pink and yellow gingham linen.

Are you ready to meet your new favourite sewing pattern? Introducing the Nell blouse + dress pattern, a mix 'n' match design that has so many views you could literally wear it all summer long! 

But wait, that's not all! We’ve also created a brand new online workshop to accompany the pattern – Learn to Sew a Button-Front Dress or Blouse. The course covers a whole load of garment-sewing essentials, so it's perfect for budding sewists, or anyone in need of a refresher. 

With so much to tell you about Nell, we'd better get going...

7 March 2024

Common Trouser Fitting Adjustments

Header image showing a model wearing pink wide-legged trousers with a blue t-shirt. The text above the model reads "how to make common trouser fitting adjustments"

Do you like the idea of making trousers or pants, but feel a little nervous about the prospect of fitting them? Well, fear not, as help is here! This blog post will cover the most common fitting adjustments you may need to make when sewing trousers.

Now, before we go any further, please shake off any ideas you may have about making a perfect, crease-free pair of trousers. They simply don’t exist. Well-fitting trousers allow you room to sit down comfortably, breathe, eat, and to live your best life. They will crease where you bend and move, and will allow you space to do so. Basically, don’t get hung up on eliminating every crease and line – it’s impossible!

With that in mind, we've covered a few different fitting adjustments here, but don't feel like you have to try them all! You may not need to make any alterations to your pattern, or perhaps you feel you need to do just one or two tweaks.

Do I need to make a toile?


If you're not sure whether you'll need to make some alterations, or even what adjustments you might need, it's a good idea to make a "toile" - a mock-up garment in a similar weight fabric you don't mind using to test the fit - so you can see how a particular pattern works on you. We have a comprehensive blog post about toile making. Go check it out if you want to find out more!

Making a toile is more important if you're making something with a close-fitting crotch and bum area, like the Thea trousers, but not always essential if you're making a looser fitting garment, such as the Esti trousers or shorts or the Safiya trousers - unless you know you usually need to make lots of adjustments. For looser fitting trousers, you might want to make a "wearable toile", perhaps in an inexpensive but pretty fabric that you won't mind wearing if it all works out beautifully. 

Ready to dive in and learn how to do some common trouser fitting adjustments? Let's go...

How do I add more room to the stomach area? AKA a full tummy adjustment

Line drawing showing drag lines radiating from stomach to side seams. Next to this is a diagram showing how to do a full tummy adjustment.

6 March 2024

NEW PATTERN! Meet the Thea trousers

Two models wear wide leg trousers in pink cotton and white corduroy

There's a new sewing pattern on the block, and Team Buttons is obsessed!

The Thea trousers are a pair of wide leg pants that will be on regular rotation in your wardrobe. With multiple pocket options, two hemline lengths, and a wide range of suitable fabrics to choose from, this is a pattern to sew again and again.

Read on to find more about Thea…


Model wears white corduroy cropped wide leg trousers
Back view of white corduroy cropped wide leg trousers with patch pockets
Model wears hot pink wide leg trousers
Welt pockets on back of pink trousers

11 October 2023

NEW! Meet the Sonny jacket and lining add-on patterns

Tilly and the Buttons Sonny Jacket sewing pattern in sizes UK 6-34

Sewists, are you ready to meet the jacket of your dreams? We're thrilled to introduce you to the Sonny jacket sewing pattern and the Sonny lining add-on pattern!

Ultra versatile, you can make it as a classic jacket that will never go out of style, or try the on-trend prairie collar for Ganni-esque vibes. Sonny can be made as a casual unlined jacket, but if you do want to line it, we have created a separate lining add-on PDF pattern for a polished inside finish. 

Read on to find out more about Sonny...

