Spotted on the Sewing Bee

Last nights episode of the sewing bee saw the contestants tackle challenges on the theme of 1970's fashion. I like these more loose themes as it open up for more possibility. 

The pattern challenge focused on making a pair of flares with classic features like a back yoke and fly front. I love how some of them used nice patterned fabric for the pocket linings - I do that all the time with any off cuts that I have, or sometimes I'll even get just a little bit of liberty tana lawn and use that. 

Wide legged trousers

You might be feeling like the traditional flare or bell bottom is a but much for you but wide leg trousers are really popular right now and there are some lovely pattern out there that fit that trend. 

I spotted lots of cord being used last night for that challenge too and the non-stretch Robert Kaufmann cord we stock would be perfect. It comes in lots of lovely colours with new shades arriving this week so keep an eye on the just arrived section to see them!

Get the notions

We stock a lovely range of metal teethed zips that are perfect for jeans or corduroy trousers. Need some jeans buttons and rivets? We've got them too! And make sure your button doesn't pop off by securely attaching it with the vario pliers. Check out my youtube video of when I was finished off my jeans and showing how to use this amazing tool!

Max it out

The showstopper challenge this week was all about the maxi dress. These styles looked amazing and I love the floaty and breezy fabrics that the contestants were using. Viscose and rayon are perfect for achieving this look. You can also use certain types of polyester, which is probably what was used in the actual 70's, but it can be a bit sweaty and static so faced with the choice I'd go for the viscose/rayon ones. 

Here are my pattern picks for creating a floor length maxi dream!