FRIDAY SEWS 4 JUNE 21 - An Old Favourite & A New Find. Stitchbird Dress & Anzu Cargo Skirt

[@Ali.S.25]

That skirt, all the pockets. It's insane -- in a good way! The dress is so flattering on you. Love all four versions. Looking at the line drawings, it should be a sack, but some sort of magic happens when it's on a person. It's on my list. You're the sewist I want to be when I grow up. I mean, in human years, I'm older than you, but in sewing years, I'm just a baby... The Pattern Emporium tee shirt and sweatshirt are on my list next. Thanks for the inspo!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

😂😂 thank you so much, that really made me smile.

[@marciahighsmith4820]

Mighty cute dress, the fabric really makes the dress!

[@antoinettecoles6111]

Hi Alex, your Stitchbird dress is stunning, I have now added it to my long list to make.

[@mairead5891]

Two lovely garments Alex. I love the skirt, but the star of the show in my opinion is your Stitchbird. It’s so simple but so, so elegant! I love the Draper’s Daughter’s shop, she has so many beautiful fabrics and patterns for sale. I have a couple of lengths of fabric from her shop that I have yet to use. They’re almost too pretty to cut into. Almost! 😉

[@AlexJudgeSews]

She’s really does, I’ve found the same if I don’t use it soon after buying I go into some kind of paralysis 😂😘

[@lylianjettar3637]

You are a fantastic sewist! I love both makes and I understand your excitement about the skirt. You enjoy sewing challenging patterns. Congratulations.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you for such kind words 😘

[@marilynkelly315]

Love your skirt perfect dog treat holster

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Much needed too 😁❤️

[@debra8390]

Love the look of the dress, so downloaded. Only thing I will change is the back, reminds me of a hospital gown lol.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

😂

[@mornamurphy6962]

Congratulations Alex on passing 6000 subscribers ! I’m not surprised - you always have interesting makes and talk us through them so well. Thank you for your time! Xx

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Morna, I hope everything is ok with you ❤️❤️

[@marieg2815]

Uh oh. I had to go look at Waffle. I want every pattern now.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

I can relate 😁

[@tracyfrost]

Your dress looks stunning in that fabric

[@AlexJudgeSews]

thank you 💜💚

[@belinda58sews29]

You always have such interesting makes and patterns I haven't seen so much on social media - I like it! Thanks so much for sharing.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you ❤️❤️

[@marciahighsmith4820]

I'm waiting on my chosen fabric for a Spencer Ogg pattern for a tote purse thingie. It looks very doable.

[@maggiecawthorn5653]

Love the dress and the beautiful fabric. Love your painting too and the two looked fantastic together!!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Maggie, I never know what painting I’m going to find in there and was concerned I might blend into this one 😂

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

Omg I still have a cargo skirt that I got from the Gap when I was a teenager in the 90's! It doesn't fit of course but I love it so much I can't get rid of it lol. Maybe I need this... Anyway, I love your painting and the painterly fabric, teal is one of my favourite colours.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

This made me laugh because I’ve also gone one from the 90s that I keep thinking I’ll fit into 😁. Apparently teal is a rare colour that suits everyone, it’s definitely one of my favourites- thank you ❤️❤️❤️

[@belindaezzy1121]

Love your Nani Iro fabric for the Stitchbird. I had avoided this pattern as it looked stiff in linen. I've added it and will be using some softer fabrics in my stash

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Ooh thank you, the Nani Iro fabric is a Tencel (I think) but definitely more lightweight and works a great, I hope you enjoy your new dress ❤️

[@sallydingle321]

Fabulous makes again Alex and congratulations on your channel subscriptions 👌...so well deserved and always an inspiration 😁💝😘

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Sally you are always so encouraging, thank you so much 😘⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@einahpets]

The color of that Nani Iro fabric looks DIVINE on you! I had heard of Waffle Patterns but haven't given them a try yet. I must say that skirt has so many interesting details that I've never seen on any other sewing pattern before!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Stephanie, it’s great to discover a new pattern company 💙💙💙🥰

[@oscar6443]

Hi Alex, love the dress and skirt on you. I admire the way you seem to be able to find the most unusual patterns and fabrics on line or shops. 🐶

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you, that’s so kind 😘

[@pinkysfarm461]

