Frocktails the details @melbournefrocktails
The dress is @simplicitymccallsaustralia Simplicity 8013, in a viscose from Darn Cheap Fabrics.
I’ve had this fabric and pattern for almost 3 years and the project in mind for about 2.5, I’m so happy to have finally made it.
The pattern is great, a lot simpler than it looks and the instructions are really clear.
I made the size 20 as per my measurements and didn’t modify anything but in hindsight I wish I had altered the front bodice for more coverage, it is definitely drafted for someone with a smaller bust than mine. I knew the v was going to be low and I made a toile which seemed fine but in the final version, the weight of the skirt pulls it open and shows a lot more than I’d like.
It’s also worth sharing that I am quite tall and have long legs and this skirt is really long, I removed about 2 inches when hemming and it’s still maybe a bit long.
There is a LOT of fabric in this dress, between 7.5 and 10m (depending on width) for my size!! I don’t think I used as much as that and if your fabric isn’t directional you could probably be much more conservative with the fabric layout. I’m 176cm tall, if you’re shorter than this, remove length from the skirt pieces before cutting to conserve fabric.
#annamadeit2025 #s8013
@melbournefrocktails My first ever! I’m so excited and can’t wait to see everyone’s makes. This is the @fibremood Kamala dress in a metallic poly from @darncheapfabrics . This pattern is so underrated, it’s easy to sew and comfortable to wear.
#fibremoodkamala
I am so grateful to have this photo of myself and @mrssmartphotography from the 50th we went to at @feathertop_wine just before Christmas. It was taken by @jessehiscophoto who captures people and events beautifully.
(Yes this is a month old, I can’t be the only one who is struggling to catch their breath)
Our week 1 Callie round up. She’s super chill and very cuddly. We’ve been talking about getting a puppy for years, but I’m glad it’s only now we’ve taken the plunge. I don’t know how people do this with little kids
This weekend we celebrated 20 years of Craft Camp. I’ve been going for 14 and I’m so grateful for the support, encouragement and belly laughs these women (and the rest) give me.
It’s a gift to have these opportunities.
No photos yet of what I made, I was too busy sewing, laughing and being fed.
Thank you @soozmade@formandreform@jmpinry@clementineshoes@keating.leslie@jodiericrac@aussieellen@renegadetutu@kirstenjohnstone_com@theweaversworkroom Jo, and Jan for a great weekend and all the other women who I’m lucky enough to have spent a weekend with. Here’s to 20 more!!
My first make for 2026! I had the chance to take part in Make and Share for TAUKO Magazine issue No. 18 - POCKETS! These are the Keja pants by @smartpattern . They are subtly barrel shaped with lots of pocket options, including side pockets and cargo style pockets.
They are made with the softest linen from a doona cover and the pockets feature fabric from gorgeous shibori placemats I found at an op shop ages ago. I have one pocket on the left and two pockets layered on the right.
I really liked this pattern, it comes together easily. These are size 5 (based off my waist measurements) they are huge! Fortunately, I wanted this pair to be loose and comfortable but I’ll size down at least one size next time.
Kiitos @taukomagazine This was fun!
#makeandshare18 #taukomakeandshare #taukokeja @taukomagazine
#annamadeit2026
Alexander earned his karate black belt on the weekend. In his usual style, he took it in stride and is super chilled about the whole thing, BUT it’s the culmination of 7 years of dedication and commitment and I couldn’t be prouder of him. Kando Highett is an amazing dojo and the leaders and instructors are incredible people. Thanks to everyone there who helped get him to this point, but particularly his Senseis Justin & Ev for always making him believe in himself and not letting him cut corners. Special thanks to Sempai Tara, I’m so grateful for your enthusiasm and passion. @kandohighett
What a treat today to visit @tammykanat exhibition Circle of Her at @jewishmuseumaus with two of my favourite women.
I’ve followed her on Instagram for many years now so it was a treat to see her weaving in person.
The works explore female archetypes using Jewish heroines and matriarchs but there is a connection to femininity that transcends religion.
I highly recommend visiting. It’s on until March and entrance is free on Fridays.
The weather was miserable but the atmosphere was amazing!
@melbournefrocktails professional photos are in and need to be on here permanently, I’ll likely not make something this eye-catching until Frocktails next year!! Thank you @bypennystephens forcapturing this photo of my dress in its swishy glory.
How awesome are my sewing pals? I highly recommend surrounding yourself with people that make you smile this much and make you feel like a smoke show 🔥 I love these girls so much.
Thank you so much to @schoolofsewing_upcycling for sponsoring the Photo Booth. I am completely obsessed with these photos and wish I’d taken a dozen more
Frocktails 2025 was a fantastic success! I am full of inspiration and admiration. With 400 sewers in one room it’s incredible to see how different everyone’s creativity is. So happy to have been able to share the night with my sewing friends and loved meeting new people. Thanks for a wonderful night @melbournefrocktails !!
