Big 4, Meet Big 5! Sewing Industry Evolution
For those of us who keep our finger on the pulse of the sewing community; you are well aware of the big four sewing pattern companies - Simplicty, McCalls, Vogue and Burda. You may also be familiar with my SHEro @MimiGStyle and her amazing Simplicity patterns with her helpful and informative tutorials. What you may not know is Mimi has developed her own sewing pattern brand, Know Me ™.
Hear what Mimi had to say about the launch of her new pattern company Know ™:
“I can’t express how much the launch of Know Me™ by Mimi G patterns means to me. Becoming a licensee for Simplicity in 2014 did amazing things for my career. However, I have always wanted to give that opportunity to other talented makers. Know Me™ is developed solely by makers in our sewing community because who better to design for us than us! I am so excited to be able to offer talented makers the opportunity to develop and design their very own patterns. My hope in creating Know Me™ Patterns is that it will represent what our community of sewists truly looks like and give others the same opportunities I have been given.”
I decided to make Alissah Threads pattern ME2003 my first make for several reasons. One, it seemed like an easy make. Two, the design of the top was perfect for my short torso (less alterations for me! #winning). Three, I had the perfect fabric that was burning a hole in my fabric stash.
However, what seemed to be an easy make came with an obstacle EVERY STEP OF THE WAY! From my serger breaking, running out or the deadstock fabric, multiple runs to the fabric store looking for alternate fabric, the fabric coming apart while sewing and finally my videos would not post to social media.
But I managed to push through and complete this project without stressing. I realized that I was able to complete this project because of all the experience I gained from challenges I had with previous projects. It made me look at challenges differently and reminded me of the scripture:
Romans 5:3-5
3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
I know the past three years have brought obstacles in ways that we never imagined but my challenge to you is to change your perspective and consider how much you have learned about yourself, your life and your limits.
XO Sebrina
HERE ARE THE DEETZ!
Pattern: McCalls, Know Me, ME2003
Description: View B and D, Misses' Knit Cardigan and Skirt
Sewing Level: Intermediate
Alterations: I topstitched the neck and waist band seams to secure the band.
Pros: Easy sew, not a lot of pattern pieces. The basic design allows for endless possibilities. I have a really short torso and this was the first pattern I did not have to make any adjustments to the top. It was like it was designed just for me! I love the fit of the skirt and the detail on the sleeves.
Cons: The neckband and waistband seams will get very bulky so be careful when sewing together.
Supplies I used and where to find them: Brother Sewing & Embroidery Innovis, and Brother, Serger SQ9185
Supplies: Telio Cable Quilted Poly Stretch Knit, Sew Classic Rayon & Spandex Knit Fabric
You can find out more about Know Me patterns and the work that MimiGStyle is doing here.
