MAVEN1832 – meet The Somerset1832 testers!

Hello Sewing Friends!

And we’re ending the year on a high the release of the third of our MAVEN1832 sewing patterns – The Somerset1832

To celebrate our latest release all The Somerset PDF patterns are 20% off until 17th December (*midnight GMT) and that includes the Somerset1832 in the new size band in sizes 18-32, the original Somerset pattern in sizes 8-20 and also The 2 PDF Somerset pattern Collection.

The Details

If you’re new to Maven let me tell you a few details about The Somerset T-shirt pattern. I designed her as I wanted a t-shirt to wear with The Good Times Skirt. I like a slim fitting t-shirt, that can tucked in or left out, but one that is definitely not clingy around my middle – I like my clothes (and sewing patterns) to cover a multitude of situations! I was having a terrible time trying to find a nice basic slash neck t-shirt on the High Street, so I started to make them. The joy of being able to make is always a bonus. I started with the 3/4 sleeve, which was a quick jump to a full length sleeve (or the sensible sleeve as I call her) and the bigger Bishop sleeve just seemed fun!

The Somerset t-shirt pattern is designed for Knits with about 40% stretch. There is a stretch guide included in the pattern so you can test fabric. If you’re a little nervous about sewing with knits, don’t be! Sew a few test seams first to get the hang of stitching with jersey. I’ve assumed in the Maker Instructions that you don’t have any special sewing machines, an ordinary sewing machine will do the job perfectly well. I like to use a twin needle to do the hem and an overlocker to neaten the seams but I talk you through a few alternatives. And I have extra photo tutorials HERE

Sizing

I developed a whole new size chart for MAVEN1832 with a dressmakers D cup rather than our usual B cup. We then worked closely with a professional pattern house who has a lot of experience in plus size patterns and had them re-drafted and graded. And we also worked with a professional fit model to for several fittings to ensure the new patterns were up to Maven standards. We have added a bust dart to The Somerset1832 as we all felt it gave a much superior fit with a dart.

View the Size Chart, Garment Measurement Chart  & Fabric Requirements here

MAVEN1832 – meet The Somerset1832 testers!

Our testers for the 3 MAVEN1832 patterns were wonderful and I’m very grateful to you all! Understandably, not everyone wanted to be public or share photos outside of the test (that wasn’t a requirement of testing) but I do have permission to share these beauties, some of which are toiles / wearable toiles / early versions but already much loved.

I LOVE toiles. I love the testing and changing and fiddling about with the fit so Toiles are actually often my favourite garments. Wearable toiles even more so as there is no need to be precious and it’s a chance to get stuck in and not overthink. So I shall take this opportunity to say MAKE A TOILE!

Belen / @btxesews

Belen made a couple of Somersets and I do love her spotty sleeve version!

If you are looking for some inspiration it’s a perfect top to make for Christmas and very wearable beyond!

“This is the kind of pattern that has the ability to be very useful and applicable to many styles of dress. A quick seam, with an incredible result!!! Highly recommended!!!”

Belen @btxesews (Instagram)

Phil

Phil made her first Somerset in this lovely ditzy flower print, which looks great with the Bishop sleeve and deep cuff.

Lorraine

One toile – 2 sleeves!

“I loved testing this pattern. It’s such a simple classic style and added bonus, quick to make! I can see it becoming a go to pattern for me. Having avoided using jersey up until now, I found the tips and tricks included in the instruction booklet really helped me get to grips with the fabric and I’m pretty chuffed with the result.” Lorraine

Maggie @PeacockMaggie

Maggie was a fab tester and kindly tested both The Somerset1832 and The Rochester1832!

Katy

Abigail / @cutandalter

More MAVEN1832 …

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