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Lucinda Ganderton – Embroidery Stitches – Step by Step £18.99 FREE* P&P • An all-encompassing embroidery book on needlework, stitches and more! Whether you are an embroidery beginner wanting to learn the basics or an accomplished crafter seeking to perfect your technique, this embroidery stitch book has something for everyone to love! • Embroidery Stitches Step-by-Step covers every aspect of the craft: materials and mounting techniques, fabrics and frames, along with more than 200 stitches illustrated and explained with easy-to- follow instructions. With an at-a-glance gallery to help you find the perfect stitch for your next project, this tried-and-trusted modern classic is a must-have for stitchers of all ages and abilities. Dive straight in to discover a comprehensive stitch gallery allowing readers to quickly find the stitches they’re interested in, several handy how-to guides and basic embroidery considerations for beginners. Full of top tips on which threads, needles and fabrics work best with which stitches, this design book is sure to unleash your potential and inspire your creativity like never before! • 160-page hardback book. £18.99 WITH FREE P&P* ENTER CODE SEWFEB AT THE CHECKOUT Product Code: M2580 FREEPHONE: 0800 318 846 quoting M2580. ONLINE: www.dcthomsonshop.co.uk Lines open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm. Please allow up to 5 working days for delivery to UK only. *FREE P&P (price £3.95). Offer ends Wednesday February 8th, 2023

HOME & GIFTS Make our craft room mascot, Scarlett the Sewing Doll As well as being great for kids, this stitch-star works just as well for grown-ups in search of a little company for their crafting corner. Scarlett comes with a pocketed skirt, ideal for holding all your favourite habby bits. Designer Corinne Bradd has also created a range of matching scissor cases in three different sizes. 53 sewmag.co.uk

BEGINNER FREE TEMPLATE DOWNLOAD sewmag.co.uk /templates ESSENTIALS l Fabric, cotton: skin tone, assorted prints l Embroidery thread l Fibre filling l Quilt wadding l Buttons, small l Acrylic yarn l Fabric glue l Snap fasteners l Haberdashery, assorted 5mm seam allowance used throughout, unless otherwise stated. We used the All sizes of the scissor cases are Sew Much Fun made in the same way, just add a range. For stockists, 5mm seam allowance to each template visit rileyblake designs.com Make accessories from fabric, right sides together. Snip another shape from quilt 1 Download and print the wadding. Place the outer fabric templates from sewmag. face up on the wadding and zig co.uk. Wind small wooden zag stitch all the way round to cotton reels with coordinating secure. Make a piece of piping embroidery thread. Suspend the with a closed short end from 3cm reels from thread using small x 8cm fabric folded in half. Turn buttons as stoppers at the bottom the piping out and press, tack the of each spool. Each one can be raw end to the side of the curve gathered together and stitched to furthest from the sloped section. the waistband of the skirt. Make a necklace by threading tiny buttons 2 Pin the inner fabric to the onto embroidery thread and tying outer, right sides together, them around the doll’s neck. and sew along the top curved edge from the outer point 2 Make a small needle case of the slope to the mark, securing from two rectangles of the piping along the way. Clip the lightly padded fabric stitched seam allowance with pinking right sides together and turned out shears and clip the corners through a gap in the centre of one before turning out the curved short edge. Make a 15cm length of part of the scissors case. piping, place the raw end into the turning gap before topstitching all 3 Match up the straight the way round. The fabric can then edges of both the outer and be rolled and held closed with lining fabric and sew down several wraps of the piping. the long seam and across the bottom, starting from the end of Stitch a scissors case the curved seam. Leave a 4cm gap in the lining seam and turn 1 Download and print the the case out through this gap. templates from sewmag. Fold in the edges of the gap and co.uk. Cut the template shape oversew closed. 54 sewmag.co.uk

HOME & GIFTS 4 Push the lining inside the orientation. Press the seam securing the unstuffed limbs. 4 Make hair by winding three outer and topstitch around and topstitch. Pair up the Leave a turning gap in one side colours of yarn around a book, the top edges of the scissors composite arms and sew right of the body. Clip the curves and 20cm wide. Use the colours case. Place scissors inside the sides together leaving a gap turn out. simultaneously until there are 35 full case, thread the piping through towards the top of the outer loops. Cut the bottom of all loops the larger handle of them, so the edge. Clip the curves around 3 Stuff the limbs with small and flatten out the hank. Machine end falls in the centre of the the hand, turn out and press. pieces of fibre filling pushed stitch across the centre of the curved back piece. Mark the right to the ends with a flattened hank to hold the strands. position of the end of the piping 2 Pair up the legs and sew knitting needle. Fold in the edges and fit plier fix snap fasteners to right sides together, leaving of the turning gaps and oversew 5 Lay the flattened hank over the the piping and case to hold the a turning gap towards the closed with small stitches. Firmly centre of the head and use loop closed. top back of each. Clip the curves, stuff the body with small pieces of more yarn to back-stitch it in turn out and press. Flatten the fibre filling to make the face as place, whipping back through the Make a dolly seams in the centre of the top of smooth as possible. Ensure there stitches to make a neat parting. Use each leg so that when attached is enough stuffing at the neck to a darning needle to thread some of 1 Download and print the the feet will face forwards. Place avoid a floppy head. Fold in the the strands across the back of the templates from sewmag. the arms and legs onto one body edges of the turning gap and head and through the side seam. co.uk. Cut two body pieces piece, matching up the raw edges oversew closed. Sketch facial Gather the strands together on and two pairs of hands from plain and ensuring the thumbs will features onto the centre of the one side and tie into a bunch. cotton. Snip two pairs of arms and point inwards and the feet will head and embroider with two Use fabric glue to fix some of the two pairs of legs from a light face forwards. Machine tack in strands of thread using whipped strands across the forehead and shade of printed fabric. Stitch a position before placing the other back-stitch for clean, smooth leave to dry before clipping the ends. hand to the bottom of each arm body piece on top and pinning lines and outlines, and satin stitch ensuring it has the right carefully. Sew all the way around, to fill in areas of colour. Stitch a tunic 1 Download and print the templates from sewmag.co.uk. Cut one front, two back, and one neck facing piece from patterned fabric. Stitch the pieces, right sides together at the shoulder seams, and press flat. Place the facing onto the neckline section and sew around the inside. Turn out and press to the inside of the neck, then slip-stitch. 2 Turn under 5mm at the ends of each sleeve and sew before folding the tunic in half and sewing the side seams. Turn in and topstitch a 5mm double hem on both back openings. Turn up and stitch the same hem around the bottom edge of the tunic. Use plier fix snap fasteners on the back edges of the tunic. Sew a skirt 1 Cut fabric, 14cm x 45cm. Snip out another piece, 17cm x 45cm. Carefully zig zag stitch and hem the top long edge of the smaller piece of fabric. Place across the bottom of the larger piece and bind the two lower edges together with a zig zag stitch. Sew down the smaller piece of fabric to make pockets, 6cm wide each. Pleat the top edge of the skirt to reduce the width to 22cm and stitch down 3.5cm on each pleat to hold them secure. Cut a strip of fabric, 4cm x 22cm. Use this strip to bind the top edge of the skirt, creating a waistband. 2 Cut two strips of fabric, 3.5cm x 45cm each. Join the strips end to end. Hem one long edge and gather the other long edge up to a width of 45cm. Sew the gathered edge to the bottom of the skirt, fold down and topstitch the seam to make a frill. Fold the skirt in half right sides together and sew up the back seam, neatening it with a tight zig zag to prevent fraying. 55 sewmag.co.uk

