The Isla Sewing Pattern

Ideal for complete beginners. These patterns use simple shapes and easy-to-sew woven fabrics like cotton or linen with no fitting required. Techniques may include straight seams, basic hems, inserting elastic, simple edge finishes like zig-zag stitch, no closures, simple square patch pockets.

For sewists who are comfortable using a sewing machine and following basic instructions. Building on your skills with techniques such as darts, gathering, applying facings or bias binding, simple sleeve styles, sewing simple closures like loops or ties, in-seam pockets, clean seam finishings with an overlocker or flat felled and french seam on straight seams, simple fitting adjustments, sewing visible centred zips, sewing curved seams and simple collars eg. peter pan. Slightly trickier fabrics can be used like viscose, light cotton lawn.

For those with a good understanding of garment construction. These patterns may include structured shapes, lapped or invisible zips, buttonholes, pleats, set-in sleeves, manderin or shirt collars, slant/zipped/flap pockets and linings or partial linings. You’ll start learning to adjust the fit and work with a wider range of fabrics, including lightweight or slippery materials.

For experienced sewists confident in most garment techniques. Expect more complex construction such as fly zips, tailored collars, welt and breast pockets, fully lined or partial bagging-out, detailed seam finishing like hong kong or flat felled and french seams on curves. These patterns may require precise fitting adjustments and working with challenging fabrics or layers.

For highly skilled sewists with a deep understanding of garment construction and fitting. Techniques may include couture finishes, boning, structured tailoring, bound buttonholes, tailored jackets and coats with full structure, lined garments with bagged linings and complex pattern matching. A high level of accuracy and patience is essential.