ORDER SONNY AND THE SONNY ADD-ON

Plus size model wearing corduroy jacket made using Sonny jacket sewing pattern
Model wearing a lined denim jacket with oversized prairie collar - made using the Sonny jacket pattern

Technical drawing for Sonny jacket pattern - Tilly and the Buttons


THE PATTERN DESIGN 

One of the things we love the best about Sonny is how different it can look depending on which version you make and what fabric you use. You can go utility style with a classic pointed collar, or make a designer-style jacket with the on-trend frill prairie collar. Let's take a look at Sonny's details:

  • Boxy fit bodice with drop shoulders and princess seams creating gentle shaping at the bust 
  • Choice of pointed collar or oversized frill collar 
  • Separate yokes, forward shoulder seams and front panels 
  • Optional chest pockets and flaps 
  • Easy-to-sew straight sleeves 
  • Choice of hip-length or cropped hemlines 
  • Mock flat felled seams create a durable finish
The Sonny lining add-on pattern includes bodice and sleeve lining pattern pieces to compliment all versions of the Sonny jacket, as well as a hanging loop so you can display your gorgeous creation with pride.  


Plus size model wearing corduory jacket made from Sonny jacket patternBack view of plus size model wearing corduroy jacket - made using Sonny jacket sewing pattern

SIZING AND FORMATS

Both the Sonny jacket and lining are available in sizes UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62. The full size range is included in each pattern. Sizes UK 6-16 and 18-34 are created and graded for a different set of proportions, so you will notice there is more shaping on the larger pattern sizes to account for a fuller bust.

The Sonny jacket pattern is available either printed or PDF, and the lining add-on is available as a PDF download only

Order the Sonny jacket printed sewing pattern and we'll send you a beautiful package in the post, with a full-colour instruction booklet. Made in the UK, our patterns are printed on durable paper which you can use again and again without it tearing or scrunching up. 

The Sonny lining add-on pattern and Sonny jacket are available as an instant PDF download. You'll get an email straight after purchase with a PDF to either print and assemble at home on A4 or Letter size paper or send to a copyshop or pattern printer to print full scale on A0. Need further help? Read our guide to using PDFs.

Whichever format you choose, the pattern will be accompanied by our award-winning instructions with step-by-step colour photos to guide you through the project. The pattern pieces themselves are clearly labelled so you can see which seam is which and how they go together. 

ORDER SONNY AND THE SONNY ADD-ON


Close up of model wearing jacket with oversized prairie collar made using Sonny jacket sewing patternHand holding denim jacket with oversized prairie collar on a hanger, made using the Sonny jacket pattern

FABRICS & SUPPLIES

Sonny works best with medium- to heavy-weight fabrics that hold their shape. Think denim, twill, corduroy, jacquard or wool.

If you're making the prairie collar version with collar frill, make sure the fabric is light enough to gather - ideally you will be gathering up two layers of frill fabric at once, but if the fabric is struggling you could sew gather stitches on each layer separately. Another option is to use a different fabric for the collar frill, allowing you to experiment with different textures and patterns. 

If you're lining your jacket using the Sonny add-on pattern, use slippery lining fabrics such as cupro (Bemberg), viscose (rayon), acetate or polyester lining. Alternatively, you can line the sleeves in lining  fabric and use a cotton lawn, viscose or teddy/sherpa fleece for the bodice lining.

We know some makers are planning to make Sonny as a blouse instead of a jacket - we are excited to see it! If you want to try this, use something like a cotton lawn or even a more drapey viscose, lengthen the pattern, and add an elastic channel to the ends of the sleeves.

Hand holding lined jacket up, made using Sonny jacket and lining add-on patternsFlat lay of lined denim jacket with oversized prairie collar on pink background

TIPS & TUTORIALS

We have labelled Sonny as suitable for "confident beginners". While making a jacket may seem daunting, it's actually just a series of relatively simple steps. The trickiest bit is sewing buttonholes, but we have lots of tips for that! You will be supported all the way with our clear instructions, and if there are any techniques you aren't sure about, you'll find lots of extra help on a dedicated space on the blog.

