Fancy a stroll down memory lane? Forget-me-not is saying farewell (at least, for now), but before we go, it’s time to celebrate where we’ve been!
In case you missed it, check out Forget-me-not’s Farewell update HERE. And don’t forget the Farewell Sale is on through November 12th. Take 50% off the whole shop!
Forget-me-not Patterns launched July 3, 2019 with the Clementine Knit Dress pattern. It was clear from the beginning that the sewing community was eager for distinctly detailed patterns with lots of options for styling and fit. We set out to design wearable wardrobe staples with extra special details to create pieces that were both elevated and easy to wear.
Our second pattern, the Sabrina Pencil Skirt, featured three fit styles for different body shapes. Sabrina also highlighted unique style lines and expert finishing techniques. It was here that fit options, design details, and thorough instructions became core tenets of Forget-me-not Patterns.
We released five patterns that first year and leaned into customisable designs. Just after our first anniversary, we released the best-selling Iris Pleated Tee. It was July 2020, and sewists were primed to inject a little glam into their comfy classic basics. It’s always so sweet to see the love for this design. There aren’t many other patterns with as many detail shots as there are of the Iris pleated sleeve. We're so proud to have made a pattern that folks love to capture so much! Check out the hashtag to see what we mean!
Just look at those satisfying pleats!
At the end of 2020, we released our first pay-what-you-can pattern - the Vera Top! We wanted to bundle up all the excitement of the Iris tee and make it accessible to sewists of any budget. Vera and Iris are sister patterns whose features can be interchanged along with the scoop neck expansion!
After our second anniversary, our catalogue boasted 10 patterns, but the collection wasn’t all that was growing. Bri (hi!) came on as content coordinator to take over newsletters, blog posts and community engagement. With that off her plate, Jo began expanding Forget-me-not’s size range. The first wave added two sizes, and the April, Viola, Valerie, Natalie, Sylvie, and Kirsi were published in the 28-52 range, going up to a 56.5” hip. Later, Jo added more sizes, taking the range up to 60.5” for Helmi and Kelly, as well as rereleasing Iris, Ella, and Clementine. (Our comprehensive sizing info is HERE, if you're curious.) This was a monumental undertaking but a worthy one!
As we spaced out new pattern releases, we were also able to come out with more tutorial content like How to Sew a Pin Hem, Neat Slash Pockets, or the Perfect Invisible Zip, as well as tips for working with knits and sheer fabrics. On the blog, we also highlighted the hackability of the Ella Skirt, Helmi Blouse, and Rosalie Skirt.
In 2021, the first edition of Tauko Magazine was published, featuring indie pattern designers from around the world - including Jo! The Kirsi Cardigan was Forget-me-not’s first global collaboration. While Kirsi was Jo’s design, Tauko initially managed pattern production until a year later, when Kirsi was republished with Forget-me-not’s size block and signature instructions. We were honoured to be invited back for Issue no.3, featuring the Helmi Blouse. Helmi is another one of our most beloved designs, and we’re so proud she got to make her debut with Tauko!
The following year, Jo designed the Rosalie Skirt with Peppermint, an independent publication focusing on sustainability through social justice and DIY. Rosalie is available there to pay-what-you-can. Unlike Kirsi and Helmi's debut with Tauko, Rosalie was produced in-house with the full Forget-me-not treatment before being released under Peppermint Magazine.
Beyond design, collaborations continued as we launched our Insiders Cohort. We strengthened connections with our Meet the Maker series, highlighting prolific sewists like Keira, Marja, and Bird. Additionally, we partnered with other sewing businesses like Miss Maude Fine Fabric + Yarn, Fine Cloth Co., Longan Craft and, most recently, Yardblox Fabrics. We were honoured to showcase Paige Johannaa on our blog, as well as being featured by sewing superstars Made By Sally, Sewn On the Tyne, and Sew Amelia. (Check out our upcoming blog to see their magical makes in the spotlight!)
July 2024 marked 5 years of Forget-me-not Patterns. Long Covid had started sinking its claws in, but we managed to rerelease Iris and Ella into the new size range. Additionally, we launched the Kelly Dress, which features a fitted darted bodice that comes in three bust fit styles. That was an absolute labour of love to perfect, but so worth it!
In the last year, we introduced the first bag pattern to the Forget-me-not collection - the Xenta Tote! And finally, our most recent pattern update was for the Clementine Dress, and since Clementine was our first ever pattern, it really felt like a full circle moment.
And through it all, the sewing community has been amazing. You all are actually the best, most encouraging, and lovely folk around. Just constantly inspiring. Next week, we’ll be sharing our favourite community makes, so tune in for that!
It wouldn’t be a Forget-me-not celebration without showcasing the amazing makers who brought our designs to life. Today, we’ll share more about who really made it all possible - you!
Dear Sewists,
With a grateful, yet heavy heart, Forget-me-not Patterns is saying farewell. At least for now. Design and patternmaking mean absolutely everything to me, and this decision hasn’t been an easy one.
Our beloved Clementine has been updated! The Clementine top and dress holds a special place in our hearts because it was the very first Forget-me-not Patterns pattern!
With Clementine's update, we're so excited to bring you more sizes and features. Clementine is now available up to size 56 (up to 153cm or 60.5" hip) with both medium and full bust cup options.