UBSCRIBE TODAY! • SUBSCRIBE TODAY • SUBSCRIBE TODAY! • SUBSCRIBE TODA YES!Please start my subscription to SEW I would like to renew my subscription with this offer (cheque/credit card) S23JP Subscriber benefits you’ll love 1 DIRECT DEBIT 3 issues for just £14.99* (Please complete section 1). l Cover gifts worth £260+ across the year 2 UK CHEQUE/CREDIT CARD £74.99 for 13 issues (1 year) l 130+ timeless dressmaking patterns 2 OVERSEAS Eur/Eire £123.87 ROW £128.87 (1 year) l Snuggle-me toys and irresistible gifts FREE RETURN TO: FREEPOST, RTXY-TZXZ-CGCG, SEW, l Expert tips and techniques ROCKWOOD HOUSE, PERRYMOUNT ROAD, l Easy-to-follow photo guides POSTAGE HAYWARDS HEATH, WEST SUSSEX, RH16 3TW l Spread the cost SUBSCRIBER DETAILS; please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS l Free delivery to your door Title Forename ...and so much more! Surname Address SEW EDITOR LUCY SAYS... Postcode Mobile No. “Spoil yourself this February! Daytime No. Subscribe today for just £14.99 Email and you’ll receive a copy of your favourite magazine, straight to your 1 INSTRUCTION TO YOUR BANK OR doorstop, every single month!” BUILDING SOCIETY TO PAY DIRECT DEBIT WOW! Originator’s ID No. Bonus patterns Name and full postal address 677186 like these every of your Bank or Building Society issue To: The Manager bank/building society Address Name(s) of account holders(s) Postcode Branch sort code Bank/Building Society Account Number Instruction to your Bank or Building Society: Please pay Aceville Publications Ltd, Direct Debit from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with Aceville Publications Ltd and, if so, details may be passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society. Data Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit instructions for some types of accounts Signature(s) Date The direct debit guarantee Your Direct Debit Guarantee will be found on your confirmation letter. 2 I enclose a cheque made payable to Sew Please debit my account by Visa Mastercard Switch/Maestro (issue No.) Amex Card Number Expiry date Valid from CVV code SIGNED: TODAY’S DATE: *This is a UK only Direct Debit offer. Gift is only available to UK subscribers. Existing Subscriptions brought to you by subscribers can renew using this offer. Your subscription will begin with the next available issue. Subscriptions are for a 12 month period including all gift subscriptions. If your subscription is a gift, the gift and gift card will be sent to the donor. You can also subscribe via cheque or credit card. In the event of a gift being faulty or damaged, please contact us within 28 days of receiving the gift. This is a limited offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Photocopies accepted. Cancellation policy applies refer online or contact customer services for more details. Please note: Overseas subscriptions will not include subscriptions gifts, and will only receive selected covermounted gifts. By subscribing we will contact you about your subscription and any other marketing material we feel relevant. Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd (publishers of Sew) in full accordance with data protection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd may wish to contact you with information of other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick the relevant box if you ARE HAPPY to receive such information by post phone email SMS Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else.

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ADVERTORIAL Say cheese! Tweet box Well, this might just be the cutest mouse we’ve ever If you’re prone to losing your crafty essentials – aren’t we all! – then we’ve seen! You can use Millie Rose got a great solution for you. Minerva’s Crafts’ needle felting kit to make a proud little cheese charming sunshine yellow case is bandit returning from a shaped like a birdhouse and topped with an attractive woven lid. It’s ideal successful heist. Sporting a for keeping all your crafty bits and bobs red cape, this cheeky mouse together. Why not display it in your sewing studio or show it off on a crafty stands at just 12.5cm tall and has been crafted from day out? £35.99, minerva.com 100% wool roving. This kit also includes felting needles and a felting mat. £13.95, millyrosecrafts.com SHOP &SEW Inject some much-needed Small but mighty sunshine into your crafting corner this spring with our This mini sewing kit is just the thing for crafters on-the-go. Designed to be top sewing picks. Go ultra-compact, it features everything you on, treat yourself! need to make basic sewing alterations, including 12 thread reels, embroidery scissors, a tape measure, safety pins, a seam ripper, buttons and needles. Simply slip it into your bag, ready for any stitchy emergencies. £10, johnlewis.com Top of the crops It’s Dino-mite! We’ve fallen head over heels with We absolutely love Deer and Doe’s Hysope top! This the Eat Your Veggies boxy crop top includes side button collection from Riley Blake bands with the choice of either Designs. Splashed with a round or V-neckline. Hysope warm greens, creamy comes in a motley of bold hues, yellows and hearty oranges, from vibrant orange to sumptuous these cotton fabrics are guaranteed to add a quirky navy. Available from a UK size edge to your garments 6, we think this garment would and accessories. You look gorgeous paired with shorts, could even sew a toy for your little darling. For trousers or a midi skirt. more information, visit £10.35, shop.deer-and-doe.fr rileyblakedesigns.com Soft touch Utility chic This delicate wash from Eucalan If you’re looking for a pair of will leave your handmade garments versatile dungarees to dress up or down, then the Burnside Bibs and accessories squeaky clean. pattern is for you. This gorgeous Naturally derived with a no-rinse garment features a front waistband, formula, these innovative laundry curved front patch pockets and detergents come in five heavenly optional back pockets. You can even transform the shoulder straps scents: Eucalyptus, Jasmine, into narrower ties. As if that wasn’t Lavender, Grapefruit and Unscented. enough, there are two front bib options, including a scooped neck Plus, you can choose from 5ml, and a traditional straight front. 100ml and 500ml bottle sizes. From £12.49, sewhouse7.com From 87p, eucalan.com Let us know which product is the star of your sewing room over at @SewHQ on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, or by emailing [email protected] 58 sewmag.co.uk

TEA BREAK T he BEAR Necessities We take a peek into the history of the teddy bear to find out where life began for our cuddly companions WORDS BY SOPHIE TARRANT T he humble teddy bear President should shoot the animal and has been a firm favourite of claim it as his own. Roosevelt refused, children and adults around the saying that to shoot the bear would be globe for over 100 years, with unsportsmanlike. The story became the Oxford English Dictionary dating the the topic of a political cartoon in The term back to 1906. Officially, teddy bears Washington Post, which was spotted by New York businessman Morris got their name in 1902, following Michtom. Morris and his wife Rose a curious incident involving were so inspired by the cartoon that the then-US president they designed a bear cub toy, which Theodore Roosevelt, they displayed in the window of their who was commonly confectionery store in Brooklyn with known as ‘Teddy’. a sign saying ‘Teddy’s Bear’. The couple Whilst on a hunting sent President Roosevelt one of the bears trip in Mississippi, and sought permission to use the name, a team of President which was swiftly granted. Teddy’s Bears Roosevelt’s attendants were an immediate hit, and the couple caught a black bear founded the Ideal Novelty and Toy Co. and tied it to a tree, to manufacture them on a larger scale. suggesting that the 59 sewmag.co.uk

ACROSS THE POND Meanwhile in Germany, dressmaker shows. To begin with, Richard designed a Margarete Steiff had started her own toy number of bears that were positioned on business, in which she made and sold small all fours and set on cast iron wheels, so felt animals. Starting with an adorable little they could be ridden on or pulled. elephant, Steiff soon began to produce other creatures including dogs, cats, In 1902, Richard created a string- horses, rabbits and pigs. In 1892 the jointed bear – the first of its kind. The company then produced its first catalogue, bear was named Bär 55 PB and was which contained the motto ‘Only the best is chosen by Margarete to be taken to the good enough for our children’, a slogan that 1903 Leipzig Toy Fair, which was the company still uses to this very day. regarded as the most important event of the entire industry. The jointed bear was In 1897, Margarete’s nephew Richard spotted by Hermann Berg, chief buyer for Steiff completed his studies at Stuttgart New York wholesalers George Borgfeldt, Art School and joined the business. Richard and he immediately ordered 3,000 units. was a creative soul and had a passion and However, legend has it that though these admiration for bears, and wanted to design 3,000 bears were produced by Steiff, they a soft toy bear that would be appealing to never arrived on American shores – with children. He studied the animal in great many saying that the ship carrying the detail and made sketches based on order was wrecked, leaving these numerous visits to the Stuttgart zoo, as valuable original Steiff bears lost well as travelling circuses and animal at sea forever more. World-renowned teddy bear makers Steiff still stand by their original motto from 1892, ‘Only the best is good enough for our children’ MADE IN BRITAIN Holmes & Laxton spinning mill, recognised the opportunity to make premium soft toys Since those early prototypes, teddy bears from the luxurious natural fibres used at the have continued to grow in popularity, with mill. He bought a foundry building in reports stating that in 2020, the UK spent Ironbridge (which remains the company’s almost £1 billion on stuffed toys. Great home to this day) and with the help of a Britain has its own rich heritage of teddy- team of skilled local seamstresses, making, with Yorkshire-based Merrythought was born. Merrythought first creating their own iconic bears in 1930. The company was founded The first collection of bears was designed when William Gordon Holmes, owner of the by Florence Attwood, a remarkable pattern maker who created 32 iconic designs, including the original Merrythought Bear. In 2017, an authentic replica of the bear was created using the original patterns from the 60 sewmag.co.uk

