Tilly and The Buttons

Tilly Walnes may need no introduction to many of you. She featured in the first series of The Great British Sewing Bee and, even then showed a talent for design and sociability. These characteristics have since been developed into a business, “Tilly and The Buttons”, which is renowned for beautifully designed jargon-busting patterns. Lizzy started selling these early on in the life of “Make” and has now expanded the range thanks to the early popularity of the designs.

The instruction booklet is clearly illustrated and each step-by-step stage carefully explained. If you are a beginner to dressmaking then don’t be daunted, you’ll be fine!

The Coco top or dress is simple to sew with no fiddly bits to deal with. You can choose a boat neck Breton top or a 1960s dress with funnel top and a whole variety in between. This is sewn in cotton jersey for an easy fit.

The Francoise dress is a chic yet easy to wear mini dress inspired by 1960s fashion. This can be sewn in a variety of fabrics to suit your individual taste.

The Arielle Skirt is an asymmetrical pencil or mini skirt with an adorable opening on one side. Great for autumn in medium weight woven fabrics such as denim or wool.

Make a jumpsuit for those Christmas parties …..

…… or a relaxed pair of trousers for evenings slouching at home with the Marigold pattern. Use draping fabrics such as rayon or even silk or try the trousers in jersey, perfect!

Agnes is a close-fitting jersey top, speedy to sew and simple to fit, finished with a narrow band at the neckline. Choose from long or cropped sleeves; plain or ruched and a scooped or ruched sweetheart neckline.

The Bettine dress features a blousy bodice with scoop neckline, kimono sleeves, turn up cuffs, elasticated waist and tulip skirt. Again, it’s simple to sew and here it is again below with a t-shirt underneath for autumn! 

The straight skirt featured in Dominique is incredibly easy to sew. Use medium weight woven fabrics such as cotton or linen.

The flared skirt is cut on the bias for a flowing silhouette.  Sew in light to medium weight draped fabrics but avoid anything too slippery if you’re a beginner. Each pattern gives a great list of fabric suggestions.

The Orla is a semi fitted shift top with delicate details offset by a modern exposed zip; we also sell these in the shop.

Last but not least, we now have the Fifi pattern for sale at Make. This lovely set of dainties is perfect for lounging at home or wearing to bed. Ooh la la!

Tilly and the Buttons sewing patterns are incredibly popular with sewing enthusiasts worldwide and are receiving rave reviews on countless sewing blogs so why not take your pick and join in the fun! It would be great to feature some of your makes in future blogs.

Happy making,

Sheila