About Me
If you can read a recipe, you can read a pattern. If you can drive a car, you can operate a sewing machine. If you can shop, you can SEW.
On August 31, 2011 I gave up buying clothes for a year and vowed to make my clothes instead. Find out more
As a mother to two fashionable daughters, I was no stranger to shopping for clothes. From baby clothes to upscale fashions, shopping for clothes had dominated my checkbook for decades.
During my year of sewing I made 64 garments, saved thousands of dollars, and received countless compliments on my clothes from people who did not know my story. After concluding my ” Ready-to-Wear Fast ” shopping was not the same and I was hooked on the benefits of sewing most of my clothes.
Sewing has changed my life. I have hosted two additional RTW Fasts and was joined by hundreds of sewists across the globe. I had the pleasure of blogging for Mood Fabrics for 7 years as an original member of the Mood Sewing Network. It is a great pleasure to serve as an SVP ambassador for the Pfaff brand, as well as connect with sewing groups across the country.
As co-author of The Tunic Bible and A Stylish Guide to Classic Sewing, I’ve been able to share my passion for fashion sewing beyond the blog.
Life continues to change but I continue to sew and I invite you to follow along.
All the best,
Sarah Gunn
Renee Wessel
Posted at 03:05h, 16 JanuaryI really love your style. I have been sewing for 50 years, but have been doing mostly alterations of consignment shop and thrift shop purchases . I have had a love hate relationship with patterns and the way they fit my 60+ body multi size body. You have inspired me to buy a bolt of muslim, trying out patterns, and get back into sewing my own garments. again.
Goodbye Valentino
Posted at 13:05h, 18 JanuaryWhat a lovely comment, Renee! I followed the Nike advice and just did it. Learning to fit myself has been one of the greatest things I’ve done for myself, and I hope once you start sewing again you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. 🙂
Sharon Jester
Posted at 19:21h, 27 JanuaryYou are such an inspiration,, your clothes and style are beautiful, I’m a novice at sewing, always wanted to sew my own clothes, but became frustrated when sewing a pattern and it did not fit. Now with online classes, and bloggers such as yourself, it incourages me to keep trying and learning. Thank you so much for your knowledge and inspiration.
Alice Zenner
Posted at 18:52h, 26 JanuaryJessica, I was wondering if you ever re-purposed or refashioned your outfits from old clothes or fabric rejects and scraps? I have been experimenting for the last two years with reusing old fabrics and making new pieces. Some were duds (LOL) and some were adorable. At least my 3 daughters were good sports. Like you, I gave up purchasing new about 18 months ago for the thrill of the find – and lots of donated treasures from friends and family. The results have been nothing short of amazing. I decided to take my sewing to a new level and am now sharing my sewing talents as an alteration business on the side. I wish I’d done this years ago! Thank you for your blog and photos, I’ve voted for you in the Craftsy Sewing Photography site…. inspiring! Alice
Ruqayyah (ReDpants Designs
Posted at 03:14h, 31 JanuaryI have seen your post on Pinterest and McCall’s pattern”s Instagram…you are AMAZING! Sophisticated and your clothes are tailored to fit beautifully! Love your site! Will be following…
http://redpantsdesigns.com
Carol M
Posted at 12:53h, 27 AprilPlease consider sharing before and after pics the next time you refashion something. I’m a committed thrift store shopper getting back into my sewing groove after a too many years away from my machine. I’m not ready to fast yet but I’m really inspired by your posts.
Meme
Posted at 17:01h, 30 MaySarah, I just completed one year of RTW Fasting, Thanks for the inspiration. While my output doesn’t come close to yours, I’m proud of my accomplishment. The astonished looks and comments I receive when I say “Thanks, I made it myself” are worth the effort. I don’t want to retire because I wouldn’t have anywhere to wear my fabulous, well-fitting clothes. I love your video and your gallery. They are “sew” inspiring.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 21:52h, 08 JulyMeme,
For some reason I just saw your email. Congratulations on completing your RTW FAST!! It’s a true accomplishment that warrants celebration. I hope you continue to sew 😉
Many thanks for your comment!