FAMOUS FRIENDS “Don’t miss National With teddy bears becoming so popular, bear inspired Bond and within ten Teddy Bear Day on 9th it was only natural that a few would go days, he had completed the first book. on to become household names. The Since then Paddington’s continuing September – it’s the first and perhaps most famous of these adventures have gone on to sell more perfect occasion to is Winnie The Pooh. First imagined in than 30 million copies worldwide. champion all of your 1926 for a series of stories set in the own handmade teds!” fictional Hundred Acre Wood, the In 1972, the character of Paddington character of Pooh was created by Bear was first manufactured as a EDITOR LUCY JOBBER English author A.A. Milne and illustrator stuffed toy. Interestingly, the prototype E.H. Shepard, based on a real-life teddy design was created by seamstress bear owned by Milne’s son, Christopher Shirley Clarkson, as a Christmas Robin. Pooh had been named after present for her children Joanna Winnie, a Canadian black bear that and Jeremy – yes, that Jeremy Christopher Robin had visited at Clarkson. The bear was given his London Zoo, and Pooh, a swan the trademark Wellington boots to family had encountered whilst on help him stand upright. holiday. He now resides at the New York Public Library, where he and Despite today’s world of high-tech other characters from the books gadgets and screens, teddy bears still can be visited by fans. remain a firm favourite with children and adults of all ages and continue to The next teddy bear to make it big feature in the bestseller lists year after was Paddington, who first appeared year. September 9th has now been in 1958 when a book about his recognised as National Teddy Bear adventures was published by creator day, with brands such as Build-a-Bear Michael Bond. The character was born Workshop holding special events on Christmas Eve 1956, after Bond across the country. So get ready to spotted a lone teddy bear in a toy shop pack up your favourite snacks, head on near Paddington Station, which he down to the woods and hold your very bought as a present for his wife. The own teddy bear’s picnic in honour of our favourite cuddlies. The very first Paddington Bear soft toy was designed as a Christmas gift for Jeremy Clarkson! company’s archives, and was featured on a Royal Mail stamp as part of a collectible ‘Classic Toys’ series. With the outbreak of World War II in 1939, the British Admiralty took over Merrythought’s factory to carry out vital map-making work, forcing bear production to stop. The toymakers moved to a nearby building and instead used their skills and materials to help the war effort, producing a variety of textile items such as helmet linings, gas mask bags and hot water bottle covers. It wasn’t until 1946 that toy production could resume once more, and continues to this day. 61 sewmag.co.uk

Photography: BBC/Ricochet Ltd/Steve Peskett favourite was a polar bear called Pipaluk. He was made by Pedigree to commemorate Bear the birth of a polar bear of the same name at London Zoo in 1967. I was originally REPAIR taught to darn, embroider and sew by my grandmother, but it wasn’t until I started We caught up with BBC1’s The Repair Shop’s teddy making them myself that these skills came bear experts, Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch, into play. I then started to repair them, out of an interest to learn more about the to find out more about their passion for bears and history and manufacture of soft toys.” what drew them to the world of toy restoration We asked the talented pair if they had “I had several soft toys as a child,” says bear shop with a studio attached, using any advice for those who may require an Julie, “but my favourites were a poodle my furry friends as the perfect vehicle for emergency bear repair at home. “There are nightdress case I called Bonzo and a demonstrating the techniques required in certain jobs that can be undertaken at stitch-and-sew tortoise. My only teddy making them. Amanda and I met when home if you have the necessary sewing bear, called Yellow Ted, was disposed of by she ventured into the shop to ask if I would skills,” explains Julie. “We would my rather over-enthusiastic mother whilst consider selling her bears. I agreed, on the recommend that you always have a needle, she was clearing out my bedroom. I still condition that she spent some time in the thread and scissors in your teddy bear first remain traumatised to this day! shop making and demonstrating for the aid kit. Whilst these items are essential to general public, too!” hold that loose ear in place or repair a hole “I’ve always had a passion for handmade that has stuffing coming out, the type of items, and a concern for the demise of “I’ve also had a life-long passion for patient and its age and place in history traditional skills. I opened a collectable teddy bears,” adds Amanda. “As a child, my should always be considered before undertaking such work.” You can also gather tips and tricks by listening to the pair’s new podcast, Bearly Begun. “We decided to join the world of podcasting as a way to introduce ourselves to a wider audience,” says Amanda. “We have a passion for sharing experience and knowledge and hope to inspire others, whether it be through teddy bear making and repair, or through life experiences.” “The first series was a bit of an experiment,” adds Julie, “both in using the technology, and in seeing if listeners liked what they heard. We are now forging ahead and we will even be introducing guests to future episodes!” 62 sewmag.co.uk

Win these amazing prizes worth more than £1,000! Three Bags Full Future Fashionistas Win one of six nifty knitting 6 Treat budding dressmakers to a toy bundles, comprising of a wedding dress kit! The Harumika Bridal reversible bag and needle Winners Gown and Candy Wedding Set features set worth £350 in total. everything kids need to make stunning These sturdy bags from gowns for their favourite dolls, Hobbygift are perfect for including elegant satins and Worth storing yarn and projects. Boasting a delicate lace. Simply choose a £200! fabric, wrap it around the torso, durable handle, they can fully unzip and open out flat for easy access to secure it using the stylus tool and all your crafty tools. The customise the couture design with Pony Jute needle set the decorative pins supplied. All the is eco-friendly too, materials and accessories are reusable, and just the thing too. To find out more, visit amazon.co.uk for slotting inside your new bag. For stockists, contact Worth groves@stockist £210! enquiries.co.uk Click Some Like it Hot Win one of three sewing tool bundles &Win from Clover, worth more than £70. You’ll get your hands on a Hot Hemmer square and ruler, plus a heat-resistant Hold It Wonderful Yarn Precision Stiletto ideal for keeping your fabric in place when machine sewing or pressing. Hot Win 15 scrumptious balls of West Yorkshire Spinners Hemmers are made from heat-resistant nylon fibre Retreat Super Chunky Roving yarn, plus the fantastic Knit. board and allow you to create sharp, accurate crease Flow. Grow pattern book. This collection of ten super chunky lines as you press seams and hems using a dry or steam knitting designs by Chloé Elizabeth Birch covers garments, iron. For stockists, contact [email protected] accessories and homewares. You’re sure to find a pattern you’ll adore and will have every opportunity to put your luxurious new yarns to good use. Made from 100% Bluefaced Kerry Hill, these Clay Creations yarns have a luscious Venture into the world of pottery with Worth Pott’d, an at-home kit with everything smooth handle. Visit you need to make your own clay £210! creations. Each kit includes clay, wyspinners.com Worth paintbrushes, paint for more. £220! and how-to guides. It can be used to make everything from mugs and vases to plant pots. Plus, all your masterpieces can air-dry at home without the need for a kiln. Enter now for your chance to win one of seven kits! To find out more, visit pottdpeople.com Visit our website, Click the Select a giveaway and Closing ‘Giveaways’ tab enter your details date Heonwterto 1 2 3sewmag.co.uk 23rd March 63 sewmag.co.uk

Dear ...can you HELP? We’ve teamed up with Make & Sew Toys for top tips on elevating your embroidery, creating doll house décor, and more... Q Whatare fabrics and with thicker threads, you your top tips for may need a chenille needle, as these embroidering are typically longer and thicker than my dolly’s facial features? crewel needles. Sometimes you can embroider a face on a flat piece of Amy Hickburn fabric, before assembling the toy and sometimes you will add the facial Susie says: The first step is to choose a features once the toy has been made needle that is suitable for the thickness of up and stuffed. Either way, if you’re your fabric and thread. Embroidery needles designing a face, begin by cutting out tend to be medium length, with a sharp small pieces of paper or felt for each point and a long eye to accommodate feature, trying out different shapes. Lie several thicknesses of thread. You can the toy face up on a flat surface and use them for general sewing too, and the place the cut-out features in position. longer eye makes them easier to thread. As a general rule, the eyes should be The smaller the size number, the finer the about halfway down the face of the toy needle. Your choice will be influenced by and evenly spaced – but play around the number of thread strands you are with the positioning until you are using. As a guideline, a size four or five will satisfied with the arrangement. When accommodate two strands of cotton; for you are happy, you can use a chalk three strands you will need a size six or pencil or an erasable marker to draw seven. If you are embroidering on heavier around the shapes, to provide a guide for your embroidery stitches. Q I want to treat use a smaller selection of shades to my youngster make stylish tablecloths or even to a fully curtains. You can save time by using furnished doll’s house. fabric glue instead of sewing the Where do I start? entire project. Arm yourself with a good quality, thick PVA, such as Hi- Emma Peters Tack Trim-It by Impex. It has a fine nozzle applicator for precision and Corinne says: Flat plain coloured buttons can easily be watered down for can be stacked together to make faux materials that need less tack. This stripy vases, decorative buttons can form kind of glue will stick fabric to another the base of table lamps, and small slightly absorbent surface like card or buttonholes can be filled with air dry clay, wood. You are best to paste the rigid then painted to create lids for storage jars. material, allow the glue to go a little Short lengths of ribbon are great for tacky, then smooth the fabric over the trimming footstools or lampshades; just top so it gets stuck, without too much ensure the ends are sealed to prevent glue soaking through to the surface. If excess fraying. Tiny squares of fabric are you're sticking fabrics together, you crying out to be stitched together in a might want to try Gütermann's HT2 patchwork – either throw every colour spirit-based textile glue. This clear under the sun into a child's bed quilt, or adhesive can be spread into a thin layer with a piece of card with very little soak-through. 64 sewmag.co.uk

