Sewing for men: a review of my challenge for 2015

In case you are unaware of the story behind this challenge, a quick explanation… 

Last year in December 2014 I wanted to make a t-shirt for Marc. The problem I faced, was in the choice of patterns available, they were either very young in style ie. for teens or very dated or consisted of theatrical costumes and medical scrubs. 

My challenge throughout the year for 2015 was to see if I could sew him a wearable garment for every month, simple garments or accessories he would use in his everyday life. In conclusion I succeeded, most he wore and loved. The apron is untested but all ready for Christmas day!

Ok votes being taken now….which one is your favourite?

I love the shorts on Mr July and the shirt on Mr May.

The picture below is one of my favourites and very close to my heart. Taken on a balmy summers evening, my Mum was staying (she lives in Florida) and we had such fun teasing Marc whilst photographing him he was enjoying his new found talent as a male model! We were all relaxed and laughing, we were happy, a good memory to cherish from the Summertime.

A few things I learnt from this challenge:

That men really are neglected in the pattern choices that are available online and in stores. We need more casual but trendy shirts that are not for teens, more smart casual clothes would be great!

That: its hard to sew well and thoroughly enjoy it when you put yourself under pressure.

That: you cannot really choose a more advanced project to sew and complete in a month, when combined with work, kids and home. I had planned to sew jeans and more shirts, all impossible given my time scale. However they are now on my ‘slow sew’ list for this year!

That: the weather has so much to do with how we choose or buy our clothes and fabrics in the UK. for instance linen is usually only available in the summer, but what happens if you want to sew a linen shirt now and be ready for the spring.

That: this man is a jolly good sport as well as being exceptionally talented and very, very handsome of course! (now can we start decorating the bedroom?)

That I sewed very little for myself, this year …

Best pattern was this one:

Burda 7916: we used it four times: March, April and August and once last year too:

I am looking forward to some ‘selfish slow sewing’ in 2016. Plus I have some huge (yes huge) and exciting news for you too next year. Watch this space….

A Round up of links, with details of patterns etc:

Mr January can be seen lounging here

Mr February can be seen outdoors here

Mr March can be seen here

Mr April can be seen here

Mr May can be seen here

Mr June a special Father’s Day man sew can be seen here

My July can be seen relaxing Here

Mr August brewing here

Mr September mowing here

Mr October out and about here

Mr November here a bit of a cheat really!

Mr December here (warning: not for the faint hearted)

Sending our very bestest wishes to you from both of us…

and Marc x