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Four Gorgeous Wrens + a $50 Gift Certificate from Harts
We are seriously blown away by the response to Wren Faire. You guys all shared such amazing and creative tips for sewing knits. Cutting on a pool table? Who would have thought? Sewing with wine? I think some of my past projects could have benefited from that.
Today, in celebration of Wren Faire we have three awesome businesses sharing their Wrens and fabric recommendations.
Ray Stitch
The gals over at Ray Stitch made not one, but two incredible Wren dresses.
What is your favorite thing about Wren?
We chose two fabrics for Wren. The first is a 100% printed cotton Jersey. We’ve recently had a new range of really lovely prints in this fabric and Wren came out at just the right time to try them. This single stretch fabric has a lovely weight and drape and is fairly stable to sew so worked perfectly.
The second fabric is a classic double stretch, 100% bamboo Jersey. We absolutely love this fabric, it’s gorgeously drapey and very comfortable and flattering to wear. Again, the fabric worked perfectly and gave the dress a more slinky evening look.
What did you find the most challenging when sewing Wren, and how did you approach the challenge?
Wren is one of those great patterns with a huge versatility, working with different fabrics as either casual or smart day wear. The sleeveless option also gives other dimensions – sun dress, evening dress, layered overdress… It’s also easy to construct and doesn’t require lots of fabric.
What are some other fabrics from your store you would recommend for Wren?
We’d also recommend our striped cotton jersey or plain melange cotton jersey The options are endless!
Harts Fabrics
Dani from Harts sewed up an adorable floral Wren. We have been swooning over her gorgeous fabric choice.
What fabric did you use to make Wren? Why did you pick this fabric?
I used a Nicole Miller Scuba Knit Floral fabric It’s a poly spandex blend that has a fun bounce to it. I chose this fabric because I usually like a heaver knit when making dress to not show all of my (ah-hem) imperfections ;)
What is your favorite thing about Wren?
I’m a larger gal, with a larger chest area so usually wrap style garments end up making me feel very exposed. The way this wrap worked, it hit at the perfect part of my bust. I think it is flattering, a bit sexy but not scandalous. I can easily wear this dress with tights, a sweater and flats for the office or dress it up with a cute pair of heels and wear it on date night. It’s a really versatile transitional piece to add to your wardrobe.
What did you find the most challenging when sewing Wren, and how did you approach the challenge?
The most challenging part of this dress was attaching the skirt to the bodice, but I think it was my fabric choice more so than the pattern. The scuba knit bounces back to its shape very easily so gathering it was a little challenging. I just took my time, and lots of deep breaths, and it turned out just fine. Other than that I found it to sew up quickly and the instructions were very clear. I opted out of the sleeves on this dress because I felt it would be too much pattern, but I can’t wait to try them on the next one!
What are some other fabrics from your store you would recommend for Wren?
When I make the full skirt version again I would make it out of Art Gallery’s Wonderland Owly Boo Knit
I’m in love with this fabric, and I think it would make a cute, comfy casual dress. The knit has a nice weight, not too light but not too bulky for the gathered skirt. Any of our bamboo knits would be amazing too. They are soft and comfortable to wear and drape so beautifully.
For the more structured skirt version I would use one of our Ponte Knits and I’ve been eyeing this Flocked Velvet Cheetah Double Knit. Wren may be the reason that I finally buy some of this fabric and get to sewing with it haha!
The Cloth Pocket
Melissa over at The Cloth Pocket made a gorgeous Wren out of an Art Gallery Knit
What fabric did you use to make Wren? Why did you pick this fabric?
I chose Art Gallery’s Winged Plumage, which is this beautiful coral color. I love Art Gallery knits, they’re super comfortable and not too heavy for these long Texas summers.
What is your favorite thing about Wren?
It’s I incredibly easy and fast to make. I love sewing knits, so making this dress was fun.
What did you find the most challenging when sewing Wren, and how did you approach the challenge?
The most difficult part would be sewing in the elastic, especially on the larger sizes. This is a difficult task for anyone, not just beginners. I practiced and tried different little tricks. Practicing helped to get me into the groove.
What are 1 – 2 other fabrics from your store you would recommend for Wren?
We have some lighter weight knit that I want to try. I think this will make sewing the elastic easier. I’ve also been wanting to make this dress out of this awesome mermaid spandex. It’s pink mermaid scales, who doesn’t need that dress?!
