Sewing with Hemp Fabric: My New Top and Skirt

I sewed with a new-to-me fiber this week! Curious about Hemp knit fabric? I’ll tell you more! Use code TOMKAT for 15% off your order to try it for yourself!
Want your own free Knit Tips ebook? Click here: www.tomkatstit...
For 15% off your order at Hemptique use code TOMKAT at checkout!
Top fabric: hemptique.com/...
Skirt Fabric: hemptique.com/...
Ribbing: hemptique.com/...
Lutterloh Pattern System: lutterloh-syst...
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What I’m wearing:
Love Notions Aria Shirt*: www.lovenotion...
RTW Jean Shorts
Lipstick:
Ilia Color Block Lipstick in Rococco: iliabeauty.com...
For 10% off Love Notions Patterns at any time (including sale), use code 10Whitney (code expires 9/30/24)
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For reference: I am 5’2” and my measurements are as follows, upper bust 36”, full bust 40”, waist 33”, hip 40”

[@TomKatStitchery]

Want your own free Knit Tips ebook? Click here: www.tomkatstitchery.com/knitebook For 15% off your order at Hemptique use code TOMKAT at checkout! Top fabric: hemptique.com/products/hemp-knit-fabric?variant=39657292464193 Skirt Fabric: hemptique.com/products/hemp-knit-fabric?variant=39657292267585 Ribbing: hemptique.com/products/hemp-knit-fabric?variant=39657292234817

[@4Bevy]

You look so elegant in the whole outfit. I would leave it the natural color. Then make a jacket in one of your bright colors that you love. A jacket would carry the outfit well into fall. Don't you love it we all have opinions :-).

[@TomKatStitchery]

Noted your vote==Let's see what happens with the test dyes!

[@jellyfishkiss3886]

the natural color is fantastic but what fun to play with the dye! and, red!

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@marionskinner]

I love what you made. The Hemp is much more neutral than we are used to see you in. However it looks great.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@marybethpowell4876]

I like the natural on you, but if you do decide to dye it then absolutely use "fancy" dyes, i.e: Procion MX fiber reactive dye. They are cheaper in the long run, easier to use, and produce significantly better results. They are so rich and intense. Dharma Trading Company is the go-to source. I dye about 60% of the garments I make. Either overdyeing thrifted fabric, dyeing solids with a bit of texture, or ice and tie dyes.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I've heard great things about Dharma Trading company! I'll check them out!

[@kathygann7632]

I love the natural color. You could really dress it up with just a metallic belt or necklace and the monochromatic look. I like brights, but a calm monochromatic look is really classy.

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@portiawrites]

Can't wait for the Lutterloh video(s)!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Stay tuned!

[@kandacek63]

I think the outfit looks lovely. I love the top.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!!

[@nedawilmhoff3599]

This outfit looks fantastic on you. Looks very high end.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Oh thank you!

[@carolynfields1038]

Whitney- This natural color looks good on you and acts as the summer equivalent of the LBD. I would leave it as is and vary the accessories for lots of wear. Enjoyed your discussion.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for watching!

[@nozztozz]

Good problem solving! You showed us that where there's a will, there's a way! 👏

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@jessiedietrich42]

I love the tan however I love red also ! It is a beautiful outfit!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you so much!

[@SconesAndTea]

I love the natural look but if you dye the outfit, dark blue would be stunning.

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@janepack850]

Hi Whitney. I love love love this outfit. I vote keeping the natural look. 💕

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@carolpatrick3567]

Hi, I would leave it and jazz it up with your jackets and jewelry. consider your thread composition when dying. 🤔

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@SS-le7du]

I am so glad you’re doing a video on the Lutterloh, I’ve been curious about them for a while , thank you so much! Can’t wait! And your set looks so good😃

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!!

[@SconesAndTea]

BTW Everything you sew is impeccable. I wish I could sew as well as you. ❤🧵

[@TomKatStitchery]

That's very kind! Thank you so much!

[@ames0596]

Do a dye video but the outfit in the natural color is elegant - very high end looking . The natural color is beautiful.

[@TomKatStitchery]

We are going to try test dying some of the scraps before we make a leap.

[@macquadj]

Genius idea to solve your neck band issue. 😊

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!!

[@donnaschindlbeck7457]

Oh my gosh! I absolutely love this neutral on you! So many ways you can go from casual to formal with this outfit by just changing shoes, bag, jewelry, scarves etc. I know you don’t really wear scarves very often but tie one onto a statement handbag to add to your bohemian vibe. The skirt has such a beautiful flow, love it, love it, love it! 💃 I think the front tuck is very flattering for this outfit. Great save on the neckline!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!!❤️❤️❤️

[@DoloresDeeBodnar]

I Love the color and yes, even on you ❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!!

