Sewing Bee episode 4 wardrobe ideas
Are you watching the new series of The Great British Sewing Bee? We were thrilled that the TV show has returned with ten new contestants battling it out to be named the best sewer in Britain. This year the show has a new judge, Joe Lycett, who joins Patrick Grant and Esme Young. If you haven’t seen all the latest news about the show, take a look at the BBC’s dedicated site about all things Bee! You will find contestant profiles, interviews with the judges and episode guides. Also take a look through our blog for other sewing bee posts.
We will be continuing our blog series about the sewing bee today and each week we will be sharing our pattern picks here and also listing them in our shop for easy browsing. All the patterns have been selected for their similar design features and styles to help you recreate these looks at home for your own handmade wardrobes.
Week four: technical fabrics
Challenge 1
In the fourth episode of the show, contestants had three challenging tasks starting with sewing a lined swimsuit using Lycra. Take a look at our pattern suggestions below to recreate this look at home.
Lisette for Butterick B6358 – as seen on screen!
This lined swimsuit was the first pattern used on the show this week. It’s close-fitting, cut on crosswise grain and elasticized. Version A and C have top front ties (as shown below), shoulder straps that cross at back, removable bra cups and bra hooks at back. Version B has tie ends. Make with two-way stretch knits only.
Butterick B5795
Alternatively why not try this semi-fitted mock wrap swimsuit. Versions B, C and D have a built-in bra with elastic. All versions are close-fitting and cut on crosswise grain of fabric. Versions B, C, D and F are lined too. The pattern includes separate pattern pieces for A/B, C and D cup sizes. Fabric options: version A is suitable for moderate stretch knits only. Versions B, C, D, E, F are suitable for two-way stretch knits only.
Lisette for Butterick B6360
This is a close-fitting, lined, swimsuit and cut on the crosswise grain. It is elasticized with a front twisted band, gathers, side seam casings and drawstrings. Shoulder straps cross at back and it comes with removable bra cups and a bra hook at back. Suitable fabrics include two-way stretch knits only.
Butterick B6067
Our vintage swimsuit pattern suggestion is this fabulous Butterick B6067 with dramatic styling. It has a halter neck with two-part bust cup and side gathers into a central panel. The retro style has a flattering fit over the hips.
Vogue® Patterns V9192
Our final swimsuit pattern suggestion is this lined swimsuit where the front straps extend into the back and it has two vertical straps at the bust. The alternative version is one-shoulder with elasticized right side, bra, and purchased decorative ring. Both are close-fitting, cut on crosswise grain and elasticized. Suitable for two-way stretch knits only.
Challenge 2
The second challenge was upcycling festival tents into dog coats. A range of styles were used by contestants so we have shared our favourite patterns inspired by the show for your pooch below.
Kwik Sew 4211
This dog coat comes with a pocket so they can carry their own snacks!
McCalls M6455
This pattern not only comes with the coat featured below but a pattern for a dog bed in three sizes, leash, case and harness vest. All round pampering for your pet!
Kwik Sew 4092
For small dogs who want some extra style, this patchwork coat comes with a decorative collar. What a great scrap buster!
Simplicity S8824
For a snazzy waterproof coat, this Simplicity option with collar band is a great option.
Simplicity S1578
For larger sized dogs this pattern is suitable for pets with a 16″ to 23″ neck, 13″ to 15″ body length measured from shoulder to just behind last rib and a 24″ to 28″ chest weighing approximately 30 lbs. to 46 lbs.
Burda B7752
If you are looking for style rather than practicality, these doggy coats in three sizes and five models are suitable for colder times of the year. They not only protect against the weather but they also look good!
Butterick 6432
Our final dog coat pattern option comes with a toggle closure and has a contrasting lining. Available in lengths: Small(61/2“-9″), Medium(9″-11″), Large(11”-131/2“), XLarge(131/2“-16”).
Challenge 3
The final challenge involved creating men’s luxury tracksuits. There was a range of styles featured in the final challenge of technical week and we thought we would share some of our favourite patterns that could be hacked to create the looks in the show.
McCalls M7486 – as seen on screen!
This men’s raglan sleeve top sewing pattern also comes with a drawstring pants option. The top includes hood, side panels, kangaroo pocket and has a close fit. The panels are slim fit and are gathered into a cuff at the hem.
Kwik Sew 4032 – as seen on screen!
The Kwik Sew 4032 pattern has set in sleeves with shoulder panels and an upright collar. With a zip up front and concealed pockets it’s suited to fleece type fabrics and would be great for keeping warm on outdoor pursuits.
Simplicity S8268
Make these easy to sew knit joggers that are suitable for the entire family. The pattern includes sizes for adults, teens and children. They have a drawstring waist with ribbing at the ankles plus all important pockets! Look for fabrics such as French Terry, Ponte, Interlock or Velour for best results.
New Look 6251
Want to make a matching set of jackets? This unisex pattern includes a jacket and vest for men and women with zippered front and pockets. The women’s jacket and vest features princess seams for a tapered look.
McCalls M7637
For a more men’s luxury look, try this bomber jacket from McCalls. It has ribbing at the hem and cuffs with an exposed zip, collar and breast pockets.
McCalls M6614
This hoodie pattern has a lined hood, cuffs and hem finished with ribbing and exposed front zipper. Sew up in a warm French Terry or fleece lined knit to keep warm.
Vogue® Patterns V9353
For a more intermediate maker, this loose-fitting lined bomber jacket features a contrast collar and bands, welt pockets with flap, quilting detail, and front separating zipper closure.
Vogue® Pattern V9290
Our final pattern suggestion is this fitted men’s jacket with contrast collar, side front, side back, cuffs and hip band and 26″ separating zipper. It’s close fit is suited to a lighter weight knit fabric. This pattern is perfect for using a bright contrasting colour for the top stitching to really make it stand out.
Don’t forget to share your latest makes with us on social media using the hashtags #simplicitybyme or #mccallsbyme. We can’t wait to see what you’ve been making. There are prizes to be won each month too!