Love all the detail work on the skirt. You are an amazing sewist!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Oooh thank you 😊💚💚

[@patriciaoswalt6464]

Love all the Stitchbird dresses, that dark blue teal is just beautiful on you. I think those fitted shoulders help keep the dress from looking too sloppy. The skirt looks good on you too! That off center front seam would probably drive me crazy though, I would keep thinking my skirt was twisted. Another great color.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

😂. I think my buttons aren’t as off centre as they should be which probably isn’t helping but I know exactly what you mean 🥰💚💚💚

[@Brenda_O]

Love your makes Alex! And the art behind you too. I'm not surprised you've hit the 6K mark. Your vids are always so refreshing and inspiring 😊

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Brenda, I’m still surprised I had the guts to do it. Not so long ago I wouldn’t even have a photo taken, turning 50 was a great thing for me 😁❤️❤️

[@karenlowes7802]

I love your posts! Always interesting. Love the army green fabric of your skirt. The detachable bag is unique!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you 😘. I think it was the detachable bag that won me over ❤️❤️

[@robynjury4403]

What fabulous makes! Love them both and you gave me looking at Waffle patterns now, there are some lovely patterns there, good to know it was such an enjoyable sewing experience.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Robyn, I feel we ought to be a double acts with our surnames 😂. They have some nice looking coats I might try for Winter now I’ve given this one a go 👍🏻❤️❤️❤️

[@craftymystic4868]

Over the moon with that Waffle skirt pattern, I bought it the minute I saw it, too. Am thinking of denim, but also wool, if it has a lining included, even better. Am knitting a wildly pink sweater that I am almost done with, and that’s the skirt I’ll be pairing it with. Wild, eh? 😂😂 or at least prepared for it, a little like McGyver (who I hope you’ve seen over in the UK, the reference being a guy who can get himself out of any given dangerous situation, because, in his pocket, he has just the tool with the right properties…..you get the idea). Love, love, love what you’ve done with the pattern!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Ah ha, I never understood the McGyver reference before! I like your thinking, I was in a similar headspace denim? Linen? Wool? Or even jacquard soo many possibilities 😂👚

[@heathwood26]

I love that dress! I haven't sewn for many years but I'm inspired and I think I might just try making one . Love watching your channel 😊

[@AlexJudgeSews]

It could be just the thing to bring you back into the fold 👍🏻❤️❤️

[@wannabsewing]

You find the most amazing skirt patterns, it's fab.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you, I spend too much time hunting for something new 😂❤️

[@karlawallace1633]

Your skirt looks so very professional! The pocket on the left side is such a great thing to have for traveling. Love it!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks, yes I vaguely remember travelling 😂😘❤️

[@wendyware9738]

On your recommendation I have just made this dress and was very conscious to follow the instructions on the pleats! Like you I love it I’ve made in a chambray which is so cool and comfy next one will be linen. Thanks Alex would never have found it.

[@PsychicKathleen]

Both makes are fabulous Alex! Love LOVE your dress - just my style, fabric, colour :) Your skirt however is also very special. Love all those pockets and it's a perfect shape as well. Not too much flare, just enough really which isn't as easy to find as one might think. I'm a big fan of Waffle patterns - I have a couple patterns. I'll miss you! I look for you now with Friday sews :)

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Kathleen, I’ll be back as soon as I can, I’m sewing like a lunatic this weekend to store up before my hiatus 😂. Have you made you’re patterns yet? I’m interested to hear what the others are like 🥰

[@bluegrassdreams2seams510]

I love that dress and the fabric is gorgeous! Liked your skirt. Very cute! I will be checking some things out....