Meet our CORINNE BRADD SUSIE JOHNS TEA BREAK EXPERTS Corinne is a regular Susie is an experienced AMANDA WALKER Sew contributor. You artist and stitcher, and Amanda loves stitching can watch her fabulous has written many craft garments, homeware, how-to's over on The Crafts books for GMC Publications. and of course toys! Channel. youtube.com/ instagram.com/ Check out her projects thecraftschannel susiestitchschool in every issue of Make &Sew Toys. Making A Memory Bear Top3 Pattern Picks From commemorating the life of a lost 2 Select the largest pieces of fabric to loved one to celebrating the early years cut the pattern from, unless there are Treat your tot to these FREE spent with your child, memory bears offer motifs that you'd like placed on parts of designs at sewmag.co.uk an excellent opportunity for you to the bear. If these pieces aren't big enough transform sentimental fabric pieces, such to cut the entire pattern piece from, Nigel the as clothes and baby blankets, into consider adding the motif as an appliqué. Dragon heirloom toys that will stand the test of time. Here are our top tips for making a 3 The pattern pieces of the bear could be Flossie bear of your own. embroidered with names, dates, or Flamingo special place names before the bear is 1 Achieve professional results by using assembled. Unicorn woven materials such as cotton – they Toy won’t bulge out of shape when you are 4 Make a bear with a pouch so that stuffing your toy. photos, jewellery or items with sentimental value can be kept inside but removed for cleaning. Q I’venever MARCH 2021 ISSUE 3 SPRING DCtO8oOsbNatLeenNspLetsiwIeYE FEBRUARY 2021 ISSUE 2 BIG sewn a toy BUNNY SOFTIE before, do you 35J O YBEAUTIFUL TOYS HANDMADE WITH LOVE o&utdfirtesssy APRIL 2021 ISSUE 4 have any advice for SPARK Stitch a complete beginners? TOYS Mmy teo&yRFUOSNSDELML EGMROANRITE’SSII faux fur for every sewing ability! Sarah Andson Let's Play Shop!SSTIIMTCPHLEA-FBOALGLOWWITSHTEOPUSR JOIN THE buddy Amanda says: To boost your ’60S BEAUTIFUL TOYS HANDMADE WITH LOVE Bonus!QUEICAKSY&2TO-STEENPTTHFEEERLTTKAIIEIDNSS BEAUTIFUL TOYS HANDMADE WITH LOVE HaPvleany confidence, I would recommend MySEFWIRINSGT choosing a toy that is made using fur REVIVAL 30 machineHERE'SLWOHOAKTFTOORII Hello tColbenrvuiegrrshecterhyne!athtse fabric, these fabrics generally have a knitted base making the material NTOO-FYUSSS! 30Spring stretch slightly. When the stitching BRIGHT is complete and the piece is turned Ideaanl dfobrebyeognindners IDEAS through to the right side, take as much To stitch & treasure time as you need over stuffing the toy, making sure the filling is pushed into CuteMEaemsteenr tos all the corners and shape of the toy, it generally takes longer and consumes BY CREATED OPMIIGNAKKPELOUOISNUHKRI!E mPeaepgiicnatlowaorld more filler than you think. You will find BE YOU! that the fur magically covers any little TSY D MAKE APRIL 21UIKSS£U9E.949 MISSY MOUSE ISSUE 2 UK £9.99 imperfections that may have occurred O L LY BCERGEIANTNEERH-EFRRIEANDDOLYRAHOBLWE-TFOEAS TINUSRIDESE whilst sewing. As a novice toymaker, SInTsAiRdTe:TQOuYicMkA-tKraINceGPTaOttDeArnYs! Take you will also discover that soft toys GITFToSyFOsRfToINrYtHoANtDsS! CUTE MAR 21 ISSUE 3 Tear ‘n’ share patterns!TCEOATRV&INTAONCYEHMLAAATPKWIEERIRTRHE A Twirl normally have small seam allowances, EAaBsyCas UK £9.99 + EXPERT-LED TUTORIALS BBeaasric Box BALLERINA and this can make them a little fiddly. DDoitntioe Baby’s Clever FOR BUDDING I generally use the edge of the foot on TRY OUR Pretty BookFancy 1st LPPEAIAETCRCNIHNWGORK Hop DANCERS my sewing machine to guide the seam GIFT & GO FUN FOR Kitty FelinePUOLPAUWYR DIKTRIHTETSYS-LEMOMAVBSERTOOERUIDCRELRAYSS FELT FIGURES To It allowance, the edge of the foot lining BABY BLOCKS KIDS OF ONLY SEVEN TO TUCK IN STITCH DAISY up with the raw edge of the pieces STEPS TILL AND SEND BUNNY’S I’m stitching. Another approach is to ALL AGES PLAYTIME PRETTY OUTFIT position a strip of masking tape across the bed on your machine at the correct Never miss an issue of Make & Sew Toys, seam allowance width, this will give you subscribe today and receive three issues a much clearer visual image of where for just £14.99 from giftstoyou.com you should be stitching. My final piece of advice is to keep stitching, after all: practice makes perfect! Send your stitchy questions to [email protected] or facebook.com/sewhq 65 sewmag.co.uk

INTERMEDIATE Decorate your mantlepiece with our sunshine-basking ESSENTIALS Sleeping l Fabric, crushed velvet stretch Kitty Cat velour: champagne, gold l Faux leather, scrap l Felt: Cats just love laying in warm spots around the home and this furry pale pink; turquoise scrap feline friend by Carolyn Letten is no different. He’ll be perfectly l Toy stuffing l Plastic pellets l Embroidery thread: black, happy on a windowsill or a shelf looking super chilled with a leg or pale pink l Water-erasable pen arm hanging over. The pellet filling will give him a super floppy body l Small split ring that can be easily posed as you wish. Don’t forget to turn to page 64 5mm seam allowances used throughout, unless for more top tips on the art of toymaking before you get started! otherwise stated. 1 Download and print the 2 Cut two inner ears from centre of each and sew a 5mm FREE templates from sewmag. pale pink felt. Use pink seam across the bottom to hold co.uk. Cut out two sides thread to sew the inner the crease. TEMPLATE from gold velvet, remembering ears onto the right side of each DOWNLOAD to turn the template over for the champagne velvet front, lining 3 Trim two pieces of gold sewmag.co.uk second side. Pin the pieces right up the bottom edge of the felt velvet for the tail, then turn sides together and sew from the with the bottom edge of the the template over for the /templates top of the neck A across to B. velvet. Pin each pair of ears right second side. Pin right sides Snip out two ear backs from sides together, and stitch a 5mm together and stitch a 5mm seam gold velvet, then turn the seam up both sides of the down both sides, leaving the template over to cut two ear triangles. Turn right sides out. straight end open. Turn right side fronts from champagne velvet. Make a slight fold at the bottom out and stuff, leaving the last 3cm unstuffed. Cut out the head from Why not add a personal gold velvet, and turn the template touch and sew the cat’s over for the second side. On each wrong side, mark the three dots name to its collar? that make the dart and the slits for the ears. Fold the darts right sides together, so that the outer dots meet for each side, and sew across to the single dot. 4 Pin both head sides right sides together, making sure the darts align, and stitch a 5mm seam from point C around the curve clockwise to point D. With the head still right sides together, snip the slits for the ears. Insert the bottom of each ear by 1cm and sew across each slit to secure, make sure each ear is facing the right way. Use the template to cut out the muzzle from champagne velvet. Pin it right sides together with the head, so that point D on the muzzle matches point D on the head, and point E on the muzzle matches both points E on both sides of the head. Stitch a 5mm seam across. 5 Take the cat’s body made up in step 1, then lay it flat and open, right side up. Open up the two sides of the head, right 66 sewmag.co.uk