Pattern Review
And last but certainly not least, Deepika of Pattern Review made Wren with a fitted gored skirt.
What fabric did you use for your dress?
I used an abstract print ITY knit.
What is your favorite part about sewing with knits?
Where do I begin? I love the fluidity. The fact that the fabric moves (and stretches ;) ) with me is hands down why I sew with knits. I love the bright colors and the vibrant prints available in knit fabrics. The fact that they are easy to sew and care for is just an added bonus. If you look at my projects on Pattern Review, you’ll see 80% of my wardrobe is knits. Can you tell I love them?
What do you find most challenging about working with knits, and how do you approach the challenge?
I actually don’t find knits challenging. I guess I’ve had enough practice. I don’t, however, enjoy cutting them. Sometimes it takes longer to straighten the grain and cutting the pieces accurately than actually sewing the garment. But I do take my time to smooth out the fabric and then use my rotary cutter and mat to cut out the pieces. I have a large cutting table, but sometimes I prefer to cut on the floor because I don’t want the fabric to get distorted if too much is hanging off the table.
I find that people shy away from sewing with knits because they don’t have a serger. Don’t! you are missing out. I sewed on my machine for years before I bought my serger. I still do sometimes. Just make sure you use a new stretch needle for every project. Years ago I wrote an article for Stitch Magazine which has tons of tips on sewing with knits.
If you are new to sewing with knits, try Ponte knit. It’s also one of the recommended fabrics for this dress.
What was the best thing about sewing Wren?
I loved the gored fitted skirt and the gathered neckband. It’s such a lovely design detail and even though they kind of get lost in my print, I think they do give my dress a lovely shape.
To read more about Deepika’s Wren, see her blog post over on Pattern Review.
Now for a giveaway…
Do you want to win a $50 gift certificate from Harts Fabrics or from The Cloth Pocket? Of course you do! Harts is an amazing fabric store located in Santa Cruz, CA. Their online shop features a gorgeous selection of fabric, perfect for your next project. The Cloth Pocket is located in Austin, TX and offers beautiful modern fabrics.
To win just comment below with your favorite knit fabric, and why you love to sew with it.
Comments
Debra
October 27, 2015 #
Pontes are my favorite; so easy to manage, comfortable to wear and easy wash and dryer friendly.
Toni
October 27, 2015 #
Still new to sewing knits, so can’t say I have a favorite. I look forward to sewing up a little Wren for myself.
Nicole
October 27, 2015 #
I’ve been struggling to find good knits for making less-casual dresses. For casual things I do love cotton interlock with a bit of spandex, but what to try for dressier stuff that 1) is mostly natural fibers so it won’t pill and 2) is not too thin so as to cling to every bump. Should I try wool jersey or silk jersey? I can only access these via the internet, and wish I could feel them first.
Heather VanMouwerik
October 27, 2015 #
Honestly, I have no idea, since I’m rather a knit-newbie. But I really want a plum dress for fall. Plum for the win!
Robin Latour
October 27, 2015 #
Bamboo jersey. It cuts like a dream, barely wrinkles and feels like heaven! The best ☺
Beth
October 27, 2015 #
A soft, red knit. It can be any type, any fiber just soft and red!
Janie
October 27, 2015 #
I love french terry. The way it feels… oh lala. Thanks!
Karen
October 27, 2015 #
I love the equivalent of a double knit rayon. Thick and silky.
Gayle
October 27, 2015 #
My favorite knit is ponte. It has structure & is pleasant to sew with!
Teresa Kennard
October 27, 2015 #
My favorite is lightweight wool knit double cloth, but for Wren I would probable use silk jersey.
Rebecca
October 27, 2015 #
I love sewing with Ponte Knit fabrics.
Angie H.
October 27, 2015 #
I love to use wool jersey. It really holds its shape and is a bit thicker. I want to try some double knit. I’ve seen some great patterns lately that would be wonderful to use. This lovely new dress pattern would be great in a wool jersey and I have just the fabric for it! Happy sewing!
Amy york
October 27, 2015 #
I love cotton rayon spandex blends because they feel like butter! I love the way ponte fits… Sweater knits are fun for fall. Do I have to pick just one?! ;)
Hansi
October 27, 2015 #
I am new to sewing with knits, but I just love the Art Gallery cotton/spandex jerseys. Really soft, sophisticated prints, and a nice weight.