If you're yet to line any outerwear on your sewing journey, the Sonny lining add-on is the perfect place to start. We did a lot of research and development to hone our instructions and you'll be amazed at the final result! 

Plus size model wearing corduroy jacket made using the Sonny sewing patternModel flicking her hair wearing denim jacket made using Sonny jacket sewing pattern


We are looking forward to seeing your Sonny jackets - both in-progress shots and finished makes. Don't forget to tag us on Instagram @TillyButtons using the hashtag #SewingSonny so we can swoon over what you're making. Happy sewing! 

*****

Models: Averil & Sophie Prat
Photographer: Jane Looker
MUAH: Simone @ The Bridal Stylists
Samples: Sewn by Deborah Wilkins

Blue denim - Minerva
Corduroy - Lullabee Fabrics

7 June 2023

Say Hello to Esti - the Ultimate Summer Co-ord!

Photo collage of two models wearing trouser and top sets, made using the Esti co-ord sewing pattern
Say hello to simple summer sewing with our Esti Co-ord sewing pattern!

Our Esti top-and-trouser co-ord sewing pattern makes an instant outfit, staple separates for layering, or even a chic faux jumpsuit. It's an easy sewing project that's great for beginners, and a speedy, satisfying make for more experienced stitchers. 

ORDER ESTI HERE

Model wearing a summery matching gingham shorts and top set, made using the Esti co-ord sewing pattern
Plus size model wearing matching top and trouser co-ord in a pastel lilac. The set was made using the Esti co-ord sewing patternModel wearing a faux jumpsuit in a bold brushstroke print. The look was created with a matching top and trouser set, made using the Esti co-ord sewing pattern.
Technical drawing of the Tilly and the Buttons Esti co-ord sewing pattern in sizes UK 6-34

THE PATTERN DESIGN

Esti is a two-piece set comprising a strappy top and trousers or shorts, which you can make to be worn together or separately.

The top has:

  • Chic square neckline
  • Straps wide enough to cover a bra
  • Diagonal bust darts for shaping
  • Two lengths - finishing at the waist or high hip
  • Finished with an easy-to-sew facing on the inside

The bottoms have:

  • Wide, slightly flared legs
  • Choice of three hem lengths - shorts, cropped or full length trousers
  • Elasticated waist all the way around, finished with topstitching
  • Optional large patch pockets on the bum
If you know the Safiya trousers from my book Make It Simple, you may be wondering how the trousers compare to those. The Esti trousers have wider, more flared legs (Safiya legs are straighter), a higher rise at the back, the waistline is elasticated all the way around (Safiya has a flat front) and finished with topstitching, they come in three lengths (Safiya trousers are cropped), plus they're available in 15 sizes from UK 6-34 as a separate pattern to the book.

29 March 2023

Meet Mabel! Our Dreamy Shirred Dress & Blouse Sewing Pattern

Tilly and the Buttons Mabel dress and blouse sewing pattern in sizes UK 6-34

Get ready for all the compliments with our Mabel shirred dress and blouse sewing pattern

If you fancy giving shirring a whirl, we're here for you. Our award-winning photo instructions clearly explain how to sew with elasticated shirring thread, with the extra help of a free video tutorial by Tilly, with thanks to the support of our friends at Janome UK. Check out our Mabel sewing pattern page for helpful tutorials that will make sewing your Mabel dress and blouse a breeze!

ORDER MABEL HERE

Plus size model wearing a floral shirred dress, made using Tilly and the Buttons Mabel sewing patternModel wearing a magenta shirred dress, made using Tilly and the Buttons Mabel sewing patternPlus size model wearing a shirred gingham blouse, made using Tilly and the Buttons Mabel sewing pattern

Technical drawings of Tilly and the Buttons Mabel shirred dress and blouse sewing pattern showing midi dress with full length sleeves and peplum blouse with cropped sleeves

