Sewing Blog

            For me, the whole reason I started sewing was because I wanted cute clothes for my son. The reason I continue to sew (besides being addicted to fabric), is definitely because I’m able to get a perfect fit for clothes for my kid’s oddly proportioned bodies, and especially myself!             I can’t make a garment these days without grading. If I’m being honest, I’ve gotten so used to it that if I don’t have to grade, I think I’m doing something wrong. When my daughter was little and I was still very new to sewing, I remember making her...

  Our Trick or Treat bucket tote can be made in two different sizes and has three different strap lengths. Add a fun cat or jack-o'-lantern applique to complete your spooky season bag! This tote would also make a great book bag! The pattern takes no more than one yard of fabric for each size. •Download the pattern files to create the tote bag here. •Thoroughly read the instructions before beginning.  •Attach interfacing to the wrong side of the fabric of the main pattern peices.  APPLIQUE TIPS   COLOR-BLOCK VERSION  Lay the color-block main top piece flat, right side facing...

Sewing for Beginners: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Started I’m Leann, I’ve been sewing for only a year and a half so I’m still “new” to the sewing world but it’s become my biggest passion! I learned to sew because I wanted to create beautiful custom outfits for my two small children. The way sewing has changed my life is incredible. I’ve found a hobby that makes me feel like I’m actually accomplishing something that still benefits my family, it’s helped my mental health tremendously, and it’s given me a huge boost in my confidence.  In my short time of...

Upcycle Tips from an SMD Pattern Tester: Hi, I’m Sammy! I started sewing about 3 years ago and I have been testing for Samantha Marie Design for most of that time as well!! One of my favorite things to do as a seamstress is to upcycle old and thrifted clothing into new pieces. It’s a fun way to be more sustainable with fashion!! Especially with kids since they are outgrowing their clothes so quickly.  I really got into upcycling about 2 years ago when my grandma passed away. She had a love for fashion and had so many fun clothing...

The Reef Swim Cover-Up is an easy sew for beginners and experienced sewists. The Adult pattern is drafted for sizes S-XL which accommodates US number sizes 0-32. Please use the size key and reference our size chart to determine the appropriate sizing. Download our Reef Swim Bib and Cover-Up for Children here.  We recommend knit fabrics such as terry cloth or a lightweight french terry for this pattern. Reef can also be easily hacked to use gauze or fabric with little stretch as long as knit fabric is used for the neckband.  Download the files for this pattern here.  Size Key: S: 0-6...