The Rise of DIY Fashion: Why Patterns Are Taking Center Stage
Here at NKM, we’re big fans of DIY. If you’re looking to tackle a challenge and maybe learn a new skill or two along the way, you’ve come to the right place.
I’d assume that many readers have dipped their toes into the knitting-crochet pool. Whether during the pandemic or throughout the steady rise of trendy needlework pieces, many of us have picked up a hook or needles, a skein of yarn, and given the craft a chance. If you have ever found yourself a part of this landscape, you are also probably familiar with JW Anderson’s viral “Harry Styles” cardigan. As fans began creating their own drafting patterns from images, instead of charging for plagiarism, JW Anderson published their tutorial online.
Since then, various brands and organizations have followed suit. Woolmark, founder of the International Woolmark Prize, published five free needlework patterns, designed by previous winners. From a tote to a hat, beginners and experts alike can enjoy crafting their very own creative, sustainable pieces. If you’re looking for options outside of the woven realm, though, you might consider taking up sewing and trying out a few of these one-stop shops for all things patterns.
By Hand London
Built on the foundation of an adorable origin story, school friends Elisalex de Castro Peake and Charlotte Hintzen started By Hand London at a kitchen table. Although they’ve moved on to sturdier work surfaces, their mission remains the same. Offering a variety of women’s patterns and a few kids’, their designs are classic and cute–pieces you’d wear every day. If you’re feeling daring and hope to take your first steps into the great big world of pattern making, try out a “Draft it Yourself” pattern and add your own personal touch. Things get too confusing? Don’t worry, they have an accompanying blog, complete with sewalongs and pattern hacks.
Closet Core Patterns
Whether you’re looking for American staples or French essentials, Closet Core Patterns and its sister company, Deer and Doe, have a wide range of selections to choose from. With their help, your entire closet could be handmade, from lingerie to jeans. If you’re up for turning this hobby into a habit, discover Closet Core Crew, a subscription that delivers a new pattern each month. Who said underconsumption couldn’t be fun? Now, once you have your pattern picked and ready to tackle, leaf through the Core Fabrics catalog for your choice of material. They offer deadstock fabrics and project kits, everything you’d need to finish your very first project. Sewing is a hard skill to learn and refine, but thanks to Closet Core Patterns and all it has to offer, your job just got easier.
Charm Patterns by Gertie
This shop will take you back in time, showcasing many patterns inspired by previous decades. Launched by Gertie Hirsch, known for her blog, “Gertie’s New Blog for Better Sewing,” and her collection of sewing books, Charm Patterns encapsulates everything we all love about vintage glamour. From a Rosie the Riveter jumpsuit to a 50s-inspired bathing costume, there are so many unique and interesting patterns to choose from. Gertie even offers a handful of free patterns to get you started.
Folkwear
If you’re looking to learn a bit more about what you put on your back, Folkwear specializes in patterns inspired by folk garments from around the world. Go for some color and construct a bright Tibetan Panel Coat or learn how to ruffle your very own Austrian Dirndl. You can acquire more technical skills, such as smocking and quilting, as you learn about the cultures and histories behind those who practiced them. Made with care and intent, these patterns will open your eyes to the rest of the world and how fashion shapes us and our unique experiences.
Fehr Trade
Created by Melissa Fehr in 2005, Fehr Trade was realized as an intersection of her two biggest interests: sewing and running. Since then, she has run seven marathons in some patterns and has road-tested the rest. Whatever sport you’re passionate about, Fehr is sure to supply. You can start with a simple pair of leggings or play around with color-blocking a tee–the options are endless, and they’re sure to keep you on your toes.
These five brands are just a few pioneering a pattern-making revolution. We’ve got you set with activewear, everyday, folk, and funky, but that’s just the beginning. Once you’ve entered the realm, put needle to fabric, and hand-crafted your very own piece, you won’t be able to return to shopping new. Why not join the movement? Ready, set, sew!
– Milena Synek
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