It has been hot, hot, hot here in North Wales, and I only had a couple of strappy tops in my wardrobe. I ran up a couple more, this one finished yesterday morning in time to wear it out in the afternoon ☺️ It's an 'Orchard' from Helen's Closet (free pattern, simple'ish', just need to take care with the binding), and was made from a remnant of this lovely double gauze that I got a couple of years ago from the baskets in Abakhan. I had already made a Remy, and had just enough left - with a bit of jiggery pokery - for this top. I had to cut the top 2" shorter, then add a frill to make up the length. The frill is in four pieces, due to fabric constraints, but you can't really tell. The pattern also requires bias binding, and I just managed that, joining it in two places. There were literally crumbs left at the end to go into the scrap bag that goes off for recycling, and I was really happy to use what I had left of this lovely fabric. This top is perfect for these really hot days 👌 I'm wearing it here with my latest pair of Luna pants hack shorts from 'made by rae' in a fabulous pin cord from Legend Textiles - love them 💚 I can't wear synthetic labels on the inside, but I love this one from 'little rosy cheeks' so much, I put it on the outside 😍 I'm entering both of these pieces into the @patternhackathon challenge - the shorts in the 'keep it simple' category, as they are literally just the original pattern but short length. The 'Orchard' is for the 'inclusive' category, as Helen's Closet patterns are fabulous for this. #patternhackathon2025 #helenscloset #helensclosetorchard #helensclosetpatterns #abakhan #abakhanfabrics #madebyrae #madebyraepatterns #madebyraepattern #madebyraelunapants #lunapants #lunapantspattern #legendtextiles #littlerosycheeks #imakemyownclothes #iwearwhatisew #imakeitwork

#memademay2025 #day17 Another scorcher in North Wales 🌞🌞🌞 These shorts are the luna pants hack, details elsewhere. The top is an Orchard Top from Helen's Closet. I widened the straps, but then struggled to get them attached at the right angle, so I attached poppers on the four anchor points, and they are now 'self adjusting' 👍 I love this fabric with the faces on, that I got two or three years ago from Rainbow Fabrics. A lot of the fabric I am drawn to is directional, and I sometimes forget that I need to take this into consideration when deciding how much I need for any given pattern 😎 #madebyrae #madebyraepatterns #madebyraelunapants #lunapants #finefabrics #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #rainbowfabrickilburn #isewmyownclothes #iwearwhatisew #sewover60 #ifartaboutalot

Another one from @helens_closet today! This is my first attempt at an #orchardtop in some remnant viscose with pre-made double fold bias binding. The fit isn’t quite right, and I’m not sure if the bias is too stiff, or the size just not quite right, but it’s pretty and who doesn’t want a bit of Leopard print in their wardrobe? - And there’s a sneaky @TheSpeckySeamstress #wovenlabel to mark the back! I love that putting a label in somehow makes a garment feel more finished and ‘professional’ to me as it’s such a simple touch! - #Helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #orcharddress #helensclosetorchard #viscose #biasbinding #handsewn #indiedesigner #isewmyownclothes #imakemyownclothes #HandMadeWardrobe #poundfabrics

It’s #sewfrugal24 reveal day 🥳 I’ve made the @helens__closet orchard dress in a viscose that I’ve had in my stash for several years. I believe it’s a lady McElroy print! This was a fairly simple make, just a bit of binding to make! I made a size 18 and am happy with the fit. It’ll be perfect for my summer holiday and I can wear a T-shirt underneath it and live out my favourite 90s fashion trend! Thankyou to Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl and Sam @frugalisama for running this brilliant challenge again! #sewing #sewingproject #handmade #handmadewardrobe #memade #memadewardrobe #isewmyownclothes #helensclosetorchard #helensclosetorcharddress #helenscloset #freesewingpattern #sewistsofinstagram #sewistofinstagram #sewist #sewersgonnasew #sewersofinstagram

#wearhappycolor2024 week 3! This week it's complementary colours. These are the colours that are opposite each other in the colour wheel. Red-green, purple- yellow, blue- orange. Those in-your-face combinations that, as @katiekortmanart says in her little (free!) booklet on colour, you cannot not see! In an attempt to explore complimentary colour combinations other than the obvious ones, I'm combining deep burgundy/aubergine with lime green. I think it works! (Even though I'm not sure whether they truly are complimentary) It's a rainy day today and the lime green cheers me up! I'm wearing #seamworkpiedra #helensclosetorchard (as an underlayer to the piedra, second image) #wbmwardrobebuildertee in lovely soft bamboo jersey Wool cardigan #snagthights #elnaturalistashoes

