Sewing Club Podcast Ep. 18 Stevie Tunic By Tilly and the Buttons
In this episode of the Sewing Club Podcast, we shine a spotlight on the perfect beginner-friendly pattern: the Stevie Tunic by Tilly and the Buttons.
With its beautifully clear instructions and straightforward construction, the Stevie is ideal for those new to sewing. Designed with minimal fitting and simple techniques, it’s a confidence-boosting first garment. But it's not just for beginners as seasoned sewists will love it as a quick, satisfying make between more involved projects.
You can sew Stevie as either a top or a tunic, with optional pockets and sleeve cuffs for a personalised finish. Its clean, modern silhouette also makes it the perfect canvas for bold or statement prints as it lets your fabric do the talking.
The Pattern Lowdown
Pattern : Stevie Tunic by Tilly And The Buttons
Size sewn : 12
Fabric : Viscose
Label : Full Bloom Claire Ritchie x KATM Collaboration Sew-In Labels
Pattern Features
The Stevie has a modern, boxy fit with a round neckline and grown-on sleeves. The back fastening gives you the choice of a simple button loop or tie closure.
Tilly also offers a pattern add-on, which includes sleeves, a gathered skirt, and large patch pockets, making this already versatile pattern even more customisable. It’s designed to set sewists up for success, with no darts, zips, buttonholes, or bias binding, and the sleeves are easy to fit.
Launched in 2018, the Stevie has remained one of Tilly and the Buttons’ top five bestsellers, a true wardrobe staple that stands the test of time.
Tilly and the Buttons – The Brand
Tilly is one of the original indie pattern designers and has built a brand known for making sewing accessible to everyone. Each pattern comes with detailed instructions and step-by-step photographs, making them incredibly beginner-friendly. Tilly's patterns also introduce new techniques in a clear, approachable way. Plus there's four books and a range of online workshops to support sewists of all levels.
Tips for Sewing Stevie
Tilly’s personal favourite is a double gauze for this garment, but if you’re new to sewing, it’s advisable to start with a stable fabric like linen, cotton lawn, or chambray .
One clever tip: baste the two back yokes together before attaching them to the back piece . This ensures they sit flush and eliminates any gaping.
Stevie Pattern Hacks
This pattern is a blank canvas with loads of potential for creative customisation. Tilly mentioned some sewists even wear it backwards! You can also add ruffles to the sleeves or swap in a completely different skirt. The possibilities are endless.
My Sewing Experience
I loved sewing the Stevie, it was a straightforward and enjoyable sew. I made a size 12, and I took in the side seams slightly, but only minimally.
One of my favourite things about this pattern... The facings are stitched down - no flappy facings! (My personal pet hate!)
Take a look at Kylie’s fabulous version of the Stevie here .
If you're keen to sew the Stevie Tunic for yourself, don't miss Episode #18 of our podcast on platforms like Spotify , Apple Podcasts , Audible , and Google Podcasts for all the details. Use the code SEWINGCLUBPODCAST for a discount on the pattern at the Tilly and the Buttons website.
Happy sewing, everyone! 🎉✂️🧵