HOME & GIFTS side down. Place the middle neck on the upper body, between 8 To make a collar, cut pink thread to sew the nose join (C) onto the neck join (A) and point B and G, insert the curved turquoise felt to 1.2cm x using a long stitch horizontally pin across both sides to F. Sew a end of the tail pointing down, all 20cm. Using navy thread, in a triangle shape so the stitch 5mm seam across. Pin the the way in. Leave the straight sew all the way around it, just in gets shorter at the bottom. Hide remaining two sides of the muzzle end sticking out by 1cm and from the edge, and use the the ends in the same way. right sides together, so that both close the gap. template provided to add detail to Es match and both F points of one end. Make a silver faux leather the neck match. Stitch a 5mm 7 Turn the cat right side out fish tag by using the template, seam across. by pulling it through the folding it in half and stitching side gap. Put a teaspoon of around the edge. Attach it to the 6 Cut out the underside of the pellets into the end of each paw, collar with a jump ring. Fold the cat by placing it on the fold then stitch right across each paw collar around the neck and hand of a piece of champagne to secure. Fill the head firmly stitch both ends to secure. velvet. Lay it flat and right side up, with toy stuffing and put a few then lay the rest of the body right long stitches in a lattice pattern 9 To embroider the face, split side down onto it and pin together from the seam allowance on one a length of black embroidery all the way around; remember to side to the other, without pulling thread into three strands. leave a gap at one side for turning. tight. Fill the cat’s body with Knot one end and pull it carefully Sew a 5mm seam all the way beans or pellets to a level you through the muzzle to hide. Follow around, taking care to catch in the are happy with, then close the the template to hand sew two seam at points G and F. At the gap gap securely. eyes. Use three strands of pale CAROLYN SAYS... “Turn and stuff at a side seam, rather than the front or back where several pieces of fabric join” 67 sewmag.co.uk

BEGINNER Share the love with our ESSENTIALS Huggable Heart l Fabric, plush, 1m l Felt, assorted scraps l Iron-on adhesive l Stick-on hook and loop dots l Safety toy stuffing Searching for the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day? Looking to treat your little one to a cuddle companion? Or perhaps you’re simply looking to expand your sewing skill set with a spot of easy appliqué? Whatever the case, Chloe Hailwood has got you covered. In just five simple steps you can transform your favourite plush material into a super-cute cushion that hugs you back! We used Shannon 1 Download and print the 2 Using the template and 3 Cut four rectangles from plush Fabrics Smooth templates from sewmag. plush fabric, cut out two fabric, 20cm x 35cm each. Cuddle plush fabric co.uk. Press iron-on adhesive large hearts. Peel away Draw around the arm template in Paris Pink, £3.30 onto the felt. Using the templates the backing paper from the on two of the rectangles. Lay each of per fat quarter, and working on the paper-backed face pieces and position them these arm pieces on top of another plushaddict.co.uk adhesive side of the felt, draw on the right side of one heart. rectangle, right sides facing. Pin around the facial features. When With a pressing cloth or scrap together and sew directly over the drawing around the eyes, mark of fabric to protect the plush marked lines, leaving the small, them with the template one material, bond the face pieces straight edge open. Trim round, way, then flip the template over to the heart by pressing them then make small snips in the to draw around the opposite under a medium heat. Add seam allowance along the inverted eye shape. Snip out two eyes, some running stitches curves, particularly around the a nose and a mouth. around the features. thumb. Turn through to the right side and fill with stuffing. 4 Lay the embellished heart flat, with the facial feature facing upwards. On one side lay an arm, with the hand pointed inwards across the face and the raw end of the arm meeting up with the raw edge of the heart. Overlap the raw end of the arm by 2cm over the edge of the heart. This will allow for movement within the plush fabric and will make sure the end is caught within the stitches when the heart is being made up. Tack to hold at this edge and add in the second arm on the opposite side. 5 Tack the arms and hands together. Make sure they are as flat as possible, as this will keep them out of the way when stitching up. Lay the second plush heart on top, right sides facing. Pin, then tack all round. Sew together, leaving an 8cm turning gap along one side. Make small snips in the seam allowance at the inverted point at the top of the heart, remove the tacking and turn through to the right side. Fill the heart with stuffing, before closing the gap with a ladder stitch. Add stick-on hook and loop dots to the hands. 68 sewmag.co.uk

HOME & GIFTS FREE TEMPLATE DOWNLOAD sewmag.co.uk /templates CHLOE SAYS... “Don’t overfill the arms or they won’t be flexible enough for a good cuddle. It will also make it tricky when stitching up the body around the arms” 69 sewmag.co.uk

BEGINNER In just four steps, you can sew ESSENTIALS Ted the Bear l Fleece, 26cm x 60cm Designed by our columnist extraordinaire Debbie Shore, Ted the Bear l Toy stuffing l Embroidery is a traditional fleece fellow that can be brought to life using simple thread, black l Buttons, four, techniques such as ladder stitch and embroidery. Dreamt up to be the 1.25cm l Doll needle companion of Debbie’s rag doll pattern Maddie, Ted would also make a l Ribbon, 1.25cm x 31cm super-sweet gift for the little one in your life and has the potential to be l Fabric glue l Pink blush treasured for years to come as a precious heirloom. Even beginners can join in the fun, as fleece is an easy and forgiving fabric to work with. SIZES the seams, close to but not 23cm sitting and through the stitches, at the front 31cm standing and back of the neck. Stuff the 5mm seam allowance body, then hand-sew the opening used throughout, unless closed using a ladder stitch. otherwise stated 1 Download and print the 2 Sew each pair of leg pieces 4 Sew each pair of ear pieces templates from sewmag. right sides together, leaving right sides together, leaving co.uk. Cut out the pattern a 4cm turning gap in the the straight sides open. Turn pieces from fleece, making sure bottom seam. Turn the legs right right sides out. Make a small pleat one of each pair is a mirror image. side out and stuff them. Sew in the straight sides of each ear, Sew the two body parts right sides the openings closed using a then hand sew to each side of the together, leaving a 5cm turning ladder stitch. Repeat this head. Using black embroidery gap in the back seam. Snip into process with the arms. thread, make two French knots for the eyes. Sew a series of straight Place pins where you want stitches, close together across the to position the eyes, then tip of the nose to create a nose. make two French knots Add some blush to the cheeks. Tie a ribbon into a bow around the neck to finish. 3 Pin the legs and arms to Get the each side of the body, Book securing them with a small amount of fabric glue. Inspired by the Half Yard Sewing Thread a doll needle with strong Club’s favourite heirloom rag thread. Using the dot placement doll, Sew Maddie by Debbie on the template as a guide, take Shore is not to be missed! RRP the needle through a button, £15.99, searchpress.com then the centre of one leg, through the body, out through the centre of the opposite leg, then through another button. Take the needle back through the legs, buttons and body, then finally through the unstitched holes of the buttons. Secure the thread by knotting behind the button. Repeat this process with the arms. 70 sewmag.co.uk

HOME & GIFTS FREE TEMPLATE DOWNLOAD sewmag.co.uk /templates DEBBIE SAYS... “Be sure to tease out the filling before stuffing your teddy bear creation as this will help to avoid any unsightly lumps and bumps” 71 sewmag.co.uk

Social stitch it · write it · share it · stitch it · write We asked to see your latest masterpieces, and as St r letter usual, they’re fantastic. We love seeing what you Comfort First stitch – so keep sharing on social media! My dear friend reached out to tell me that her mother has sadly been diagnosed with breast cancer and she asked me to make some mastectomy pillows for her. There was no way I could turn down this request! I made the pattern myself, added little pockets at the front and inserted a coin bag with £5 worth of change. This was so her mum could buy some magazines or snacks whilst having her treatment. The most challenging part was drawing the right shape. I was honoured to be able to help someone going through a difficult time in their life. Jennie Hull Our Star Letter winner will receive a year's worth of digital patterns Top These hoodies I made a are for my mother-of-the- neighbours' bride wedding children. Carolyn blouse! Divna Brilliant! Enjoy your Here’s a little pup for my grandson! special day! Carol This is paw-some Carol inspiration Check out our Pinterest boards at @sewhq This heart-shaped decoration is setting We can’t get enough of this quirky This gorgeous pattern from Susie our hearts a-flutter! What's more, you can accessory by Ruth Oliver. Simply pop in Johns is filled with flowers, embroidered in bullion stitch and French knots to create a whip up this beauty in an afternoon. your everyday essentials and go! crafts-beautiful.com sewmag.co.uk gorgeous heart hoop. sewmag.co.uk 72 sewmag.co.uk

it · share it · stitch it · write it · share it · stitch it · write it · share it · stitch it · We asked... I made this for my Have you ever great nephew. received a Averil handmade gift? He must be over the moon! Yes, a friend cross stitched a portrait of our whole I made a whale pillow. family: my husband in a Betsy hard hat, me in my nurse's Fin-tastic work Betsy uniform and our children I sewed a project bag for a I made the Lena doing their favourite friend using Australia fawna- wrap dress. hobbies. It was magical! Angie themed fabric. KIM Robyn Very chic! I’ve received several. I love A striking design Robyn I whipped the effort, creativity and up a small love poured into them. make-up bag. MARGARET Jackie Yes, a beautiful hand-felted Nice work bag from my dear friend. I made a fabric My first attempt at quilting. TRISH phone pouch. Deborah Yes! Crocheted cardigans Catarina So impressive and tops, a small craft Such a bag, homemade earrings great idea, and a glasses case. Catarina LIN Say hello to Chosen by you Scarlett on My mother and Each month on Facebook, we grandmother made page 53 ask you to help us choose a us outfits, doll clothes, name for our issue’s mascot. quilts and stuffed toys! “I chose the name Scarlett after my JAQI neighbour’s daughter. She is teaching herself to sew at just seven years old!” Not yet, but I’d love to receive some this year. Debbie Hobson, Sew reader JESSICA Help us to choose a name for next month’s mascot at facebook.com/SewHQ Yes, I’ve received a couple of handmade gifts from my crafty friends. TESSA No, but I wouldn’t mind getting some thoughtful pressies! SABRINA Keep an eye out for next month’s question on our Facebook page facebook.com/sewhq Share your makes via social media @SewHQ or email to [email protected] 73 sewmag.co.uk

