Must-Have Spring Sewing Patterns

The spring pattern releases are pouring onto the internet at a dizzying pace. My sewist emotions are swinging between gotta have it all, and forget it I can't keep up. While trying to sort out all the information and pretty pictures I was struck by the very different approaches indie pattern designers take when releasing new patterns. Some focus on just one pattern, other's on an entire collection. It's a lot of information to process so I've sifted through the pile of new designs and picked a few that I think are the most exciting for spring sewing. (FYI you can click on the image to go to the web page for each pattern)

Mega Release

image credit: named clothing / paper cut patterns / named clothing

First, let's sift through the mega releases from two substantial spring collections.  Named Clothing released a highly stylized look book inspired by Royal women with 8 (EIGHT!) new patterns beautifully displayed in glossy magazine fashion. Paper Cut Patterns also released 10 new patterns styled in a nautical theme. Collections take me a while to absorb. I love the cohesive presentation and the pretty pictures, but it takes some processing to evaluate which of these patterns I'm actually interested in. Of these two mega releases I'm drawn to the styles above. We all know I heart wide leg pants, and I'm intrigued by the wrap construction of the Astrid Wrap Pants from Named. I also love the idea that the lowly turtleneck is going to be a fashion statement, but I'm not sure I need a completely new pattern to make one. I love the loose fit and the subtle peplum of the Papercut Moana. It seems like an easy wearing summer staple.

Medium Release

image credit: seamwork / deer & doe / seamwork 

Deer and Doe released a much more manageable group of three new spring patterns with a total of 5 variations. I wasn't so hot for this collection until I saw Katie's Meliot and realized I must have it.   Along the same lines as the medium release is Colette releasing two simple patterns in each month's Seamwork magazine. I love the styling of this month's issue, and honestly I've been wondering when the bolo tie was going to make a comeback for a while now (not kidding).

Single Release

image credit: true bias / sew diy / grainline studio

Within the same week True Bias released the Colfax Dress and Sew DIY the Nita Wrap Skirt. I've already made the Colfax, and will definitely make another. The Nita would be an enticing addition to my shameful lack of me made bottoms. I'm tempted to whip a few up before Me Made May catches me in nothing but RTW jeans.  Tessuti's Demi Pants are so beautifully styled, they'll be hard for me to resist making. They're pull on which means easy sewing, and easy wearing. I also like the looks of the new Driftless Cardigan from Grainline studio, but again, I think it's something I could cobble together on my own. Granted, I buy everything Jen makes, so I might as well quit playing coy and just give her my debit card number now.

I like the focused attention of the single pattern release. I revel in inspiration posts, sew alongs, and styling ideas that a thoughtful individual release garners. It's pure sewist entertainment even if I don't buy the pattern. A single patterns release with lots of tester projects completely eliminates any uncertainty as to whether a new pattern is for me. I will be revisiting the Named lookbook, but probably won't drain my paypal account just yet.

I am only scraping the surface with my spring pick. To keep my head from totally spinning off of my shoulders I'm using a pinterest board to organize my must makes, and DIY wardrobe inspiration. Sara (of Made By Sara) is compiling an impressively comprehensive list of women's indie sewing patterns on Pinterest. It's definitely worth browsing (better get another cup of coffee!).

How about you? Which new spring designs are on your must-sew list?