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Winter Pattern Roundup

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Happy New Year! Happy New Pattern Roundup! After reading the CSC Poll Results, I threw caution to the wind and volunteered to take over this column. I volunteered because I love patterns. I love pattern roundups. And I love this spot where both come together for curvy sewists. But I would be remiss if I did not first sincerely thank former Rounder-Uppers Michelle and Jessica. After compiling patterns and photos for just this first post, I already know it’s not an easy task.

A few caveats before I dive into my first Roundup:

First, this is never going to be a comprehensive list of each and every pattern released in a given month or season. As alluded to above and in the Poll Results, putting a Roundup together does take a lot of time. And, I’m human, with life obligations. Which means I’m probably going to miss things from time to time. If you have a favorite curvy pattern or pattern designer that I’ve missed, tell me about it/them in the comments and I promise I’ll check them out.

Second, I’m going to try really hard to skew on the side of curvy models. I know I’ll have to also include lower-size models because there’s patterns out there that are just too good to leave off a Roundup, but we (Editors and Contributors) have heard your desire for Moar!! Curvy Models!! If I can’t find a model on the pattern designer’s website, I’m going to reach out to bloggers and Instagrammers for permission, like I did for this post. But also keep in mind that being inclusive means including every body. Literally. And, that’s my goal.

Third, I’m planning to do monthly Roundups after this one but as I try to catch up from the last Roundup post, I’ve decided to go with a Northern Hemisphere-slanted “Winter” theme to get things rolling. No offense meant to the Southern Hemisphere. Heck, where I live (Florida), it’s pretty much summer all year long so I can relate to feeling seasonally opposite.

And, finally, even though I’ve got very thick internet skin (and have also donned my Kevlar knickers after clicking Publish), please keep in mind that everyone here at the CSC is doing their best, everyone is a volunteer, and everyone is happy to receive constructive comments and criticisms. The key word being constructive. So, I look forward to your suggestions and recommendations and I’ll do my best to reply timely to comments on these Roundup posts. Please do your best to keep it friendly. #MomNag

So, in no particular order, here we go …

Megan Nielson Wattle Skirt
Megan Nielsen patterns have recently added additional sizing of up to “Curve Size 30,” which is 56-48-58″ (142-11-147 cm). The Curve range is drafted for a D bust. Click here for the Megan Nielsen size chart. The Curve size range is only available in PDF and I think currently there are no Curvy models on her website. But, Lilli from Frocks & Frou Frou made up a Wattle which I love, and blogged about it here. I’ve been following Lilli’s blog/Insta for a looooong time. She’s adorable. And she hasn’t always been a sewist, so it’s been fun to watch her skills grow. I’m definitely going to be getting this pattern because I’ve always liked hidden pocket closures like the Wattle has and because this is a classic that will be perfect for my office environment as well as more casual settings, depending on fabric and hem length. I’m also reasonably certain this will be a quick sew.

Megan Neilsen Patterns
Frocks & Frou Frou

Cashmerette Pembroke
It looks like we have another Cashmerette hit. I’ve been seeing lots of Pembroke dresses and tunics popping up all over the interwebs. The tie front is really hot right now and it’s nice to be able to jump on the engine of the trend train instead of catching it at the caboose end of things. (Yeah, metaphors aren’t really my talent.) Two of my favorite Pembrokes are from Kristina and CSC Editor Michelle. When the Pembroke was first released, I thought it would fit narrower in the upper chest than the Concord. I wasn’t going on anything but a feeling when comparing the line drawings, but Michelle confirmed what I was thinking and says she got a better fit with the Pembroke. Don’t you love that purple stripey goodness?

Cashmerette Patterns
Plum Kitchen
Michelle (I grabbed this off Pinterest!)

Helen’s Closet Elliot Sweater 

OK, I’m not going to lie – I’m not a fan of boxy tops (or hi-lo hems). But I know I’m currently in the minority on that because boxy tops are another hot trend. Which makes me so glad I can sew and not be chained to RTW. Hahaha! Sorry Helen. I’ve seen the Elliot looking cute on lots of sewists out there of all sizes so I know the boxy shape is popular for a reason and CSC readers are probably interested. Plus, good news! … Helen has recently decided to expand her size range, so stay tuned Curvy Sewists. 
 
Helen’s Closet
 
Helen’s Closet

Greenstyle Creations Power Sports Bra 
This is a new-to-me pattern company but they caught my eye with all the size and design options for the new Power Sports Bra and the tester photos on so many different bodies. Greenstyle also has lots of other sizing inclusive athletic patterns, so you can make leggings/joggers to match! I’ve promised myself to make a yoga effort this year, which will be in the comfort of my own home via YouTube. But I have 3 hairy dogs and most athletic wear in my size is black. You do the math. I can see making myself athletic wear that won’t show all the dog hair. (New slogan? Athletic Wear No Dog Hair!)