Why not let us know what THE What could be better you’re reading? @SewHQ than snuggling up sew on the sofa with a good book? BOOK Flick through this month's stitching Club titles for your next dose of inspiration... WEEKEND MAKES: LUNA LAPIN RESTYLE & RESTITCH TILDA HOT AND FRIENDS FOR LITTLE ONES CHOCOLATE SEWING ENGLISH PAPER By Sarah Peel By Linnea Larsson By Tone Finnanger PIECING If there’s one title that promises Not sure what to sew for your little darling? Well, this exciting It’s time to settle down with a By Janet Goddard a masterclass in whimsical new release is the answer to steaming cup of cocoa and flick and Jemima Schlee toymaking, it’s this brand-new your crafty dilemma. You can through an innovative read. Best- book. Designer Sarah Peel has transform your pre-loved clothes selling author Tone Finnanger has Designers Janet Goddard and drawn up a collection of sewing into 30 stylish projects for babies revealed a collection of her most Jemima Schlee have unveiled 25 patterns to make four of Luna’s and toddlers. Garments include a charming projects, from cheerful stripy romper, trousers and a frilly quilts and vibrant bags to heart- projects perfect for a spot of dearest friends: Ziggy the dress. There is even a guide on warming dolls and plump pillows. weekend crafting. Discover a host Hedgehog, Ottoline Otter, Hamish how to easily adapt the clothes Made from the Tilda Bird Pond of practical designs, including a to your child’s measurements. the Highland Cow and Dora the Turn to page 24 and 26 for two fabric range, every project coffee cosy, hot water bottle Pig. These adorable characters sample projects to entice you! is peppered with seasonal motifs cover and a useful zipped pouch. are sure to become treasured You’ll learn how to work with an heirloom gifts for family and £12.99, searchpress.com including reindeers, apples, array of shapes, from diamonds mice and butternut squash. and clam shells, and bust your friends in years to come. What’s on our sewing left-over fabrics along the way! £15.99, davidandcharles.com room playlist this month £16.99, davidandcharles.com  £16.99, gmcbooks.com on weN’reexrtemadoinntgh… Repeat AUSTRALIA SEWS PODCAST Sew Maddie Join Australian host Louise Sherry as she chats with an array of by Debbie Shore Aussie makers about all things crafty. When she’s not working as a communications professional, Louise spends most of her time stitching everything and anything; think bedheads and bags, plus dungarees and dresses. She started her Instagram page @make_ thrift_sew in 2021, for the sole purpose of meeting fellow home sewists. Louise’s fantastic podcast delves into PDF patterns, sewing books, personal style, crafty inspiration and competitions. australiasewspodcast.com 74 sewmag.co.uk

•SUBSCRIBE TODAY!•SUBSCRIBE FABRICTODAY!•SUBSCRIBE TODAY! •AVAILLAIMBIILTIETDY! DRESS PATTERN FREE*4M + whenyousubscribeto sew magazine! WORTH £77! Make a grand entrance in a new dress sewn with flawless Cherry Wiltshire Cotton Liberty fabric. Get this gift FREE* BACK BY when you subscribe POPULAR to Sew magazine. DEMAND! 13 issues for £74.99. Don’t miss out on this offer! 2 EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE DON’T MISS OUT! 1 dcthomsonshop.co.uk/S132 ONLY £5.76 PER ISSUE Visit SAVE 50% OFF THE 2 0800 904 700 Quote: S132 COVER PRICE Call 13 ISSUES FOR £74.99 Already a subscriber? Renew with the code above! Or scan me! Lines are open Monday - Friday and Bank Holidays 8am - 6pm, closed on weekends. *Terms and conditions apply, see online for further details. Offer ends 31/01/23

Digital Digest Don’t forget to check out all the amazing digital downloads that Sew has to offer – simply head to sewmag.co.uk to enjoy! 1 First log in or sign up to the Sew website at sewmag.co.uk for FREE. Find the tab circled at the top. 700+pattern 2 Search for a pattern by title, downloads! YOU CAN ALSO LOCATE according to the project names THE TEMPLATES FOR THIS opposite. Click on the search tab. ISSUE AND ALL OF OUR 3 Click the ‘Download Template’ PREVIOUS ISSUES AT button, which you will find under the main image. Give your make-up drawer some TLC with our SEWMAG.CO.UK/ TEMPLATES projects. Simply head to sewmag.co.uk and follow our ‘Four Easy Steps’ to download each design. LEATHER MAKEUP BAG BRUSH HOLDER SEW MAGAZINE 32 4 Save the pattern PDF by right clicking to save on your computer, then print out (DON’T fit to the page!) TILING DIGITAL PATTERNS Note that most digital patterns need to be ‘tiled’. This involves placing the A4 printouts in the correct order to form the pattern, as indicated – so get some sticky tape ready to join the sheets! 76 sewmag.co.uk

New! TEA BREAK Projector-friendly savTinigmteip! patterns Want to assemble your PDF Did you know that all our files are now suitable for patterns the quick way? It’s all projectors? When you download this month’s designs, about cutting corners... you’ll discover a projectable file at the back of your download pack. It eliminates the need for printing, 1 After printing all the pages assembling and cutting your paper patterns, of the pattern, leaving all the more time for sewing! For more trim off the corners from each page, advice, we recommend joining the so that the cut community Facebook group touches the edge Projectors for Sewing. of the rectangle. More 2 With the corners cut, the pages will line Freebies! up perfectly – simply match up the lines and stick down with tape or glue. Blog of the Month HALF TERM HOLIDAYS DISCOVER OUR TOP FIVE CRAFT KITS If you have little ones in your life, you’ll probably have spotted them Stuck in a sewing rut? Well, we have just counting down the days until the thing to get you running to your crafting half term. And who can blame corner ready to tackle a brand-new project! them – no school means more We’ve found five of the best craft kits on the time spent relaxing and playing market, with each of our top picks offering with their friends! Whether everything you need to bring a beautiful your youngster is building forts design to life. From bargello and cross or hunting for treasure, there stitch to a spot of embroidery, there are a are so many fun projects that whole selection of disciplines for you to try. you can make to enhance their sewmag.co.uk/blog adventures. Think cuddly animal toys, adorable dollies, playtime blocks and bowling sets. Head on over to the ‘Children’ section at sewmag.co.uk for a plethora of joyful makes. 77 sewmag.co.uk

template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters FEBRUARY Copy, resize or trace these patterns to make TEMPLATE the projects that appear in the magazine. TASTERS You can also visit sewmag.co.uk and download the full-size patterns for free. Click & Stitch new page. Save the pattern PDF by right clicking to save on your 1To access the actual-size computer, then print out but templates for this issue’s don’t select ‘fit to the page’. makes, visit sewmag.co.uk, then click on the ‘Downloads’ tab 3If you haven’t already to view our archive of sewing registered, you’ll need to create templates. a log-in for our website to allow you exclusive access to all of our free 2 Select one of the February downloads and the masses of 2023 project packs, then click templates we have up for grabs. ‘Download Template’ on the Bkgd A A A A Bkgd B B B B B B B B C C C C Hot Air C C C C Balloon Quilt D D D D The sky’s your limit with D D this patchwork design Bkgd Designer: Corinne Bradd Page: 50 D D Bkgd A A AA A Bkgd Bkgd Bkgd D © DC THOMSON & CO LTD | SEWMAG.CO.UK All projects, templates and patterns are for personal home use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. 80 sewmag.co.uk

s · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template FREE TEMPLATE DOWNLOAD sewmag.co.uk /templates Boho Wall Hanging Yes, you can sew a rainbow! Designer: Debbie von Grabler-Crozier Page: 48 Shown at 50% © DC THOMSON & CO LTD | SEWMAG.CO.UK All projects, templates and patterns are for personal home use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. 81 sewmag.co.uk

template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · Scissors Case Keep your essential tools in tip-top condition Designer: Corinne Bradd Page: 55 Shown at 85% sewmag.co.uk Visit us online to download and print all the templates full size! © DC THOMSON & CO LTD | SEWMAG.CO.UK All projects, templates and patterns are for personal home use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. 82 sewmag.co.uk

