The Best Trouser Patterns - 9 essential sewing patterns

[@mellyju]

Yes, would love to know more about fabrics, as I’m just getting back in to sewing after a 30 year gap. I’ve just found your channel, and find it so inspiring, so thank you. Also I’d love to know more about your work. Thanks again.

[@majbrittkjaer6134]

Yes to trimming the collar back for you. You could make a belt for it as well, or some kind of closure. A tote bag with the coat would most likely overwhelm you, but it is a good idea unless you would make a lined wrap skirt, very slim, to go with the coat 😊

[@chantelm2818]

Yes to garment construction, pattern drafting, museum and shop visits and more! Your content is engaging and inspiring.

[@Lighthouse1852]

Yes, to hearing about your business. I'd also enjoy videos on the garments you've found most satisfying to make. Our time is precious. For those who value the end result as much or more than the process, I like to hear maker-designers talk about what projects felt most worthwhile. Special occasion wear? Pants because a custom block allowed a fit that you could never find in RTW? Making vintage designs? Using one-of-a-kind fabrics? Would you tell us about textiles you've collected on your travels? Would you tell us about illuminating mistakes?

[@angelagarrett-ek5bb]

Great vlog great selection of trousers and just enough information on each. I love to watch vlogs that help with inspiration of what is around to sew where to find great fabrics. Fabulous classics and staples along with current trends and little twists. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge xx

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks so much!

[@rosey_ie]

Hi Rachel! Thanks for another very informative and insightful video! 😍 I agree that the collar could be scaled back a bit on you, however, you’ll need a fine balance between scaling it back and losing the wonderfully oversized scale of it, which is really what it’s all about with that pattern! Thanks for the explanation of the seam construction too by the way. I have recently been trying to find a pattern and fabric that would help me re-create a jacket I love but can’t afford, and you’ve helped me understand how the seams on it were achieved! In terms of types of content - I love things like what you’ve done in this one about the interesting seam construction. Finding out about more elevated construction and finishing techniques is always very interesting! - As a designer, you would have a wealth of knowledge in how to create the silhouettes one would love to wear. I really struggle to find the patterns that reflect my own style. If you were inclined to show how to (a) find the silhouette you want, or (b) manipulate basic patterns to achieve what one actually wants, that would be AMAZING!

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Rosey, thank you, yes I think I'm going to trim it by about an inch and see if it works and trim more if needed. Really useful feedback on the type of content - thank you so much!

[@leonabraithwaite8881]

I like your videos because you provide a wide range of classic styles, which is what I enjoy. I really love the “sew the trends videos” but I know you can only do so many per season. Being that you have so much professional experience, I would also enjoy seeing videos around certain techniques that can elevate the quality of one’s makes - we know there is more than one way to do things, particularly when it comes to sewing. I’m definitely at the stage in my journey where I am looking to really elevate and apply more sophisticated techniques. Watching your channel, you have helped me to source other, less well known patterns - sometimes, I find that many vloggers tend to make and share the same things which I find a bit tiresome.

[@janwolf980]

Given that you have some left over boiled wool, I suggest you explore building a capsule wardrobe around your new coat and garments constructed using the remnant boiled wool along with other pieces you make which complete a weekend wardrobe. That would be fun. I often make beautiful pieces that are great standouts for an occasion but don't work together in a capsule. I'd like to see how you do it where the clothes represent a harmonious set but don't look matchy matchy or like you're wearing the same thing/color each day over a 3-4 day period. Think business trip. In the States, everything is so gosh darn casual now, it puts a damper on "dressing up." I'd love to see how you solve that delicate balance. Thx.

[@erinmacdonald2379]

I’m so glad I discovered your channel! It’s one of my favorites. Personally, I love it when you share these videos and then mention how you would style the garments. It helps me see a pattern that I might previously have overlooked in a new light. And incidentally, when you mentioned holiday tuxedos I’m like…please can we see this! I’d love to see holiday/party looks edit. I love your style and the selection and variety of patterns you share. I would also love to see style related travel videos, like maybe trends and styles you see on travels, patterns inspired by travels, or just what you pack to wear on your travels which I know you’ve shared before (& I love seeing). But basically, keep doing what you’re doing!

[@tracyfrost]

I love your trend reports on each season. It would be great if you could do a review on all the new fabrics that are being developed.

[@dparkman491]

Would love to see videos on garment construction, museum visits sound great and details about your business and how you’ve built it. I also enjoy hearing your take on various patterns especially those that mirror trends and designer pieces I appreciate the styling suggestions you offer with the patterns you discuss.

