Magic Patterns: Sewing Options for a Cardigan, Dress & Coat
If you think that sewing patterns are just flat paper with a few lines for cutting and marking, reconsider! Because, sewing patterns can contain magic! My guest came across the original Magic Patterns with a copyright date from the 1920s. Then, she decided to revolutionize them.
I hope you’ll watch the second episode of Magic Patterns online or on PBS with my guest Amy Barickman. Amy modeled her concept of Magic Patterns after one of the sewing stars in the early 20th century, Mary Brooks Picken, founder of the Woman’s Institute of Domestic Arts & Sciences. Mary always encouraged students to add their own creative style to designs.
Following her lead, Amy and I show you how to use a basic style and then add personalized touches.
Magic Cardigan
Cardigan—the name makes us think of being cozy! From sleek jersey knit to a wrapped-up number, we’ll show you the details to transform this pattern into several styles with simple yet unique details.
Magic Dress Pattern
When making the magic dress pattern, you can mix and match the subtle style features. Focusing on the sleeves, learn how to easily change the styling with Amy’s easy-to-sew as well as easy-to-wear ideas.
Magic Coat Pattern
Sew a coat? Certainly! Working with patterns that have carefree styling is what this program is all about. Choose a beefy fabric; then match your imagination with one of the styles.
Watch Magic Patterns (Part One and Part Two on Sewing With Nancy online.
The Magic Pattern Book
This book features 6 magic patterns that can be transformed into 36 different styles, with 216 different looks. Complete with beautiful full-color photos, step-by-step instructions, and a CD of printable patterns, this easy-to-follow book shows how 6 patterns x 6 looks x 6 fabric suggestions (for each look) result in a complete wardrobe. Amy and Nancy guide you on how to tile the patterns, which are featured on the CD in the book.
Bye for now,
Content in this feed is © copyright 2014 by Nancy Zieman and may not be republished without written permission. You’re welcome to forward the email to a friend or colleague but it’s not okay to add the RSS feed automatically as content on a blog or other website.
Ramona Betz
Amazing pattern!
kathy marlow
What size do these come?
Nancy Zieman
Kathy, the patterns are on the CD enclosed with the book. The sizes are S—XL. Print out the pattern, tile together, and you’re ready to sew!
Mary Walker
Definitely some machine embroidery!
Kathy
This is great. I love options.
Sandi Colwell
Would love to win this. The coats are so stylish!
Charlotte Sather
I LOVE the coat patterns. I have been making capes this fall and the coat wold be another fun thing to sew!!!
Vera
I love this! I would love to make a top from the dress!
Lorraine
BLING!! BLING!! BLING!! I would add heat set rhinestones to many of the pattern pieces of clothing
Sandra Kennedy
Would love to try my luck at sewing a coat.
Sandra Kennedy
I am going to have to try this pattern.
AS
DVD could inspire me to sew a new outfit.
Susan Meyer
This idea intrigues me. I would like to see more. I hope that there will be an episode or two on Sewing with Nancy on it in the near future.
Nancy Zieman
Susan, yes Magic Patterns is a new Sewing With Nancy offering to PBS. Check your local listing as to when this 2-part series will air. Or, watch Sewing With Nancy online. Go to http://www.nancyzieman.com, click on “videos” and enter Magic Patterns. You can then watch both episodes of this series. Enjoy!
Diana Grindel
Oh this would be so great to have as I have a granddaughter who loves the early fashions. It would be so amazing to surprise her and then sew with her to get the fashion she wants for school! She so loves the roaring 20’s fashions, 30 & 40’s.
Thank you for the chance to win !
Diane C
It would be great to have one pattern for some many different items
Robyn
Classic, yet trendy! Love it!
Sue Kaiser
One pattern for things I want to make in a flattering style. I would put an endless embroidery on the bottom band on the swing jacket.
Elise Williams
What a terrific set of patterns to have in a sewing room. I’d love to have it in mine!
Christine Gibbons
I love this idea. The patterns look wonderful. My Mom made a cape and matching skirt for me when I was 12 years old. It was one of my favourite outfits she made for me. She made all of my clothes until I started sewing more difficult patterns for myself.
Marilyn
When I was younger, I would buy a pattern and just cut and sew. Now that I’m older and differently shaped, patterns just don’t fit to my shape and I have a hard time altering them. When I’m done I end up throwing that clothing piece away. This pattern looks like it would fit because of the style and no altering. Maybe I could love to sew clothes for myself again.