· template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template tasters · template FREE TEMPLATE DOWNLOAD sewmag.co.uk /templates Sewing Dolly ARM Your craft room just Cut two hands got a brand-new mascot from plain cotton and Designer: Corinne Bradd two arms from Page: 53 printed cotton Shown at 85% Use the eyes and LEG NECK FACING mouth sketched Cut two from Cut one from above as a printed fabric printed cotton rough guide for embroidering the BODY face Cut two from plain cotton TOP Cut one on the fold from printed cotton (front), cut two from printed cotton (back) © DC THOMSON & CO LTD | SEWMAG.CO.UK All projects, templates and patterns are for personal home use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. 83 sewmag.co.uk

Happily Ever After Hoop Show a couple you care with this floral décor Designer: Carolyn Letten Page: 44 Shown at 100% © DC THOMSON & CO LTD | SEWMAG.CO.UK All projects, templates and patterns are for personal home use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial purposes. 84 sewmag.co.uk

Next month in 8& DESIGNS FORYOU! SIZES 8-26* Patterns worth £19+ l Sew four styles, including l Sew Mimi G Style wide leg a babydoll dress and tunic trousers and shorts, plus a with optional side slits jacket and crop top l Get stretch knit savvy l Master every style with the with the accompanying Simplicity Sew-along video, leggings pattern, too available on YouTube *Features subject to change. UK Sizes. Pattern sizes may vary You’ll love our March issue! l Discover top tips for necklines with dressmaking expert Tilly Walnes l We grab a cuppa with Sewing Bee 2022 finalist Debra Drake l Plus, you’ll love our bumper dose of discounts and prizes! On sale 2nd February 2023 85 sewmag.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH May Martin’s YOU'LL LOVE OUR PALAZZO Sewing PANTS Basics AVAILABLE FOR FREE AT SEWMAG.CO.UK The Perfect Fit The key to successful fitting is taking accurate body measurements to ensure you get the right size. Pattern sizes aren’t the same as high street clothing sizes, so don’t be tempted to skip this stage. Once you’ve taken your measurements, compare them to those on the pattern envelope or Size It Up panel opposite, then you can make any necessary alterations. Cut out the paper according to the size closest to the measurements you have selected, choosing the best fit (for dresses, blouses and jackets) in the bust and shoulder, as this area is harder to adjust. If your waist or hip measurements are out of proportion according to the standard pattern size, then simply graduate in or out to reach the relevant waist or hip lines to your size. l Measure yourself in your back-neck to waist and height. underwear, preferably in a l Be honest with your measurements well-fitting bra you will be and remember that pattern sizes are wearing often. totally different to ready-to-wear high l Use a new tape measure as they street sizing. can distort out of shape over time. l Use your measurements to help you l Ask a friend to help adjust the pattern to fit your shape, you, especially with tricky not forgetting to take the required measurements such as your amount of ease into account. Taking Your Measurements Measure while in the underwear you will be wearing and hold the tape measure comfortably snug, but avoid pulling tight. Get started Height Standing against a flat wall without wearing shoes, HIGH BUST measure from the floor to the FULL BUST top of your head. WAIST High bust Measure directly under the arms, straight across the back HIPS and above the bust. Full Bust Take the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust and straight across the back. Waist Tie a length of narrow elastic around the waist and let it settle naturally at your waistline, then measure over it. Keep the elastic handy for future garments. Hips Measure around the body at the fullest part. This is usually 18-23cm below the waist. 86 sewmag.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH Reading a Size it up Pattern Once you have your body measurements, choose the closest size from the chart below. Remember, The basic markings you will find there will be variations depending on which fabric and pattern you choose, so always make a toile first. on commercial dressmaking patterns are important to 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 familiarise yourself with. These marks indicate various Bust cm 78 83 88 93 98 103 108 113 118 Waist cm 59 64 69 74 79 84 89 94 99 techniques or steps and are best Hip cm 85 88 93 98 103 108 113 118 123 transferred onto your fabric Back neck 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 pieces once you’ve cut them. to waist MULTIPLE SIZE CUTTING LINES “Making your own bias These lines indicate dress sizes. binding is great fun and there Highlighting yours can help with cutting. is a wonderful gadget that makes GRAINLINE light work of this task. A bias Align this mark with the grain of the binding maker comes in a multitude of sizes to suit any finish. All you fabric i.e. parallel to the warp have to do is cut bias strips of fabric (see below). and feed them into the device, then press the resulting creased edges as FOLD LINE the strip comes out. Don’t forget to This mark indicates that the keep the packaging of the gadget, as pattern piece should be positioned along this will tell you how wide to cut the fold of the fabric, creating a larger your strips of material.” ‘mirrored’ piece. BUST/HIP INDICATORS Located at the bust and hip points on the pattern – make any necessary adjustments if yours don’t fall there. LENGTHEN/SHORTEN HERE Understand your fabric This is an opportunity to customise the Getting to grips with your fabric is a fundamental part of sewing. Before you start, pattern to your preferences. familiarise yourself with: MISCELLANEOUS MARKINGS Warp These are the yarns that run the length of the Bias The bias grain runs 45° to the warp and weft of These come in a range of sizes and are used as points of reference on a fabric. They are stronger than weft yarns and less the fabric. Cutting garments on the bias creates a pattern to indicate where pieces likely to stretch. finished piece that will follow the contours of the body. should be placed. Weft These run over and under the warp threads Selvedge The non-fraying, woven edges that TUCKS AND GATHERS Bring these lines together across the fabric from selvedge to selvedge. run parallel to the warp grain is the selvedge. before stitching. Lucia - Sunset, BUTTON / BUTTONHOLE PLACEMENTS £8 per metre, These indicate where buttonholes should be made on a garment. croftmill.co.uk NOTCHES BIAS WARP “I adore this Match two pieces of fabric together WEFT combination of brightly-coloured at these points. leaves splashed onto a zesty background. It's ideal for a pair of statement trousers, like these palazzo pants!” CAROLINE BOARDWELL REID, CROFT MILL 87 sewmag.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH who does what... May Martin’s Beginner Tips Editor Lucy Jobber 1 Most commercial patterns are be twice the size of the paper the design of the fabrics. This is [email protected] printed on dressmaker’s tissue pattern piece. If your fabric is essential when working with patterned paper and have cutting marks for patterned, it is advisable to place materials, allowing you to adjust the Deputy Editor Libby Loughnan more than one size. Each size is the design outermost so that you placement of the pieces to ensure libby.loughnan@ identified by a different style of can lay out the pieces in a pleasing continuity in the motif can be achieved dcthomson.co.uk marking for the cutting line. When manner to suit the printed motif. over joins in the garment pieces. only one line is visible this indicates Content Writer Sheena Adesilu that this is a common cut line for pPraetptearrnation 2 The ‘to fold’ symbol means that sheena.adesilu@ all sizes. the piece should be placed to the dcthomson.co.uk folded edge of the fabric for pinning. 2 Many patterns are available with a This will create both sides when the cut Advertisement Sales series of variations on a garment, Samantha Kirby which allows you to select different In addition to starting with your piece is opened, for example two sides samantha.kirby@ elements to suit your style. These are of a top will be cut at once. dcthomson.co.uk indicated on the pattern, with 1 fabrics laundered and pressed, it 01206 505425 alteration lines for different lengths. The other pieces should be placed is also advisable to press out your on the fabric with the grain arrow Caleb Harper Advice for running parallel to the selvedge. [email protected] fabric prep 3paper pattern pieces. You can either Measure the distance from one end of the arrow to the parallel selvedge, 01206 505913 1 It is advisable to launder the fabric, choose to do this before you cut the repeat at the other end and move as you would the completed item, individual pieces required and iron the piece slightly until both the Art Director Phil Dunham before you start cutting. This ensures the entire sheet as a whole, or after measurements are the same. Once you that you will know how the fabric they have been cut. are happy with the finalised placement, Graphic Designers reacts and reduces the possibility of pin carefully in place using as many Gemma Eales, Cat shrinkage in the completed garment. Unfold the tissue paper and pins as is necessary to secure. Morton, Clare Brasier Most patterns offer a layout guide 2 Press the fabric with an iron on a 2 with an iron on its coolest setting for the placement of the pieces Photography suitable setting, and lay out in a onto the fabric (see below). This CliQQ Photography, cliqq.co.uk large space ready for pinning the – taking care not to burn the paper – ensures that you lay out the pieces in pattern pieces to it. gently smooth out the creases, so the most efficient manner. Fashion Stylist Boo Hill that all the folds are pressed flat. 3 Fabric is usually folded selvedge Hair and Make-up to selvedge. With the material By ironing them you will ensure Dottie Monaghan folded, the pattern is pinned to the top. Once cut, the opened fabric will 3 4that the pieces lie flush with the Subscription Enquiries & Customer Service fabrics when pinned and will result in cleaner, sharper lines when cutting. [email protected] The thin tissue can be ironed on a cool 0800 904 7000 Thread factsto medium setting – if in doubt, press Published by DC Thomson & Co Ltd. 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY. a blank section of the paper first. © DC Thomson & Co Ltd 2022. Printed in the UK by Placing your William Gibbons. All rights reserved. All projects pattern pieces l You should select a thread that meets your from this issue and the online patterns are for specific sewing needs. Your personal home use only and cannot be sold or used fabric will have an influence for commercial purposes. All patterns that are featured in Sew are reproduced in good faith that 1Place the pattern on the fabric on the type of thread you they do not infringe any copyright. The publishers with the printed tissue side select. As a rule the are not responsible for any safety issues arising from any items created from projects contained uppermost. Some pieces will need to fibre content of your within Sew magazine. While all possible care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all projects, be placed on the fold, this is indicated thread should be the we are not responsible for printing errors or the way in which individual work varies. Please read on each specific part. The tissue same or similar to the fabric. instructions carefully before starting construction. All published prices are correct at time of going to paper used for dressmaking patterns l Heavyweight fabrics require press but are subject to change.  means that you can see through to a thicker thread and lightweight Safetynotice:please note that projects versions require a finer thread. Very with small parts are not suitable for children under three years of age. If making a toy for a very lightweight or sheer fabrics are best young child omit any buttons and embroider the details instead. Children should be supervised sewn with a very fine needle and an when playing with toys. extra fine thread. We are committed to journalism of the highest l Using the correct thread thickness standards and abide by the Editors' Code of Practice which is enforced by the Independent may help reduce puckering, a problem Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). If you have frequently encountered when sewing a complaint, you can email us at readerseditor@ dcthomson.co.uk or write to the Readers' Editor at with lightweight fabrics. Sew, DC Thomson & Co Ltd, 21/23 Phoenix Court, l Don’t forget to consider the care Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY.    requirements of your thread choice. Distributed by Frontline Ltd, Stuart House, St They should be compatible with the John’s St, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 5DD. fabric care recommendations. Tel: 01733 555161, frontlinedistribution.co.uk. Export Distribution (excluding AU & NZ) – Seymour Cutting tricks Distribution Ltd, 2 East Poultry Avenue, London EC1A 9PT. Tel: 020 7429 4000, seymour.co.uk. EU l Once you’ve cut out all your Representative Office: DC Thomson & Co Ltd, c/o template pieces, keep them together in a project bag or zip lock Findmypast Ireland, Irishtown, Athlone, Co. bag so there’s no risk of accidentally Westmeath, N37 XP52.  losing one. l Always use a rotary cutter to achieve neat, straight cuts. l Invest in a cutting mat and keep it clean and flat when not in use. l Keep your fabric scissors sharp and use them for just fabric. l Iron your fabric before pinning your templates to it. 88 sewmag.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH Making the most of your machine How to care for l Topstitching needles have an extra large eye also something to think about. My advice your machine and a deeper groove for heavier topstitching would be to spend as much as you can and doubled threads. afford, and remember the adage – buy l Always keep your machine under cover l Wedge point needles are for sewing leather cheap, buy twice! Go to a shop and try a when not in use to prevent dust gathering in and vinyl as they easily pierce the fabrics and few, then once you’ve found a machine any moving parts. create a hole that will close back up afterwards. that suits you, shop around for the best price. It may also be worth paying a few l Clean your machine regularly, making sure FREE pounds more to purchase from a shop to unplug it first. Many experts advise against Sewing that will give you after sales support. using compressed air – a lint brush or dry Machine cloth should do. Guide What should I look out for l Always use good quality machine thread If you’re about to on a test drive? to prevent lint build up. Avoid those with purchase a new waxed or glazed coatings as they are bad for machine, whether it’s your very If it’s noisy to operate, it’s usually an the machine. first one or an upgrade of a beloved indication of bad quality and poor favourite, then be sure to download engineering – if it sounds like a traction l Brush out the bobbin case every time you our FREE The Good Sewing engine, avoid! Another indication of the change the bobbin to help you keep on top of Machine Guide. Updated with the quality of stitching on a machine is how well any lint build up. lastest models every single year, you it makes a buttonhole. Also consider how can be sure to find something that heavy it is, whether you’re going to have l Change the needle regularly as dull, blunt best suits your budget and skillset. to pack it away between projects, and if it ones will affect the stitching quality. Aim to To download, visit has a hard cover, which is really useful for replace it after 8-10 hours of active stitching sewmag.co.uk/ transporting. Mechanical or computerised? or once you’ve finished a big project. sewing-guide or scan Mechanical machines use knobs, dials and the QR code below. levers to control stitch width and length l After every use, make sure to check the and thread tension, while computerised needle, bobbin and thread tension so any ones tend to have menus that give settings problems can be addressed before you start automatically for your chosen stitch. another project. Although the market gears mechanical machines towards the beginner or sporadic l Oil your machine regularly if you have a sewer, I would strongly recommend trying mechanical model, referring to the instruction an entry-level computerised machine. One manual. Only use a recommended oil – you’ll great advantage of a computerised machine need just a couple of drops each time. is that it returns to normal stitch settings when you turn it off. Choosing the right machine needle What do I need FREE PROJECT! l Your machine will likely come with universal to think about? point needles, which have a slightly rounded point. They can be used for sewing most Consider what you’re going to be making woven or knit fabrics. – do you just want the basics or l Sharp point (regular) needles are great do you want lots of stitches to for woven fabrics like cotton and linen, as play with? If in doubt, go for they make even stitches and will minimise more features. As your puckering. confidence grows, you’ll l Ballpoint needles have rounded points want to experiment more and are designed especially to sew knit and and it’s frustrating if stretch fabrics. you’re limited by the l Embroidery needles have a larger needle capability of the eye for thicker embroidery threads, and are machine. Price is designed to prevent threads from breaking. l Quilting needles have a tapered point that Scan this QR can stitch through several layers of fabric code to download without damaging them. our FREE Heart Hanging Dec 89 sewmag.co.uk