[@janwolf980]

Gemima, I've just recently discovered your channel; it's quite a delight. Thank you for your rich, thoughtful content. I've enjoyed your videos quite a lot. RE: your gray boiled wool coat: you're spot on. The collar is too large. I agree, you need to trim it back a bit. Doing so will allow the overall design of the wrap coat and the beauty of the fabric as well as your frame to standout a bit more. I've been wanting to use this same pattern for a while. Seeing your result encourages me to move forward and get it done.

[@ceciliaf1592]

Love the grey coat on you. And yes to cutting the collar back a bit. You have good instincts.

[@lyndathomas4399]

@@ceciliaf1592 u

[@janetlawrence4324]

Love, love the boiled wool coat.

[@laracagan7953]

Thank you so much for all the work you do for this vlog. I would love to see more content on pattern drafting and altering/construction of more complex garments.

[@bodyandsoul17]

I actually really like that large collar as is, especially on you…it gives the vibe of those attached scarf coats but without seeming impractical. I like all the video ideas you mentioned!

[@MarieH-i9h]

I came for the hand made wardrobe advice...you do NOT disappoint! Love to see your process, plans, styling. Agree with narrowing collar of your new jacket.

[@gemimalondon]

Thank you Marie!

[@marianapackman9511]

I like the collar of your coat as it is, it is a statement piece.

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks Mariana!

[@debbiecarter6430]

I really enjoy your channel Rachel. The combination of your own makes, the trends and getting out and about is great. I’ve enjoyed your Biba and Chanel videos and would find it interesting to hear about other designers who have inspired you, their style and distinctive features and maybe pattern suggestions that use some of those features. x

[@andreabremner3026]

A favourite of mine for boiled wool is Tessuti Berlin Coat. I have made it twice before. Last winter I made Closet Core Sienna with a similar coloured boiled wool and it is my favourite.

[@lizoid88]

love all of your ideas for future plans - definitely "sew the trends" and pattern picks for designs, also how to sew different types of fabric would be great too. merry christmas, liz xxx

[@yogaknitdra8953]

I’m in Sydney so always love shop reports from London! Would welcome any construction videos, makes inspired by high fashion especially, latest runway ❤

[@maxineteague4018]

Really enjoy your videos. Yes to garment construction, choosing fabrics, how to make garments with high finishes and your business experience. All your suggestions for content sound great. Thanks

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Maxine, thanks for the feedback!

[@debrizzo7031]

I would love to hear more about your business! Thank you for all your sharing ❤

[@judychandler5822]

I love the jacket. You could use the leftover boiled wool to make a short jacket, for instance, a bomber jacket. I enjoy all the videos you do. It'll be lovely to see liberty dressed for Christmas

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Judy, thank you, I love the idea of a bomber jacket! I will be covering Liberty very soon, it's one of my favourite trips over the Christmas period.🎄

[@veragiles981]

Rachel, I really enjoy your channel as regards to choosing patterns, fabrics and what is trending. I live out in the sticks and therefore lose track very easily about what is 'in' or 'out'. I feel that your style is more 'grown-up' than some sewing channels. I find that a lot recommend saggy baggy indie patterns. Gorgeous on youngsters but not on me anymore. Sigh!!😅 Yes, construction of garments is a great idea, maybe demonstrating different fabrics. You can never beat a Liberty's review, and yes, too, to museum exhibition visits. Then I know whether it's worth busting a gut to get down to London. Re. your super jacket....yes, maybe just trim the collar to the outside edge of your shoulders? It looks very chic!!😊

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Vera, yes I'm not into that saggy baggy look either, I need a bit more structure! I agree about the collar, I am going to trim it back before its first outing! I am going to the "Rebels" exhibition at the Fashion & Textiles Museum.

[@veragiles981]

Rachel, I've just had a look at you Vogue jacket pattern.....! Is it worth trying to sort of gather up the collar rather than lying it out flat, so that's it's sort of snuggled up around your neck? Just a thought if you haven't already taken the scissors to it!😅

[@kathycondello75]

Tessuti has a boiled wool long line vest which I made in a pale mauve. Love it😍🇨🇦

[@user-EmmaG]

I have some faux leather and would love to make a skirt but I am a bit scared to cut into it. What I would like to know is how to finish the seams and different techniques. I love your videos. They always have something a little different. I’d like to see more of what you make. Thank you.❤

[@sherryvanrijn5453]

The coat is gorgeous! I don't think the collar needs trimming, but it isn't really made to be worn big and flat. It begs to be styled bunched and scrunched, and also as a hood in the rain. I have a double-faced wool and am excited to make one of these for myself!

