Welcome to the May Issue of We Like Sewing

From ruffles to raffia, these patterns are perfect for the season.

Dear Sewing Superstar,

Are you dreaming of those warm summer days just around the corner? Is relaxation mode on your calendar? If you’re already planning your summer vacation, the latest issue of We Like Sewing is here for you. Sunhats, over-the-shoulder bags, raffia straw accessories, and adorable patio and picnic items are ready and waiting to add a chic and stylish look to your summer outings.

Along with new projects, this issue includes feature articles and tutorials that will teach you how to add ruffles to skirts, cushions, or anything else. And if you’re new to sewing, you don’t want to miss our list of sewing essentials. A trip to the store can feel overwhelming when you have to choose your supplies. But whether it’s a sewing machine or a pincushion, this list will put you on the right track to achieve all your sewing goals.

And, naturally, we’ll open up the wardrobe and refashion some plain garments into something ideal for the sunshiny days of spring. Plus, if you’ve ever wondered which sewing needle is the “right” one, don’t miss Marissa Arrigoni’s tutorial on both hand sewing needles and sewing machine needles.

It’s all in the May issue of We Like Sewing, along with all the tips, tricks, and perfect projects to make your sewing dreams come true.

Key West Straw Sunhat

Stay Cool on Hot Days

You can spend a lot more time outside enjoying the sunshine when you bring your own shade with you! The classic Key West Straw Sunhat is a perfect introduction to millinery and its intuitive technique resembles sewing a classic spiral rag rug. Plus, you can personalize this hat by either keeping the natural color of the straw or dying it to create a flashy statement piece. Either way, you’ll have it made in the shade even on the sunniest days.

Another easy project that lets you enjoy working with straw is the Summer On The Cape Over-the-Shoulder Bag. Made with natural materials, this bag is sleek and sophisticated. Whether it’s the beach or the bistro, the gorgeous texture and fun design of this lightweight bag goes perfect with your favorite sundress or jeans and sandals.

Picnic Under the Trees

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect picnic bag, wait no longer. The Stashbuster Pinwheel Quilted Lunch Bag is a stylish way to carry your favorite picnic treats to your favorite grassy getaway. By the way, this bag doesn’t just look great, it’s also super affordable, thanks to taking advantage of fabric leftovers and scraps to create the bag. Insulated lining and a snap button closure complete the project.

Stashbuster Pinwheel Quilted Lunch Bag

Of course, you don’t have to go far for a fabulous outdoor meal, especially if your patio furniture is adorned with the Garden Party Outdoor Seat Cushions. These beautiful, custom designs give you a chance to play with color, texture, trim, and more. Add tassels, pom poms, buttons, or keep it simple. Whatever you choose, these cushions are a quick and easy way to bring a pop of color and turn your outdoor space into a DIY oasis. These cushions come in three different style options and will instantly elevate your patio furniture.

Quilting Queens

We have two quilting projects this month from designer Amanda Ogden. The Sweet Dreams Baby Quilt Circle Block is an excellent way to learn sewing and quilting curves. This design gives you a finished 12” square in calming hues of pale blue and white. Play with whimsical prints, pastel patterns, and solid colors to create a dreamy baby quilt while you expand your skills.

Then gather up all your brightly colored scraps to create the beautiful Diamonds for Days Patchwork Quilt. The diamond motif uses both dark and light tones in its blocks that will brighten up your home with a one-of-a-kind finished quilt. Experiment with color, learn new skills, and spruce up your home with this dazzling patchwork quilt design.

Diamonds for Days Patchwork Quilt

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the Sewing Wish List to discover some exciting new products on the market. And get an introduction or refresher to seven of the most common stitches in Sewing Basics. You’ll find these stitches again and again in patterns from beginner to advanced, so once you know them, your sewing options are nearly endless.

This issue of We Like Sewing is here and ready with tips and ideas for beginners and advanced sewists alike. Every pattern includes a detailed template, pattern notes, and a complete list of the tools and materials you need to succeed. Plus, your We Like Sewing Club Membership comes with our entire library of curated collections, exclusive patterns, tutorials, and special projects. Ready to create something beautiful? Let’s go!

Become a Charter Member of the We Like Sewing Gold Club today, and you’ll never run out of projects or inspiration! And right now, when you become a Gold Club Charter Member you will get instant access to printable, designer quilting and sewing patterns for home décor, quilts, bags, outfits, baby items, and so much more!

When you activate your We Like Sewing Gold Club Charter Membership today, you’ll get access to everything we have about sewing and quilting—all access, all the time:

Please act now, while this special offer is still in effect for you!

Happy Sewing!

Caitlin Eaton
Editor, We Like Sewing Magazine

P.S. Imagine having 24/7 access to hundreds of sewing patterns and articles, step-by-step instructions, and video tutorials to help you master any sewing project. All this and more can be yours when you become a Charter Member of the We Like Sewing Gold Club today!