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@zdenkasykorova182]

Thank you for your great inspiration.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

You are so welcome!💚

[@traceepratt3142]

I made the Stitchbird and ordered fabric from Japan after seeing your makes last year. Loved it 😊. Even though it is winter here in Australia I’m inspired to make another.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

I’d love to see it, which fabric did you choose? 🥰

[@kellysmith4386]

I was just looking at that fabric. It really suits that dress and looks great.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

It’s super temping isn’t it, If I was rich I’d buy the whole Nani Iro collection 😂🤞🏻

[@jennetthamilton7942]

I've had my eye on that skirt pattern. I love all the pockets and small details that make it so unique. We here in Ontario are hopefully coming out of our lock down on the 14th and the only place I want to go is the fabric store. Not that I need anything but who knows what I might find. Coworkers are all talking about going to cafés, restaurants, and hairstylists, not me. They just don't understand!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

I completely relate to that, I was in the fabric shop before lunchtime when our shops opened 😂. It’s not like I actually needed anything either! The 14th will be here before you know it 🥰

[@deannemarino1382]

I have this skirt on my list! Love it!!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

I hope you enjoy making it, I’d love to see it when you’re done ❤️

[@lynnhunter5790]

Love your new stitch bird. I’ve bought Nani iro from drapers daughter before, she always has a great selection. You’ve made me want to make another one 😂. Already have 3.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you, there just so good aren’t they? Especially for showcasing a great fabric and yes Karen has a fabulous eye for fabric 🥰

[@annettecowburn1096]

The dress is really you and the skirt is stunning, I love all the detail.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Annette 💙💙

[@sambradshaw67]

congratulations on hitting the 6k mark! Love following your channel. x

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Ooh thank you, that’s so kind 🥰

[@Originallyadressmaker]

Also....you could make a matching strap with snaps for the ‘pocket’ and wear it as a a bag!

[@jounderhill6913]

Hey Alex! Hmmm…I’ve been looking for a Chuck it on type dress for a while so I think I may have to give the Stitchbird Dress a go. That skirt is brilliant! I never knew there were so many types of pocket. 💜

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Yes Jo I can see it being very you on a non wafty day 🥰😂

[@thecpikas]

Love your Anzu. It took me like 2 days to trace all the pockets. I love pockets so it's perfect. Alas I have to grade up. I hope it looks as good as yours.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Grrr to having to grade up, I did send my pattern to be printed and did the cutting out in stages ... I hate cutting out 😂💙💙💙

[@vivhoworth1158]

Love the dress. Have you looked at Sew Different patterns? There some dresses that you might like. I love the Tulip Dress and Everday Chic dress.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Yes, but I haven't heard great things about their instructions so have been a bit put off. Have you tried any?

[@vivhoworth1158]

@@AlexJudgeSews yes, completed both those two dresses and love them. I am not an accomplished seamstress, but managed them. Tried the scoop pinafore which was not a huge success, mainly because I sized wrongly.

[@patgottshalk8808]

Gorgeous color!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks so much ❤️❤️

[@wendyware9738]

Lovely dress. Alex and very interesting skirt so much detail! Can you tell me a little more about what clubhouse entails sounds good?

[@AlexJudgeSews]

It’s an app that allows you to have a live group chat, not recorded. Anyone can join in and choose to listen or take part if they’d like to chat too. We have a sewing room chat on Sunday’s at 15.30 BST

[@LuzMartinez-if1dw]

Loving the dresses , can you maybe do a tutorial on how to do the front and back pleats please , I'm a beginner and that dress would be great but would be terrified to do the pleats , thank you so much 😊

[@AlexJudgeSews]

I’m not sure I’ll be able to for a while, but I really think you could do it. You could try printing the pattern out either full sized or reduced down and follow the instructions folding the paper pattern. Imagine how brilliant it’ll feel when you achieve it 👍🏻👍🏻❤️

[@LuzMartinez-if1dw]

Thank you 😊

[@halesmoore]

All Saints in the 90s? I think Waffle patterns have gone under the raydar but they have some nice looking coat patterns as well. Hoping to tune in on Sunday if I'm around so have messaged Shirley for an invite.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Yeah the coats look great 👍🏻. I hope you can make it Hales, it would be fab to hear what you have to say 😘

[@adeleseaman5004]

Just ordered the Stitchbird pattern, looks fantastic on you

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you, I hope you enjoy it 😘

[@elainemariesews2683]

Alex, I have been eyeing the Anzu cargo skirt pattern for awhile and after seeing yours I have to get it😊. Now to figure out what color to make it🤔.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Oooh so many choices, I was tempted to make a linen one. I’m sure you’ll enjoy making it 👍🏻💙💙💙

[@marieg2815]

@@AlexJudgeSews a linen one is a great idea!

[@elainemariesews2683]

It looks like all the details make it challenging, but also fun!