[@janicemiller6554]

A lot of people starting off sewing, do not anything about fabrics. Selvedge edges, bias cuts, cotton, polyester, wool, Weights of fusing etc. I think they would be a good conversation.

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks Janice, that's a really good point - it's so easy to forget about all the important basics when you are a bit more advanced 👍🙏

[@janicemiller6554]

@@gemimalondon there is about 6 conversations in that.

[@gemimalondon]

@@janicemiller6554 definitely 👍

[@majbrittkjaer6134]

Fully agree. I have sewn on and off for many years, but this was really something I only actively started to pay attention to it some years ago, and many still struggle since it seems kind of the “booring” preparation part, but soo important.

[@MichelleConnolly-x4n]

I’m really happy to have found your channel and like others have commented I like everything you have done so far so thank you. Yes, would love to know about your business and your career. Really enjoy hearing what you’ve bought and made and what you’ve seen. I appreciate your time making your videos and sharing your experiences. Thank you!

[@elainescotter9973]

Hi thanks for this really useful video. A good selection of varied trouser patterns. Love the coat but would agree the collar does swamp your small frame. Tessuti have a lot of patterns for boiled wool. The Verona by Tessuti is cute and uses a small amount of fabric. I know its another jacket but is a very different style from your coat. I would love more on Exhibitions (textile related and other art forms) , Seasonal trends, General info about your current sewing projects. I am grateful for all the time and effort you clearly put into these. Thanks

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Elaine, thank you, yes the collar is definitely going to be trimmed back and the Tessuti Verona is really cute (I will also have a look at their other patterns). Thank also for the feedback on my content, it's really helpful.

[@lisart2488]

I always enjoy your content. I like your professional eye on patterns, design trends etc. Tutorials on pattern drafting and techniques would be great and how to replicate designer trends.

[@tonileggate]

I am a newer subscriber and have been catching up on your videos. I agree with the comments already posted regarding the 'business' side of your channel. Anything and everything will appeal to those who sew; if not, we could skip that particular video! I agree that the collar swamps you slightly, maybe 1 to 1.5 inches off? May I say that your links to the patterns are really good, very useful. Thank you...

[@yogaknitdra8953]

Great video thanks. Tessuti have a great collection of boiled wool patterns, that’s plenty to get a gilet/ vest or Verona jacket

[@rondabellefontaine2759]

I look forward to your videos each week and have enjoyed all of them - especially the pattern reviews and your makes. I'd be interested in hearing what a designer does and your career story. Would love to see your sewing space in detail - cutting table, sewing space organization, how you store your fabric ( and do you catalog it somehow?), tools, etc. What about a review of irons - do you use a regular iron or steam one or special ones for sewing and proper use of pressing tools. I used to love to sew, but am having a hard time starting again. I have made so many items that ended up not fitting well. Would you be able to do a video on planning a wardrobe or choosing styles that fit a person's body type. I'd be really interested in learning more about fabrics and fabric selection.

[@marianapackman9511]

I really enjoy your videos, I would like you to talk about fabrics. I often struggle with pairing the fabric with the pattern. I have ended up with really bad pairings. 😊

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Mariana, that's a really great idea to talk about not just the fabrics but how you pair them with a pattern, thank you.

[@cathmckeever2728]

I love the variety of your content, in particular these ‘best of vlogs’ and as others have said everything you suggested today sounds ace. I’d love suggestions for smart casual outfits. Like you spoke about - softly tailored styling. London shopping for fabric is always brilliant as well. Thank-you

[@barblawrie9328]

I would love to see some content on garment construction. Your example to the Max Mara really resonated for me.

[@ryms9648]

Thanks for all you do, really like your channel. And yes to garment construction 😊

[@gemimalondon]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@Orolomian]

France’s Valentine has a similar coat at Saks, which is gorgeous. That version has a big button which you may want to consider before you trim the excess. All in all, good job.

[@char1949]

I agree with making the collar a bit more narrow. The collar bunches a bit on your back neck and making it more narrow might also help that.

[@gemimalondon]

Yes I think so too, there is too much fabric there, I probably should have made it in a smaller size!

[@jennifercunha553]

Love this video, and all your videos! Pattern reviews, showing your completed makes,shopping in London, museums in London ..all are so interesting and enjoyable to watch. By the way, I have made 2 pair of pants using Vogue V1685 and it's a fab pattern but be warned it runs large. I went by my measurements and I had to take 2 inches off the waist.

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks Jennifer and thanks for the heads up about V1685, I will definitely toile them!

[@ailishcusterson8795]

I love the coat Rachel. I think the big collar provides drama, I’d keep it!