Free pattern alert! 🚨 The #helensclosetorchard is a beginner friendly sewing pattern. I made the dress so quickly, I had time to immediately make a top, too. 😲 Sew with me on YouTube at Sew-Happy (link in bio). For the top, I cut the front and back pieces mirrored, instead of on the fold, adding a 1/4" seam allowance to attach and play with stripe direction. The dress has pockets, and I just love the iris flowers along the hem. 💙 #youtubesewalong #youtubesewingtutorial #freesewingpattern #freepatterns #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #sewingtutorials #youtubesewing #indiepattern #playwithstripes

🧵FREE PATTERN It’s Me Made May! Here is the first garment I’ve completed this month (started it last month…it takes a while to finish projects around here) This is the Orchard Dress from @helens__closet . It’s a free pattern that can be a top or a dress and can be adjusted to different lengths. You can also make the straps a few different ways; I opted for ties. I was in between sizes, so I cut one size down. Then I wound up cutting the fabric again to the next size down. I’m the end, I made it two sizes smaller than my measurements. It’s a great fit in the bust (really the only measurement needed in this pattern). I’m going to wear it a few times and see if I want to grade the hips down even more. It has a tent shape on me. It’s the perfect dress for southern summers. I wanted something flowy and breathable, and this is it! I realized my fabric was see through when I was cutting it, so I lined the dress, joining the lining to the shell with the neckband and and straps. The pattern had great instructions and was an enjoyable make. I want to make the shorter dress and tank now and add darts. #memade #memademay #memademay2023 #orcharddress #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #sew #sewing #janomemakes fabric: @hobbylobby #hobbylobby #freesewingpattern

This is my first entry for the #sewfrugal23 challenge put on by Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl and Sam @frugalisama I had originally intended to use this fabric for the #sewyellowforendo23 challenge and make a #lovenotionsmelodydolman but I ran out of time. The fabric was so lovely and breezy, though, and just perfect for our upcoming spring break trip, so I decided to make a #helensclosetorchard tank instead! The fabric, a quilting cotton from a store closing sale, is a little more stiff than I might ordinarily like for this pattern, but I think it’ll loosen up with wear and washing. I am incredibly grateful that the pattern is reversible (the bodice front and back are the same pattern piece) because, as you’ll see in the second photo, I ended up with two very unfortunately placed blotches on what I had hoped would be the front. *sigh* Thank you so much, Sam @frugalisama and Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl for running this challenge! #sewfrugal23 @theyorkshiresewgirl @frugalisama

My newest make is the #orcharddress made with cotton sateen from @neridahansenfabrics This is a free pattern from @helens__closet when you sign up for her newsletter🙌🏻 I love this style for summer 🌞 Comfy, cool and classic❤️ #helensclosetpatterns #helenscloset #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #freesewingpattern #neridahansenfabrics #neridahansenprintandtextiles #neridahansen #sateen #summerdress #ginghamdress #greyhairmovement #greyhair

👕#bellbirdbuttonup 👖#sabarrywovenpant Empezamos septiembre com un 🆕 #outfit !! Sigo en mis trece… cuando un patrón me gusta, lo repito hasta la saciedad, con diferentes telas para ver cómo se comportan. De esta vez, he decidido arriesgar con esta bambula eco de @tejidos.demoda …. Y ha sido un acierto al 100%, el conjunto el súper cómodo y fresco, la tela tiene un tacto increíble y me encanta la textura/efecto que tiene…. el canesú de colorinchiis remata el look.💙 👕 @common_stitch 👖 @stylearc … la primera foto es puro amor perruno 🐶💞 #isew #memade #newoutfit #diyclothes #isewmyownclothes #sewingaddict #sewingpattern #stylearc #commonstitch #commonstitchpatterns #tdmcostura #matchingmatilda #sewingismysuperpower #orchardtop #orchardsdress #helensclosetpatterns #helenscloset #helensclosetorchard #memadeonrepeat #instasewers #outfitoftheday

Day 10 of #memademay This is the #orcharddress by #helenscloset Made in a cotton that was purchased from #thefrenchseamboutique. I'm still on the hunt for the perfect swing dress pattern, but this comes close. #memademay2025day10 #mmm2025 #memademay2025 #orchardtop #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #helensclosetorcharddress #sewing #swingdress #summerdress #sewingsummerdresses

It's reveal day for #sewfrugal25 🎉🎉 thanks so much for hosting this great challenge @frugalisama and @theyorkshiresewgirl I made the free Orchard dress by @helens__closet to my pre-pregnancy measurements, but swapped the binding for a facing and thicker straps. It's made from a slinky John Kaldor ITY bought circa 13 years ago at the Knitting and Stitching show which has moved house with me at least 3 times just waiting for the right project. The extra ease of the knit means it's super comfortable to wear even on week 1 million of pregnancy when very little else fits 😅 UK based 😊 #sewfrugal #sewfrugal2025 #helensclosetorchard #orcharddress