Annabel Rivera
October 27, 2015 #
im a new sewist so just starting to play with knits. I love the feel of bamboo knits. I also love ponte knits because of their stability.
Gia
October 28, 2015 #
I’m only just preparing to get into sewing with knits but I suppose my first choice would be cotton jersey because cotton is usually my first choice. Not that I am averse to a little more stretch….. I’ve been learning all sorts of fascinating things about knit fabrics just following the whole knit series you’ve been posting so I suppose I’ll know a whole lot more about knit fabric choice when it’s done.
Mady
October 28, 2015 #
I love to sew with ponte roma! It’s so easy to handle and it always forgives all the little flaws!
Valentina
October 28, 2015 #
My favourite jersey fabric is silk jersey because it is absolutely gorgeous and items come out beautiful using it.
What I really like of Wren pattern is the great versatility, I dream of sewing an elegant Wren with 3/4 long sleeves in a luxurious light solid jersey with a good drape.
rbjaneite
October 28, 2015 #
I don’t know what it is, because I picked it up in a charity shop, but my favourite knit to sew with was a slubby-textured stable knit – it didn’t curl, and though I ended up not even hemming it the edges have stayed clean.
raquel from JC
October 28, 2015 #
I love Ponte di roma: thick enough, easy washing/drying, no wrinkles. Easy to cut with a rotary cutter. Second favorite: ITY because of the variety of colors and prints. Thanks for the chance!
Lisa
October 28, 2015 #
I don’t know if I can pick a favorite!!! I would probably say a cotton jersey, maybe with a little spandex, but I’m also into double-layered fabrics right now, so that’s on the table, too!
Jacey
October 28, 2015 #
I love love love the feel and warmth of a merino wool jersey. As the weather’s getting colder, it’s definitely first on the list. If I’m feeling a little more extravagant though, I’d choose a silk jersey:)
Becky
October 28, 2015 #
I like a more stable knit such as ponte or interlock, but that may be because I teach sewing lessons to kids. I always recommend these two fabrics when they begin to sew with knits. Personally my choice is whichever knit works the best for my project!
Laura C
October 28, 2015 #
I love ponte. It is nice and thick so it smooths my lumps and bumps and it sews up like a dream.
Debra Williams
October 28, 2015 #
I love a ponte knit – they have great body and don’t broadcast the “little” imperfections.
Wanett
October 28, 2015 #
I LOOOOOOOVE to sew with PONTE!! Stripes, solids, prints. All good. I have yet to sew with a ponte that was not amazing ;p
Sandra
October 28, 2015 #
I love all kinds of knits, bamboo, rayon, and ponte. Have never sewn with merino but would love to!
Andrea
October 28, 2015 #
Wool knits let me add the kind of high quality and sophisticated pieces to my wardrobe that I can’t afford in ready to wear. Which is why I got into sewing to begin with!
Christina
October 28, 2015 #
I use lots of ITY knits, love the drape, fluidity and gorgeous patterns available. Perfect for Wren!
Shannon
October 28, 2015 #
As a beginner, I love sewing with ponte – stable, but drapey and fun!
Anya
October 28, 2015 #
So many options!! I would have to go with good quality pointe knit. It is so versatile and can be made into so many things. One can use both regular sewing methods used on woven fabrics as well as just the serger. Although I can never pass up a soft woolen knit either…
Dave Battjes
October 28, 2015 #
I would use a Ponte knit. Have tried a little, still scared though
Sylvia
October 28, 2015 #
Thank you! I’d love to be included in the drawing.
My favorite knit is a medium weight jersey. I haven’t tried wool jersey yet- but that’s next on my wish list!
Lizzy
October 28, 2015 #
I love to wear merino jersey, but I’ve never sewn with it. Ponte knits, scuba knits and french terry are the easiest for me to sew with. While I just love bamboo jersey, I can never get it to lie straight for cutting!
Kerry
October 28, 2015 #
I’ve been really wanting to work with some wool jersey again, having made one of my first knit dresses with it some years ago. More recently I’ve started working with ponte, and I do like the stability and ease of sewing with it.