[@sarahlivesay7041]

I found you through the pattern round ups and enjoyed the rest of your content. I enjoy hearing your thought process about how to style hand made clothes and find your knowledge of design and patterns much broader than mine. I'd be interested in all the ideas you listed.

[@gemimalondon]

thank you Sarah !

[@barblawrie9328]

Museum visits, shop reports. Thank you. Love your channel

[@olive5890]

Hi, I would love to see "ranges" or capsule wardrobes for each season, for different lifestyles or styles... Endless content there and gives lots of ideas

[@gemimalondon]

Great idea!

[@lyndathomas4399]

I love your channel. you show a variety of ideas, designs, patterns. Maybe some tutorials on adding lining to light dresses (made of silk twill fabric and the like) as dress patterns often don't include linings at all. I am always fascinated with tailoring techniques, like chanel cuffs, shoulder pads and sleeve heads. I love your shopping trips, especially Liberty, my favorite London store. Whatever subjects you cover, I will watch.

[@annebrown886]

I love the coat and it’s bang on trend, I agree with you about just trimming back the collar so it’s more comfortable for you to wear 🧵✂️🪡

[@Lyndamoore-tv5ws]

I’d make a little snug biker jacket with the boiled wool x

[@sewsew100]

Great video. I think your coat is fab but perhaps the collar could be a little smaller. To answer your question about what subscribers might like to see, I really enjoyed watching your trends and shop reports videos. I would also be interested in exhibitions. I also like watching recreate the look videos with designer pieces and including a discussion of different fabrics that could be used. I enjoy pattern cutting so showing how to pattern cut and sew a high end dress or skirt would differently be my cup of tea.

[@40LR-uw2ji]

Hi Rachel, great vlog and I love your boiled wool coat! I would probably trim it back slightly on the shoulders. Your seasonal trends, pattern reviews and especially your fabric haul vlogs are amazing. I would also love to see the sewing process for patterns you make. From picking a pattern, to choosing the appropriate fabric; how to alter the pattern to fit your measurements and the sewing order (as some pattern instructions are unclear). Also, as I live in a country where fabric composition is either missing or unreliable, any tips for other ways of determining pattern appropriate fabrics would be much appreciated. Thank you so much for your wonderful and thoughtful videos. L

[@AmyM-u1j]

Love your vlogs! Yes to more content! Love the London shops and definitely would love to see more museums! Loved the Morris house! For your boiled wool piece, there is the Atelier Scammit Berger waistcoat. Uses v small amount of fabric!

[@ChrisHilton-w7t]

Hi, thank you for another informative vlog, I look forward to watching your content. I agree that your coat would look better with a scaled back collar. I also thought of Tessuti’s Verona, it is easy to make and a versatile piece to have in the wardrobe. With regards to your vlogs keep doing what you are doing! Personally I am interested in learning more about pattern making and garment design/construction. Thank you.

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Chris, thank you. Yes the collar is going to be cut back! I really like the Tessuti Verona and I think I probably have enough fabric too 👍

[@silk_n_vintage_etc2643]

Love something like 5 favourite patterns for different things, e.g for silk, for jackets, Love seeing inside places like Liberty of London and seeing London scenes. Enjoy being walked around fabric shows as we don’t have them in NZ and I have to live vicariously.

[@karent7382]

You inspired me to visit Goldhawk Road for the first time - your video was really useful and wish I'd discovered the place years ago! I would like to see garments being made, zip insertion into trousers in slow motion particularly! I just need to build up confidence in having a go! I love the boiled wool jacket but think for you it could be trimmed back a touch!

[@katherinebrockhoff8476]

I’d love to see you use your pattern cutting skills to show us the famous rounded Biba shoulder cut & sleeve cap and the Biba dart. There are sketches out there but I’ve not been able to recreate it in muslin. No luck finding patterns either. Thanks!

[@Sewjourner]

Thank you

[@maryb.7043]

For your leftover boiled wool, how about The Makers Atelier's "The Flared Top." I have sewn 3 of them! If you scroll down the images on that pattern page, you will see one in boiled wool. It doesn't have to be so flared as the tops shown in more flowing fabric. Looks more like a stylish pullover. Just a thought. TMA has a lot of boiled wool options in their pattern line that does not need a lot of yardage. :)

[@francinegodhelp-hazeveld2159]

The leftover grey material could be very nice combined in a jacket with denim sleeves, collar. Or a jacket combined with a kind of wooly stretch jersey sleeves.

[@deidrabenson361]

Hi, new subscriber! Love the coat, I would trim the collar a bit! Thanks so very much for sharing this video!❤️

[@gemimalondon]

Welcome!!

