Hi hi! My name is Ellen, 36 years old and I’m active on Instagram under the name @Ell.Mini. I also have my own blog: www.Ellmini.com
Why did you start sewing?
I started sewing 5 years ago when I was pregnant with my daughter. I had exactly in my head how her clothes should look, but in the shops, I couldn't find exactly what I was looking for, or it was very pricey. And then I thought, "Maybe I can make it myself!". Through various blogs and YouTube, I searched for different sewing techniques and so I started making my own baby outfits. Once I had a taste of sewing I wanted to do more!
Why did you name your blog "ell.mini"?
Everyone calls me 'Ell' and 'mini' refers to the mini human that was growing in my belly when I started sewing. It does sound nice and by now it's an online household name! ????
Why are you a fan of Fibre Mood?
The patterns are modern and up to date, they have a good fit and the instructions are easy for me (as a self-taught-Sewista) to follow. I also find it helpful that I can view the instructions beforehand on the website to assess whether my sewing skills will be sufficient to tackle a project.
What do you like best about sewing with Fibre Mood patterns?
Whenever I see something I like (e.g. on Instagram or in a fashion magazine), I always find a pattern at Fibre Mood that I can use or hack to get to that result. I also really like the fit of the clothes; based on the measurements of a finished piece, I can estimate well in advance what size I need to sew.
What are your birthday wishes for Fibre Mood?
I hope the magazine continues to design beautiful, modern patterns, select the most beautiful fabrics, and connect the sewing community for a long time to come!
What was your very first Fibre Mood creation?
First, I made the Mabel blouse. After that, I didn't sew for myself for a long time. I was pregnant with my son and it took a little longer before I could wear my own size again. But now that I can do that again, I am more motivated to sew for myself! The Oriana blouse, the Kamala dress, and the Ulima top are my most recent Fibre Mood creations.
Which pattern from the first edition did you hack?
I was hesitating between the Sean bomber jacket (yes I know, it's for men, but a cool oversized bomber jacket is right up my street!) or the Toni dress. In the end, I chose Toni because I didn't really have any winter dresses of my own yet. In my head, all sorts of fun ideas were already emerging to give the dress a cool, modern twist.
How did you come up with the hacking idea?
Originally I wanted to make a black, straight maxi dress. But I thought that was a bit boring and too obvious a choice. When I was browsing the latest Fibre Mood for some inspiration, I saw the Soraya jumper with the drawstring. And immediately I saw a match: I would lengthen the dress to maxi and add a drawstring at the side, so I could roll it up and the dress would look a bit more feminine.
What adjustments have you made?
By adding extra seam allowance, I created two tunnels through which I could thread a cord. I also lengthened the sleeves and later rolled them up as well. I do like a casual, cool look, and I think it worked.
Do you make pattern hacks more often?
Yes, I really love that! Turning a base pattern into something completely your own gives me enormous satisfaction! Your work is just that little bit different, it's completely my own taste and it's a great way to express my creativity!
Where did you find inspiration and how did you go about matching your chosen fabric to this pattern?
I always find a lot of inspiration on Pinterest, Instagram, and in shops. I don't wear many prints myself so a solid-coloured fabric was pretty much a given. A black dress is always a good idea and is also almost always flattering, so the choice was quickly made.
Do you have another golden tip for beginning Sewistas on this pattern or other projects?
For me, it helps to have well thought out in advance how something is put together. I read the instructions and then try to imagine it step by step. As soon as it feels logical, I start cutting and sewing. I also think it is a matter of 'practice makes perfect'. Sometimes I don't succeed as I had hoped. Don't give up then but find out what didn’t go right and then just try again. Instagram, YouTube and many websites are full of useful sewing tips!
Any Fibre Mood sewing projects in the pipeline?
The Lulu blouse is totally my thing, I'm just looking for the perfect fabric. And a Vinny as a body warmer also seems totally fun in a nice bouclé or teddy. But the welt pockets on it are new to me, so I'll postpone it until I have a bit more time and confidence again!
Finally, do you want to say anything yourself?
I am happy to see sewing and dressmaking getting a better image. It's a really fun hobby that can take your mind off things and clear your head. Partly because of Fibre Mood's fun patterns, you can make really cool fashion items that are on trend. I recommend all those interested to just give it a try. Start with something simple, ask for help where necessary and discover that making your own fashion is a really fun hobby that gives you a lot of satisfaction!
Are you also starting to itch to get your hands on the Toni pattern? You buy it here!
Don't forget to share your creations via the website or on Instagram with the hashtag #FibreMood + the name of the pattern
