I am so happy to introduce you to my two newest sewing patterns! If you’ve been wondering why i’ve been so quiet on the pattern development front the last few months – this is why! I have been working so hard on these patterns, and I can’t wait to hear what you think of them. These two patterns together make a gorgeous capsule wardrobe and teach a variety of new techniques, as well as catering to a number of different skill levels.
ASH is the ultimate stretch jean pattern set.
No need to buy multiple jeans patterns to try and find the perfect pair, this pattern includes every option imaginable with four cuts and multiple lengths for tall, regular and cropped. The pattern features a rise which is somewhere between mid rise and high waisted, with the waistband sitting comfortably below the naval. The fit is close through the waist and hips and the pattern includes all those very necessary classic jeans details. The pattern includes two pocket depths so you can ensure that your pockets are not only pretty but super functional. View A is a modern slim leg jean. View B is a skinny jean. View C is a flare jean. View D is a wide leg jean.
Ash includes 13 sizes and a unique jeans sizing system (much like ready to wear jeans) to allow you to achieve the best fit possible. This pattern is packed with tips and indepth instructions and with the four classic cuts included you can basically recreate any denim trend you like. This pattern has basically everything and i’m not even kidding. I don’t think we could have squeezed more into a pattern!
I have been working on this pattern for over a year and it has been such a labour of love. It all started when my one pair of ready to wear jeans ripped right up the centre back seem (classy) and I couldn’t bring myself to go through the ordeal of hunting down a good pair of ready to wear jeans again. I knew it was time to design my own jeans. I named it after my lovely fit model Ashleigh. We’ve been working together for over 5 years and it was definitely time this lovely lady had a pattern named after her!
We’ll be posting a comprehensive sewalong in the coming days which will hold your hand through every stage of jeans construction and help you make your own amazing handmade jeans.
RIVER is a reversible raglan dress or top that can be made in woven or knit fabrics.
This pattern has a loose fit, optional pockets and waist tie, as well as top and dress options. It can be worn with the V neck or the round neck side at the front. View A is a reversible knit dress. View B is a reversible woven dress with pockets and fabric belt. View C is a reversible knit top in modern crop length. View D is a reversible woven blouse in modern crop length.
River fills that desire I constantly have to have a wardrobe full of effortless stylish pieces that you can just throw on and walk out the door looking amazing in. This pattern is ridiculously versatile and way too comfortable. With appropriate fabric choice this pattern can really suit any occasion. You can make something casual, something for work, something for a night out. You name it, you’re covered.
Remember our family photoshoot? The tencel dress i was wearing was a River dress!
As with all my patterns, we’ll be starting a very indepth sewalong soon that will walk you through every step of sewing and each variation. We’ve also planned a number of fantastic bonus variations that i think you’re going to love!
[SHOP JEANS NOTION KITS]
I know how hard it be to find all the notions to make a really professional looking pair of jeans, so I’ve put together some kits to help you do it! We put together four colour kits: Copper, Nickel, Gold and Black. I used a different kit on each of the Ash jeans samples so you can see them in action. The slim leg jeans (View A) used the Nickel kit, the skinny jeans (View B) used the Copper kit, the flare jeans (View C) used the Gold kit and the wide leg jeans (View D) used the Black kit.
[SHOP RIVET ANVILS]
The next thing i sourced are some handy rivet anvils. You are going to love these! I know everyone feels nervous about installing rivets at home. You can use any all metal surface to install your rivets, but after a lot of experimentation i found that using a little rivet anvil is by far the easiest and most fuss free way to install rivets perfectly every time. At just a few dollars they are an incredibly useful addition to your sewing kit.
[SHOP LEATHER PATCHES]
When it comes to making jeans, the little details are really important. Ever since I started making my own jeans i became obsessed with making my jeans the best they could be, and the thing that was always missing was that little leather patch on the back. I was really determined to make some beautiful leather patches for you to use on your handmade jeans to really take them to the next level.
I am beyond thrilled with how these turned out! i am not going to lie to you, they were a tonne of hard work. But it was worth it! All our leather patches are cut from responsibly sourced Australian leather, and hand heat stamped with care. Each patch includes a stitching border to make it easier for you sew them onto your finished jeans. Each patch is a little different and unique and i LOVE that!
These leather patches are included in all of my jeans notion kits, but you can also purchase them separately if you wish.
I hope you love the Ash jeans and River dress and top as much as i loved designing them for you! If you have any questions about these patterns please let me know in the comments, or pop us an email at hello@megannielsen.com and we will help you out right away!
Don’t forget to tag your makes #MNash or #MNriver when sharing on Instagram. And let us know what you’ve been making! I honestly just can’t wait to see what you create with these patterns!
Meg xo
