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Hey, guys. How are you? I begin every one of my blog posts these days by asking that question, but, as always, I probably know the answer. So yes, times are tough. Maybe I should ask how you are spending your time at home. I hope you’ve found a pastime that brings you joy.
Here on the mountain, we are still staying home a lot and trying to help California conquer this virus. A few weeks back, I decided to take advantage of the opportunity to sign up for distance-learning, college-level courses in patternmaking.
I am a complete control freak when it comes to my clothing. Before learning to sew, I thought that sewing would give me the ability to forgo store-bought clothing in favor of my own designs. After learning to sew, I realized that that wasn’t really the case. Even though I could choose my own fabric, I still was beholden to other people’s designs.
So, I decided the next superpower I’d acquire would be patternmaking. My first class is PM 121, a beginner patternmaking summer course at FIT. I also applied to Santa Monica College where I will continue with my patternmaking studies in the Fall.
I am about halfway through my first class and am at the point where I get to design my own blouse, draft the pattern, and sew it up. I just got my design approved by the professor today, so now it’s time to draft. Eek! I am a little nervous about drafting my first garment. I purchased a simple, prairie floral print, cotton lawn fabric for this project. The top I designed has ruffles…and puffed sleeves…and flowers, of course!
When I am not learning in class, you can find me devouring sewing and fashion podcasts or browsing online fabric shops. When I decide to do something, I usually go full-immersion. So yeah…all sewing, all the time!
On my [internet] travels, I’ve found some pretty amazing podcasts and fabric shops. Some I’ve listened to/frequented for years and some I discovered recently. All of them are amazing.
Fashion and Sewing Podcasts
Love to Sew // An inclusive sewing podcast where everyone is welcome. The podcast is run by two smart and compassionate gals in Canada. On the podcast, they interview members of the online sewing community and have episodes dedicated to specific sewing subjects.
Dressed: The History of Fashion // If you find yourself wondering about the origin of fashion trends or fashion from particular eras in our history, this is the podcast for you! It is hosted by two fashion historians/friends who consistently tackle the most interesting fashion history-related topics.
Fashion Half Cut // A podcast run by two professional patternmakers/gal friends who give an inside look at the patternmaking profession as well as tips in patternmaking. Before listening to this podcast, I wondered how there could possibly be a podcast about patternmaking. Now, after binge-listening to all of the episodes, I am hooked.
Online Fabric Shops
Stonemountain and Daughter Fabrics // This is my favorite stop for cotton and linen garment fabrics. The buyers for this shop really listen to what the sewing community wants and supply some gorgeous, natural fibers. My next purchase from this shop will be some of their silk
Circa Fabrics // It wouldn’t be a post at Lit Flower if it lacked a vintage option! I can personally vouch for this Etsy shop. Follow the owner, Sarah, on Instagram to get updates when she adds new fabric to her shop. Her fabric can disappear fast! Some of my most treasured vintage pieces are from this shop.
Promenade Fine Fabrics // If you are wondering where to get high fashion garment fabric, this is your shop. The fabrics are manufactured in countries like France and Italy and are as gorgeous as you would expect. Even if you aren’t in the market for fabric, this is a great place to stop by for some sparkly, optimistic florals! It’s definitely a gem of a shop.
Have you been sewing lately? Have you discovered a new shop or podcast you’d like to share? Leave a comment and connect with me below!
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Thanks for the shout out Maude! I loved your post so much. I looking forward to the checking out the podcast suggestions. I also listen to “Dressed: the history of Fashion” podcast!.
Good luck with the pattern making!
Sarah ~ Circa Fabrics
You are very welcome! I am a huge fan of your shop and the special fabrics you find. Isn’t Dressed wonderful? I love discovering the historical context of modern fashion trends. I hope you are doing well and I can’t wait to see the new treasures you find for your shop!