[@jennistevenson796]

I have bought the stitchbird pattern just now through your link. I need to find a printing service.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

If you’re in the UK I’d recommend Fabulosew they have a lovely lightweight paper

[@jackjudge7393]

Another amazing vid from alex

[@happyshopper570]

hi alex love your dress, i have the black and grey nani iro tencel and i always wondered (since it is drilled into me) are we suppose to cut on the grainline to avoid warping? please let me know if this applies to nani iro fabrics? as i am dying to use my fabric, thank you!!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Honestly, I’m not sure however the one I made a year ago hasn’t had any issues at all. I did once make a pair of linen pants on the cross grain after a few hours of wear the waist had stretched so much I could have fitted a second person in them with me 😂

[@Originallyadressmaker]

I bought the stitch bird pattern after seeing your first version! I will be making some this summer for sure......would love to get my hands on some of that Nani Iro fabric 🥰 How much fabric did the dress take cutting it the other at? That skirt is the bomb! I love it - thanks for letting us know about the company!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Hi Leanne, I bought whatever the recommendation was and have a good half a metre left. Funnily enough I was thinking about making a strap for the pocket bag - great minds eh 🥰

[@Originallyadressmaker]

@@AlexJudgeSews thanks, that’s good to know - especially as the Nani Iro fabric is so pricey.....also really hard to find in NZ! Haha that’s funny about the strap!

[@vhinteriors9964]

Fab video 😁

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you 😁

[@MariSews]

Congratulations on 6k!

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thank you 🥰

[@PracticalStitches]

Very interesting fun skirt. The dress and fabric is gorgeous. I have been wanting to ask who is the painter? Beautiful

[@Evohoy]

You are such a temptress…that dress is to die for.!! I’ve already bought the pattern and am soooooo tempted by the Nani iro fabric! Did you find you needed less fabric cutting on the cross grain?

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Sorry - not - sorry 😂. Yes, I’ve got a good half a metre of fabric left I’m a size 14 ❤️❤️

[@dianemorrall2687]

The Stitchbird Dress is my favourite as well. I have made one in linen so far. How much of the Nani Iro fabric did you order for your dress? Very cool to wear in Summer. I looove this skirt! Will have to order it.

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Isn’t it great 😁. I ordered whatever the chart said, but I have a good half a metre left because of cutting it on the cross. I’ve got a similar amount of the black/grey fabric left too so am thinking of combining the two on a top. 🥰

[@dianemorrall2687]

@@AlexJudgeSews thank you.

[@StitchRipRepeat]

Love both makes, especially your Anzu skirt!! I’ve had the pattern for a while but not made yet, do you think it would work in needle cord? I have a fabric in mind but be interested to hear from you now you’ve made one 😊

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Helen, so long as it’s not too thick I don’t see why not. Needle cord would look amazing 🤩💛💛💛

[@StitchRipRepeat]

@@AlexJudgeSews cool, I think I’ll give it a go! 😊👍🏻

[@StitchRipRepeat]

I still haven’t made it! Going on my (very long) list 🤣

[@lorainemunro7969]

🐯

[@anessaharris9947]

😀

[@AlexJudgeSews]

😘

[@aloadofbobbins]

Congratulations 🎊 🥂 🎉 6K 🙌👏 massive thanks for sharing and being inspiring as always 😘😘 @aloadofbobbins

[@AlexJudgeSews]

Thanks Karen, you’re always so kind 🥰❤️❤️❤️

[@rakkasan3301]

Those amazing chesticles...much like your face is....beyond breathtaking~

[@julieelliott3861]

Congratulations on passing 6K Alex, totally deservered 🥂 I'm with you on making multiple comfy non-sack-like dresses. Having taken 2 years to make my first Milenda dress by Tessuti Paterns one week later I've almost completed my second (I'm jubble66 on Insta if you want to take a look). Your cargo skirt looks very 90s! Waffle Patterns obviously have a thing about pockets - I've got their Tosti Jacket waiting for when I feel brave enough which also has a mindblowing pocket offering 😄

[@AlexJudgeSews]

I’ll go and find you on Instagram I’m keen to see your dress and can keep an eye out for your Tosti. The Waffle outerwear looks amazing 💚💚💚

[@dheamw1460]

.