Seamwork 14: The Body Issue

The January issue of Seamwork is up and ready for you to read!

In this issue:

• The Neglected R.: Let rituals transform your year, by Jessica Yen.
• Seamwork Style: Mix and match patterns for a unique me-made wardrobe.
• Behind the Seams: Explore the construction of a girdle from the 1950s.
• The Origins of Clothing Sizes: How we wound up with our current sizing system, by Katrina Robinson.
• Strong Sewing: Make athletic wear at home that will perform with your body, by Alyson Clair.
• Movement for Sewists: Increase strength and mobility with eight simple exercises, by Haley Glenn and Kelly Lippert.
• Building your Activewear Wardrobe: The thoughtful process behind creating a customized athletic wear wardrobe, by Melissa Fehr.
• Unbusted: Sewing eases the decision to get a mastectomy, by Nicki Taylor.
• The Seamworker’s Guide to Edinburgh: Uncover inspiration, vintage finds, history, and a vibrant local designer scene in Scotland’s capital city, by Kristina J Seznec.
• Block Paper Scissors: Create a Rio tee with a unique overlapping back keyhole, by Devon Iott.
• Handmade Beauty: Relax with a Sweet Cream Soak Powder, by Kat Siddle.
• Free and fun downloadable: Gaining Focus Through Rituals

Some favorite quotes from this issue:

“Rituals can create pockets of time or space within our busy lives where we can enter into reflection, gratitude, focus on our intention to live consciously, and be present.” -Jessica Yen, The Neglected R.

“This decision was made infinitely easier by the fact that I knew I could make clothes that worked for my body. I knew I could have no hair, no breasts, and still be beautiful. Yep. Beautiful. I could sew my way to body confidence, rather than have a surgeon sew my body back together. Way more fun!” -Nicki Taylor, Unbusted

“At one time or another, most of us have found ourselves in a changing room, tugging at ill-fitting jeans or frowning at a snug top. We blame ourselves, our shape, and our genetics. But these accusations may be mislaid. After all, very few of us are a perfect fit for ready-to-wear sizing, and even if we find one brand that works for us, that rarely translates to other brands or stores.” -Katrina Robinson, The Origins of Clothing Sizes

And here are the two new quick-to-sew patterns in this issue:

With it’s subtle high-low hem and flattering relaxed fit, Rio is the perfect t-shirt. Rio features fitted short sleeves and a flattering scoop neck. The split hem adds interest while creating additional ease through the hips. This wardrobe workhorse sews up in just one hour and can be adapted for many occasions and activities.

Aires will have you looking and feeling great even through the sweatiest work out. These fitted athletic tights feature curved style lines, perfect for color blocking. The crotch gusset adds strength and provides flattering fit through the rise. A wide waistband and moderate rise keeps Aires in place through downward-facing dog and burpees alike.

You can visit Seamwork.com to read the issue, download it from the current issue page, or subscribe to get the patterns.