[@debsmadethis]

Love these shapes. Super problem solving🎉 Presumably your cover stitch and serger thread will stay white/neutral if you dye. I would love this in either deep red or french navy. Be interested to see how your scraps dye up !

[@TomKatStitchery]

Stay tuned!

[@addiekl]

The hemp knit drapes beautifully the way you designed the outfit. I used to have a RTW maxi skirt in a Tencel knit that I wore a lot (but not in summer). It was a washed dark blue and I had a matching button up shirt that I could wear like a jacket and it was so versatile. I like yours in the original color, for summer and early Autumn, the natural color can be mixed with almost any other colors in your palette. I just bought some woven hemp fabric, from the Fabric Store in NZ, to make pants.. I haven't pre-washed the yardage yet but it seems very similar to linen which is what I expected.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️

[@clothes_i_sew]

I love the natural colour on you. If you do decide to dye it, the thread possibly may not dye the same way if you used a polyester thread. I love your solution with the stretched out neckline 😊

[@TomKatStitchery]

I will consider the stitching a "design feature" if I do dye the fabrics

[@pattikillelea-almonte6670]

I love the outfit I think you should leave the color as is. Earrings, necklace, belts, scarves, purses can all add your color -- and change every time you wear the outfit. Very nice.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@CaraTranstrom]

I love the way this looks on you in this color already, but I say absolutely play with dyeing the scraps! The only thing that worries me: what fiber of thread did you use to sew these two garments? If the thread was polyester, for instance, the thread won't take the dye if you choose to dye the garment itself with natural dyes. May i suggest stitching on your scrap(s) with the thread you used and then making a decision? A high-end-looking garment can really look cheapened if the thread didn't dye well along with the fabric (don't ask me jow i know this 🙄). Best of luck! Can't wait to see what you decide---

[@TomKatStitchery]

The thread won't take the dye but I'm ok with it being a design feature.

[@nixr6]

I would love to know what that hemp sweater knit feels like. It looks dreamy!

[@TomKatStitchery]

It feels similar to a cotton or linen sweater knit. It's supposed to soften with each wash like a linen as well!

[@JulieH1958]

I just LOVE hemp! I started wearing hemp back in the mid 2000s when I lived in the Northern Territory of Australia ( think sub tropical climate) inRTW. It is the BEST, BEST BEST fabric. It was impossible to find when I returned to Melbourne. I came across it when I started sewing in a small independent fabric store and I literally jumped up and down with joy! It’s everything you said and more. I have sewed with it in its woven form. I’m not hopeful of having international delivery available but will definitely out the store to see what they have. Thanks for a great vlog! PS: for some reason, this vlog just came up so glad I found it via your newsletter. A great reason to make sure your subscribed!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for subscribing and the glowing endorsement of Hemp fabrics!

[@lisagallaway363]

yes, dye it! Solid Top and gradient skirt.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Oh, gradient skirt--that's a fantastic idea!

[@msebik4171]

Lovely outfit on you Whitney, very classy and becoming! I would love a video on dying fabric or yarn.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Stay tuned! I have a retired scientist on staff who is doing some experimenting with me!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@krisl.4962]

This is a great look on you, Whitney! Beautiful draping of the skirt, especially, and the half-tuck works so well!! I love it just as-is, so I’d vote no to dyeing… BUT, would you get more wear with each piece in a color??? I’m looking forward to the Lutterloh system video. I have, probably, the original version of the Lutterloh system, but haven’t worked with it in many, many years :) Thanks for all you share with us!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Stay tuned for the test dye and a Lutterloh feature!

[@Olivia-ko6mi]

RED for Christmas!! Try both!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I am going to do some test dying!

[@christineennis4766]

When you try scraps add some of your thread you used as well. Some time the thread doesn’t take the colour as well as fabric. I used to hand dye silk years ago.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'm fully prepared for the thread not to be dyed and become a "design feature"

[@carlabinnix8802]

Love it! Definitely checking out this fabric find! Would you have pattern suggestions for these pieces if I don't have Lutterlol? Your sound is a bit better today. Are you wearing a mic? Sometimes it seems like you have to yell to be heard. Loved today's vid!

[@TomKatStitchery]

They are both pretty basic pattern shapes so probably show up in quite a few pattern company catalogs, but I would say the Love Notions La Bella Donna and Ravinia Skirt or the Sinclair Patterns Sienna Knit top (cropped) and Mia skirt would be similar patterns!

[@pmclaughlin4111]

Hemp is one of the oldest fabrics known dating back to Sumeria , China, Greece. For centuries it was used in maritime applications. Sails and Ropes. It fell out of use in the 20th century in part because the plant looks a lot like the marijuana plant. Its an incredibly good agricultural plant, growing in poor soil and being pest resistant. And it makes great clothes.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I really love the drape of this fabric!

