Shop Small: Patterns!
Recently you’ve seen my post on small fabric shops so of course I couldn’t leave out my favorite pattern designers!
The following designers are ones with size ranges up to at least a size 30 (which fits me!). As a plus size sewist, good plus size patterns are pretty tough to come by so keep in mind that these are designers I have personally supported and used in one way or another but am in no way being compensated for this post.
Amy Nicole Studio (@amynicolestudio)
amynicolestudio.com
Amy is so sweet! She just bumped her size range up to include a 32 and working on updating her sizes and let me tell you, her Nita Trouser pattern is one of my favorites to date! I was fortunate enough to test that pattern and it was such a smooth and easy process to follow. I also took her Roksi Trio (spoiler alert is getting a size upgrade soon!) and, after making a few size alterations, had a dress that truly inspired me to start making more everyday wear for myself. She’s so meticulous with her instructions and illustrations!
Friday Pattern Company (@fridaypatterncompany)
fridaypatterncompany.com
I have a couple of makes slated from Friday Pattern Company, including the widely popular Wilder Gown and Adrienne Blouse/Dress. I haven’t been able to make them up just yet but I’ve heard nothing but good things from my fellow plus size sewists who have made them up already. I can just squeeze by with the 4X (the largest current size) so be sure to keep an eye out for those posts in the near future!
Helen’s Closet (@helens_closet)
helenscloset.ca
Helen’s patterns are easily my favorites as of yet. I have yet to make a pattern adjustment other than some hem shortening so it’s always nice to be able to sit down and crank out a great piece without added time needed to adjust. Her designs are pretty basic styles but you can also hack them endlessly which gives you the perfect addition to your wardrobe every time! Also her instructions and illustrations are super clear and easy to follow!
Petite Stitchery & Co (@petitestitchery)
petitestitchery.com
Petite Stitchery is a newer find thanks to Aaronica (@aaronicabcole/@needleandthebelle). I instantly bought 6 different patterns and have a couple of them slated for making soon! Also the Yoggers are a free pattern?! I’ve been living in my leggings during quarantine but I now want to make a pair of french terry joggers sooooo badly! Obviously recommending for a great range of versatile patterns!
Sew DIY (@sewdiyblog)
sewdiy.com
Beth has some amazing patterns under her belt! They’re all pretty basic which is great for beginners or even if you just want to crank out a simple project real quick and hack in countless ways (plus her tutorials are amazing to follow along with!). I’ve made myself a couple of Lou Box Tops already but they’ve been the perfect additions to my wardrobe that I can’t stop myself from making more!
Sew North (@sewnorth)
sewnorthco.com
Mia may only have the Cedar Sweater right now but it’s quickly become one of my favorite patterns! As soon as she released it I made a cropped sweater out of a gorgeous, warm, soft fleece-backed plush for my sister for her birthday and then immediately made myself a longer version out of a leopard jacquard. Our sweaters have easily become one of the most worn pieces of our wardrobes.
Untitled Thoughts (@untitledthoughts)
untitledthoughts.com
In such a short amount of time Brittani has already cranked out 7 patterns (two of which are free!) AND has more coming along?! I was ready to jump onto the pattern testing train with her Amelie dress but due to an injury I had to back out. However, I’ve been watching and drooling over all of her releases and was able to finally test her Nathalie bodysuit (which after a couple minor adjustments) I LOVE! I’m slowly working my way through all of her patterns - my next will probably be the Olive Jumpsuit or her free Lavern Utensil Wrap that I can use for work!
Well since those are a few of my favorites, what are some of yours?! Leave them in the comments below!