This month we’re going to focus more on sewing for men.

Have you ever tried to surprise your partner, father, brother, son or son in law with something you spent hours on, from pattern, to fabric, to personal customisations, only to receive a disappointed half hearted “...thanks!”? Or they might love the gesture and be really happy about what you made for them only to wear or use your gift on special occasions (aka family dinners at home).

If you have and the reaction was different, please get in touch, we want to interview this person and find out more about it. But more often than not, I think the response we get from men when it comes to sewing for them, is more similar to the one above.

 


What I’ve learned along the way is not that men are difficult to please, but they can be very particular about what they like. Without taking this topic too far, a woman might be very happy to wear a purse in a style that is completely new to her, own (and love) a dress she will wear once every four years, and browse fashion magazines just for the fun of it. A man will often have a very clear idea about what looks “right” and what feels “wrong” and they will keep very quiet about it, unless pressed.

So my challenge for you this week is doing a little bit of detective work and asking the men in your life some questions about their style (they will laugh at you using this word, but you will be prepared!) and taste. Why? First, because it will help you sew better things for men. Second, you’ll be more prepared come Father’s Day, their birthday, Christmas. And third, because it will be fun to share what we’ve learned. It is all in the name of science! :)
 


Things to discuss:
 
1. Colours and combinations of colour - you will be surprised
2. Patterns and scale of patterns - let me just say that not all plaid is the same. Also, what looks “fun” to you, might look like a silent “I pledge to never wear this” for him. Be warned. 
3. Fabric and Texture - be sure to go over the “I would never wear/use a…” 
4. Fit - baggy, relaxed, super tailored?
5. Lifestyle customisations - what are some of their habits and hobbies that could be better supported? 
6. If they could design something, what could it be? 
7. Could you make it for them?

What about you? Do you think sewing for men is more difficult than sewing for women? Please leave a comment below!