Linda
The coat pattern made up with a decorative fabric for one front side inspires me to do one like it and then trace the flower outlines with sparkly embroidery thread.
Dawn
I rarely sew for myself, but this pattern makes me want to give it another try.
Sandra
Would love to make the coat with some fall or winter embroidery and maybe trimmed with faux-fur. What a wonderful contest!
Debe
I like the cardigans & tops. I have some great fabric for both, just need to get it done & a pattern for the cardigan. This pattern looks like it would work perfectly! I like to add machine embroidery in tone-on-tone. Also, on tops I like gathers or pleats at the neckline.
k cullen
Would definitely make the cardigan many times, perfect for work!
Cher
Faux Fur! I love the look of it and it is so easy to work with, wouldn’t it be a great addition to the cardigan for a cozy, fall look?
Mary Wright
Pick me. I need something Magic in my life!!!
Karen Hansen
I Love the coat – and living in the pacific northwest I would add a hood to it! Either using an easy zipper or maybe buttons that match the ones down the front! Love this pattern and concept!
Marge Willman
Oh this is so exciting to have all these options! I can see myself and my two granddaughters wearing some of these options. For them however, we would need to add GLITZ! Perhaps some sparkly glue-on stones, ravels of sparkly yarn or shimmery appliqué pieces. Can hardly wait to start. Thank you for a bit of style without spending the amount for some ready-mades!
Helen G.
I love scarves and would probably add one to any of these outfits. They are great basic patterns. I am looking forward to seeing these shows on my PBS station. Thanks for all you do, Nancy, to help, teach and encourage us sewists!
Starla
I love all the options!
CC Collins
Wow! Love all the looks that are achievable with this pattern book! The cardi is just what I have been looking for!
Christina Gonzalez
I would add ruffles to the hem of the Magic Dress. I hope to win.
Eleanor Vaughn
I love to sew and patterns are so expensive. It would be great to own “The Magic Pattern Book”. I would probably use brighter buttons on the vest.
Teresa
Wow. That dress idea is perfect for these cooler days. I’d add beading to the neckline for some extra ‘glitz’!
Suzanne Reese
Nancy, You don’t know it but I am an old friend of yours–following you from the beginning and speaking with you several times at your Spring Expos in Beaver Dam. Thanks for many years of learning fun.
As to the designs, I really like the color blocked jacket and think I would use a suede/pleather on one side and an acrylic wool on the other. I might add a large, long geometric design on the suede. I like washable clothing that have the look of the “real thing”!
Suzanne
Nancy W
Oh wow this can really explode the creativity! Imagine a duster cardigan?!!!!!
Bobi Anderson
The Magic Pattern is intriguing! Can’t wait to see this on your program! Thanks
Terry
I think for “spark” I would add a lower fur type collar around the neck of the coat, and may be even around the bottom, just for fun.
Linda Botter
I love this I have sewed for years but have just gotten back into sewing for myself need patterns and ideas.
Cindy Swenson
Absolutely love these patterns!! And it’s a bonus that they don’t look overly difficult! Thanks Nancy!
Ferrell Hinds
I don’t sew for myhself much anymore, but I sure wish I’d had a pattern like this when I did sew. There is many a pattern I’ve changed and adjusted to get a different look without having to buy another pattern but not always sucessfully. This Magic pattern would have been the ideal one to have.
Billie Simmons
Followed you for years, have many books in my library that I followed when sewing for the public for 30 years. You signed my one of my machines when you were in the KC area. And it impresses my sewing buddies. Be looking at the “the little max” as I have an older embroidery machine that I could use it on to take my jef over to pes. Bought one called something else, but it never would work, lost money on it but kept the card. Trying to get my sister into embroidery. I have 4 machines that will do embroidery. Love to do it. Can you tell me what I need to be able to use the ‘little max”.
Nancy Zieman
Hi Billie, For assistance with the “little max”, please write to Nancy’s Notions Sewing Advisors
Berenice
Oh, that longer coat would be perfect for wearing at football games (those metal bleachers get cold even in So Cal!). I would applique an eagle to support our team!
Lisa Garrett
For spark, I would add some serger embellishments.
Rrrose
I have fallen in love with machine embroidery, so I would add my spark to the patterns with imaginative embroidery!
