Make It Simple — Tilly and the Buttons (Book + Printed Patterns)
Includes: Book + 6 full-scale printed patterns (UK 6–24)
Projects: 24 quick makes with variations
Skill level: Confident beginner–intermediate (beginner-friendly)
Formats: Step-by-step photo instructions; time-saving tips
Great for: Capsule wardrobe, speedy sewing, giftable title
Quick, modern makes for busy sewists. Make It Simple is packed with time-saving tactics and 24 easy dressmaking projects you can sew in an afternoon or over a few short evenings. Inside, award-winning author and designer Tilly Walnes shares clever shortcuts so you can squeeze sewing into real life—no fuss, lots of joy.
The book includes six full-scale printed sewing patterns (sizes UK 6–24 / US 2–20) with multiple variations, from everyday tees and lounge sets to a chic pinafore, playsuit and cosy cardigan—perfect for building a wearable wardrobe fast.
Why you’ll love it
Six printed patterns in the envelope (UK 6–24), each with mix-and-match variations
24 quick projects: straightforward construction, satisfying finishes
Beginner-friendly techniques + smart speed tips for experienced sewists
Build a capsule wardrobe you’ll actually wear
What’s inside
Full-scale, ready-to-trace pattern sheets (ten sizes)
Step-by-step photo instructions in Tilly’s clear, encouraging style
Projects spanning tops, trousers, dresses, loungewear, skirts and layers
Fabric and fit advice tailored to quick wins
My Hot Take...
My most-sewn piece from the book is the Safiya Trousers—I live in my viscose pair (made in Art Gallery Fabrics “Cottage Favourite”). The elasticated waistband = comfort; the drape = pulled-together. I’ve also made the Bertha Cardigan in a lightweight jersey for my great aunt—a perfect layer that isn’t too warm. Honestly, the book is worth it for Safiya alone!
Recommended fabrics from my shop
Viscose / rayon for drapey Safiya trousers, easy dresses
Cotton jersey / 240gsm jersey for tees and the Bertha cardi
French terry / sweatshirting for cosy layers
Cotton poplin / lawn for crisp, quick projects
Pair with these items to create the perfect sewing toolbox
Starter Sewing Toolkit
Press Cloth (you can just use scrap cotton fabric for this)
Tailor’s Ham and Seam Roll
Measuring Tape and Seam Gauge
Heat-Erasable Pen or Tailor’s Chalk
Thread Snips / Seam Ripper / Embroidery Snips
Sharp Scissors / Rotary Cutter
Clapper
Additional Information
The patterns included are:
Safiya trousers, playsuit and dungarees
Tabitha t-shirt and dress
Suki dress and belt
Bertha cardigan
Juno pyjamas and eye mask
Olive pinafore
Please Remember
Every care has been taken to ensure all pictures are true to original colours but due to screen differences in brightness/resolution/balance exact match cannot be guaranteed.
Fabrics are sold by half metre and cut in one continuous length of fabric
Returns Policy
As fabrics, elastics, interfacing and continuous zips are cut to order we are unable to offer a refund unless the item is faulty.
If you are not happy with your other unopened purchases you are entitled to a full refund within 30days of purchase, please contact via email to arrange refund. Customer is responsible for your own postage for this
Care & keeping
Care & format
Printed, softcover book with pattern sheets in the envelope
Patterns intended for home use; trace to preserve the originals
Store in cool dry space, not in direct sunlight
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