The Ultimate DIY Sweatsuit

The Ultimate DIY Sweatsuit

As a pattern maker, I always end up making my patterns many, many times during the development phase. And usually end up with an excess of supplies for those particular patterns. When I was developing the Ali Sweatshirt, I was constantly on the lookout for sweatshirt fabric and grabbed a few yards whenever I found it. I found this classic grey sweatshirt fabric on a visit to The Fabric Store’s LA location (now sadly closed). It has a nice amount of stretch and is a nice lightweight that is perfect for the warm climate of Southern California. I first used this fabric to make a sample of the Ali Sweatshirt which I wear all the time. But I had a good amount leftover so in January I decided to make a matching pair of Hudson Pants. And voila! A fully me-made sweatsuit. (Side note, there’s something about January that always makes me want to sew cozy things like pajamas and sweat pants.)

How to Thread a Brother 1034D Serger - VIDEO tutorial

A few weeks ago, I did a poll on Instagram asking what people’s biggest problems were when sewing knits. One issue that kept coming up was how to use a serger. Threading a serger can often be intimidating but with a little practice, you’ll feel comfortable with it in no time. The video will show you step by step how to thread this machine. I can’t say it enough, so it bears repeating that the most important thing is to thread the machine in the correct order. I also recommend practicing threading the machine so that you become comfortable with the process.

I hope that you’ve enjoyed this video. I have a whole series of YouTube videos planned focused on tips and tutorials for sewing with knits. In case you missed it, make sure to check out last week’s video 6 Tips for Sewing with Knit Fabrics. And if you haven’t done so already, I’d be so grateful if you subscribe to my channel on YouTube.

DIY Convertible Tote Backpack - Maywood Totepack by Klum House

DIY Convertible Tote Backpack - Maywood Totepack by Klum House

A few weeks ago, the lovely folks over at Klum House asked if I’d like to try out an advance copy of their Maywood Totepack kit. I’ve been a fan of their patterns and kits for a while and love the look of the Maywood so I of course said "yes please!”. This bag has all the features that I look for in a travel bag. First, it is actually a tote and a backpack in one bag; a design that I love to carry when traveling because backpacks not allowed in some locations and because it’s nice to be able to change your bag’s position when your shoulders get tired. The bag is big enough to fit a laptop and has some extra space so that I can put the laptop in a protective case. And, last but not least, the main part of the bag is zippered so that things won’t fall out.

Psst: if you get all the way to the bottom of the post there’s a discount code :)