Barbara G
Wow. I get tired of sewing the same thing over & over once I get the fit I need. Now I will be able to make so many different items. So glad someone brought us some vintage patterns so varied. Would love to win this pattern. I probably have all of your books & leaflets over the years. So thank you for always being there for us. I’ve called PBS so many times over the years because we can not get your program here in the mountains of Georgia & they tell me there is no call for your show. A little they know about the interest in your show. I always watched it when we lived in Michigan. So thank you again.
Randi
I would love to make a coat in a black with a bright liner. I love the clean look of the patterns!
Elizabeth
I’m so excited about this book! I want to turn the magic dress into a high-low tunic! AND … I want to make the magic coat using a really funky fabric as color blocking! I can’t WAIT! 🙂 thank you so much for blogging about this inspiring book and including it on your show ( I’ve GOT to set my DVR!)
Barbara Lussier
After watching the first episode of the Magic Pattern, I was so impressed that I ordered the book. I can’t wait for it to arrive so I can try out some of these ideas. I love to mix and match ideas so I would probably look for some new way to mix up the pattern pieces.
Beverly Toret
No end to the possibilities. That’s the spark. It sparks your creativity!
Louise Johnson
I have several sewing books from the 1920s that are very inspiring for those of us who find garment sewing to be our creative outlet. Simple patterns invite us to become creative!
Jo D
I see many embroidery patterns from my library just waiting to be added to these patterns….. Oh, yea.
Robin
I really love the magic coat pattern. I would probably add some interesting trim detail, but they look great the way they are depicted here!
Lisa
I like the idea of making many things out of a few patterns by changing it up. I hope there will be some more patterns using princess seams like with a sheath dress. I prefer more fitted clothing styles rather than the ones shown in the pictures so far. Though I do like the a line skirt and the tie sweater shown. Last time I sewed something from scratch was more than 10 yrs ago, hope to get into it again but be better at fitting since I am having a hard time finding things to fit. (between 2 sizes in ready wear and patterns and different sizes in tops and bottoms)
Margaret Zupfer
I like the white coat set but would make the sleeves sheer.
Cynthia T
I can’t wait to watch the show! We have an awesome new store in town with a massive Button Wall. I would love to make a cool coat and use one if these buttons. I have been reading your book this week. I love it!
Marjory W.
I love scarves, and any of these patterns could use a detachable scarf for another look.
Tina
Love the jacket. Maybe add some Sherpa trim at collar and pockets.
Mildred Harris
I love old patterns. I had one that was printed in the late 40’s (not sure which year) that buttoned to the right side. I have not found it yet— from 4 downsizing moves in 4 years!! Still praying it will be in a box—- as the possibilities dwindle!
Donna
I gave up sewing garments long ago because nothing ever seemed to work out the way I imagined, but I am inspired to give it another try. I love the look of these patterns–easy lines, not a lot of fussy pieces… Amy and you, Nancy, both sure know how to spark creativity in others!
PamB
I really like the jackets and it would be fun to use this pattern to change things up.
Ell
The white blouse shown with jeans and boots would look interesting with pin tucks and embroidery.
michelle
I would construct a dress with some kitschy snaps at just above the hips so I could unsnap the bottom of the dress a conversion of a blouse. Constructed properly the unattached bottom of the dress could be worn as a shawl. A three in one garmet, Dress, blouse, shawl!!
Robin
I do like the looks of these Magic Pattern. I have a Tablet, just not the one you specify. I will look you up on the Web since these are too good to pass up. If I could just quit sewing for the great-grands (6)!
Marty
Love the ‘comfort’ looks!
Anne Z.
Love the versatility of the Cardigan. It would be fun to shorten it and add a flounce to the bottom.
Mary Blevins
Thank you for the chance to win this wonderful pattern!
Lori M.
Love that Cardigan…..Would love to see it with a lined fabric to wear when it really gets cold here in Montana…..And the Dress, what a lovey shade of green fabric, and I would love to see it also in Fall Colors, the dress design looks great for the cooler weather ahead….
Donna G.
I’d add some machine embroidery or decorative edging/piping.
Brenda
I especially like the cardigan to wear with leggings. All are great! I would add some embroidery or a fabric flower pin. Love to wear scarves also and enjoy Nancy’s scarf book and DVD!