I’ve been back at the sewing machine again, whipping up this quick @helens__closet #orcharddress because I absolutely cannot deal with hot weather! 🥵 #sewing #minervamakers #minervamakes #minervabrandambassador #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #viscose #viscosefabric #summerdress #ootd #quicksewingproject #freepattern #freesewingpattern

This is the Orchard dress, a free pattern by Helen’s Closet made out of some Spotlight linen I’ve had floating around for a while. I chose to make the straps adjustable which the instructions walk you through using rings and sliders repurposed from an itty bitty bra I had found at a charity shop. It is a quick make with some lovely simple details and deep pockets! It is quite voluminous, I made my size according to bust size but could of sized down. I think this would be really lovely in a drapey viscose. Unfortunately this linen is a bit see through but perfect for swanning around at home on a hot day and was in my stash so also perfect for the #sewfrugal23 challenge. A big thanks again to Sam @frugalisama and Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl #helensclosetpatterns #helenscloset #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #spotlightfabric #sewadelaide #frugalsewing #indipatterns #sewfrugal23 #sewlinen #ithaspockets #sewover40

Without shoes in the middle of shoes! Welcome to my parents' hallway after the kids have invaded... I do like the handy mirror-on-the-door situation though. Outfit of the day is almost entirely me-made: Seamwork dress Helen's closet dress (used as underdress bc cold, and other dress is a bit short) Wardrobe by me T-Shirt Scarf Even my underpants are me made today! It happens more and more often that I'm entirely dressed in memades, and it feel SO GOOD Swipe to see a close up of a tired face on a suddenly colder morning wearing my very simple muslin scarf (serged square of fabric) but it counts for this month's #stoffundzugenähtchallenge and it's a colour that I wouldn't have thought I'd wear that often! #seamworkpiedra #helensclosetorchard #orcharddress #piedradress #wbmwardrobebuildertee #imakemyclothes

I came up with this dress out of pure survival instincts during the heat wave — something quick to come together and as diaphanous as possible. It’s not quite what I had expected when I set out, it ended up a heavy dose of grandma nightgown with a dash of regency cosplay. I started with the #closetcorecielo, modified with a square neckline and added a tiered skirt. The fabric is from my stash, a really light gauzy linen I bought last year on clearance at a local fabric shop. I also made a #helensclosetorchard dress in white handkerchief linen for a slip underneath. Between the two layers, nothing really touches me — perfect survival gear for sweltering New England heat. #handmadewardrobe #sewmystash #sewistsofinstagram #slowfashion #closetcore #cielotop #cielohack #summersurvival #heatwave #linen #memadeeveryday #coastalgrandmother #nonewclothes2022

Time has been tight lately, so I have no time to commit to a new project, but I did shorten some dresses to wear as tops and I love how they all turned out! #helensclosetorchard #cashmerettewexford

Big outing to the market--tortillas, still warm! This is the #helensclosetorchard which I'm wearing with a self drafted tank underneath. Fabric is quilting cotton from #fabriclandwest ...I don't care what anyone says, it's easy to sew and comfortable in the heat. #memadeholidaywardrobe #memadeholiday #sewover60 #sewover50november24 #sewyyj

#SewFrugal24 - wow! What a month it’s been - full of inspiration 😍 Here is my first make…the @helens__closet Orchard top (which also comes as a dress). It’s a wonderful free pattern that you can access when you sign up to the Helen’s Closet newsletter. I made the cropped length top, as I always wear high waisted trousers and thought this would be the perfect silhouette. The fabric I’ve used is a gorgeous viscose from @sewhayleyjane - it was the supplementary fabric a few months ago meaning I had 1 metre, which was plenty of this make. I loved sewing this up. It came together quickly and the finish is beautiful - the straps lay so flat 👌🏼 I added a couple of personal touches, which I love doing. Swipe to see the extra details: ~ Amazing label from @beyond.thepinkdoor Think Pink box (collaboration with @little.rosy.cheeks ) ~ Bias tape (which I used for the hem) from @thespeckyseamstress I definitely see more of the Orchard in my wardrobe, especially as the weather (hopefully) gets warmer! 🤞🏼 (For reference, I made the size 10, which matched my bust and waist measurement) Thank you Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl & Sam @frugalisama for another year of this wonderful challenge - you smashed it again ladies! #SewFrugal24 #FreeSewingPattern #SewHayleyJane #SewHayleyJaneMakes #HelensCloset #HelensClosetOrchard #BTPD #ThinkPinkBox #LittleRosyCheeks #TheSpeckySeamstress #BiasTapeByTheSpeckySeamstress