[@reneemorgan9320]

This looks so good!! And comfortable!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you! It's a delight to wear!

[@lianemcconnell3637]

This is a good color on you! Good tip on the neckline too!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@auntnessy7340]

Dye it. Dye it. Dye it. Always more color.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Got your vote!

[@karolmolpus9536]

Good look 👀

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!!

[@victoriahannah1633]

Love the skirt And top. I like the natural color. Then again blue sounds gorgeous.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you so much!

[@ladylouise1969]

I love to sew with Hemp! I also started using reusable hemp coffee filters many years ago! Hemp and Raimie are two of my favorite fabrics! Cute outfit! Also I have that system. The only thing I ever made with it was a vest because and my body grew unfortunately and I wish they made more things in the plus size range that are similar to the smaller size range because just because you’re plus size doesn’t mean you don’t want to be more fashion forward! 😊 Where do I go to vote?

[@TomKatStitchery]

Check out the Lutterloh website--they have additional pattern books!

[@paulajward]

Dye it red!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Got your vote! ❤️❤️❤️

[@karenbudnick]

Gorgeous on you. Leave it!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@karenbensdon4643]

Green is the closest to the color it is now. My guess is that dying it blue will result in a slight turquoise that is not clear, and dying it red will result in a slightly orange color with a muted feel.

[@TomKatStitchery]

We are going to do some experimenting with the dye before we commit!

[@karenbensdon4643]

@@TomKatStitcheryThat’s smart. I saw the clip on Instagram and saw that the blue did turn out on the turquoise side but the red is more berry-like than I expected. I liked both colors and am curious to see which one you choose.

[@lpga8007]

I would not dye it as I think that you need more neutrals ! But if you decide to do it, then red would be my colour of choice !

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@christinesaunders4638]

This is perfect on you! Absolutely love❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you so much!!

[@KnitzyKitzy]

I love this outfit. It is very stylish in it’s natural tone and perhaps cooler since it will reflect light more than a darker colour. The look of natural fibre has a quiet luxury feel. However, if you feel you would wear it more then dye it. I think a dark, burnt orange would over dye well. Blue would probably muddy up with the hemp undertones.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote! I hadn't considered orange--which is weird because I wear that color all the time!

[@soapLady52]

FYI: the Lutterloh patterns that Whitney used are as follows: Top - Supplement 325 Pattern 24 and Skirt - Supplement 323 Pattern 182

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for making that note!

[@soapLady52]

You are welcome!

[@Monga_Makes_Things]

So interesting to see a new-to-me natural fiber as I can’t wear many synthetics. Yes on the dying video! Have you used any plant dyes (using onion skins, flowered, etc.)? Before you mentioned dying this outfit I pictured it in a deep red. But red is my own favorite so I’m partial 😂 -Addie

[@TomKatStitchery]

I'll add this to the list for test dyes. Great suggestion with onion skins!

[@libbymcculla2650]

I love this colour on you, its beautiful-I would leave the colour as is.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote

[@ceceliaharris5660]

I’m sure you have already thought about this but unless you used cotton thread to sew your garments, the polyester thread won’t dye. Also, I’ve dyed a few garment fabrics and it is really hard to get the color perfectly even. Just a couple cautions.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yeah, I don't think the thread will dye. We are going to do some test dying to give it a whirl.

[@lisart2488]

I love your outfit. I have used hemp as a woven fabric and I love the way it wears and softens. I like the natural colour but if you dye it the polyester thread won't dye. Ask me how I know 😅

[@TomKatStitchery]

I am prepared for the thread to be a "design feature" because it won't dye

[@ina7747]

I loved how you solved the neckline problem; I once had to do it with a knit too. Elastic turned out to be my friend 😄 I like the colour of the outfit objectively, BUT I don't think the colours are very you? A bit too bland for your sparkling and vibrant personality. I'll vote for the dye process 🙂 That would be so fun to watch and learn from.

[@TomKatStitchery]

your vote is noted--stay tuned for the test dye!

[@ina7747]

@@TomKatStitchery would vote for the colour red

[@pennymcdonald1723]

Like you I have a colourful wardrobe. Having an occasional neutral like taupe can be very restful for your senses.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@kathygann7632]

What would really be cool is to keep this one natural, make another one and dye it dark red, then make a third one with pants instead of the skirt, and dye it blue. Voila! Capsule wardrobe!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That would be really fun!

[@Northandsouthsewing]

How did you keep the elastic in the neckline from rolling if you just stuck it in there? and YES, dye it!

[@TomKatStitchery]

It's the same length as the rib knit and I just put it in like I would for a waistband. I did sew through the rib knit at the back neck to tack the elastic in place, but that's it. I use knitted elastic and it stays put!