Greenstyle Creations
Greenstyle Creations
Greenstyle Creations
 
Style Arc Brice Knit Jumpsuit
No modeled photos, but Style Arc is very size-inclusive so I’m giving them a pass this time. More tie-front goodness here. Jumpsuits and post-menopause (TMI?) are not a winning combination so I’m pretty confident I’m not jumping on this trend but for those of you with strong bladder muscles, this looks like a very elegant, but comfy, jumpsuit and the dress version has curve flattery written all over it with the pencil skirt, vee neck, and waist shaping darts. This is available in sizes 4-30 (up to 58.25/50.5/61″ (148/130/154 cm)). Check out the Style Arc size chart here. 
Style Arc
 
 

Patterns 4 Pirates Naughty Nice + Sugar Spice PJs 
These are some of the sexiest long johns I’ve ever seen! So many makes were popping up all over my Facebook feed the weeks leading up to Christmas that I’m thinking there may be a little population boom say, next September? P4P has always been size inclusive and generates a lot of excitement in its community so I understand their popularity. I think this pattern fills a gap in the market nicely and should keep you non-Floridians in the frozen tundra nice and toasty! Size chart here.

Patterns 4 Pirates
Patterns 4 Pirates
Patterns 4 Pirates
 

Are you still with me? We’re only about halfway through the Roundup. Not kidding.

Deer and Doe Magnolia Dress
Deer and Doe straddles the edge of extended sizing (read: not really THAT extended) but you gotta admit that this Magnolia dress was MADE for curves, yes? That’s Jen from Sewing and Slapdashery in the Emerald Velvet version. Gorgeous dress, gorgeous photo! So much nicer than my own work bathroom selfies. If you haven’t visited Jen’s blog, go take a look. She is very talented with the words as well as the thread and she cracks me up every time. The Magnolia comes in sizes 34-46 (printed)  and 34-52 (PDF). Click the title link to get to the size chart page at Deer and Doe.

Sewing and Slapdashery
Deer and Doe
Deer and Doe

And I couldn’t leave off the Myosotis Dress that everyone jumped on. Everyone but me. I’m not a tiered ruffle or shirtdress girl, but I have seen some Myosotises that tempt me. Myosotises is a word.

Deer and Doe
Deer and Doe

Ottobre Woman 05/2018
I’ve been giving myself a pep talk for tracing because I really like some (most) patterns in the last few issues of Ottober Woman, and historically Ottobre has fit my curves very well. I’ve been using an Ottober tee from 2007 as my TNT block from which I judge all other knit tops if that says anything. Still, I do wish they’d move into PDFs so I could avoid the tracing. My eyes aren’t what they used to be. Ottobre is one of the original pattern designers to use models of different sizes, colors, and ages and their pattern magazines have always been eye candy because of it. All of their patterns now come in the whole size range (size chart below). I have a few favorites in this release, but I especially like the faux wrap dress. I included the coat because I love that 80s shape and am thinking one of you can make it and actually get some wear from it. But whatever she’s walking up is making me dizzy.

Ottobre Design
 
Ottobre Design
Ottobre Design
 
Ottobre Design

Just as we were going to “print” with this Roundup, CSC Editor Megan blogged about her finished Ottobre Lozenge Wrap Dress, which is exactly the dress I featured above. Kismet, Karma, and all that. Megan’s dress looks great and confirms that I definitely need to make this. You can read Megan’s review of this pattern on her blog, The Green Violet, here.

The Green Violet

Jalie Yoko 
Jalie’s holiday gift was this free Yoko. Who doesn’t love FREE? This looks like a no-brainer, easy-to-fit, warm and snuggly top for those frigid temperatures I’ve heard about. Jalie always includes SO MANY sizes in each pattern. You can check out the sizing chart in PDF form for the Yoko here.

Jalie
Jalie
 
Seamwork Ruth Dress
This is one of Seamwork’s January patterns. On first glance, cute enough, right? And I love the model and her great smile! But imagine sitting down. Hopefully, you’re wearing your best undies, because EVERYONE is going to see them, since that skirt can’t help but s-p-r-e-a-d. This one is best shortened and made as a peplum top. Trust me. 
 
 
Seamwork
McVogueSimperick 

I was going to include some patterns I just recently ordered from the Big 4’s recent Butterick release, but as I was writing this up, I realized that the sizing for what I purchased SUCKS. So, no. This was getting long enough anyway.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it. My first Roundup of hopefully many. Rumor has it I may be getting a partner in crime for these Roundups, so fingers crossed because two heads/patternaholics are better than one.