Despite the fact the I haven’t posted anything in over 3 months I have still been making all the things 🧶🪡🧵 so here’s a lil photo dump of my makes from the past new months 🤗 ————————————- For those of you who like to know pattern info 👀 -summer secret crop @jessssiemae -peppermint pocket skirt @peppermintmagazine -Zoey dress @truebias -orchard dress @helens__closet . . #peppermintpocketskirt #summersecretcrop #jessiemaedesigns #truebiaszoey #brusselswasherlinen #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #handmadewardrobe #slowfashion #garmentsewing l

First of all, I'd like to thank Sam @frugalisama and Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl for organizing this challenge. I always find it such fun and love seeing what everyone makes. I also see it as a chance to make something I wouldn't normally make, to go out of my comfort zone and try something new. Completed my sewfrugal23 makes just in time. I've always like the look of slip dresses, but didn't think they were my style. Thought I would give it a try during the sewfrugal23 challenge. I used some rayon challis from my stash that I've had for years to make the dress and some cotton jersey for the top. After searching, I chose the Helen's Closet Orchard dress. It's a little more A-line than I wanted, but gave it a try. I added some ties to the dress to bring it in a little at the waist. May take them off and switch it to a tie belt instead. I'll give it a try as if first, to see if I like it. The top is the Stellan tee from French Navy. I lowered the neckline a little on the tee. Now, just waiting for it to warm up so I can wear them. Surprising cool this year for late March in California. #sewfrugal23 #sewfrugal2023 #helensclosetorchard #frenchnavypatterns

ORCHARD DRESS 🍎🍏 Hot summer days coupled with some ditsy print rayon in my stash inspired me to make the #orcharddress by @helens__closet A super quick, easy and FREE sewing pattern that as with all HC sewing patterns has excellent instructions ✅ Made in a size 8 top graded to a 10 at the hips as per my measurements, it fits me perfectly, with no gaping at the neck or armholes. The only modification was shortening the straps by around 2-3 cm. I love the fall of the dress made in rayon (found on sale for about $6 a meter Spotlight!), it drapes perfectly 💜 Another bonus is that the front and back are the same, no need to think about which way to put it on ( although this might make some people anxious idk?!)!! 🤷🏻‍♀️ Oooh and also debuting my new Acme sandals by @rollienation … like walking on ☁️ #orcharddress #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #freesewingpattern #freesewingpatterns #summersewing #easysewingpattern #slipdress #slipdresspattern #rollienation

I made another one! It's such a quick and satisfying make so why not 🤷‍♀️ . I am also loving it in this stripey mustard super drapey flax and viscose blend 😍 . Fabric: @spotlightstores #orcharddress #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #summerdress #summersewing #camidress #tiestrap #mididress #freepattern #freesewingpattern #memade #slowfashion #sustainablefashion #adelaidesews

#ootd holiday edition 24th May #vikisews_iris dress #patternsforpirates #walktheplankpjs shorts * free pattern yay ! #itchtostitchlagotank also free pattern have put an emoji instead of my face because I was eating a sweetie and I looked like it 😂 23rd May #closetcorecharliecaftan and #papertheorypatterns #zadiejumpsuit 22nd May #walktheplankpjs and ##itchtostitchlagotank combo daytime and #saguaroset trousers and #helensclosetorchard top another free pattern yay 21st May #corefabrics ##brisedress yet another free pattern, kinda loving free patterns just lol 20th May #saguaroset trousers by #fridaypatterncompany and #closetcoretshirt 19th May #zadiejumpsuit #sewistsofinstagram #sewist #sewityourself #handmade #handemadewardrobe #sewover50 #memademay

This is stretch woven!!!! Summer love! This is Peonies in Love by @the.styled.magnolia round 54 is now open . Pattern is by @helens__closet #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard

When you ask your eight year old to be your photographer (as your husband did such a rubbish job last week 😉) and your six year old wants to come and be the 'artistic director' I haven't giggled or had so much fun having my photos taken in ages 🤣❤️🤣 Super fabric (cotton poplin) from @ukfabricsonline as part of their #ukfabricsonlinebrandambassador programme for July and a #freesewingpatterns from @helens__closet #orcharddress I hacked the pattern slightly with invisible bias on the front and back neck line and contrasting bias straps, I wanted to add the adjustable strap option but I only had black hardware so I just shortened them a little. #ithaspockets #annabelsews #annabelsewsworkshop #learntosew #beginnersewing #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #ukfabricsonline #brandambassador #minidictator #artisticdirector

