Sewing Pattern Reviews

Looking for a timeless coat with everyday versatility? The Eliza Trench by Papercut Patterns can be made as a long, elegant trench or a cropped jacket. With raglan sleeves, a tie belt, storm flap, welt or patch pockets, and a full lining, it’s best suited for strong intermediate sewists ready for a polished outerwear project. Find the full review in Threads #231.

The Jolene Jumpsuit by Juliana Martejevs is a chic, feminine design featuring a deep V-neckline, puff sleeves, and wide-leg trousers. Ideal for experienced sewists, this pattern shines in drapey fabrics like silk or rayon. Discover fit notes, fabric recommendations, and sewing tips in our full review from Threads #231, Fall 2025.

The Vinton Pants by Cashmerette, featured in the Pattern Review article of Threads #231, Fall 2025, blend comfort with polish. Their relaxed, barrel-shaped legs, topstitched seams, and concealed elastic waist make them a flattering, size-inclusive staple you’ll want in every fabric. Read more here: https://bit.ly/4h6ytZP

A nautical-inspired pullover designed as a relaxed outer layer. Features include a square sailor collar, lined hood, oversized buttons, pouch pocket, and extensive topstitching. Reviewed in Threads Winter 2025.

In Threads #230 (Summer 2025), we review the Freja Vest 3103 by Just Patterns—a polished, close-fitting style for sewists who are comfortable with garment construction and ready to try tailoring techniques. This fully lined and interfaced vest features princess seams, a cutaway hem, welt or patch pockets, and a buckle-back detail. With a wide size range and thoughtful finishing options, it’s a versatile addition to your handmade wardrobe.

A versatile puff-sleeve blouse with gathers at the sleeve cap, cuffs, and back yoke. Multiple sleeve lengths, hem options, and collar or tie-front variations make this pattern adaptable for everyday wear or elevated styling. Reviewed in Threads Winter 2025.

Revived from Vogue’s 1987 archives, pattern 2102 proves timeless style never fades. This sleek skirt combines clean tailoring with a distinctive draped hem, shaped by bias-cut panels that demand precision but reward it with graceful movement. With a V-shaped yoke, deep pockets, and endless fabric possibilities—from linen to velvet—it’s a design that moves easily between casual and elegant.

Heirloom details with modern style. The Rian Blouse from Designer Stitch features pin tucks, insertion lace highlighting the seams, and softly gathered panels. Sleeve variations and cup sizes A through DD make it easy to achieve a personalized fit, while lightweight cotton fabrics showcase the heirloom techniques beautifully. Reviewed in Threads #231, Fall 2025.

Skirt at first glance, culottes in motion. The Malvern Culottes by In the Folds Patterns feature deep, architectural pleats that wrap the silhouette and conceal pockets and seams for a clean finish. Available in two inclusive size ranges (A–J and G–P), this dramatically loose style shines in fabrics with weight and drape to keep the pleats defined. Two waistband options offer flexibility in fit and finish. Read Anna Mazur’s full review in Threads #233, Spring 2026.

The August Jacket by Pattern Fantastique is reviewed in Threads #232. This loose-fitting design features curved shoulders, oversized sleeves, and a distinctive one-piece sleeve with an overarm seam. Choose faced or bound edges, and sew it in a structured fabric to support the silhouette.

A classic shape gets the couture treatment in this chic cape design from Marfy 0493 by @marfyfashionpatterns. With its high collar, gathered pockets, and elegant drape, this retro-inspired topper is a quick sew for experienced hands—and a chance to play with beautiful fabrics like wool, brocade, or velvet. Inside, thoughtful hand-finishing makes every edge feel refined.

The Newry Top and Dress by Muna and Broad offers a breezy, beginner-friendly sew with thoughtful details and inclusive sizing (bust 40"–64", hips 41½"–71½"). In Threads #230 (Summer 2025), we review this playful pattern featuring a Peter Pan collar option, elastic-gathered sleeves, and your choice of buttons or bows. Best in lightweight fabrics for easy movement and summer comfort.

Looking for a relaxed wide-leg trouser with sharp details and a great size range? The Estelle Trousers, a pattern by Designer Stitch, feature a clean front, elasticized back waistband, and thoughtful construction. The fitting guide reads like a mini textbook, and our tester shares helpful tweaks—like adjusting the welt pockets and waistband for a smoother finish.

Modern lines and clever shaping define the Paula Trousers & Shorts from Notches Patterns. Featured in Threads #232, Winter 2025, this design offers wide front pleats, a contoured waistband, and a signature rounded leg created by deep pleats and a curved front dart. Make them in a bottom-weight woven for structure or try a stable knit with added support in the waistband and zipper area.

A 1950s Butterick classic makes its return. Available through Simplicity.com, Butterick 7020 offers timeless tailoring, roomy ease, and elegant details—perfect in wool or tweed. Featured in Threads #232, Winter 2025. Save this look for your next outerwear project.