Comments

  1. Yay Debbie! I’m happy to see you as a contributor and very much look forward to your pattern roundups.

  2. What a good surprise to find this on the website.
    Thanks a lot for taking on this huge work for us, and for making us laugh at the same time.

    • Eliz, Yes, Ottobre patterns are interesting. So many are the items you’ll reach for over and over because they just work with most people’s lives.

  4. I have thoroughly enjoyed your round up! Plenty of info and humor, as well as all the great photos to showcase the options!

  5. Thank you so much for taking this on. You did a great job. I feel inspired to look
    at some of your selections…….there are some great ideas there. Keep up the great
    job and thanks again for your commitment.

  6. I reached the end and saw you name,and out came an AHHHHHH!! I have followed you for decades,Debbie. I love your forthright style, as well as your sense of humour.

    I am an ancient woman (compared to most bloggers etc) but I am getting up the courage to make a pair of waist-free overalls, cos I deserve them!!!!!! I might not wear them to the shops etc, but around home and with chosen friends, I can see they’ll be very very comfy for this low end (love that description!) plus sized woman. You never know, I might love them so much I’ll get really cheeky and make a pair in wild stripes………………… Love the round-up.Thanks for taking this on.

  7. George+Ginger is another designer that looks kindly at curvy gals in her designs. She even uses plus sized models in her runway shows! Check her out.

  10. Thank you for a fantastic post! Some of the things you said had me giggling like crazy. I have made the Elliot sweater and it’s a great pattern. I totally agree re the 5/2018 edition of Ottobre. There are so many great patterns in there I want to make, I decided to ignore my dislike of tracing patterns and give it a try.

    • I’m glad you giggled and I’m glad to hear that the Elliot is a great pattern. It’s definitely had a positive reception into the community.

  12. Glad to see this make a comeback, it’s always nice to get a round up of some of the latest designs. I’d like to bring both Rad Patterns and Rebecca Page to your attention, they both consistently bring out plus sized patterns and Rad just released 3 patterns for their new accessible line. I don’t think I’ve ever seen either of them featured here.

    • Thanks Nikki! Rad Patterns was on my radar as a possibility for the next Roundup and I’ll check out Rebecca Page. Thanks for the suggestions!

  15. Brilliant – lots of laughs and a really good range of patterns. Love how you include styles that you don’t particularly like, I am totally with you on jumpsuits!
    Thanks for carrying this on, I have found many a new pattern makers from this blog.

  16. Brilliant – lots of laughs and a really good range of patterns. Love how you include styles that you don’t particularly like, I am totally with you on jumpsuits!
    Thanks for carrying this on, I have found many a new pattern maker from this blog.

    • Thanks June. Including styles I don’t like is a natural, because I can be fickle and I might like it once I see it on someone else. Or, the reason I “don’t like” it is only because it doesn’t really suit my personal aesthetic, but that doesn’t mean I can’t admire it on someone else. 🙂

    • Thanks Marianne. I agree that reaching out to bloggers (and Instagrammers) helps when a pattern company doesn’t have a diverse modeling corps. So far, everyone I’ve asked has agreed! Fingers crossed it’s always this easy.

  18. Thanks for taking on this massive task, Debbie! I really like your idea of reaching out to bloggers and post the garments they’ve sewn from the pattern. Even when companies are using curvy models they often do fashion style photo style shoots. Fellow bloggers know we want to see and hear all about the sewing and fitting details!

    • Thanks Marianne. I agree that reaching out to bloggers (and Instagrammers) helps when a pattern company doesn’t have a diverse modeling corps. So far, everyone I’ve asked has agreed! Fingers crossed it’s always this easy.

  19. Thanks Debbie. Really appreciate the hard work put into writing one of these. I know I would not be able to do so myself.

    Just wanted to let you know how I trace my patterns. I have a book of carbon paper. I lay the carbon sheets on the paper I want to trace onto. I then lay my Ottobre/MyImage/Burda pattern sheet over this and start outlining the pattern piece I need with a dry pen, crochet hook or knitting needle so as not to leave marks on my original pattern. I find it much easier than trying to see through not so clear paper.

  20. What a great read. I love pattern round ups. Thank us for volunteering for this task. Your efforts will be enjoyed by many.

  21. Wow. THANK YOU!
    Very, very nice patterns and write ups!
    Gets me all excited about trying sewing again!!!! Now that I’m retired and have more time to learn things like this!!

  22. Great to read that the pattern round-ups will continue. I enjoy reading them and was a bit surprised to read about negative feedback mentioned in the survey. Loved the line about the ‘Kevlar undies’, Totally agree with you about tracing Ottobre patterns.

  23. Great to read that the pattern round-ups will continue. I enjoy reading them and was a bit surprised to read about negative feedback mentioned in the survey. Loved the line about the ‘Kevlar undies’, Totally agree with you about tracing Ottobre patterns.

