Sewing plans for Make Nine 2019

It’s that time of year again! I love this time of year, it always feels like a new beginning (I mean, it literally is) but everyone becomes so motivated and keen to plan for the new year and it’s a bit infectious. There have been a flurry of new sewing challenges in the last few days but the one I’ve started (and never finished) for the last 2 years is Make Nine.

Make Nine is “a gentle, self-guided slow fashion initiative for fabric and yarn lovers”. There are no prizes or deadlines and no compulsory makes. Simple!

Last year I made 3 out of my 9, which is the same as I managed the year before. When I plan my makes for the month I do try to have my Make Nine choices in the back of my mind but life and other shiny new fabrics or patterns tend to get in the way and I get a bit off track. I also think tastes change and my own style has changed a little too so I found it quite hard to stick with my original choices.

This year I decided to pick 9 things I wanted to make instead of 9 specific patterns. I wanted the flexibility to change my mind and for some of my choices I haven’t got any clue about what pattern to use!

Red cord jacket – I love this jacket so much. It’s worn by Lorelai Gilmore in the first few seasons of the Gilmore Girls. There were a few similar styles in shops last year but I want to make my own version. I’m torn between the Audrey pattern from Seamwork or the Hampton Jean Jacket from Alina Design Co.

Bra – this was on my list for last year but I just never got round to it. I don’t have a specific pattern in mind, there are so many options and it’s a bit overwhelming! I’m leaning towards a foam cup bra of some kind as this is my usual preference when shopping so any pattern suggestions gratefully received.

Pyjamas – this is more to do with using a fabric that I’ve been stashing for ages than a specific pattern. I bought this fabulous flamingo cotton after seeing By Hand London use it for a pattern and I’ve had it for years. The print is bold and colourful but just not the sort of style I wear. Pyjamas seems like the best use of this fabric! I have a Kwik Sew pyjama pattern already but might treat myself to the Closet Case Carolyn pattern as I’ve seen so many great versions.

Black jeans – although I’ve made jeans before a black pair would definitely fill a gap in my wardrobe. There are a few issues with fit that I want to work on too but I am tempted to try a new pattern to see if that helps at all. I’ve seen a few good versions of the Ash jeans from Megan Neilsen and the Simplicity Mimi G jeans too so I’ll pick a pattern closer to the time.

Sports bra – I joined the gym back in November and although I don’t need a new sports bra I’d like to have a ho at making one! There are a few Simplicity patterns that might work or I might try to copy one I already own.

Embroidery anglais tee – I found a really sweet red woven tee in a Superdry shop that didn’t fit me at all but it was such a nice shape I hope to replicate it if I can! I think I will need to dye the fabric to match the colour as most embroidery anglais comes in plain white.

Leather handbag – another plan with no specific pattern in mind. I made a bag last year using a Niizo craft kit and enjoyed the process but I would love to have a go at one of their more simple patterns in a soft leather. I haven’t sewn leather for years so it would be nice to have another go!

2 wild cards – I’m still undecided about my last 2 choices so I’m going to wait for inspiration to strike as the year goes on. Ideally I need another good stash sorting session as I have a feeling the fabric I already own may lead my choices for the last 2 makes.

I’d love to hear any pattern recommendations you might have for the choices I’m undecided on! I hope to do a quarterly round up to let you know how I’m doing. That way I can let you know what my 2 wild card choices are too!