Sewing has always been a passion of mine. Even as a little girl, I knew exactly what colours and styles I loved, even if I didn’t yet have the skills to make them. As a teenager, I began sewing my own clothes, experimenting with styles that felt different to what everyone else was wearing. I had very little experience at the time, but I was determined to try. Some things worked beautifully, others less so, but I learned from every make.
“Keep creating, believe in yourself and have more confidence in your talent.”
Where did you first learn to sew?
At school. That is where it all began.went on to study fashion design at college, where we were taught to draft our own patterns. While I can’t say I remember every detail from those days, it was over 40 years ago, it gave me a strong foundation and an understanding of how garments come together. I stepped away from sewing for many years while working, but in 1993 I returned to it in quite a memorable way by making my own wedding dress. It was probably a little overambitious, but I had a clear vision and couldn’t find anything that matched it within my budget. I made a silver silk dress and hand-sewed hundreds of glass beads onto it. It remains one of my most special makes. After retiring in 2022, I made it my mission to rediscover sewing and improve my skills as much as I could. There is so much more information available now, and the sewing community is incredibly generous with their knowledge and support. The Instagram sewing community, especially @sewover50, has been such a welcoming and inspiring space. It has made a real difference to my confidence and enjoyment, and I love connecting with others who share the same passion.
What advice would you give to people thinking about making their own clothes??
Practice, and don’t expect perfection straight away. Enjoy the process of making and be open to learning as you go. One really important tip is to work from your measurements rather than ready-to-wear sizes. Patterns are drafted very differently, and getting this right from the start will save a lot of frustration, time and fabric.
What do you love most about sewing?
I love the ability to create something that feels completely your own. Sewing also gives me a sense of calm. It is a chance to switch off and lose myself in the process for a while.
What sewing skill did you find the hardest to master?
Understanding pattern sizing, and then cup sizing, was a real challenge. Learning how to do a full bust adjustment took time, but it made the biggest difference to the fit of my garments and really improved my sewing overall.
Is there a garment you've made more than once?
Yes, quite a few. Once I have worked out the fit and I know I love a style, I enjoy making it again in different fabrics. Each version feels completely unique.
Some of my most repeated patterns include the Barry Pants by Style Arc , the Sagebrush Top by The Friday Pattern Company, and the Vali Dress by Pattern Fantastique.
What project or garment have you made that is the most memorable?
My first coat. It was a fairly simple make, but I chose a really beautiful fabric and I absolutely love wearing it.
Where do you usually sew?
I am very lucky to have taken over our spare room. It has become my sewing space and my happy place.
What keeps you inspired to keep making?
I love experimenting with fabrics and creating my own look. I am always motivated to learn more and to keep improving the finish of my garments.
What is the one sewing tool you wouldn't want to be without?
That is a difficult one. I use a measuring gauge all the time, and I would not be without a good unpicker or a reliable fabric marking pen. They are probably my top three.
And finally, what are you planning to make next?
I am working towards mastering a collared shirt. It looks simple, but achieving a really good fit and finish takes skill. I am prepared to toile, practise and take my time to get it right. Bobbins crossed!
You can follow Claire’s makes, along with her honest reflections on each project, over on Instagram @claire.alden.
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