THE PATTERN DESIGN

Shirring has become a popular sewing detail that we're loving at Buttons HQ! Mabel is the perfect introduction to this gorgeous technique. What's more, the on-trend design of this head-turning blouse and dress is absolutely stunning! Fall head over heels for these details:
  • Flirty, square-shaped elasticated neckline
  • Full-length or elbow-length sleeves, with deep shirred cuff or narrow shirred cuff with frill hem
  • Voluminous raglan sleeves elasticated around the shoulders
  • Front neckline has a pretty frill, keyhole opening and faux drawstring ties
  • Blousy bodice and floaty skirt cinched in with shirred waistline
  • Make it as a midi-length dress or peplum blouse

ORDER MABEL HERE

8 February 2023

Ten Years of Tilly and the Buttons sewing patterns!

Tilly a white woman with cropped hair, a lilac blouse and tape measure around her neck places a sewing pattern on a shelf

In 2013, I took the plunge and shared a self-drafted sewing pattern to this blog, unsure whether anyone would buy it. Little did I know that I'd still be making sewing patterns ten years later - now as my actual job, with a team of people helping me! 

43 patterns, 3 books, 9 online workshops, 2 babies, 1 global pandemic and 57,000 cups of coffee later, Tilly and the Buttons is still going strong.

A red haired model wears a teal polka dot Mathilde blouse with puffed sleeves and tucks down the bodice

That first pattern was the Mathilde blouse. Originally it was a PDF file to print at home, with simple text instructions supported by an in-depth sewalong on the blog. I did almost everything myself, from drafting the pattern, creating technical drawings, "modelling" in my kitchen with the camera on timer, to customer service... The only thing I outsourced was grading the pattern into different sizes, for which I have always hired a professional fashion industry grader.

A range of colourful Tilly and the Buttons sewing patterns are shown on a turquoise background with sewing tools around them

Our patterns have evolved - and improved - a lot over the years. They now include our signature full colour photo instructions. Many are available in print as well as PDF version. Lots of our patterns now have a much more inclusive size range, from UK 6-34. And it's no longer just me working from my kitchen table - we have a team of amazing people working on the patterns, from drafting through to answering your emails.

Throughout these changes, the intention has remained the same. To inspire more people to sew, with gorgeous designs, refreshingly clear instructions, and an encouraging attitude.

Tilly smiles while sewing a floral blouse

To celebrate ten years of Tilly and the Buttons sewing patterns, we thought it would be fun to give you a peek inside my sewing box, which may just contain a few memorable items from the last ten years...

3 February 2023

Fitting the Agnes sewing pattern

Fitting the Agnes Jersey Top - Tilly and the Buttons

Making the Agnes top and want some extra tips on fitting? This post will cover the most common fitting adjustments you may need when sewing Agnes.

Agnes is now available in printed and PDF formats sizes UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62 / AUS 6-34. As it's designed to be made in stretchy jersey, it's relatively simple to fit. 

In this post we're going to cover:
  • Choosing your size
  • Lengthening or shortening the bodice or sleeve
  • Combining sizes or resizing the bust
  • Widening or narrowing the shoulder
  • Changing the neckline
  • Narrowing or widening the sleeve
However, don't think you have to make all of these adjustments - you may need one or two, or maybe none at all!

Model wearing a blue and withe striped Agnes top, with ruched sleeve details

14 December 2022

Five Tips for Sewing with Corduroy

Five tips for Sewing with Corduroy or Needlecord - Tilly and the Buttons

I love corduroy. And judging by the number of corduroy makes that pop up on our Instagram feed, so do lots of people! Today I thought I’d share a few tips on sewing with corduroy to get a great result.

Corduroy - which is made of cotton, sometimes blended with polyester - has visible ribs or “wales” running vertically down its lengthwise grain. The width of the ribs can vary, from jumbo cord which has wide wales - if you see it labelled as “3 wale”, this means it has 3 ribs per inch - to finer needlecord or pincord, which is more like 16 wales per inch).

