We’re continuing our Community Spotlight series with someone who brings equal parts heart, skill, and honesty to every make — Leah. From her early quilt days to designing patterns and building a wardrobe that fits her, Leah’s sewing journey is full of intention, growth, and a whole lot of denim. Let’s dive in. Hello, Sewing Friends! My name is Leah, and I'm a mom, sewist, pattern designer for Greenstyle Creations, Orange Theory coach, pattern hacker, and avid reader/ audiobook listener. You can find me on Instagram, rambling about all things sewing related, posting two-line book reviews, and sharing random bits of my life in my stories. How did I start sewing? I started sewing back in college, piecing quilts with a machine I borrowed from my mom. I wasn't into partying, so I would spend weekends making pillow cases and simple blankets. (I hesitate to call them quilts, because I never topstitched or properly bound any of them.) My mom still proudly displays those projects in her house, much to my chagrin. I took a long break from sewing, but picked it up again right before I got married. I wanted a (popular at the time) bag made out of my soon-to-be husband's ACUs, so I bought one on Etsy. When it arrived, I had the classic "I can make that!" moment; I returned the bag, designed and made my own, and then proceeded to start making them and selling them to my other Army-spouse friends. I started sewing apparel when my son was a toddler, making him a basic t-shirt pattern from Brindle and Twig. The first one was... not good. I'm pretty sure I cut it with the grainline running horizontally; I didn't even know there was a difference. I sewed solely for him for the first few years; I think I was intimidated by how much fabric was required for an adult pattern, compared to a child's make. The first thing I made for myself was a raglan-sleeve shirt I found a free pattern for on a random blog. It also wasn't great. Favorite thing I've made? I can't think of one item that is my favorite. However, my favorite things to sew are jeans and button down shirts. I sewed my first pair of jeans (Morgan Jeans from Closet Core) long before I had the skill or knowledge to be sewing them. I made them out of a terrible denim fabric from Joann’s that grew three sizes within an hour of putting them on. My second attempt five days later with a Cone Mills denim was MUCH more successful. I would probably cringe at the craftsmanship today, but I'm still impressed with myself for jumping into the deep end of sewing without fear. My favorite quote for sewing is, "There's always more fabric!" I love sewing jeans because I could never find a pair of ready-to-wear that properly fit me. Having the ability to sew up garments that fit me and my shape without a size label was so liberating. As someone who had always struggled with body acceptance, making clothes that were just "me-sized" and fit properly at every body point felt like a super power. It gave me the drive to create a nearly 100% me-made wardrobe. Something I hesitate to make? I've wanted to make the Jasika Blazer from Closet Core for years. I hesitate because I don't think I actually have anywhere to wear a piece so structured or formal. Also, I can't settle on a fabric that I know I will wear enough to warrant such a technical and time-consuming project. I've also never sewn a pattern with shirring. I'm not sure the technique works with my overall aesthetic, but I'm always impressed by makes that incorporate it. Skills to tackle this year? I've been focusing on slower, more thoughtful construction and cleaner finishes. It's tempting to rush just to get a project done, but I'm always happier with the finished product when I go the extra step for a professional look and "pretty guts." I love incorporating those extra elements into the patterns I design. I know a lot of folks balk at the concept of trying to make garments look RTW, but it's my personal goal to construct clothes that the average observer can't guess are me-made. And, of course, I want to continue to improve my drafting skills. Her Go-To Patterns: Denim & Button-Downs Since Leah mentioned that jeans and button-down shirts are her favourite things to sew, we had to ask — what patterns does she reach for again and again? Here’s what she shared: Jeans: Closet Core Morgan (obvi) and Ginger(I'm not sure you can even buy Gingers anymore because they released the Judes, which are super similar, but more flared.) And don’t worry — we got you, girl. We checked, and yes, the Ginger Jeans are still available at Closet Core! Button-downs: Grainline Archer Button Down for more fitted look. Hey June Cheyenne Tunic or Amherst Shirt for more relaxed vibe. It’s clear that Leah knows what she loves — approachable, well-drafted patterns with just the right balance of structure and everyday wearability. Whether you're sewing a classic button-up or tackling your first pair of jeans, her favourites are a great place to start. Leah’s story is one so many of us can relate to — navigating body image, struggling to find clothes that truly fit, and then discovering the power of making garments that are ours, in every sense of the word. What makes her journey so special isn’t just the beautiful pieces she creates, but the confidence and self-acceptance she’s built along the way. Her size doesn’t define her style — she does. And that’s exactly the kind of reminder we all need sometimes. Want to dive deeper into Leah’s jeans-making journey? She’s shared more about her process on Instagram—especially how she combined two patterns, swapped a button fly for a zipper, and fine-tuned the waistband for a personalized fit (because sometimes you have to geek out on zipper installs!).Check out the full breakdown in the highlights on her IG page.

