The weather is cooling down in the Southern Hemisphere, which means it’s time to make some winter staples. I’m sure I’m not alone in favouring sewing summer frocks over winter clothes… however I can’t wear them year-round, so I’ve selected some top-tier winter patterns to get inspired.
Check out these warm and stylish patterns to start planning your winter wardrobe!
Jumpers
Whether you’re hanging out on the couch or braving the cold, a toasty jumper is a winter essential. Read these top tips for sewing with knits to ensure a professional finish on these jumpers.
Pinnacle Top / Sweater by Papercut Patterns – a stylish casual jumper with striking seamlines and great colour blocking potential. This is a quick and satisfying sew.
Sewing level: Intermediate
Size guide: Bust 76–118cm / Waist 56–98cm / Hip 82–124cm
Billie Sweatshirt + Dress by Tilly and the Buttons – a simple pattern with a straight and balloon sleeve option in both a jumper and a jumper-dress, making it super versatile.
Sewing level: Beginner
Size guide: Bust 74–131cm / Waist 61–134.5cm / Hip 84–155cm
S3035 by Simplicity – a sporty pullover with a half zipper at the neck. This cropped jumper features stylish seamlines and a fitted waist, bringing style to the casual garment.
Sewing level: Intermediate
Size guide: Bust 75–122cm / Waist 56–104cm
Talvikki Sweater by Named – an elegant but cosy jumper with eye-catching neck details.
Sewing level: Intermediate
Size guide: Bust 76–152.5cm / Waist 58–115cm / Hip 82–139cm
Coats
Making a coat is a big but rewarding project, and a ‘must try’ on many sewists’ lists. While there could be an entire blog entirely of coat options, here are a few of my top picks.
Nova Coat / Jacket by Paper Cut Patterns – a popular oversized coat with large pockets hidden within the angled seamline. This coat pattern comes with options for a shortened jacket version and cropped sleeves, so it can be adapted to suit any season. Explore some stunning Nova Coats made by the sewing community on Instagram.
Sewing level: Beginner to intermediate
Size guide: Bust 76–118cm / Waist 56–92cm / Hip 82–124cm
V8959 by Vogue – okay, this is technically a cape, not a coat, but it is simply GORGEOUS. This cape has a sweet, rounded collar and three length options, bound to keep you looking stylish while feeling like you’re wrapped in a woollen blanket.
Sewing level: Advanced
Size guide: Bust 75–112cm / Waist 56–104cm
Hunter Coat by Fibre Mood – A classic, long winter coat. Be aware that Fibre Mood instructions aren’t as detailed as other indie patterns, so this is best suited to experienced makers.
Sewing level: Bust 76–116cm / Waist 66–101cm / Hip 86–120cm
Size guide: Beginner to intermediate
Skirts
I LOVE wearing heavyweight skirts with tights in winter. If you do too, keep reading.
Taroko Skirt by Itch to Stitch – A sweet, structured a-line skirt with patch pockets integrated into the seams. Don’t forget to pull out your Narrow Edge Foot for perfect topstitching.
Sewing level: Waist 614.5–99.5cm / Hip 84–119cm
Size guide: Intermediate
The Shepherd by Merchant and Mills – A stylish pleated midi skirt with gorgeous side button fastenings and slanted pockets. Check out these buttonhole tips for best results.
Sewing level: Intermediate
Size guide: Waist 61–89cm
Wool Pencil Skirt by Peppermint Magazine – A classic pencil skirt, designed to be made with wool fabrics. Bonus – this is a pay-what-you-can pattern so it won’t break the bank.
Sewing level: Intermediate
Size guide: Waist 66–81cm
Making winter clothes with summer patterns
If you, like me, love making summer frocks, don’t despair. Some of your favourite summer sewing patterns may be suitable for winter-wear when made with a medium to heavyweight fabric and some small adjustments.
Some things to consider when making a summer pattern for winter-wear:
- Will you be happy with how this will look in a heavyweight fabric? Consider that the garment will look stiffer/more structured in a heavyweight fabric.
- Will you need to make a bigger size to allow for layering the piece over jumpers or other base layers?
- Will any design details need to be changed or removed to suit the fabric?
Here are some photos of my favourite winter dress – the Delphina by the Petite Dressmaker. I made this in a cotton canvas, made a bigger size (to allow for layering), and removed the frill (as this would be bulky and challenging in a thick fabric). I wear it over turtlenecks, with tights, and it gets lots of compliments.
We can’t wait to see what you create! Don’t forget to share them with us on Instagram, tagging @pfaffsewingaus and using the hashtags #pfaffsewingaustralia #pfaffsewing #perfectionstartshere or our Facebook page Pfaff Australia