[@yellowfuchsia1]

When you mentioned Lutterloh, it rang bell with me. I checked the bookshelf and found a Lutterloh binder and tool kit that had belonged to my mother. The copyright date is 1979. It doesn't look as if she ever used it, but the set seems to be complete. The sellotape is a solid mass, but the felt tip pen still works! I am looking forward to your Lutterloh video. I might have a go at it myself, even if I just make some 1970's style pyjamas.

[@maryellenoneill9061]

I purchased the Lutterloh system back in the 70’s, I was not a confident sewist so I never really tried it. Have I to see if the special tape measure is still around. I too will look forward to seeing your video on it.

[@lauraByong74]

I also have the system and like you have not used it. Very interested in the upcoming video.

[@Kakkydidit]

So Carole has been using this occasionally and you can search her videos.

[@TomKatStitchery]

check it out--It's not for a beginner--but pretty fun change up from the norm

[@brendawyber6556]

Just a consideration for dyeing. The topstitch thread etc may not take the dye, so be a little careful. Check with the thread you used for topstitching. 🤞🤞🤞

[@TomKatStitchery]

The dye won't take on the thread for sure. It will be a design feature.

[@brendawyber6556]

Just as long as you go in with knowledge. I did some Tshirts and the “design feature” was not what I wanted. Love your channel❤❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

@@brendawyber6556 😂 I've definitely been there before!

[@sewruthiestyle3225]

My only question on the dyeing is what sort of thread did you use. If its polyester it'll stay taupe!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yep--Polyester--will not take the dye

[@MaryCunningham-u5j]

I thought it looked very elegant in the natural color but red or blue would also be quite nice, depending on which you think you would find more useful and flattering. Great save for the neckline - I know that sinking feeling when your first thought is that this thing can't be fixed! I've seen good results with Lutterloh but it feels like more thinking and work than my brain can do!

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@janedoe-vh4uk]

I missed something. Was a knit pattern used for the top? If you feel uncomfortable then dye it. I c lots of ways to add colour w/accessories or adding blazer or bright top paired w/skirt. Lovely pieces!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I used the Lutterloh system for both the top and skirt.

[@kylieharrison3782]

Leave it!

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@kandacek63]

Definitely red if you’re going to dye it.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I've noted your vote!

[@harrietsmith2633]

Such a pretty outfit but I would not dye it!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote

[@jenniferclifford4669]

If you've used polyester thread it won't dye with the natural fibre dyes.

[@TomKatStitchery]

You're right and I was aware of that. It will be a design feature!

[@evalucilledixon3879]

Qu: concerning the neckline of top: would sewn-in power mesh interfacing be a good solution?

[@TomKatStitchery]

You mean if you wanted to do a facing for the top? You could use it and it might not show, but with this open knit of the fabric I didn't want anything visible from the front.

[@patgottshalk8808]

Leave it natural. It moves beautifully and the color will see you into fall. Layer all those endorphin producing colors. Also your threads won’t dye unless you used cotton. FYI I didn’t see the community tab, mobile device.

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@nancynewman6592]

LOVE the outfit ... if you die it is your thread that you used going to take the die as well?

[@TomKatStitchery]

Nope--The thread will be still the original color

[@yvonnetrujillo5264]

No, leave it in its natural state. We already have access to so many other fabrics with color. You can always accessorize with color as you did.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@karenprovost2035]

@tomkatstitchery as far as dyeing the fabric, what thread did you use to sew it? If it is polyester thread, it will not dye. 😮

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yes, I'm prepared for the stitching to be a "design feature"

[@SewFelicia]

❤❤

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@pamelabaker4127]

I read somewhere that you can’t dye hemp as it resists it.interested what happens and whether the dye is permanent

[@TomKatStitchery]

We are going to do some test dyes. Stay tuned to find out!

[@Northandsouthsewing]

The width of a lot of the fabrics seems to be only 25". Is that correct? How would you know how much to order?

[@TomKatStitchery]

I specifically ordered the fabrics with the wider widths and didn't consider the more narrow ones.

[@glorialafollette61]

Will the length of the skirt “grow” when wearing?

[@TomKatStitchery]

I hadn't noticed it growing on the first wear. This is a good question!

[@sandrawhite3596]

Hi! Do not dye the hemp it is beautiful on you. 😊😊

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!

[@lynnm.johnson5755]

Vegetable based? Not just plant based?

[@lynnm.johnson5755]

It looks very nice on you. I would keep it as is for a while, see if you wear it much. You could always dye it later. It's supposed to be very durable, is it not?

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yes! Hemp is very durable!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Yes, it was polyester thread--it will be a design feature.

[@kathysmigen3927]

NO! Don’t dye it! You have so much more versatility with changing up accessories!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks for the vote!