As we move from late summer into early fall, it’s all about the layers. And there’s no better fabric for transitional dressing than lightweight sweater knits. This week’s deadstock drop includes a curated range of soft, breathable sweater knits in unique textures — from bold stripes to subtle sparkles. They're light enough for warm afternoons, but cozy enough for crisp mornings and cool evenings. Why We Love Lightweight Sweater Knits: Breathable but cozy — ideal for layering without overheating Soft drape — adds elegance and movement to simple silhouettes Stretch & comfort — easy to wear, easy to sew Sustainable — made from rescued deadstock fabric = no new waste Whether you're sewing for now or prepping for fall, these fabrics are seasonless staples. Sewing Pattern Suggestions Not sure where to start? Here are a few beginner-to-intermediate sewing patterns that pair perfectly with lightweight sweater knits: 🧵 1. The Marlo Sweater by True Bias Boxy, cropped or long — great for layering over dresses or tanks. 🧵 2. The Jarrah Sweater by Megan Nielsen A modern, relaxed sweater with multiple views — perfect for showcasing stripes or sparkles. 🧵 3. The Elliot Sweater by Helen’s Closet Comfy and casual, with a slight funnel neck — great for transitional weather. 🧵 4. The Jackson Tee by Friday Pattern Co. A gender-neutral knit tee that works beautifully with drapey sweater knits for an elevated basic. Final Thoughts: Deadstock drops mean once it’s gone, it’s gone. These lightweight sweater knits won’t last long — especially with their limited quantities and irresistible textures.  Grab your fabric and pattern, and start stitching your perfect layering piece for the season ahead. Shop DEADSTOCK Shop ALL SWEATER KNITS

Tired of trying on a dozen swimsuits that never quite fit right? Sewing your own one-piece swimsuit gives you full control over fit, style, and fabric—so you can actually feel good in what you're wearing. Whether you're after something sporty, sexy, or totally unique, making your own swimwear opens up a world of creative possibilities. We’ve teamed up with some of our favourite sewing influencers to show off 10 stunning handmade swimsuits—and trust us, the inspo is next-level. Benefits of Sewing Your Own One-Piece Swimsuit: Custom Fit: Say goodbye to gaping necklines and saggy bottoms. Endless Design Options: Choose the pattern, fabric, coverage, and cut. Cost-Effective: High-end swimwear look, without the price tag. Confidence Boost: There’s nothing like rocking something you made with your own two hands. Sustainable: Avoid fast fashion and make only what you’ll actually wear. 10 Influencer-Made Swimsuits You’ll Want to Copy: @houseofhotard - Tami ✂️ Pattern: Modified Edgewater Ave Olivia 🧵 Fabric: Jet Black + Onyx Power Mesh Chic and sheer in all the right places. @indieseen - Nicole ✂️ Pattern: Greenstyle Mimosa 🧵 Fabric: Lipstick Jungle + Persimmon Swim Kit Tropical glam meets sleek design. @thewanderersclothing - Meighan ✂️ Pattern: Greenstyle Kokomo 🧵 Fabric: Marine + Honey Ribbed Solids Perfect for beach lounging and active days. @theravelout - Sylvia ✂️ Pattern: Edgewater Ave Poppy 🧵 Fabric: Spot On + Sienna Brown Swim Kit A bold combo for bold vibes. @bringingsewingback - Catherine ✂️ Pattern: Modified Styla Tavira 🧵 Fabric: Purple Swim Solid A unique take with a flattering silhouette. @majacan - Marie ✂️ Pattern: Petite Stitchery Darby 🧵 Fabric: Teal Pond + Wildberry Color-blocked for ultimate summer fun. @uniquelypriest - Tori ✂️ Pattern: Jalie Racerback 🧵 Fabric: Exotic Beauty + Electric Coral Swim Kit Sporty, secure, and full of flair. @majacan - Marie ✂️ Pattern: Rad Patterns Fit to Be Tied 🧵 Fabric: Viva Los Cabos (also seen is Burberry Look Boardshort) Perfect mix of flirty and functional. @houseofhotard - Tami ✂️ Pattern: Self-drafted from Pinterest inspo 🧵 Fabric: Casa Blanca + Sienna Binding Dreamy neutral tones with Pinterest-worthy vibes. Us! ✂️ Pattern: Edgewater Ave Poppy 🧵 Fabric: Monstera Madness, Casa Blanca, and Leaf It To Me A print-lover’s dream with statement energy. 🧵 Ready to Sew Your Own? Check out the fabrics used above in our Swim Fabric Collection and browse patterns from indie designers like Edgewater Ave, Greenstyle, and more. Follow us on Instagram to see these looks in action and tag us when you sew yours! ✨ MAKE IT. WEAR IT. OWN IT.