TEN MINUTES WITH... Jenny Maj Fluffmonger owner, JENNY MAJ chats sustainable sewing supplies and the inspiration behind her personable plushies and patterns 1 I first learned how to sew almost ten to snort all the time. Fluffmonster was one years ago when I made a pair of Christmas of the names I used to call my cat, so it wasn’t pyjamas with my mum and sister. On my trip a big leap to come up with Fluffmonger for back to the fabric store, I was fascinated to my business name. discover sewing patterns for stuffed animals. I had no idea you could buy them! I was 5 My business really started to take off immediately hooked, and it wasn’t long before when I began making YouTube videos. I started designing my own plush toy patterns. I enjoyed getting to use my skills from my past life as a teacher and having more freedom to 2 For me, shifting to organic materials keep creating new designs, as opposed to was a gamechanger and it helped me to sewing the same patterns repeatedly. I find my signature style. I wanted to create encourage all my viewers to embrace their toys that were safe for the consumer, the flaws and their own uniqueness as a maker. If environment, and the people making the you ask me, you'll go much farther with your materials. I decided to make simpler designs craft if you don’t to make everything perfectly. because I used to cut out a lot of features such as safety eyes, faux fur and fusibles. 6 I once had a woman share a photo of a raccoon she made with my pattern, 3 I have some health sensitivities, so I find and she had added a marshmallow to its it challenging to sew with standard fabrics paws. It was a gift for her aunt who had a and supplies. The next thing I knew, I was marshmallow-stealing raccoon that kept sourcing organic fabric, organic thread and raiding her trash – I thought that was embroidery thread, GOTS certified dyes, hilarious! I’m always touched when I and alternative stuffing options. I enjoy using hear about customers making animals organic materials because they give plush out of a passed loved one’s clothing, toys more character, the fabrics are incredibly crafting toys to help raise money for a soft and well made, and my hands don’t feel cause or adding something special to sticky like they do when I work with more my patterns to make a customised gift. synthetic materials. FOR MORE OF JENNY’S FLUFFMONGER 4 The majority of my plush characters are named after something I have called my CREATIONS, VIDEO TUTORIALS, BLOG cat at one point, or some of the silly things he does. Snert, my mouth-breathing T-Rex, was POSTS, AND TO PURCHASE YOUR based on my cat’s sinus issues that cause him VERY OWN PDF PLUSHIE PATTERNS, VISIT FLUFFMONGER.NET 90 sewmag.co.uk

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easy Wide angle white LED lighting User sfcrireenednly LCD Easy Set Bobbin An optional quilting kit is available for the DKS100 & DKS30 which includes a large extension table The world’s leading sewing machine manufacturer