Sign up to the Megan Nielsen Patterns Newsletter and get access to our FREE newsletter subscriber patterns!

megan nielsen design diary

handmade style by a designer

Elna Lotus beginner sewing machine review

by // 5 Comments

Elna Lotus Review // Beginner sewing machine recommendation // Megan Nielsen Design Diary

For years people have been asking me what machines I would recommend for beginners – and I am so glad I finally got my hands on one to try out!

My mother in law recently got back into sewing after 20 years and this was the machine she bought. She’s been raving about how much she loves it and was kind enough to let me try it out this week! I was especially excited about trying out the new Elna Lotus because I actually own the original Elna Lotus released in 1968. Three generations of my family have learned to sew on an Elna Lotus which gives these machines a special place in my heart.

I really hope you enjoy this video review of the new Elna Lotus!

If you’d like me to review any of my other machines, or give you a tour of my 1968 Elna Lotus please let me know in the comments. If you like this video make sure you hit the like button and subscribe to my channel so you get my future updates!

Elna Lotus Review // Beginner sewing machine recommendation // Megan Nielsen Design Diary Elna Lotus Review // Beginner sewing machine recommendation // Megan Nielsen Design Diary

Flint Variation // Bib Overalls + FREE pattern pieces!

by // 4 Comments

How to make bib overalls for the Flint pants and shorts by Megan Nielsen Patterns Hey everyone, it’s Holly! I am so sooo excited to bring you today’s tutorial. May I present to you my favorite pattern variation of all time – Flint bib overalls!

This hack works so well with both the tie waist and button waist versions of Flint. And those details add just the right amount of a unique touch to these bibs! Also, how cute would this be with a shorts version, too?! I’m putting it on my to-do list for Spring.

Meg has provided a FREE pattern add-on that you can access here, and I’m going to go over how to construct it in this post!

But first, let’s go over the details, shall we?

How to make bib overalls for the Flint pants and shorts by Megan Nielsen Patterns Criss cross straps that are sewn into the back waistband. 

How to make bib overalls for the Flint pants and shorts by Megan Nielsen PatternsThe bib lines up perfectly with the waistband edge and pockets.

How to make bib overalls for the Flint pants and shorts by Megan Nielsen PatternsCenter front seam, patch pocket and front button strap closure.

In addition to the basic construction, I’ll also go over a few different options, such as for finishing the bib edges, as well as some customization ideas and how to make your bib front removable!

OK, are you as excited as I am? Let’s go!

[Read more…]

Tips for embroidered jeans

by // 2 Comments

Have you noticed the embroidered jeans trend that’s being going on in recent years?

I have wanted to try this for so long but have been hesitant to try a lot of the embroidery positioning that I’ve seen. I think to make this feature work you need to be careful not to go overboard. I decided on embroidering one back pocket, the idea being that it’s enough to be a feature and is also a removable part of my jeans so if i get sick of it I can easily remove the pocket and sew a new one on. This is a great option if you are worried about fully committing to embroidering your handmade jeans.

I thought I’d walk you through the process I used and a few tricks I figured out along the way and some suggestions for where to find great embroidery designs!

[Read more…]

Dawn + Ash Jeans tutorial // How to finish pocket bags with french seams

by // Leave a Comment

how to finish jeans pocket bags with french seamsHello friends! I have a fun little bonus tutorial for you today that works for both the Dawn and Ash jeans. There were quite a few requests for tips on how to get a cleaner finish on the pocket bags. So today we’re going to go over how to finish those bottom edges with french seams!

If you’ve ever sewn any kind of french seam, this is the same exact concept. It’s going to create a pretty and clean finish along the edge, where the raw edge of the fabric is complete enclosed. It gives a nice little professional looking touch.

Are you ready to see what I mean? Let’s get to it!

[Read more…]

Dawn tutorial // How to sew an exposed button fly

by // Leave a Comment

how to sew an exposed button fly on the Dawn jeans by Megan Nielsen PatternsHey everyone! Here we are with our last fly option for the Dawn jeans – an exposed button fly. This is a really simple alternative to the button fly with the buttons being more of a feature instead of hidden away. And honestly, its my personal favorite! I like to see all of those shiny buttons on display. So that’s what we will be going over today. You won’t need the button fly pattern piece (9), other than for the button placement. So no need to cut that one out of your fabric.

If you are looking to do a classic button fly, follow along with yesterdays post here. Or if you want to do a zipper fly front, you can find those instructions here.

P.S – you’ll need to swap between regular thread and topstitching thread throughout the construction. I’ve marked which one is being used in bold for each step.

[Read more…]

Store Newsletter

Get access to our library of FREE sewing patterns, exclusive monthly discounts and be the first to hear about new patterns!

Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions

CONNECT

Never miss a blog post!

Enter your email address to receive Design Diary blog posts and updates from our store right to your inbox

Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions