Make Nine, But Make It Meaningful

This year’s Make Nine has been put together with a bit more thought and a lot less flapping. Instead of chasing the thrill of one-off makes that only get worn once (if that), I’m focusing on garments that’ll properly earn their keep in everyday life. Pieces for pottering about at home, heading into town, and just generally getting on with day-to-day life. The aim? To slow things down. To be more intentional. And to spend my precious making time on clothes that get reached for again and again. Because there’s something deeply satisfying about a handmade garment that fits well, feels right, and actually gets worn.

Now, let’s be clear, you can absolutely make more than nine things in a year. I usually do. But the Make Nine challenge is especially handy if, like me, you’re trying to lean into slower, more thoughtful making… or if time’s a bit tight… or if you fancy creating a small, cohesive set of projects around a theme rather than sewing in a mad dash all year. If you’re struggling to narrow things down, here are a few questions worth mulling over.

Nine Questions to Help You Choose Your Make Nine

1. What do you want or need?
   Be kind to yourself when choosing patterns, but also be honest. What do you actually want or need in your wardrobe this year?
2. What did you learn from last year’s wins and wobbles?
   If something didn’t get finished, ask yourself why. Too fiddly? Wrong fabric? Not “you” after all? There’s nearly always a lesson hiding in there.
3. What matters to you?
   Are you working towards a capsule wardrobe? Sewing more ethically? Sticking to a budget? There’s nowt dull about being practical—logic has its own kind of success.
4. What’s sat in your lwashing basket that you wear to death?
   Those are clues. Is there something you’d love to recreate or make a handmade version of?
5. What do you truly love making and what do you not?
   If you hate sewing trousers, don’t put them on the list just to prove a point. Life’s too short for sewing spite projects.
6. Are you a seasonal maker?
   Maybe your list is full of summer frocks or winter knits. That’s ah okay! There are no hard rules here.
7. Have a look at your calendar.
   Time isn’t something you find down the back of the sofa—it’s something you make. Be realistic about how much time you can give each project.
8. Do you want to use up your stash?
   And if not, why not? Don’t force yourself to sew something just because you’ve owned the pattern for years. Tastes change. No guilt required. Maybe it’s time to pass a few things on and start afresh.
9. Is there something completely new you fancy trying?
   If you’ve got the time and patience to give it a fair go, knowing you might not love or wear it in the end, crack on. Trying new things is how we learn.

Here is my Make Nine for 2026;

Charm Patterns Barbie Top (elbow-length sleeves)

A beautifully fitted, vintage-inspired top with elbow-length sleeves that pairs perfectly with high-waisted skirts and trousers. A real wardrobe workhorse with classic Charm Patterns style. Its for Paetrons only, but you can sign up here.

Charm Patterns Hepburn Top (V-neck with bow detail)

A timeless V-neck top finished with a bow detail for a soft, elegant look. Feminine and flattering, this version feels both classic and easy to wear

Cashmerette Club Franconia Dress

A woven-fabric dress with a flattering silhouette, making it a perfect spring-to-summer staple. Light, versatile, and ideal for warmer days when you still want a polished finish.

Jennifer Lauren Handmade Kinfolk Dress

A relaxed, modern dress with clean lines and thoughtful shaping. This is one of those patterns that feels both comfortable and put-together, perfect for everyday wear.

Tammy Handmade Margo Pinafore

A charming, practical pinafore designed for layering. Worn over blouses or jumpers, it’s a versatile piece that works beautifully across the seasons.

Friday Pattern Company Patina Top (with a 1-inch raised neckline)

A boxy, contemporary top with a subtle neckline adjustment to make it even more wearable. A simple pattern that’s ideal for showing off beautiful fabrics.

Tilly and the Buttons Mabel Dress

A floaty, shirred favourite that I’ve made three times already. After losing four stone, it feels like the perfect time to sew new versions that truly fit my body now. Also on my list from #MakeNine 2025! A tried and trued pattern.

Forget-Me-Not Adeline Dress

A romantic, feminine dress and the first project in my #FinishThatWIP2026 line-up. I’ll be starting this on the 1st of January, with the finished blog post going live on the 31st. This is going to be one of my new work dresses.

Ellie and Mac Be Smart Jumper (knit pinafore)

Despite the name, this is actually a cosy knit pinafore. It’s perfect for layering over tops and jumpers. Comfortable, practical, ideal for everyday wear and even the office.

Round up of my chosen 9

Each of these feels like a solid, wearable addition nothing too precious, nothing destined to sit unloved in the wardrobe. Just well thought out makes that suit my life as it is now.
If you’re doing Make Nine this year, remember: it’s not about perfection or productivity. It’s about sewing with intention, choosing projects that serve you, and enjoying the process along the way. Slow sewing still gets you there, just with a bit more satisfaction stitched in. 🧵✨