Me Made May - Day 19 Excited to get my first wear of this dress, now the weather is better. This is the first time I'm posting about it so I'm including size/fit details. This pattern is free and the design is so clever; the way the binding and straps are done, plus the fact the front and back are identical makes this a super easy and speedy sew. I made a straight size 8, shortened by 2 inches. After attaching the first strap, I realised I needed to shorten them by about 6cm. Thankfully the bias cut straps didn't stretch out and the dress turned out great. The fullness in the skirt was a bit too extra for me, so I whipped up some side ties and attached near the waist. They really cinch the dress in and make it a much more wearable style for my taste. Details: Dress Pattern: @helens__closet FREE Orchard dress pattern Fabric: Viscose from Wolverhampton market T-shirt (second hand Boohoo from Depop) #helenscloset #orcharddress #helensclosetorchard #freesewingpattern #memademay2023 #memademay #sewistsofinstagram #handmadewardrobe #memade #madebyme #memadewardrobe #slowfashion #imakemyclothes

My other projects finished this year, there's also 2 cardigan wips, 1 jumper and more trousers for Rob awaiting a waistband. I tried to do things in each one that I'd not done before and I'm proud of them! My sister's birthday present #chalkandnotchfringe with bias bound seams. #minervafabrics viscose lawn Self drafted apron for Rob made out of leftover curtain fabric from our last house #shopmystash you can see how good it makes him feel 😄 remind me of herbal essences... #helensclosetorchard vest for my sister with #ladymcelroy cotton lawn. #threadtheory #eastwoodpyjamas for Rob with piped pockets and hems. #cashmerettemontrose top for my mum who is still outside the bust measurements but I managed to grade between two sizes and use #aheadofthecurve to adjust the shoulders and drop the bust dart. 3rd or 4th attempt to make a top that fits her and my only success!! Never been disappointed by a cashmerette pattern for large busts, they're my go to when I others fail. Or probably just my go to now 😄. Hot pink viscose lawn from #poundfabrics Wearable toile of #grasser #patternno915trousers with welt pockets!! First time and I'm pleased with how they turned out. #sewing #sewistsofinstagram #makenine #handmadebyme #chalkandnotch #helenscloset #cashmerette

Un patron simplissime ET gratuit … un coupon de tissu strictement fidèle au modèle réalisé par la marque … des températures qui l’exigent … et surtout ma photographe sous la main … ! Voici LA robe de l’été ! Il s’agit du modèle Orchard de Helen’s Closet, en double gaze donc, avec le petit détail des bretelles en Liberty de la Droguerie (si je ne me trompe pas) et les poches en soie pour un volume le plus discret possible. Le patron a beau être gratuit, les instructions de montage sont parfaitement détaillées et permettent des finitions impeccables : sous-piqûre des poches, entoilage de la partie de biais servant de bretelle, coutures de soutien dans les courbes … J’ai tout suivi dans les règles de l’art et je suis ravie d’avoir une robe minimaliste mais parfaite - en toute modestie ! Et si la dernière photo vous intrigue, que vous voulez en voir plus sur la jolie robe que ma fifille-photographe s’est cousue dans un jupon de son arrière-arrière-arrière grand-mère, il faut aller suivre son compte @aliicetakespics ! #sewingaddict #sewinglove #orcharddress#helenscloset#helensclosetpatterns@helens_closet#helensclosetorchard#robedete#summerdress#strapdress#robeabretelle#jecoudsmarobe#robecousuemain#doublegaze#robedoublegaze#frenchcountryside

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend, whether you sewed, relaxed, or were productive at less fun things! It's definitely hammock season here. This isn't something I made this weekend, but I wanted to share it again anyway. This is my #helensclosetorchard top, in two different linen blends. And of course, I added a super cute @kylieandthemachine label! Happy sewing! #a0patternprinting #sewingpatterns

Three Piece DIY I used pink& blue tweed boucle from @rexfabrics fabrics and fushcia satin from @minervadotcom to make a fun coordinate combo. The jacket is #simplicity8178, the skirt is #simplicity1370, and the top is #helensclosetorchard Sew all three pieces with me on YouTube at Sew Happy!! 🧵 #sewalongs #simplicitypatterns #simplicitymccallsuk #coordinateset @helens__closet #youtubesewingtutorial #sewdiy #tweedboucle

I've been busy sewing up a storm the past week using fabric scraps. I managed to make a toile Ashton Top and another Orchard Top in a longer length. The Ashton is a little too small but that's why we make toiles, right? I had a busy morning of running errands so I was ready to put on my comfy clothes when we got back 😊 . . . Top: #orchardtop #helensclosetorchard @helens__closet size 4 long top - mods: 1" off straps | scrap viscose crepe @minervadotcom in exchange for a post Pants: #selfdrafted | double gauze Sweater: RTW (2016)

