STITCH YOURSELF HAPPY
Sewing patterns, workshops & retreats from
the studio of Lizzie Everard.
THE BETTY SILK STORE
Paper pattern – A0
The Lalas are a beginner-friendly pattern while the experienced sewist will also find plenty to delight in. There are two main views – straight-legged or barrelled with the addition of a box-pleat at the ankle. Slimline cargo-style pockets in vertical side panels create a neat line. An ultra wide leg option is also indicated on the pattern – a secret View C!
A best friend of a trouser, Lalas range between hip measurement 92cm / 36” and 148cm / 58” with generous sizing bands which can handle fluctuations in body shape.
Fabric: 2.2m of cloth, either 115cm or 150cm. This pattern works really well with lighter fabrics for a swishy, barely there feel. Choose light linen, viscose or cotton lawn. For a dressy option, make them in bamboo silk, satin, velvet or crepe. Medium-weight cloth, denim for example, gives a more structured finish. Avoid real heavy weights though, or the waistband gathers will bulk.
This elasticated waist pattern is designed to reduce bulk and work for all shapes and sizes – elegant and flattering.
The ‘Betty’ sewing pattern is a minimal waste dress design.
Created by Lizzie for her Sewing Bee ‘Garment of the Week’ winning kaftan design, Betty is the every day wearable version as a dress or a top. The design works really well in fluid, drapey fabrics, equally happy in hot weather or on glam nights out!
The pattern—in true minimal waste style—includes one sole pattern piece along with fully illustrated instruction booklet, which will walk you through all fitting, measuring and cutting notes.
It’s a JOY thing!
The ‘Betty’ sewing pattern is a minimal waste dress design in poster form, ready to adorn your sewing space!
Created by Lizzie for her Sewing Bee ‘Garment of the Week’ winning kaftan design, Betty is the every day wearable version as a dress or a top. The design works really well in fluid, drapey fabrics, equally happy in hot weather or on glam nights out!
The poster includes a complete pattern — with pattern pieces — on the left and an A2 poster on the right. Hang it up as is and work directly from it, or frame the poster and bring extra beauty to your sewing space.
It’s a JOY thing!
Where is Lizzie?
After a wonderful Stitch Festival teaching over 130 students, Lizzie is having a little studio time to develop patterns and course plans for 2026. Stay tuned for details as we emerge into Spring!
Join her and Meg at No Frills Knitting in Bristol for monthly fabric pop-up weekends. Next one April 11th–12th then we’re back again May 2nd–3rd and again early June.
In June, Lizzie will be at Threadfestival at Farnham Maltings with a refreshed selection of patterns and some brand new workshop dates ready to book. It’s a lovely festival. See you there?
You can book Lizzie for talks about her time on the Great British Sewing Bee. If you would like to book a tailor-made stitching session with Lizzie for yourself or you and a few friends drop her a line to find out more.
For the love of stitching
A MANIFESTO
Is it enough just to stitch?
Yes. It is enough.
Why?
Every stitch has love in it.
Even in a sore-finger moment or drift of concentration, stitching is an intentional move to create something. It is making, repair, joining together, invention.
Stitching is belief in something, and nurture.
Stitching is a beautiful curiosity.
And curiosity takes us forward in life.
Stitch, for your life.
It, and you, are enough.
Betty Silk Journal
Hooked on Colour
Stripes are great. Aren’t stripes just lovely? Like strata in rocks, layers of life piled one on top of the other. Sometimes they clash and fight, other times settle quietly without much noise.
Cast Off 2023
Here we are in France, the final day of 2023 and I’m watching it gently loosen its tethers and retreat, while 2024 shores up to fasten on. Talking time to rest and reflect out here…
Reasons for Being
Since taking part in the Great British Sewing Bee, I am awash … with pride for how well I did despite applying on a complete whim. Awash with frustration and disappointment that I couldn’t hang on in a little longer on a winning streak. Awash with compassion for that …
What’s At The Core?
I’ve been wanting to write this post for ages, but didn’t know where to start. It’s because I have so many ideas and a genuine excitement to try all of them, nailing my colours to the mast feels like quite an ask! However, I saw a post this morning which totally inspired me…
Yes, I Made It!
Yes! This is the first make on my new machine, and I couldn’t be more chuffed! After a few test swatches on some calico, I decided to pile right in to stretch and overcast stitches …