Australian Stitches

Australia’s leading dressmaking magazine is a favoured by all dressmakers in every age group. Fabulous garments, technical instructions and step x step photos help guide even the most novice sewer to complete perfect garments every time. All the latest patterns and fabrics are covered in every issue plus we trial patterns to give the lowdown on how to improve on each pattern’s instruction sheet. We showcase makeovers of real people, give wardrobe-planning advice and show the latest trends from the USA and Europe.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SPRING • When it comes to spring fashion, not all trends are created

reality check • Spring’s biggest hits from catwalk to closet

MONO MAGIC • Nothing beats the power of black & white. Any monochrome mix is the cleverest classic duo ... from the sleekest, most modern all-black jumpsuit flashed with white accessories, to an all-out riot of bold patterns splashed over spring’s best dresses, and every look in-between ...

Finding the Balance

PAINTERLY CHIFFONS!

Fabrics with Natural Movement – Chiffon & Georgette

A-line With A Twist

The Small Bust – A & AA Cup

THE GREAT WHITE WAY • It’s all-white for spring 2015… in slick, clean shapes refreshed with subtly sheer or sporty mesh textures that go way beyond the pale.

On the Loose • The silhouette loosens up and speaks volumes on top for spring … in the easiest tunics and kimono sleeved jackets that are a breeze to wear.

A Fresh COAT

style ARC

Book REVIEWS

Denim – Not Just for Jeans • Bustiers, luxed-up classics, casual wear and, of course, jeans and jackets are only a few of the many faces of denim this season. Not too many years ago, denim was always dark blue or brown, stiff, coarse and just for jeans and work clothes. Today it is available in a variety of colours and patterns, as well as an assortment of weights ranging from very light to heavy.

Just What is an Armscye? • The word armscye has crept into the vocabulary of those in the Australian sewing/patternmaking field, via articles from esteemed American contributors and other technical sources. But where did the word originate and exactly what does it mean?

Pattern Talk – Vogue V8962 view B & D • When you first look at the pattern cover you assess the illustration or photo and wonder whether it is going to be a suitable pattern for you? Do I give it a go or not? Well I did, I’m glad I did, and this is the result … and all constructed one sunny Sunday afternoon!

Free Spirits • The freewheeling bohemian style of the ‘70s is refreshed for spring in sleeker cuts and lighter, liquid fabrics that now have a modern attitude over the leanest legs.

RELAX • After years of lean and mean, tight and tortured shapes, pants ease up with softer, looser lines and lighter, breezier fabrics.

Overlocking Basics • Whether you are new to the overlocker or savvy with one, sometimes it’s good to have a bit of a refresher course. In this article we will address some basic techniques and review some that may already be much a part of your routine.

THE Walking Foot! • You’ll sometimes see the use of a walking foot recommended in articles in this magazine and, if you have one, no doubt you use it. But do you know why? What does it do? And how does it do it? Let us explain ...