[@lesleycurtin83]

I also love your coat but would reduce the collar by a 4-5 cm. I think Vogue patterns are generally designed for beanpoles.😅 Your reviews, tips, recommendations etc are fab & 'to the point'. I'd love you to continue with these but, living in a small town where the shops are almost non- existent, starved of culture etc I'd love to see inside Liberty & some of the great exhibitions you get in London. Thanks for all your content.

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks Lesley, I've trimmed the coat collar back now and it is much better! I will show in my end of year vlog on all my makes.

[@majbrittkjaer6134]

Just found your channel this week, great calm content. For me the “problem areas” are the different finishings for the different projects that I normally skip on, which makes it look homemade… and a realistic time estimate, meaning that I often “run out of steam” and projects ends up not being finished… or the finishing suffers because I just want it done …. Any good suggestions, or just expectation adjustments for home-sewers, would be great, like how much time for different types of garments, but also for the different techniques and detailing and finishing… 😊

[@gemimalondon]

Hi, thank you for commenting, those are all good ideas that I could cover which may be helpful!

[@jennetthamilton971]

The bolied wool coat is lovely but definitely scale back the collar, it does swamp you. I live in a small town in Ontario Canada, and I don't have many chances to visit fashion displays at museums. So something like that would interest me. A friend and I did go to a very small fashion museum in a nearby city a couple of years ago that was quite interesting. They had a show of Cher costumes from the years when she had a television show with Sonny. The detail on those costumes was so interesting. I would have loved to have had the chance to see how they were constructed and also to see how the inside was finished. I also enjoy your visits to fabric shops, again, I don't have access to many of those. Maybe you could show us some sewing techniques that you have learned from being in the industry that might not be something a home sewist would know. I'd love to see how you do a flat felt seam. I know I could just research it but would rather see how you do it. Could you show us some of the items you designed yourself. And lastly anytime you go to Liberty please share. It would be a dream for me to go there. I will do so vicariously with you.

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Jennett, thank you so much for your feedback. Yes I am definately going to trim back that collar! The Cher costumes sound very interesting and thank you for telling me what you would like to see!

[@pearlkoning1275]

You live in London! I would like to see your visits to Liberty because i buy and sew lots of Liberty fabrics

[@KarolRhodes]

Love the coat and fabric. Collar definitely too big (I'm petite) thanks for the other pattern info - karol

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks for watching!

[@pearlkoning1275]

Just style the collar like you would a scarf. Beautiful

[@MicheleS-t3e]

You are correct.. the collar is a little overwhelming…unless it is supposed to also be a hood ??? A short jacket or vest would work with leftover boiled wool…like a Bodensee vest or “waistcoat” I had previously made boiled wool fabric from an article in a really old Threads magazine into a coat…loved it..but can’t wear in our new hotter climate in AZ. thanks for sharing the patterns

[@rachelcoleman1267]

I’ve just made the combo cardigan from style arc in a boucle Think you would get that out of what you have Left

[@helenv2906]

I love your coat and do agree with you that the collar is a bit too big for you...trimming it would suit you better. Hope this helps and that you for this pants video!

[@julia-nc6ox]

The wrap jacket is lovely and I would also think about scaling the collar back but looks good as is. I'm 5'2" and would definitely decrease the width and volume!

[@gemimalondon]

Thanks Julia, I'm going to trim it back as it feels a bit unmanageable!

[@debbiev4455]

You could make a cape

[@christamulligan9816]

Love it, but really, really not sure to cut the collar - or not? As you have so much fabric left would it be too much work to make it again with no collar or a smaller collar? Yes for the fabric shopping!

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Christa, I have actually trimmed back the collar now and its much better, it was really drowning me. I will show it in my end of year showing all this years makes!

[@cor3944]

10 Pds per m for boiled wool, that’s amazingly cheap. Normally it would cost twice. I would recommend additional pattern Vogue9135 of Kathryn Brenne or a lovely oversized vest. I really like your talk about trousers pattern and I am newly suscribed, because you are at my age and a similar style, my body is well taller. I like to sew with good quality fabrics, priority on cottons. Could you do a video about the great variety on cottons and which to use for what? Thank you and greetings from the Netherlands ❤

[@gemimalondon]

Thank you for subscribing!

[@rachelcoleman1267]

Sorry that should have said como. Just a thought what about some soft wool blanket stitch in some contrast colour as this is very much on trend.

[@gemimalondon]

Hi Rachel, I really like the idea of the blanket stitch, I'm thinking of making another caot in the same style but in camel with matching blanket stitch perhaps.