Decision paralysis can become a real barrier to starting new sewing projects. Fabric stashes and pattern collections often continue building while life keeps getting in the way of being able to sit down and actually start a project, and the decision of what to make can become overwhelming.
In 2026, I have decided to try out the Make Nine Challenge, originally created by Home Row Handcraft, with the aim of reducing this decision paralysis, and already having my plans set out for me. Of course, this might be subject to change as the year goes on, but I’d really love to make my way through the fabrics I have in stash, and I feel like this is a great way to do it!
Below I’m introducing the nine projects I’m going to try and get done this year!
I haven’t decided on a specific pattern for all of these sewing projects yet, but I’ve linked all of the ones that I’m at least 90% decided on. If you have any pattern suggestions, let me know!
My planned sewing projects:
I have a confession! In my 3 years of sewing, I have yet to sew a casual day dress which I’ve felt happy enough to wear outside of the house. This year I’m hoping to use this gorgeous viscose lawn to make a casual floral dress. Specific pattern is still undecided though…
This dark teal jersey is a remnant left over from a wedding guest dress that I’m planning to wear to a wedding in March. I’ve decided that for the hen party, I’d love to make a cute sleeveless boat neck top from the same fabric!
Pattern here >
I’ve not had a go at making a handbag yet, so I thought this would be a really cute one to start off with! I got this brown needlecord fabric from the Creative Crafts Show last year, which should be just enough to make a baguette bag.
Pattern here >
I got this fabric in 2024, and have known exactly what I wanted to make with it ever since I bought it, so I’m not really sure how it’s still in my stash to be honest! I’m missing a thin slouchy long sleeve top in my wardrobe, so I thought this viscose linen jersey would work really well.
Pattern here >
Since learning to knit, my need for basic long sleeve tops for layering has gone up drastically. I have quite sensitive skin, so I prefer to have a layer of fabric between my skin and the wool of my sweater, so I’m looking forward to making a mock neck top with this cotton jersey.
Pattern here >
I told my boyfriend around two years ago that I would make him a pair of pyjama shorts with this brushed cotton fabric I picked up on a trip to Scotland, so I really need to tick this one off the list! I’ve never made clothes for anybody else before, so it will be good to have a go at fitting someone else.
07
V neck top
This brown cotton jersey comes from a similar origin as the cream jersey for the mock neck top, and I bought them both at Edinburgh Fabrics. For the brown one, I’m planning to make this a v neck long sleeve top, that I would more likely wear as a standalone top as well.
Pattern here >
08
Wide leg joggers
I made my first pair of trousers in 2025, and I really loved putting them together. Those were a more formal pair for work though, so I’m looking forward to having a go at some more casual trousers that I can wear more often at home. This french terry from Fabric Boutique feels soo buttery light and soft!
09
Tiered maxi skirt
I procrastinated making this white tiered skirt for too long last year, and ended up missing the warm weather by the time I figured out the maths for it. I’m hoping this is a project I can get done in time for Spring this year so that I can get some good wear out of it. Unfortunately, I didn’t make any notes so it’s back to the drawing board to plan it out!
Putting this plan together has really boosted my motivation to get going with more sewing this year. My first project from this list will be the boat neck top, because I ideally want to wear it in less than a week as I write this (wish me luck, I’ve got a busy week!).
What sewing projects do you have planned for 2026? Have you ever planned out exactly what you want to make like this, or do you go with the flow a bit more? Let me know!