Swim to Street: How to Repurpose Swim Fabrics for Year-Round Wear Swimwear fabrics aren’t just for the beach anymore. With the rise of sustainable fashion and the need for versatile clothing, makers everywhere are getting creative with how they use recycled swimwear fabrics beyond the pool. These high-performance materials are breathable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and stretch-friendly. Perfect for creating wardrobe staples that work year-round. In this blog, we’ll show you how to take your favorite swim fabrics and transform them into stylish, functional pieces you can wear all year long. Why Use Swim Fabric Beyond Summer? Swim fabrics are typically made with a blend of recycled polyester or nylon and spandex. This combination gives them: Four-way stretch Quick-dry capability UV resistance Durability for active use That makes them ideal for everything from yoga tops to layering pieces for fall. Top Clothing Items You Can Sew with Swim Fabric 1. Athleisure Tops & Tanks Use swim knit to make racerback tanks, fitted tops, or yoga bras. The stretch and moisture-wicking properties make these ideal for workouts or layering under cardigans in cooler months. ✅ Fabric & Pattern Ideas: Greenstyle Patterns  Solo Tank in a print like Tropical Hurricane, layered over the Power Bra in Solid Red or Peacock Rib Love Notions Clearwater Summer Essentials (meant for swim & activewear) in Floral Silhouettes. @createdbybe made the sports bra version. 2. Everyday Leggings or Bike Shorts Yes—swim fabric can double as activewear fabric. Especially when paired with supportive patterns, it’s perfect for leggings, shorts, or even lounge sets. ✅ Pattern Ideas: Jalie Clara Leggings or Swim Shorts Patterns for Pirates Peg Legs (Bonus: these are free & they have free add ons) Fabric Suggestion:Ribbed Swim Solids: For leggings or fitted shorts, these offer a slightly heavier weight with amazing recovery—ideal for fall fitness fashion.  Pro Tip: Be sure to double check the stretch requirements for the pattern you are using to ensure a flawless fit. Swim Prints would work great on a looser fitting short. 3. Base Layers for Fall/Winter Turtlenecks, fitted long sleeves, and base layers made from swim fabric? Absolutely. Swim knits trap body heat while keeping moisture away—ideal under flannels or jackets. ✅ Pattern Ideas: Hey June Handmade Union St. Tee Closet Core Patterns Core T-Shirt (free) Fabric Suggestion:Sienna Brown or Rosemary Solids:Rich autumn tones and breathable fabric make these a no-brainer. 4. Fashion Bodysuits A sleek bodysuit made from shiny or matte swim fabric is on trend for layering with high-waisted pants or skirts. ✅ Pattern Ideas: George and Ginger Roadtrip Bodysuit or Friday Pattern Co Elysian Bodysuit Get creative and use your favourite 1 piece bathing suit pattern and modify it to include snaps. Check out this tutorial from Friday Pattern Co on how to add snaps to their Elysian Bodysuit Fabric Suggestion:Use a staple colour like Jet Black, and add some sexy Onyx Power Mesh accents like @houseofhotard did here: 5. Dresses or Skirts For a sporty twist, use swimwear fabric to create body-hugging dresses or midi skirts. Great for transitional weather and layering. ✅ Pattern Ideas: Petite Stichery Romy Twist Tee & Skirt  Seamwork Mesa Dress Fabric Suggestion:Use Ribbed Swim for more structured skirts, and Solids or Prints for tops and flowy skirts Sewing Tips for Swim Fabric: Use a ballpoint or stretch needle (size 75/11 or 80/12) Opt for polyester thread for better strength Use a serger or zigzag stitch to maintain stretch Consider a walking foot if your machine struggles with slick fabrics Use lining as needed to ensure you piece isn't see through, and add cups for some additional support Sustainability Spotlight: Why Choose Fabric & Flow? We offer a stunning range of Swimwear Fabrics, and other earth-friendly options like Bamboo and Recycled Denims. Every metre you use helps reduce waste and promotes slow fashion—making your creations not just stylish, but sustainable. Explore our full Swim collection HERE. Final Thoughts Swimwear fabric isn’t just for summer—it’s one of the most versatile materials in your stash. From stylish tanks to thermal base layers, these year-round spandex pieces will take you from swim to street in comfort, style, and sustainability. Ready to get sewing? Stock up on eco-conscious, designer-quality fabrics and start creating activewear that works year-round.