I’m in this month’s Haystack Pack!
Sewing subscriptions are a fun treat to receive each month. I do worry about the sustainability aspect of them as you probably won’t like every pattern and fabric that you receive. At this year’s fabric swap we were inundated with unwanted dressmaking patterns that came in subscription packs and magazines. In a Haystack have solved this problem by offering a flexible sewing subscription, they offer a pattern with one independent company each month but if you don’t like it you can swap it for another design from the same designer. The pattern is digital so it is easy to choose. Then you select your own fabric with an exclusive discount from a choice of two shops. There are interviews, tips & tricks, and lots more to explore even including a Spotify play list to sew to.
I’m thrilled to be included in May’s pack and offering an exclusive discount off my shop for subscribers (code only available to In a Haystack subscribers). Here are all the sewing goodies!
The Pattern: The Freya Shirt
The Freya shirt by Michelle Design Co is a feminine take on a classic shirt. She has the classic details of a collar with collar stand, sleeve plackets and cuffs. The unique details of this oversized shirt include a large yoke that goes from mid armscye in the front, over the shoulders, to mid armscye in the back. Freya also features an extravagant hem line. The large yoke allows you to play around with colour blocking or stripes in different directions. Regardless of your fabric choice, this shirt is sure to be a one of a kind that will take you through all of life’s moments. Details include:
✨ Back pleat
✨ Curved hem
✨ Yoke that goes over the shoulders (best detail of the shirt in my opinion!)
✨ 2 sleeve pleats
✨ Separate button placket
The Fabric: Vintage fabric from Olive Road London
This classic shirt design would work really well in a lightweight cotton as one of the suggested fabrics below. Or make a statement and create it from the Bamboo print Barkcloth. The Barkcloth is 100% cotton and although traditionally an upholstery fabric, this design has a paper quality to it. It will create a structured crisp shirt that will soften each time it is washed and it will become a good friend.
The Treat: The Day Tote by Neighborhood Patterns
An oversized super practical tote bag. Have fun with it and use up your scraps to make a patchwork bag. Or if you are looking for something a bit sturdier, then these cotton vintage fabrics would work really well. I also sell a heavy duty webbing that would be perfect for the straps. 100% cotton in black, white and ecru.
More Fabric: From Greenstyle Fabrics
Based in the US, this independent fabric shop specialises in dancewear fabrics. They work perfectly with some of Michelle Design companies other designs her range. Also useful if you want to make your own swimwear this summer.
PDF Pattern A0 printing: Fabulosew
Fabulosew is a family run micro business set up in 2020 who print PDF sewing patterns for home sewists on lightweight, translucent pattern paper. We also print instruction booklets. A printed pattern and a booklet fit into a C5 envelope. They are super efficient so you can start your sewing in no time! Haystack subscribers get an exclusive discount on their pdf pattern printing.
Digital subscription pack
All of this plus tips on shirring, sewing inspiration from other sewists, interviews and a Spotify playlist to listen to whilst you sew. The kit is sent out as a digital newsletter rather than a physical pack, there is also an audio option. This digital pack makes a perfect sewing gift for someone without needing to rely on the post. It is £10 for the full In a Haystack subscription due on the 1st of the month. Or choose the gift option, add the recipient’s email address. The subscription is for three months (there are other options on the website). Make sure to sign up the month before you want them to get their first pack. E.g. signed up in May and the gift recipient receives the gift on the 3rd June. Gift vouchers are also available.