Soph
October 28, 2015 #
I’ve been enjoying sewing with rayon or bamboo knit–what’s not to like about the feel of them? Sometimes I add an extra layer to the skirt to work as a “slip” . Making my own clothes means no one else has anything exactly like mine, and knit means I dont need to worry–the dress is ALWAYS ready to pop on!
Amy Pilgrim
October 28, 2015 #
I’ve never sewn with knits. From steamy Florida, I’ve always shied away from knits and have worn wovens. I would LOVE to learn to sew with knits, so winning the give away would be an awesome way to jump in!
Thanks, Sarai — keep up the good work. I just bought Wren last week, and can’t wait to try it out!
Cat
October 28, 2015 #
French Terry!! It is so versatile and warm and cozy . . . just the best
Barbara Carlon
October 28, 2015 #
I love the feel and drape of a bamboo knit, and if it’s organic, that’s even better! I’m cutting out my Wren today!
Mary Lynn
October 28, 2015 #
Haven’t sewes much with knits, but love the feel of rayon with spandex.
Heidi
October 28, 2015 #
I think a ponte knit, or a jersey is best for this. I love jersey, especially the feel and drape. The versatility of this pattern with those fabrics make this one that I can make up over and over.
This is a wonderful pattern that suits well to not just my body shape and type, but I think it will work well with almost anyone’s.
Bobbie
October 28, 2015 #
I don’t sew knits because they have always been to much of a challenge for me even though I’ve been sewing for 45 years. Your recent blogs on sewing knits have been an encouragement for me to try. So winning the gift certificate could be the catalyst I need to get brave and start.
Virginia
October 28, 2015 #
French terry is my fave! It’s one of the fabrics I knew nothing about in my pre-sewing days, and one I can’t live without now!
nothy lane
October 28, 2015 #
My favourite knit is ponte – it just feels so good to sew ponte – but I usually sew with jersey knits and I like those for the price and the great prints.
Robin
October 28, 2015 #
While it wouldn’t work for Wren, lately I’ve been obsessed with cotton blend t-shirt knits. I’ve been making a ton of t-shirts for a trip to Florida next month, and this fabric is nice and soft without being clingy. I also really love hachi sweater knit. I’ve made a couple cardigans recently and really love the sort of dense feel of the fabric. I think the right hachi knit would work well for a falll/winter Wren!
Judith Martinez
October 28, 2015 #
I don’t have a favorite knit yet as I don’t have enough experience to judge. I do like to work with upcycled t-shirts.
Elise
October 28, 2015 #
I don’t have a favorite yet because I need more experience sewing with knits but I am excited to try out with Wren.
Jenny
October 28, 2015 #
I don’t have a favorite yet — I’ve always been too intimidated by knits! I’m feeling inspired from these tales of success, though, and the sweet hand-holding from the knits video series have definitely made me feel more confident. Thanks for nudging me closer to trying it out!
Lois Soiffer
October 28, 2015 #
I love knits and my fav is ponte, today! Tommorrow maybe it will be rayon, again.
Laurie
October 28, 2015 #
Love ponte knit and the structure it gives!
kezban
October 28, 2015 #
My favorite is cotton jersey, also I like ponte knits
Johannah
October 28, 2015 #
Lightweight merino knit because of how lovely it feels and relatively easy care over the life of the garment. That said, I have yet to work with a Ponte which I think I would really love so this answer could change with time.
maggie
October 28, 2015 #
I like knits that have some bamboo in them. All the ones I’ve used are so soft with nice drape and great recovery.
julie d.
October 28, 2015 #
i am pretty new to sewing with knits, but i have made a couple of garments from merino jersey. it was so easy to cut and sew with and presses nicely. if i could source it more locally i would make so many more garments!
Debera Massahos
October 28, 2015 #
When I’m wanting a feel-good, whip it out quick kind of project, my go-to knit is usually one of the Art Gallery Knits. They wash up beautifully and maintain their shape nicely. I traced off an old Vogue pattern several years ago and can cut and sew a raglan sleeve shirt that fits perfectly in about an hour! I’m thinking those knits would work beautifully for a Wren, plus I’m pretty sure it would feel like work PJ’s.
sangeetha
October 28, 2015 #
I love knits period. But if I had to choose, I like soft flannel knits and double knits
Melanie
October 28, 2015 #
I have never used knit, so Wren is my occasion to try :-) But after reading some comments, I think I’ll go with Ponte!
