#mavenmakers Archives - Maven Sewing Patterns & Sustainable Haberdashery

Posted on 16/12/202302/02/2024 by mavenpatterns

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

Shop Maven1832 – The Somerset sewing pattern 18-32

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

One toile – 2 sleeves. Katy made one sleeve with the long straight sleeve and one Bishop sleeve. This is a good idea to test a pattern out for fit and one of the sleeves can always be changed if you decide it is a success and want to wear your toile.

“I’ve not seen a Maven pattern before. The instructions were very thorough.”

Katy

Abigail / @cutandalter

“This was the first time making a pattern from Maven Patterns and the first time using knit fabric to make a t-shirt. The instructions were so detailed and contained lots of information for a sewer new to dressmaking and also great tips on working with knit fabrics. I really like the links to tutorials on the website which were able to go into a subject with greater depth. The neckline on this t-shirt is so nice and was easier achieve than I initially thought – I went slow and followed the instructions! All in all a great make and one which I definitely recommend.” Abigail

Another huge thank you to all of my lovely testers of The MAVEN1832 Collection! Currently the 3 patterns are all available (HERE) in PDF but we are hoping to have them in print in the Spring.

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Share your makes by tagging us @mavenpatterns #SomersetMaven1832 #SomersetMaven

Shop The MAVEN1832 sewing pattern collection

More MAVEN1832 …

Product on sale

The Complete MAVEN1832 Collection – 3 PDF Sewing Pattern Bundle

Original price was: £45.00.Current price is: £38.25.

Add to basket
Product on sale

The Somerset PDF Sewing Pattern Collection

Original price was: £30.00.Current price is: £24.00.

Add to basket
The Somerset / 18-32

£15.00

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Product on sale

The Rochester PDF Sewing Pattern Collection

Original price was: £30.00.Current price is: £24.00.

Add to basket

Posted on 24/11/202302/02/2024 by mavenpatterns

MAVEN1832 – meet The Rochester1832 testers!

Hello Sewing Friends!

This week saw the release of the second of our MAVEN1832 sewing patterns – The Rochester1832

And today is all about the wonderful pattern testers that took the time to make and share their thoughts on the new extended size range for our new Rochester sewing pattern.

The Details

The Rochester pattern has some really nice details. Apart from the fact you can make a top or a dress, the neckline detail is interchangeable so you can make either with or without the frill depending on your fabric or preference. I designed The Rochester pattern with a deep back pleat because I wanted a garment that looks ‘tailored’ but I could move in and especially to drive in. And that curved hem is one of my favourite things I have made, it’s a pleasure to sew!

And then it was time to ask for help with a wider testing group. With some difficulty I narrowed down to a few testers who were all wonderful! 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.

Shop Maven1832 – The Rochester sewing pattern 18-32

Meet the testers!

Emma / @theFabricBoutiqueUK

Emma is the owner of loveliest fabric shop – The Fabric Boutique in Ashby de la Zouch and for her Rochester Dress she used a perfect designer deadstock viscose called “Tiger Tiger” which is available from HERE from her shop.

Maggie / @peacockmaggie

Maggie made this gorgeous Rochester top in a modal fabric from Cloud 9, the frill neckline looks fabulous!

“This is a fabulous pattern. Deceptively simple and unfussy in design but very classic. The pattern comes together beautifully, sizing is very accurate and the instructions are detailed and very clear even for a beginner sewer. I loved my finished dress even more than I was anticipating! ” Maggie

Hilary

Hilary made a wearable toile Rochester top in a cotton sheeting, which shows off the pleat brilliantly!

“I really enjoyed making this Rochester top – the pattern and instructions were clear, the fit was true and the finished blouse looks great!” Hilary

Lawratu / @seamesew

You may recognise Lawratu from The Sewing Bee – yes, I had an actual Bee as a tester!

But did you know she also has a lovely online shop Sea Me Sew Supplies that specialises in lingerie supplies? It’s full of delicious lace and pretty elastics!

“I found it a well drafted pattern to sew with thought that went into the instructions. A great pattern to sew with great details but not overly complex.” Lawratu

Hannah / @buffythesage1

Hannah made her lovely Rochester top in a really pretty quilt weight cotton and chose to make the frill neckline.