  24. I didn’t realize until the end, who wrote this. No, wonder I enjoyed it so, been reading your blog a long time.
    Definitely like your choices and have always valued your opinion.

  27. Thank you for this wonderful round-up, which is a lot like reading your blog — helpful, humorous, and insightful. Looking forward to many more versions in the year ahead!

  28. Yay for pattern roundups!!

    I haven’t paid much attention to P4P but I may get that onesie/longjohn pattern. I love it! Also, I have a September baby…ahem…New Year’s Eve… O_o LOL!!!!

    I love cute, boxy tops. Until I make one and put it on my body :-p

  29. SO GLAD to see you doing this! Gonna be a major hit, let me tell you. THANK YOU! You always inspire.

  30. Thanks Debbie for a great round up of patterns. I’m new to dress making but there are a few patterns which I think I’m going to have a go at having read you’re review. Your hard work and efforts are MUCH appreciated.

  34. Great RoundUp!!! Exactly what I need and want.

    Thank you for your hard work. I’m ordering almost everything!

  35. Great to find you here Debbie. I remember you from PMB.
    I enjoyed the pattern round up even if they are not for something I would wear.

  36. I love this round-up — always one of my favorite features! it’s so hard to keep up with all the pattern releases, and I really appreciate your taking this on.

  37. Thanks to you for volunteering to do this roundup. Thanks to the whole CSC volunteer team. I hope my comment below is constructive. Is there any way to put another box (or a more distinct line to designate a change in pattern/topic) around each of the areas of discussion? While the transitions are getting better visually I am still having a hard time seeing exactly which photos go to which pattern. HOWEVER , I am happy for any form in which I get this information. Can’t wait for the next one!

    • Victoria,

      I will keep this in mind when putting together the next Roundup. I think we can add a “bar” and/or fix spacing to help make it visually easier to group like with like. Thanks for the feedback. 🙂

  38. Great pattern roundup and your humour made my morning! Thank you! I too hadn’t heard of Greenstyle and that sports bra looks like it might fill a wardrobe gap. Looking forward to your next post!

  40. Great early morning read with my coffee here in rainy coastal California. Thank you for doing a thoughtful and humorous roundup. And I’m with you on the non-jumpsuit craze. The blurry memories of the 80’s in bar bathrooms with my jumpsuit in a puddle around my feet won’t let me participate this time around. Cheers!

  41. THANK YOU so very much for the time, effort and energy spent on this pattern roundup for us. I greatly appreciate the gift!

  42. Great job Debbie! Thanks for jumping in feet first. It’s a tough job. You can’t possibly review all the patterns in the world. I appreciate whatever you do review. You won’t break my heart by leaving off the Big4. Thanks to Michelle and Jessica for all the hard work they did. Now that they have more free time, I hope they get to sew more often!

  43. I loved this pattern round up! It was a great read early in the morning in Alaska and something for everyone regardless of location. Great job!

  44. Good to hear from you again, Debbie! I so miss your blog frequent blog posts, but I get it. Only so many hours in a day.. Great roundup and I’m with you on that jumpsuit. How do you even get that thing down for potty breaks?

  46. I would just like to tip you on http://www.melilot.no -she is a Norwegian pattern designer who drafts for sizes 32-52 (same as Ottobre).
    I have tested some of her patterns, and I find that she puts a lot of extra effort into drafting shoulder and armscye – which I really appreciate.

    • Thanks for the heads up! Even as much of a pattern junkie as I am, I wasn’t familiar with that line. She’s got some cute designs, and as an Ottobre fan, I like that she has a similar aesthetic to Ottobre.

    • Thank you for the heads up, Katrine. I’ve signed up for the newsletter so hopefully I’ll be notified for any new releases and can include them here.

  47. “post-menopause (TMI?) are not a winning combination so I’m pretty confident I’m not jumping on this trend”

    Okay this made me hollar! Thanks for understanding why this fashion trend is just not that feasible for a woman of a certain age! *LOL* You did a great job on your first round up. Though as much as you love PDFs, I’m still firmly in the other camp. I know, I know, I’ve occasionally had flashes of amnesia and put together a PDF (not being willing to purchase THREE of them to send to PDF Plotting) so I’m still disappointed that Megan’s and Deer n Doe’s plus size patterns are only available as PDFs.

    Will look forward to the future pattern round-ups!

  48. Good to see debbie on this site. I have plans to sew more for myself in 2019, so this roundup is timely.

  49. Good to see Debbie on this site. I have planned to sew more for myself this year, so this round up is timely.

  50. Thanks for putting this together (& thanks to Jessi a & Michelle for previous round ups) – I really enjoy seeing new patterns I wouldn’t otherwise know about.

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