This is my first entry into the #sewyellowforendo23 challenge hosted by the lovely Jess @sowhatifisew It is a #helensclosetorchard tank made out of a rayon challis from my local fabric store @fieldsfabrics I have stage four endometriosis, and to keep it from progressing I have been put on progesterone pills. Those pills have caused me to gain a lot of weight and to struggle with sweating and overheating. I chose to make this shirt out of this substrate because it hides the extra weight (and when I get endo belly at the end of the day) and it helps keep me cool. Thank you so much to Jess for running this challenge and raising awareness about this craptastic condition. #sewyellowforendo23 #endometriosis @sowhatifisew

Dress made from 3 organic cotton bages from @gudrunsjoden ….loved the print so much , i had to make a dress/tunic out of them…. Pattern is the new free orchard dress from @helens__closet #helenscloset #helensclosetorchard #gudrunistas #gudrunsworld #gudrungoeswilder #gudrunsjoden #gudrunista #mustermix#yesgudrun#gudrungirl#gudrunsummer2022 @sewover50 #sew50sustainablesewing #gudrundiy

"#okmemademay Day 3: Secondhand fabric⁠ I was gifted this lovely fabric on @lucky.sweater. I'm happy to have given it life as this easy breezy dress. #orcharddress #helensclosetorcharddress⁠ ⁠ 📸 @tipstitched"⁠ ⁠ - That fabric was meant to be this dress! 😍⁠ ⁠ Happy Swap Drop, folks! Hope more treasures find their way to you! 🍀⁠ ⁠ #sustainablewardrobe #ethicalfashion #buyandselldays #buyandsell #thriftwithus #memade #handmadewardrobe #vintagefinds #retrostyle #outdoorgear #ecoadventure #thriftkids #ecoparenting #genderneutralstyle #inclusivewardrobe #thriftfinds #secondhandstyle #luckysweater #luckysweaterapp

I like to add to my collection of free pdf patterns each year with the #sewfrugal24 challenge. So this year I tried the #orchardsdress by @helens__closet . Fabric; rayon challis from @spotlightstores I tried the ring and slider for the shoulder strap as I enjoy learning new skills. As I couldn’t find the hardware at my local Spotlight I harvested the parts off bras from the opshop. 🍂 We are now in autumn so it’s too early to tell how it will go in my wardrobe. I think it would be better made in a firmer fabric as the hemline doesn’t sit straight. That could also be because it doesn’t have a bust dart and my boobs pull it up in the front. It may become a nightie yet. 🎽 I could see me hacking this into some merino singlets for winter by taking fabric out of the side seams. Thanks to @frugalisama and @theyorkshiresewgirl for hosting this challenge each year. #sewover60 #nzsewing #sewingdownunder #memadewardrobe #sewistsofinstagram #helenscloset #helensclosetorcharddress #isewedthis #isewmyownclothes #freepdfpattern #freepdfsewingpattern #freepdfpatterns #freesewingpattern #freesewingpatterns

Most successful stitch and bitch ever @radjuli 🥰 thrifted fabric to comfy sundress complete with pockets in 1 evening 🙌 I even made my first full bust pattern adjustment and it worked perfectly! Feeling proud and ready for summer dress days. #hecatemotherofwitchespleaseguidemystitches #summerdress #ithaspockets #thriftedfabric #sustainablefashion #memade #stitchandbitch #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorcharddress

Swishing in my new dress....A wonderfully easy pattern for a novice like me. I even managed the pockets. Orchard dress pattern from @helens__closet Fabric - Inked Bouquet by Nerida Hansen that I got from @fabricgodmother #helensclosetorcharddress #orcharddress #neridahansenfabrics

I can't wait for #SewFrugalReveal tomorrow! I finished my 4th and final garment earlier today! #HarperCardigan #ClosetCoreTShirt #SewHelloStIves #HelensClosetOrcharddress

🧵FREE PATTERN It’s Me Made May! Here is the first garment I’ve completed this month (started it last month…it takes a while to finish projects around here) This is the Orchard Dress from @helens__closet . It’s a free pattern that can be a top or a dress and can be adjusted to different lengths. You can also make the straps a few different ways; I opted for ties. I was in between sizes, so I cut one size down. Then I wound up cutting the fabric again to the next size down. I’m the end, I made it two sizes smaller than my measurements. It’s a great fit in the bust (really the only measurement needed in this pattern). I’m going to wear it a few times and see if I want to grade the hips down even more. It has a tent shape on me. It’s the perfect dress for southern summers. I wanted something flowy and breathable, and this is it! I realized my fabric was see through when I was cutting it, so I lined the dress, joining the lining to the shell with the neckband and and straps. The pattern had great instructions and was an enjoyable make. I want to make the shorter dress and tank now and add darts. #memade #memademay #memademay2023 #orcharddress #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #sew #sewing #janomemakes fabric: @hobbylobby #hobbylobby #freesewingpattern