“Brilliant instructions – both for the beginner – with pictures – and the more experienced sewer – and goes together very smoothly. The pdf is easy to assemble and the layers feature means that you can select just the size you need. The marked seam allowances are very useful as the seam allowance is varied through the garment to allow for frills and facings. I look forward to making more in other fabrics/lengths and wearing my Rochesters lots.” Hannah

Francesca

Francesca used a rayon blend with a nice heavy drape and made her Rochester top without the frill.

“This pattern is drafting perfection!!!!!! Never had an easier time setting in a sleeve. If you use a light linen, cotton lawn or chambray it is very easy to sew up. A little more challenging if you use slippery fabric. Sizing is perfect and I love it!!!!!!!” Francesca

Barbara

Barbara was kind enough to share quite a few of her toile pictures, like I said I do love a toile and a peek into a lovely workspace!

“I’ve been waiting for this pattern for such a long time and this pattern doesn’t disappoint. There aren’t many patterns with this neckline which is what I liked about it and the faced hem is a nice feature and makes the garment look high end. It’s one of those patterns that can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the fabric you choose. Comprehensive instructions make it a pleasure to sew up.” Barbara

And a final thank you to all my testers, including those that have chosen not to be included in the round-up but their contributions are equally valued!

Out now!

The third MAVEN1832 sewing pattern – The Somerset T-shirt pattern in the new extended size band.

SHOP MAVEN1832 – The Rochester 18-32

More MAVEN1832 …

Product on sale

The Complete MAVEN1832 Collection – 3 PDF Sewing Pattern Bundle

Original price was: £45.00.Current price is: £38.25.

Add to basket
Product on sale

The Somerset PDF Sewing Pattern Collection

Original price was: £30.00.Current price is: £24.00.

Add to basket
The Somerset / 18-32

£15.00

Select options
Product on sale

The Rochester PDF Sewing Pattern Collection

Original price was: £30.00.Current price is: £24.00.

Add to basket

Posted on 27/06/202227/06/2022 by mavenpatterns

Meet the Maven Maker – Maria Thomas

We get so many amazing Maven Makes sent to us that we want to share even more indepth versions of your makes and story with our community.

First up we’ve got Maria, a long-time friend of Mrs M and of course, the Maria Apron’s namesake. Maria Thomas is an exhibiting textile artist and lecturer and we bonded on the school run over our love of denim, a love of stitch and a loathing of cooking the tea.

Maria’s work focuses on rehousing everyday objects that have a specific association or meaning to her. Notions of motherhood, shopping lists, food wrappers and graphic packaging – offering assistance to domestic chores – are carefully sourced, cut out and stitched before being absorbed into the fabric by patchwork and quilting techniques. Shaping memories and experiences into her own visual language Maria’s work is a response to the events of her daily life.

Do you find yourself reaching for the Maria Wrap a lot?
Yes. I have two finished aprons that I use a lot, and several half done, waiting for their moment! The first one I made in a dark-denim chambray fabric, this is my mucky one that I wear for my dye and print classes. The other, I have made in the MM large indigo polka dot fabric and I wear it to give talks or when I’m teaching a less messy workshop like hand embroidery. I love that it’s effortless to wear, its large pockets and there’s no straps to tie.

Maria Exhibiting at The Knitting & Stitching Show

How many have you made so far?

I’ve made around 15 aprons, some to wear and some as part of my textile art.

The Maria Apron was named after you! Why do you think that is?

Mrs M and I met on our local school run, gravitating towards each other through a joint love of fashion & textiles. We spent many a tea time musing over clothing design and avoiding the fish fingers. So when she announced that the apron was going to be one of her pattern collection I couldn’t have been more enthusiastic and offered to toile and test the pattern in its early stages, which I did with pleasure.

Any tips for a first-time Maria Apron maker?

Use a mid weight natural fabric like Chambray or linen. Always wash your fabric first to avoid shrinkage and defiantly toile the pattern in your size first. An old duvet cover is perfect for this, if you haven’t got any calico.

How have you personalised your Maven Pattern?

I have edged the straps and hem of my aprons in a self-made bias binding. Sometimes I appliqué a spoon or denim pocket taken from a pair of jeans to them instead of the original pocket. I’ve also used the apron pattern in various ways to create ‘Seven Sisters’, a piece of work inspired by my grandmothers and their sisters, who all wore aprons at one time or another.