Simply Sewing Issue 143
Simply Sewing is a practical magazine for makers who sew, or would like to start sewing. Its contemporary look and feel, fresh attitude and ideas, beautiful photography and inspiring projects will have you behind the sewing machine from the get-go! Digital editions do not include paper gifts
FRESH IDEAS WITH FABRIC
Happy New Year from all of us at Simply Sewing! To start the year right, we have lots of exciting patterns and projects – such as our cover star, The Olive Pinafore (page 16). A timeless, versatile dress pattern that you’re sure to wear indefinitely for years to come! We’re also delighted to have partnered with Sew Over It to bring you their ever-popular Hackney Shirt pattern (page 46) – a fit for everybody for the sharpest look, from smart to casual. We’ve got heaps of hady technical advice for you too! Turn to page 20 to learn how to master sewing with denim and page 26 to top tips for beginners from Sewing Bee contestant Marcus Holley. Enjoy! WWW.GATHERED.HOW/SIMPLYSEWING #SIMPLYSEWINGMAG facebook.com/simplysewingmagazine pinterest.com/simplysewingmag instagram.com/simplysew-…
A NEW HORIZON
As I write this letter, it’s the final week before the holidays and there’s a buzz of excitement in the air for 2026. Colleagues are chatting about using the year ahead to learn fresh skills and finish their WIPs. (Oops, I’ve got a few hiding under my desk!). It’s been suggested we start a lunchtime club to help us do that. This is what I love about our creative community: people truly flourish when surrounded by others with shared passions. If you’re new to sewing, you’ve chosen the most wonderful time to join us! We’re launching a new monthly sewing masterclass (p30) to collect and keep. By 2027, you’ll be a pro!…
CONTRIBUTORS
MARCUS HOLLEY Marcus’ love of design started as a teenager, when he would print t-shirts for his friends. He’s passionate about making garments that are interesting and a little bit different. On page 26, he shares his best tips for sewing beginners. MICHAEL SULLIVAN Michael Sullivan is a sewist living in New York City. His work is often inspired by his historical interests. He enjoys upcycling fabrics and embellishing pieces with hand embroidery. Turn to page 83 to learn more about him and his favourite make! TAMMY SILVER Tammy is a London-based sewing blogger. She’s a print-loving, puffy sleeve enthusiast. She enjoys making easy-going looks with an abundance of colour and volume. Turn to page 59 to make your own version of her self-draft lounging shorts. ROSIE STIRLING Rosie, owner…
PINUP
Sign up to our newsletter today to download your bonus digital copy of Top 50 Stitches – for free! This beginner’s guide will teach you the best modern embroidery techniques for you to stitch like a pro. Inside, you’ll find step-by-step tutorials, a stitch guide, templates and the top tips from experts. This guide is easy to follow for beginners to stitching experts alike. Sign up now at try.simplysewingmag.com/bonus-gift Already a newsletter subscriber? Then, look out for the link to download your free bonus digi gift in our weekly sewing newsletter.…
PINBOARD
COUNTRYSIDE COUTURE Inspired by the English countryside with an urban twist, Atelier Brunette have released a new pattern to wear on your cold wintery walks – LA Barn Jacket. This lined jacket has an authentic feel that makes it absolutely irresistible. The traditional vibe of the pattern makes it totally timeless, and its modern twist makes it incredibly trendy too! Use different fabric for the collar and cuffs to make them stand out and create a totally unique look. Get the pattern today at atelierbrunette.com PRESTIGIOUS PRIZE Last November, the Hand & Lock Embroidery Prize celebrated its 25th anniversary, and the talented Ilaria Harris won the Open Fashion category with her magnificent Syncresis piece that she embroidered herself! Find more of Ilaria's work on her socials @zestandlavender BREAKING NEWS! This…
THE OLIVE PINAFORE
PSST: Turn the page for fabric and styling inspiration. Share yours online! Time for you to create a fun, timeless and versatile dress with The Olive Pinafore pattern! This pinafore is easy to style in so many different ways – a jumper for winter and a breezy t-shirt in the summer – this is the perfect garment to wear again and again all year long! Pinafores have been trendy for decades now, and their simple look is sure to make them fashionable for another few decades at least – we're sure of it! Make yours with medium weight fabrics for the best finish – using corduroy will be great to keep you warm during the cold season, while denim looks good and fits well no matter if it's hot or…