Athleisure isn’t going anywhere — but it is evolving. This season, two fabrics are making waves: cozy fleece and sleek, structured scuba. We’re seeing scuba in sweatshirts, joggers, skirts, and even dresses all over in fashion, giving a sharper silhouette than your classic fleece gear. In this post, we’ll dig into current trends in colours and styles, how to style fleece and scuba for different vibes, and even share sewing pattern ideas so you can make custom pieces. (Heads up: the next blog will go deep on scuba—why it’s having a moment, its technical pros/cons, and more pattern recommendations.) 🔥 Trend Spotlight: What’s Hot in Fleece & Scuba Fleece: Cozy, Textured & Eco-Minded Fleece is still a cold-weather go-to, but 2025 is seeing a shift toward recycled blends and elevated textures. Think earthy neutrals like camel and greige, with pops of butter yellow or pistachio green. Oversized fleece pieces with abstract prints and zippered details are everywhere — comfy but cool. Scuba: Sleek, Structured & Surprisingly Versatile Scuba is stepping out of the "tech wear" box and into streetwear. You'll see it in sweatshirts, joggers, skirts — even dresses — with a clean, modern silhouette. The appeal? It holds its shape, smooths over lines, and makes basics look intentional. Trending colours include soft greens, muted rusts, and bold block tones. Perfect for that “I tried, but didn’t try too hard” look. Style directions: dress up, dress down, mix fabrics Here’s how to flex these fabrics in your wardrobe so pieces feel more than just “comfy clothes.” Vibe Piece + Styling Tips Fabric Choice Notes / Hacks Chic casual / elevated errands Scuba sweatshirt (half‑zip or funnel neck) + tailored joggers or slim pants + chunky sneakers or mules Scuba The structured nature of scuba helps maintain shape under layering. Layered cozy Oversized fleece hoodie over a lightweight base + leggings + a longline coat Fleece outer, lighter jersey / athletic inner Use fleece as outerwear and let scuba or technical fabrics do the next layer in. Loungewear elevated Fleece joggers or wide-leg sweat pants + scuba crop top or fitted tank Fleece pants, scuba, ponte or jersey top Mix textures: matte fleece vs smooth scuba gives visual contrast. Weekend dress-down meets brunch Scuba skirt (mini or midi), hoodie or sweatshirt tucked in, chunky boots Scuba skirt, fleece or scuba top Use scuba for the bottom to keep neat lines even if top is relaxed. Streetwear edge Layer a scuba sweatshirt under a denim or leather jacket; pair with cargo joggers or scuba pants Scuba top, structured pants Because scuba resists wrinkling, layering works well. Styling tips in practice: To tone down a bold red or electric color, balance with neutrals in bottom/hats/shoes. Use monochrome layering (e.g. different textures of similar hue) to make the look more cohesive. For transition seasons, choose lighter-weight fleece or thinner scuba so the layering doesn’t bulk. Add small details (contrast piping, colour-blocking panels, tonal zippers) to elevate a basic fleece or scuba set. Sewing: Patterns & tips for Fleece & Scuba athleisure Pattern suggestions Jalie 3355 – Sweatshirt, Hoodie & Sweat Pants - a multi‑variation pattern covering set-in sleeve sweatshirt, hoodie, and pants. Recommended fabrics: medium-weight sweatshirt fleece.  Made for Mermaids Winnie – Wide Leg Pants - works well in fleece and scuba. Style Arc Rita – Pencil Skirt - Wardrobe staple that can be dressed up for office or date night, or down for that elevated casual look. Perfect for scuba or ponte. House of Hotard Juju - Sweater - oversized dolman with lots of ease. Making it suitable for a variety of fabrics. Sewing & Fabric Tips For fleece, use a good ball‑point or stretch knit needle; serger or stretch stitches for seams. For scuba, pay attention to edge finishing (it doesn’t fray much, but sometimes can have bulk). Use a walking foot or stretch stitch so seams lie flat. Consider stabilizing shoulders or necklines with lightweight elastic or stay tape, especially in scuba to prevent distortion. When mixing fabrics, remember they may need different seam allowances or handling care. Always make a muslin (or test piece) if mixing heavy scuba and lighter fleece so proportions and drape work. Takeaway Fleece and scuba are both having serious moments in the athleisure space right now, each bringing different strengths: fleece for warmth and comfort, scuba for structure and clean lines. The key is knowing how to style them, layer them, and even create your own versions via sewing. 

It’s that time again — fleece weather is back, and it's better than ever! We’ve just added three beautiful new shades to the lineup:- Thyme - Peacock- Rosewood  That brings our colour range to nine versatile shades: Black  Light Melange Grey Sage Mist Sandstone Mulberry Blush Frosted Iris, and now Thyme, Peacock, and Rosewood. This no stretch fleece is thick, plush, and ultra-soft — perfect for cozy sweatshirts, joggers, loungewear, kids wear, and more. It’s a 70% cotton, 30% polyester blend with a soft brushed back and smooth finish, and it’s Oeko-Tex Class 1 certified, making it safe for even the littlest sewists. Imported from the Netherlands, this fleece is high-quality and built to last — both in comfort and in style. What makes it even better? We’ve got matching cotton ribbing available for every colour. That means your cuffs, waistbands, and neckbands can blend in or stand out — your call. Ready to create something cozy? Check out the full collection HERE and start planning your next make. Want to Amp Up the Look with Colour Blocking? If you're looking to take your fleece projects to the next level, why not try a bit of colour blocking? It’s a fun and impactful way to play with contrast, use up scraps, or highlight the beautiful shades in our fleece range. 👉 Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered! Check out our BLOG all about how to approach colour blocking, including helpful tips and pattern suggestions if you’re not in the mood to hack your own.