My newest make is the #orcharddress made with cotton sateen from @neridahansenfabrics This is a free pattern from @helens__closet when you sign up for her newsletter🙌🏻 I love this style for summer 🌞 Comfy, cool and classic❤️ #helensclosetpatterns #helenscloset #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #freesewingpattern #neridahansenfabrics #neridahansenprintandtextiles #neridahansen #sateen #summerdress #ginghamdress #greyhairmovement #greyhair

#okmemademay Day 3: Secondhand fabric I was gifted this lovely fabric on @lucky.sweater. I'm happy to have given it life as this easy breezy dress. #orcharddress #helensclosetorcharddress

How good are these colours with a bit of sunshine??!! 🌞 🌈🌞🌈🌞🌈🌞🌈🌞🌈🌞🌈🌞🌈🌞🌈🌞 Fabric-“Balmain” cotton poplin from @missmoresby FREE Pattern- Orchard Dress from @helens__closet Shoes- @twoobs Earrings- @denzandco #orcharddress #helensclosetorcharddress #missmoresbyfabric #missmoresby #summervibes #greyhairdontcare #sewover50 #dopaminedressing #sewover50january

This is the Orchard dress, a free pattern by Helen’s Closet made out of some Spotlight linen I’ve had floating around for a while. I chose to make the straps adjustable which the instructions walk you through using rings and sliders repurposed from an itty bitty bra I had found at a charity shop. It is a quick make with some lovely simple details and deep pockets! It is quite voluminous, I made my size according to bust size but could of sized down. I think this would be really lovely in a drapey viscose. Unfortunately this linen is a bit see through but perfect for swanning around at home on a hot day and was in my stash so also perfect for the #sewfrugal23 challenge. A big thanks again to Sam @frugalisama and Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl #helensclosetpatterns #helenscloset #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #spotlightfabric #sewadelaide #frugalsewing #indipatterns #sewfrugal23 #sewlinen #ithaspockets #sewover40

Day 10 of #memademay This is the #orcharddress by #helenscloset Made in a cotton that was purchased from #thefrenchseamboutique. I'm still on the hunt for the perfect swing dress pattern, but this comes close. #memademay2025day10 #mmm2025 #memademay2025 #orchardtop #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorchard #helensclosetorcharddress #sewing #swingdress #summerdress #sewingsummerdresses

It’s #sewfrugal24 reveal day 🥳 I’ve made the @helens__closet orchard dress in a viscose that I’ve had in my stash for several years. I believe it’s a lady McElroy print! This was a fairly simple make, just a bit of binding to make! I made a size 18 and am happy with the fit. It’ll be perfect for my summer holiday and I can wear a T-shirt underneath it and live out my favourite 90s fashion trend! Thankyou to Ruan @theyorkshiresewgirl and Sam @frugalisama for running this brilliant challenge again! #sewing #sewingproject #handmade #handmadewardrobe #memade #memadewardrobe #isewmyownclothes #helensclosetorchard #helensclosetorcharddress #helenscloset #freesewingpattern #sewistsofinstagram #sewistofinstagram #sewist #sewersgonnasew #sewersofinstagram

When a mistake turns into a win 🏆👏🏼💃🏻👍 These started out as the free #orcharddress pattern by @helens__closet, but one of them went very wrong 🤦🏻‍♀️ again 🧵 - I found 3 yards of this multi-colored, gauzy, crinkle crepe fabric as a @walmart remnant for $8. I had just enough to make the knee length version of the pattern. However…what I didn’t take into account was that any “crinkle” in your fabric can have a tendency to stretch out. So when I cut the bias binding to the correct size, it was too short 😩😩😩 I think one of the reasons I love to sew is just to watch myself figure out and overcome these moments! What do I do now? I don’t want to make more binding or cut up another pack 🤔🤔🤔 viola!! I used the bias binding I had on hand for the armholes and then serged the raw edges of the neckline, folded it over and made a casing for some makeshift string! IMO, I think it looks absolutely adorable and way better than what I actually had in mind. 🧵 - My second dress is made from a ribbed, drapey ITY fabric and the white cotton binding works much better for this fabric than a binding made from the same fabric. So flowy, cool and perfect with flip flops, white tennis shoes or a cute pair of espadrilles 🥰🥰 #helensclosetorcharddress #sewist #sewistsofinstagram #sewistofinstagram #sewsewsew #sewover50 #sewing #sewingproject #dressmaker #sewingtherapy #sewismysuperpower #imadethis #memade

