If you’re a member of the sewing community on Twitter, it’s likely that you’ve seen a bit of the backlash that British brand Tilly and the Buttons has been receiving in response to their current size ranges. A lot of plus sized sewists (myself included) turn to sewing as a way to create clothes that flatter their bodies in fabrics that they enjoy so it’s disappointing when such a prominent brand portrays the belief that plus-size doesn’t matter, or worse – and what some had started to believe – that plus sized sewists don’t fit the image the brand is attempting to portray.
After reading some of the back and forth between Twitter user @threadyforit and Tilly’s team, I didn’t think we’d ever see the Tilly brand increase their size range, but the latest Instagram post from Tilly seems to show a change of heart. Tilly and the Buttons are actively looking for pattern testers in the UK size range 16-34. And, their blog states that they are giving five of their patterns a complete overhaul for those over a size 16 which is great news as the one pattern I tried of theirs in a size 16 was a terrible fit despite looking beautiful! More patterns are expected to be extended later in the year as well.
Tilly and the Buttons is one of the first sites that appears in Google when you search for easy sewing patterns. Their patterns are modern, many come with video courses making them ideal for beginners, and they’re really attractive to look at. I think it’s great that the brand is listening to the plus sized community and looking at ways they can become more accessible.
If you want to apply to be a pattern tester, and are a UK size 16-34, you can apply online. Beginners are just as welcome as experienced sewists and the Tilly brand does compensate everyone who helps them with money for fabric and a free pattern. I’m quite tempted to apply myself.
Are you happy that the Tilly and the Buttons size range is going to be extended? Let me know what you think in the comments.
