Magic Patterns: Sewing Options for a Cardigan, Dress & Coat

Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

Magic Patterns: Sewing Options for a Cardigan, Dress & Coat

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Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

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.

Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

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 Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

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 Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With NancyMagic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With NancyMagic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

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.

Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

Watch Magic Patterns (Part One and Part Two on Sewing With Nancy online.

Magic Patterns by Amy Barickman as seen on Sewing With Nancy

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.

Magic pattern

Bye for now,

Nancy Zieman The Blog

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100 Comments

  • Ramona Betz
    October 2, 2014

    Amazing pattern!

  • kathy marlow
    October 2, 2014

    What size do these come?

  • Mary Walker
    October 2, 2014

    Definitely some machine embroidery!

  • Kathy
    October 2, 2014

    This is great. I love options.

  • Sandi Colwell
    October 2, 2014

    Would love to win this. The coats are so stylish!

  • Charlotte Sather
    October 2, 2014

    I LOVE the coat patterns. I have been making capes this fall and the coat wold be another fun thing to sew!!!

  • Vera
    October 2, 2014

    I love this! I would love to make a top from the dress!

  • Lorraine
    October 2, 2014

    BLING!! BLING!! BLING!! I would add heat set rhinestones to many of the pattern pieces of clothing

  • Sandra Kennedy
    October 2, 2014

    Would love to try my luck at sewing a coat.

  • Sandra Kennedy
    October 2, 2014

    I am going to have to try this pattern.

  • AS
    October 2, 2014

    DVD could inspire me to sew a new outfit.

  • Susan Meyer
    October 2, 2014

    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.

  • Diana Grindel
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    It would be great to have one pattern for some many different items

  • Robyn
    October 2, 2014

    Classic, yet trendy! Love it!

  • Sue Kaiser
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    What a terrific set of patterns to have in a sewing room. I’d love to have it in mine!

  • Christine Gibbons
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I rarely sew for myself, but this pattern makes me want to give it another try.

  • Sandra
    October 2, 2014

    Would love to make the coat with some fall or winter embroidery and maybe trimmed with faux-fur. What a wonderful contest!

  • Debe
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    Would definitely make the cardigan many times, perfect for work!

  • Cher
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    Pick me. I need something Magic in my life!!!

  • Karen Hansen
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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.
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I love all the options!

  • CC Collins
    October 2, 2014

    Wow! Love all the looks that are achievable with this pattern book! The cardi is just what I have been looking for!

  • Christina Gonzalez
    October 2, 2014

    I would add ruffles to the hem of the Magic Dress. I hope to win.

  • Eleanor Vaughn
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    Wow. That dress idea is perfect for these cooler days. I’d add beading to the neckline for some extra ‘glitz’!

  • Suzanne Reese
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    Oh wow this can really explode the creativity! Imagine a duster cardigan?!!!!!

  • Bobi Anderson
    October 2, 2014

    The Magic Pattern is intriguing! Can’t wait to see this on your program! Thanks

  • Terry
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I love this I have sewed for years but have just gotten back into sewing for myself need patterns and ideas.

  • Cindy Swenson
    October 2, 2014

    Absolutely love these patterns!! And it’s a bonus that they don’t look overly difficult! Thanks Nancy!

  • Ferrell Hinds
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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”.

  • Berenice
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    For spark, I would add some serger embellishments.

  • Rrrose
    October 2, 2014

    I have fallen in love with machine embroidery, so I would add my spark to the patterns with imaginative embroidery!

  • Barbara G
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I would love to make a coat in a black with a bright liner. I love the clean look of the patterns!

  • Elizabeth
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    No end to the possibilities. That’s the spark. It sparks your creativity!

  • Louise Johnson
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I see many embroidery patterns from my library just waiting to be added to these patterns….. Oh, yea.

  • Robin
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I like the white coat set but would make the sleeves sheer.

  • Cynthia T
    October 2, 2014

    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.
    October 2, 2014

    I love scarves, and any of these patterns could use a detachable scarf for another look.

  • Tina
    October 2, 2014

    Love the jacket. Maybe add some Sherpa trim at collar and pockets.

  • Mildred Harris
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    I really like the jackets and it would be fun to use this pattern to change things up.

  • Ell
    October 2, 2014

    The white blouse shown with jeans and boots would look interesting with pin tucks and embroidery.

  • michelle
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    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
    October 2, 2014

    Love the ‘comfort’ looks!

  • Anne Z.
    October 2, 2014

    Love the versatility of the Cardigan. It would be fun to shorten it and add a flounce to the bottom.

  • Mary Blevins
    October 2, 2014

    Thank you for the chance to win this wonderful pattern!

  • Lori M.
    October 2, 2014

    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.
    October 2, 2014

    I’d add some machine embroidery or decorative edging/piping.

  • Brenda
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    I would add embroidery designs to the cardigan, love the look on all the patterans

  • Gayle
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 3, 2014

    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
    October 4, 2014

    The pattern looks great. I would like to start sewing garments again using the pattern.

  • Judith Cushing
    October 4, 2014

    I have been wanting to get back to sewing garments, and this looks great! It would be fun to win this!

  • Ginette
    October 4, 2014

    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
    October 4, 2014

    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
    October 4, 2014

    Oh so many creative sewing sensations! It just makes me smile to think of the possibilities.

  • Karen Brayton
    October 5, 2014

    One pattern, many options, flattering to all figure types. You just add your creativity.

  • Diane S.
    October 5, 2014

    I like the top and don’ t think I would add anything to it. The fabric is busy. Sometimes “less is more. “

  • Deon
    October 5, 2014

    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
    October 6, 2014

    The spark I would add is embroidered designs. I love my babylock designs and know they would be the perfect accent.

  • patricia a hand
    October 6, 2014

    All I do is sew, jackets and coats are my speciality bring on the something old something NEW.

  • marijka
    October 6, 2014

    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
      October 7, 2014

      The plaid flannels on the coat sounds really clever and different. I like your idea! Suzanne

  • Laura
    October 7, 2014

    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
    October 7, 2014

    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
    October 9, 2014

    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
    October 11, 2014

    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
    November 5, 2014

    Simply gorgeous, you are a very talented lady.

  • Laurie Mueller
    July 23, 2015

    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
    March 3, 2017

    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.

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