Xxx
Carla
October 28, 2015 #
I’m not very experienced with sewing knits, but I know I like to wear fabrics with a large natural fiber content. I wish I felt comforatble in the synthetics, but they make me feel like I’m wearing a trash bag;).
katyrenee
October 28, 2015 #
I know I’m a little late to the party, but am enjoying scuba knits lately. They have a little heft and sew together beautifully.
Cindy S.
October 28, 2015 #
I like sewing with cotton jersey. Mostly I like wearing it, so it is what I sew with a lot!
Diane
October 28, 2015 #
I am now returning to sewing after years of being away from it. I haven’t attempted knits and am slowly working my way up to it! I am planning a dress for my adult daughter made of a lovely jersey print. I think she would look fabulous in the Wren. As for a favorite knit, I don’t really know yet! I am going to keep trying different types and then form an opinion.
Kelsy
October 28, 2015 #
I am so looking forward to getting fabric and the pattern for this. I have only worked with knits one other time and want to learn more about them. I sadly will have to wait until after Christmas gifts are made and I have a good list of things to see and such.
Kathy
October 28, 2015 #
I love ponte knit. It looks good on every body and is fun to sew.
Ashley
October 28, 2015 #
I love wearing knits, but haven’t sewn very much with them yet. I do like the feel of ponte when sewing, and I want to try wool jersey or silk jersey when I’m braver and more skilled.
Sarah
October 28, 2015 #
I love a bamboo knit. Helps me stay cool living in a hotter climate.
Nickkole
October 28, 2015 #
I love any knit that has a nice hand and isn’t sheer, I’m not very picky! I particularly like bamboo jersey and anything that drapes beautifully
Shannon
October 28, 2015 #
I love to sew with a hemp jersey with a touch of lycra. It’s got a great slightly heavy weight and the texture is slightly nubby. My fave! Thanks for the chance to win :)
Carol
October 28, 2015 #
This will be my first Colette pattern and my first time sewing with a knit. I’ll likely use the recommendation for a ponte, but I had no idea the fabric came in colors! So I’ll be looking for a great print.
Carol
October 28, 2015 #
Can’t wait to sew wren up
Kelly Aubert
October 28, 2015 #
I am very new to sewing knits so I don’t have a favorite but it has been very helpful to reading everyone else’s comments!!!
Heide
October 28, 2015 #
I haven’t sewn much with knits, but thanks to Seamwork I have been dipping my toes more often! I really want to try a Wool Jersey. I have heard so many good things about it and I love wool!
Ciara
October 28, 2015 #
I love Art Gallery knits. I really like to wear prints & they have a great selection, & the fabric is great. It’s the perfect weight, stretch, & opacity. It helps me stay cool in the summer sewn up as a tee or short-sleeved dress, but it’s a great warm layer in the winter as a long-sleeved top, dress, or even pajamas.
Ruth L
October 28, 2015 #
Because I live in a hot, humid climate, I tend to choose natural fibers for my sewing projects. I love the new bamboo knits – so soft and breathable too!
Caroline
October 28, 2015 #
Ponte de roma is just the friendliest and most considerate fabric–it feels like it’s giving you a hug, and is considerate enough to not draw attention to how many sandwiches (or how much wine) you consumed while working with it.
Lettetia Elsasser
October 28, 2015 #
I am also partial to Ponte knits, for the versatility and structure I get from them. I love to make cardigans, pants and tunics/tops.
Anita
October 28, 2015 #
I’m new to knits, am mostly a cotton girl, but am looking forward to trying some of the knits listed here. Thanks for all the tips!
Kelli
October 28, 2015 #
wool jersey!
Shauna
October 28, 2015 #
I have not yet sewn with knits! I am looking forward to learning about them – I have a few articles about different materials and knits on my reading list. Can’t wait to get to the stores to try some out, especially after seeing the possibilities with Wren!
martha
October 28, 2015 #
I love the wear and look of knit fabric but I also afraid to sew with it… But I am going to step out of my comfort zone and did so, as soon as I win this fabric. Lol
Thank you
Lodi Srygley
October 28, 2015 #
I look forward to discovering my favorite knit fabric! I just purchased a server and plan on concurring my fear of knits.
