Sewing Bee 2023 Week 5 Patterns & Techniques

It was a first in the Sewing Bee studio – Art week! We saw dramatic taffeta skirts with big sash bows, sculptural shapes in the transformation, and for the made to measure challenge we were presented with dreamy outfits inspired by the surreal art movement.

We’re rounding up some of the techniques and patterns you’ve seen on the show to inspire your sewing and boost your skills.

CHALLENGE 1

We couldn’t help but notice how similar the taffeta skirt pattern was to S9711 / S9712. This chic gathered waist skirt has two hem lengths and an optional sash bow… Esme would say a bow is never optional. If you’re intimidated by sewing taffeta, there’s nothing to fear because we’ve shared our top tips for sewing success.

Challenge 2

The Bees did an incredible job of turning large painted canvases into showstopping garments. They handled the thick stiff fabric well and kept their designs sculptural and dramatic.

If you want to try using stiff fabric (painted canvas or otherwise) to create a sculptural garment can we suggest V1941? It has a design perfect for stiff fabrics and would showcase a print brilliantly.

CHALLENGE 3

The Made to Measure challenge this week certainly was creative but a little hard to wear down the supermarket. Create your own modest interpretations of the contestants makes with these pattern ideas:

Published by sewdirectuk on June 21, 2023