ORCHARD DRESS 🍎🍏 Hot summer days coupled with some ditsy print rayon in my stash inspired me to make the #orcharddress by @helens__closet A super quick, easy and FREE sewing pattern that as with all HC sewing patterns has excellent instructions ✅ Made in a size 8 top graded to a 10 at the hips as per my measurements, it fits me perfectly, with no gaping at the neck or armholes. The only modification was shortening the straps by around 2-3 cm. I love the fall of the dress made in rayon (found on sale for about $6 a meter Spotlight!), it drapes perfectly 💜 Another bonus is that the front and back are the same, no need to think about which way to put it on ( although this might make some people anxious idk?!)!! 🤷🏻‍♀️ Oooh and also debuting my new Acme sandals by @rollienation … like walking on ☁️ #orcharddress #helensclosetorcharddress #helensclosetorchard #helenscloset #helensclosetpatterns #freesewingpattern #freesewingpatterns #summersewing #easysewingpattern #slipdress #slipdresspattern #rollienation

Another entry into the #SewFrugal24 #sewingchallenge hosted by @frugalisama and @theyorkshiresewgirl The third free pattern I chose to make is the @helens__closet #orcharddress from denim in my #FabricCollection that I didn’t even know I had! The amount of fabric I own is insane! I had a very similar dress in my wardrobe some 23 years ago, which I wore to pieces! I am pretty sure this one is going to become a winter and summer #WardrobeStaple. These are the alterations I made to the pattern: I added 10 cm to the hem length, and this is perfect on me! I raised the pocket placement 2cm to compensate for the height difference. I added a centre-back seam because I didn’t have enough fabric, and I could add some topstitching detail, which is synonymous with denim wear. #helenscloset #helensclosetorcharddress #isewedthis #isewmyownclothes #freepdfpattern #freepdfsewingpattern #freepdfpatterns #freesewingpattern #freesewingpatterns #ithaspockets #sewingmystash #sewistofinstagram #imadethis #ithaspockets #imakemyownclothes #isewmyownclothes #handmadewardrobe #ootd

When the very talented Sarah from @missmoresby gifted me some of her lovely new fabric from her range, I knew it was destined to be an awesome summer dress! After much deliberation I finally decided on the #orcharddress from @helens__closet (this pattern is FREE!) This is the perfect pattern to fabric match 👌 The simple shape of this dress truly allows the fabric details to shine ⭐️ How beautiful are the colours?? 🌈 The cotton poplin was a delight to sew on the good ole Janome. It has a slight lustre to it also which adds that extra bit of luxe. It is such a versatile fabric and would be also perfect for tops, pants and skirts. Sarah’s designs are taken straight from her paintings which make them so unique and special. If you like bright colours and dopamine dressing then pop on over to @missmoresby, support small business and buy a few metres of her very special fabric. There are a few different designs to choose from, so it’s going to be hard to choose🤷🏻‍♀️ Cotton Poplin fabric from @missmoresby is called BALMAIN Dress pattern is a FREE one from @helens__closet and is called the #orcharddress Mods made to the dress were….added 25cm to the length and also lengthened the straps to ties #orcharddresshack #helenscloset #missmoresbyfabric #missmoresby #dopaminesewing #dopaminedressing #summervibes #summerdress #tieupdress #camidress #greyhairdontcare #silversisters #helensclosetpatterns #helensclosetorcharddress #sewover50january

🌿 Orchard Dress 🌿 Sharing another holiday snap to take my mind off the miserable weather here at home! 😎 I wore one of my two @helens__closet Orchard Dresses at the top of the Rock of Gibraltar last week. ⛰️ Fabric is a lovely green gingham cotton from @fabricgodmother. The dress pattern is free for subscribers to the Helen's Closet newsletter and is a great summer staple. ☀️ I added a ruffle tier for extra swishiness. Swipe for bonus monkey content. 🦧😂 . . . . . #OrchardDress #HelensCloset #HelensClosetOrchardDress #SewnShownSeated #FabricGodmother #HomeSewn #ILoveToSew #IMadeThis #IMakeMyClothes #IndieSewing #ISewMyClothes #MakersGonnaMake #MeMade #MeMadeWardrobe #SelfSewn #Sewcialist #SewClothes #SewHappy #Sewing #SewingProject #SewingSkills #SewingTime #Sewist #SewistsOfInstagram #Sewn #SewUnique #SewYourOwn #SewYourOwnClothes #WearHandmade #CarlyCreates