(Side note - The Stash Busting Sew-a-long is a low pressure group with the shared goal of reducing our fabric stashes. We have monthly themes but you can sew up your stash any way you want. For more details see Emily's blog post. We also have a facebook group and a flicker group if you want to join.)
Here's a couple of ways to utilize your pattern stash.
1. Finally sew a project that you've assembled all the materials for.
A new pattern releases and and you're so excited that you quickly buy fabric to go along with it. You'll start that new project right after finishing the one you're working on. Or maybe life just gets in the way and sucks up all your sewing time. What ever the case, that fabric/pattern is still sitting around waiting for your attention. This month is the perfect opportunity to finally make that garment.
2. Shop the stash for new pattern/fabric combinations.
Some times fabrics get bought with no real plans other than, "I'll make that into a dress," or "That print shall be mine!" Patterns also get bought, filed and forgotten. Use this month as a reason to sort through your fabric and pattern stash. See if any new pattern pairings come to light. Maybe you didn't have pattern X when you bought fabric Y. When you see them together an exciting new sewing project could happen. While you're at it, might as well weed out anything that doesn't thrill you anymore. Any kind stash reduction is good.
3. Whip up another TNT (Tried and True) pattern.
You love that pattern and wear it all the time. Maybe you need another one in different color/print. Do a bit of stash diving and see what sparks your fancy.
4. Frankenpattern yourself a new garment.
Nothing really enticing you to get sewing? How about combining some patterns together? A new dress can easily be made by combining bodices and skirts. Maybe you like the collar on one jacket but the sleeves of another. Go ahead and mash those patterns up. Don't worry, your frankenpattern babies won't be hideous.
5. Plan your spring/fall wardrobe.
A seasonal change is right around the corner no matter what hemisphere you're residing in. It's the perfect time to sew a pattern that you ran out of time to make last year. By the time the change in temps arrives you'll be ready with some new garments.
I've sneakily done some pre-sewing along these suggestions and plan on blogging my projects related to the theme through out the month. So are you ready to make the most of your pattern stash? Stash busters unite..... pattern power!
What about you? Do you have any tricks or tips for using patterns already in your stash? I'd love to hear about it.
