We’re thrilled to introduce not one, but TWO new patterns to the Helen’s Closet collection! The Nelson Pants and the Slocan Tank are now available in the shop.
Nelson and Slocan are on sale right now for 20% off! Discount is automatically applied at checkout, no coupon code required. Sale ends February 20th, 2024!
Let’s take a closer look at Nelson and Slocan. These two new designs are comfortable, versatile, and quick to sew. They work great together or separately!
Nelson Pants
The Nelson Pants are dream loungewear pants that you will never want to take off—and they are quick and easy to sew! All views feature a fabric waistband that is soft on the tummy. Views A and B have an extra tall waistband that can be folded over. View C has a shorter waistband.
Three lengths are provided—full length, cropped pants, and knee length. Nelson has a snug fit through the waist and hip and is loose through the legs. Sew Nelson in soft and stretchy knits like bamboo jersey for everyday wear and lounging. Try them in athletic knits for yoga and other activities. Nelson can be sewn on a home sewing machine; a serger or overlocker is not required.
Slocan Tank
The Slocan Tank is a versatile top that can be made as a layering piece, a standalone top, or even as a bralette! Slocan offers a snug fit and three different lengths to choose from. Make a longer camisole (View A), a cropped top (View B), or a bralette (View C).
All views feature a knit binding finish on the neckline and straps. View C features an elasticated hem. Instructions are included for how to combine View A or B with View C to make a top with a built in shelf bra. The shoulder straps are customizable in length. Slocan is sure to be your new go-to knit tank top pattern!
Two PDF patterns are provided for Slocan with different size charts. The first is range 0-22 based on a B-cup block. The second is range 12-34 based on a D-cup block. There is an overlap from sizes 12-22 where you can choose which size range you would like to use.
Wearing Nelson and Slocan
Both of these new patterns are the kind of items you always reach for. The Nelson Pants work really well as loungewear while still being stylish enough for everyday outings. In the right knit and paired with a dressy shirt, they could even pass in a casual office! Nelson also works well as activewear. Try wearing these pants to yoga or dance class. These pants are so comfy and soft, you will want to live in them.
The Slocan Tank is the versatile layering tank pattern you have been waiting for! You can make longer camisoles for wearing under blouses or flannel button ups. Pair the crop top with shorts for a cute summer look. Both the crop top and bralette view make excellent undergarments. You can wear Slocan on its own or layer it, making it a very versatile addition to any wardrobe. We bet you can’t make just one!
Choosing Fabric for Nelson and Slocan
These pants are designed for stretchy knits with great recovery. Light to medium weight jersey knit fabrics with at least 60% stretch widthwise and 40% stretch lengthwise. We recommend bamboo jersey or similar (modal jersey, stretchy athletic knits). If your chosen fabric has less than the recommended stretch percentage, size up. If you would like to use a rib knit, size down.
Both of these patterns fit snug and require a fabric with at least 60% widthwise stretch and 40% lengthwise stretch. Choose a lightweight knit fabric with great stretch and recovery. Our favourite fabric to use for these designs is bamboo jersey. Modal jersey and stretchy athletic knits also work well. For Slocan, an athletic knit can add compression/support, whereas a slinky jersey is ideal for comfy lounging.
If you want to use a rib knit, we recommend you size down. Rib knits are typically heavier and have a ton of stretch. The Nelson Pants have a fabric waistband to hold them up (there is no elastic), so it needs to be snug. For Slocan, rib knits look really cute but keep in mind that the binding around the neck/arms/straps is more challenging to sew with this fabric.
Regular cotton jersey knit will likely not have the stretch and recovery required for these patterns, but it does come in many different weights and stretch percentages so you may find one that works. If your fabric does not meet the stretch percentage listed, consider sizing up and making a test version to check the fit.
Sewing Nelson and Slocan
Both of these patterns were designed as quick and easy sewing wins! We love a good fast sew here at Helen’s Closet and these two new designs are so fun to whip up. Nelson in particular is one of our quickest projects ever, and the results are so satisfying! We have been living in our Nelson Pants all winter and now we can’t wait for you to try them, too.
The Slocan Tank is one of those designs that comes together remarkably fast and challenges you just enough to keep things interesting. The knit binding may be a new skill for some people, but with our helpful instructions, we know you can do it! Slocan uses a small amount of fabric so it is quick to cut out and can even be made from leftover fabrics. Once you’ve made one Slocan, you will want to make 10 more!
Nelson and Slocan are on sale right now for 20% off! Discounts are automatically applied at checkout, no coupon code required. Sale ends February 20th, 2024!