Corduroy is great for making dungaree dresses, skirts, trousers (corduroy flares, anyone?) and jackets. Finer needlecord is also lovely for shirts and dresses. Keep on scrolling to find a whole host of our gorgeous patterns you can use with this lovely fabric.

So what do you need to know when cutting and sewing with corduroy?



7 September 2022

Meet Marnie! Our Romantic Blouse & Mini Dress Sewing Pattern

Meet Marnie! Our Romantic Blouse & Mini Dress Sewing Pattern

Every so often, a sewing pattern comes along that you just can’t stop thinking about. For us, this pattern is the Marnie blouse and mini dress – with its gorgeous design and clever details, we immediately fell head over heels and we're so excited it's finally here. 

ORDER MARNIE HERE


Excited to learn more about Marnie? Let's get to it...


Model wearing a lilac and pink gingham blouse, made using the Marnie sewing pattern in cotton.
Model wearing a lilac blouse with tuck details, made using the Marnie sewing pattern in cotton lawn.
Model wearing a floral mini dress, made using the Marnie sewing pattern in viscose crepe.
Tilly and the Buttons Marnie sewing pattern technical drawing

THE PATTERN DESIGN


Marnie is a statement outfit with the option to add extraordinarily pretty details including a frill collar and dramatic shoulder ruffles, and dreamy undulating tucks. 

Can we talk about those sleeves too?! The two-piece bishop sleeves are oh so elegant and will take your sleeve obsession to another level.
  • Breezy smock-style bodice with princess seams and gentle gathering under the yokes
  • Dreamy optional undulating tucks on front yoke and sleeves
  • Round neckline finished with bias binding, with optional ruffle collar
  • Optional shoulder ruffles for extra drama
  • Two-piece full-length bishop sleeves with elasticated hem
  • Keyhole back opening with button and loop
  • Choice of blouse or mini dress hem lengths
The whole TATB office is obsessed with Marnie. We’ve made a fair few already between us and have so many gorgeous fabrics lined up for more! 

15 June 2022

Learn to Sew Swimwear with our NEW Pattern and Online Workshop

Tilly and the Buttons X Evie La Luve Coralie swimsuit and bikini sewing pattern

Our sunniest launch is here! A brand new sewing pattern, an accompanying online workshop, AND a swimwear supplies shop!

Dive into summer by sewing your own Coralie swimsuit or bikini, created in collaboration with designer Evie la Lùve and available in sizes UK 6-34.

A photo of Hannah against mannequins wearing Coralie swimwear

Following the success of our collaboration last year on the Iris knickers sewing pattern and Learn to Sew knickers online workshop, we've teamed up again with Hannah Bullivant, the designer behind Evie la Lùve, this time to demystify swimwear

In our latest online workshop, Learn to Sew Swimwear, Hannah's expertise and reassuring teaching style will guide you through all the steps to creating a beautiful me-made swimsuit or bikini.

What's more, we've also put together a supply shop of mouthwatering swimwear fabrics and durable elastics, so your sewing will be smooth sailing.


VISIT THE CORALIE SWIMWEAR SHOP


Grab an ice cream and relax, because we've got SEW MUCH exciting info to share...

Back view of a lilac Coralie swimsuit featuring a low back with ruffles.
Model wearing a Coralie bikini featuring lilac high waist bottoms with a bikini top with neckline ruffles in mint and coral.
Model wearing a blue and white gingham Coralie bikini.
Model wearing a chartreuse yellow and white gingham Coralie swimsuit.


ONLINE WORKSHOP


Nervous about tackling swimwear? If you need a helping hand, our brand new Learn to Sew Swimwear online workshop, taught by Hannah of Evie la Lùve, will take you step-by-step through making the pattern, with in-depth video lessons. Online workshops are the perfect way to learn from home, with on-demand lessons you can take at your own pace - plus the pattern is included in the price!

Get £10 off with our early-bird discount

Discount valid until 9am BST (UK time) on Wednesday 29 June 2022. No code required.