Jen
October 28, 2015 #
Ponte knits are my favourite to sew with, but I generally prefer thinner cotton jerseys to wear (I dance a lot and it can get a tad sweaty!).
Laura
October 28, 2015 #
I love merino knits in all weights! (although I’ll fess up not even NZers wear them in summer). I’ve only started sewing knits this year after being scared of them all my sewing life and I’m loving it! If I was single I’d marry my overlocker.
S
October 28, 2015 #
Without a doubt it’s cotton jersey. I’m still getting experience sewing knits and I found this lovely thick jersey knit abroad and very reasonably priced. I’m still trying to find more fabric like it!
Kettle Yarn Co.
October 28, 2015 #
I haven’t tried a lot of knit fabrics as have just started sewing knits, but thus far Viscose jersey with Elastane seems to be my top pick. The thickness of the fabric and the amazing recovery has been the most high quality of the knits I’ve tried.
I have just purchased some wool/lycra jersey, though, so we’ll see if this trumps it! ;-)
Jordan Slice
October 28, 2015 #
My favorite knit fabric to sew with is ponte de roma. I’m still pretty new to sewing knit garments, but the little bit of ponte that I’ve used is so soft and delightful that it’s making it hard to wear other clothes! It’s also fairly easy to sew because of it’s stability. I want to give scuba knit a try – especially after Dani insinuated that it has the kind of drape that won’t make me feel like I need to suck in all day :)
Deanna
October 28, 2015 #
I greatly enjoyed using the ponte knit for its stability and ease of use.
Diane @ Vintage Zest
October 28, 2015 #
I haven’t sewn with enough knits to know! I need to get on it! :)
Donna
October 28, 2015 #
Ponte de Roma is my favorite. I like to splurge on good ponte when I’m making a TNT.
bookboxer
October 28, 2015 #
I have never sewn with a knit fabric – I guess it must be time!
Katie Emma
October 28, 2015 #
I love Robert Kaufman laguna jersey – it’s such nice quality and has the perfect amount of stretch.
Lynn
October 28, 2015 #
Choosing a fave knit is hard for me because I enjoy so many of the wonderful knits. The Ponte and Merino jersey knits are amazing and even the heavier cotton knits and I are good friends. I live where the temps are > 95F in Summer and less than 20F in Winter, so knits are easy to live in during Summers and layer with in Winters. I make layettes for family and friends and lots of clothing for grand kids and the knits are ever present in my sewing room and my closets. My go to knit is most often cotton jersey. Thanks for the giveaway and good luck everyone! :)
Judy
October 28, 2015 #
I love the results when sewing with a cotton blended with some Lycra to offer some stretch. I’ve been very happy with the quality of Riley Blake knits. I wish more design lines offered knit options, not only quilting cotton.
KATHERINE
October 28, 2015 #
I just discovered the bamboo knits. Knits for here in Hawaii have to be light and very airy, even in winter. Our fabric stores carry lots of aloha designs so you can fit right into the local look.
Kelly
October 28, 2015 #
Knits still scare me. I haven’t really made anything yet except for undies…and that didn’t turn out so well but I’m seriously liking the look of this dress. So maybe a ponte or a merino knit that I saw as a suggestion…hmmmmm
Lisa
October 28, 2015 #
I’m still learning to sew with knits (despite years of seaming up sweaters!); so far, I’ve loved working with silky soft knits–there’s a poly-rayon blend that comes to mind. I want to branch out and try new knits, but they make me a little nervous!
Jeni
October 28, 2015 #
I actually don’t have a favorite knit. I’m a relatively new sewer and have yet to delve into knits. But this pattern seems to be one that I may be able to handle. :)
Sara
October 28, 2015 #
I would love to make one in merino wool. :)
Tricia Padich
October 28, 2015 #
I love a fabulous bamboo/ blend knit. It’s lovely to wear and very easy to work with!
V Reed
October 28, 2015 #
My favorite knit is a cozy, soft cotton jersey. I love the feel of cotton and jersey is so soft and comfy. Wren in cotton jersey would be the ultimate secret pajamas.
Natalie
October 28, 2015 #
I am new to knits so my go to fabric is jersey. I do have some beautiful sweater knits in my stash that I have yet to get the kahuas to use. I just love how they look and feel.