Dorothy Urberg
I would add embroidery designs to the cardigan, love the look on all the patterans
Gayle
I would love to put glass seed beads on any of the garments. I would change the sleeves on the coats and add metal zippers on the sleeves and pockets. The tops would look lovely with some stretch lace to replace the sleeves and make insets on the front upper bodices with lace. So many ideas, so little time and money. 😉
Nancy Parrish
The possibilities for so many alterations are so intriguing. I would probably start with a dress in a dressy fabric as I can’t seem to find one to purchase that I like or that will fit the “curves” of my maturing figure.
Gloria Rakovic
I am so glad to see you back working on garments. I have been sewing for more years than I care to tell. Still sewing and hope that garment sewing will make a big come back. And yes I would love to have these patterns.
Amanda S
I really like that cardigan! I would like to see it made up in a light weight sweater knit…..possibly with some metallic threads laced throughout or a matallic sheen. Perfect for fall and winter layering!
Louise King
I love reworking old patterns and count it a SCORE! if I find one at a estate or garage sale. I love the way this one has been redone!
Peggy
I love these patterns and I have some vintage material that would look great in the blouses. You ladies make it look so easy that I am ready to try them. I’m not too much into the trendy fashions and ready to go back to sewing my own clothes. This book would be great to have.
Evelyn
I love the cardigan and would make it longer for a late fall early winter coat…maybe even add a row of ruffles around the bottom, up front and around neck. Even short ruffles would be cute and so would a contrasting belt.
Marie
The pattern looks great. I would like to start sewing garments again using the pattern.
Judith Cushing
I have been wanting to get back to sewing garments, and this looks great! It would be fun to win this!
Ginette
HI, I just love he idea that with 6 patterns, and many different fabric you can sew a whole wardrobe. I certainly will enjoy having it, and trying some machine embroidery on new clothes. What a beautiful incentive.
Terri Rundlett
I just met Amy at the Sewing Expo in Novi, MI! She is one sweet gal and of course I had to pick up this book of patterns & have Amy sign my book! Can’t wait to get started on one!
Darla Kimmes
Oh so many creative sewing sensations! It just makes me smile to think of the possibilities.
Karen Brayton
One pattern, many options, flattering to all figure types. You just add your creativity.
Diane S.
I like the top and don’ t think I would add anything to it. The fabric is busy. Sometimes “less is more. “
Deon
The spark I would add (and it’s probably not very creative) are buttons. I bought some very nice designer buttons that deserve a special project, and I think a coat would be great.
Paula White
The spark I would add is embroidered designs. I love my babylock designs and know they would be the perfect accent.
patricia a hand
All I do is sew, jackets and coats are my speciality bring on the something old something NEW.
marijka
Love that coat!! I’d spark it up by mixing a variety of plaid flannel shirts I’ve thrifted, quilt in a grid pattern, and edge it with black pinwale bias trim for a funky lumberjack look!
Suzanne Reese
The plaid flannels on the coat sounds really clever and different. I like your idea! Suzanne
Laura
I like the white outfit and what I would do is make the skirt straight and add a flounce to it and lengthen it to just below the knee. I’d put a 3 inch ruffle on the sleeves. This would make it dressy and it could be worn to holiday functions. Red, black, off white, green, gold or think of the many color and fabric possibilities!
Laura
I like the white outfit and what I would do is make the skirt straight and add a flounce to it and lengthen it to just below the knee. I’d put a 3 inch ruffle on the sleeves. This would make it dressy and it could be worn to holiday functions. Red, black, off white, green, gold or think of the many color and fabric possibilities!
Sara Sparks
I love the idea of patterns on a cd that I can print at home. Would the pattern print out a multi sized pattern or can you select a specific size to print? I would love to win this!! I have 2 daughters at home and we are all very different size and shapes!
Ginny Kay
At a recent visit to a thrift store, I saw many fine men’s suits in brand new condition for less than $10. I would love to buy a couple of those and repurpose the heck out of them as I teach my 9- and 10-years old daughters sewing skills along with ways to reduce, reuse and recycle. Please, pick us!
Joan
Simply gorgeous, you are a very talented lady.
Laurie Mueller
I like the unbelted jacket, pattern 402. I would add some pizazz by adding texture to the printed fabric side. I would begin by sewing with ‘Texture Magic’ on printed fabric. I would make enough textured fabric to add a faux cuff on the sleeves.
patricia
I like your dress patterns it’s look like new styles, i love the magic pattern dress it’s so beautiful and pretty looking the long pattern is very good silhouette i like the flowers printing style and the waist belt appearance very slim fit looking and your are done a great job it’s all are a unique looking patterns and the fabric collection is very good thanks for sharing a good patterns.