Judith Nigh
Posted at 12:52h, 08 JulyHello, I’m new to your site/blog and I am returning to sewing after years of ‘too little time” Your clothes are impressive and clearly made with quality fabric. As I prepare to get back to the machine…I cannot locate sources for quality fabric. I come from a line of seamstresses who used beautiful material for their projects and believe it is only worth the time if I can find this. Home is Louisville, Kentucky and sadly our best family owned fabric store closed several years ago. With RTW so available and many choosing not to sew and they simply could not sustain the business. Unfortunately, that leaves only the ‘big box’ sewing stores that are full of craft items but short on good fabric. Im sure you have addressed this in your blog and would like to know where you are getting yours. Could you comment or direct me to a post that will give direction? Thank you, HAPPY DAY! Judith Nigh
Carol M
Posted at 14:11h, 08 JulyJudith- consider a road trip to Nashville’s Textile Fabrics. Textile is in the process of moving but it would be worthwhile to get on their mailing list and c’mon down once the move is complete in the next month or so. And while you’re waiting to hear from Sarah, check out emmaonesock.com, moodfabrics.com and lowpricefabrics.com. Most will send swatches either for free or a nominal fee. Let me know if you wind up in Music City!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 21:50h, 08 JulyHi Judith and thank you for your nice email!
I discovered the same disappointing issue as you when I returned to sewing four years ago. The good news is quality fabrics are available online. It’s a different way of shopping and sewing but I can’t complain 😉
Since I blog for Mood Fabrics, I buy the vast majority of my fabrics from their online store. Mood is an enormously large store with great prices on designer fabrics. Other online fabric stores exist – after Mood you may want to check out BandJ Fabrics, Emma One Sock, Marcy Tilton, NY Fashion Fabrics .
Good luck and welcome back!!
Jill Morgensteibn
Posted at 19:36h, 28 Octoberso glad to find your blog. You are a very classy lady who looks like a million dollars because of your good taste because your clothes fit you so well.
Will be a faithful follower and my inspiration.
Carol
Posted at 20:29h, 05 AprilI came across you website because of your pattern review of you beautiful sateen dress. I am determined to make all my clothing now. A slow process as I am building my skill levels and can only sew in the evenings ! I am excited to see others are on the same quest.
Lorraine Kruuse
Posted at 14:42h, 09 JuneI have just discovered your site, congratulations on an amazing achievement. I too am very keen to get back to sewing my own clothes, firstly to give me a purpose now that I am on my own after having a husband and 5 children and a very busy life and secondly the quality of the clothes available in the shops has deteriorated so badly and it is very difficult to find quality items. I live in South Africa so unfortunately the online stores you recommend for fabrics are out of my reach and the materials in the stores are also far from satisfactory. I feel that if one is going to take the time to make a garment, it is going to feel very homemade if the fabrics are of poor quality. I will just keep searching and in the meantime make a few muslins until I get a perfect fit (an impossible task).
Jill
Posted at 11:37h, 14 JuneI found you as the newest featured Reviewer from Pattern Review. I have to tell you, your figure is totally different from mine, we’re about 20 years apart in age, you’re about to be a Grandmother while I have two toddlers at home – – different as can be, but I was so enchanted with your blog and your mission that I went back and read your entire archive and just loved everything. I’m so incredibly motivated to get back to sewing as much as my two little ones will let me. Great blog – just great!
Alice Elliot
Posted at 15:25h, 30 JuneGORGEOUS job matching the stripes!!!!! I love this dress!
Alice Meyers
Posted at 11:46h, 19 NovemberWow – I just found your site via Craftsy and Mood. I love your clothes especially the fabulous fit. Do you make a muslin for each or fit via tissue? I am not sure what is the best method. Have you taken any classes and if so what would you recommend? Many thanks, Alice
Julie Twible
Posted at 06:16h, 30 NovemberHi Sarah,
Happened upon your new book the tunic bible recently from purchased sewing magazine from my local newsagents .Very impressed !!!!
Ordered it today and should be here in time for christmas. I am a Very frustrated home sewer. mainly due to lack of sources for decent fabrics
Middle aged lady very inspired by your Goodbye Valentino . You have inspired me to attempt a new try at home sewn wardrobe and fast on the buying of clothes.
Certainly armed with a few new pattens and your tunic bible I am hopeful of a stunning new stylish wardrobe.
Thank you Sarah
Regards Julie
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 08:22h, 18 JanuaryJulie,
I’m embarrassed to just now see this comment. Thank you so much for your kind words and for buying The Tunic Bible! Please send me photos of your tunics and Good Luck 🙂
Alice Meyers
Posted at 17:35h, 30 NovemberYour clothes are just beautiful. I am working on taking my skills to a new level. Do you have any recommendations? Both on-line and classes to attend?
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 08:21h, 18 JanuaryAlice,
I’m embarrassed to have just now seen this comment. Craftsy offers excellent online classes that you’ll have access to forever, and they have sales regularly.
Many thanks for your comment!
Margaret Hord
Posted at 20:05h, 13 JanuaryHi there. Not sure where to write this, but do you have any advice on sewing machines. I’m wanting to graduate from a mechanical machine and trying to stay under $800.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 08:19h, 18 JanuaryMargaret,
There are so many machines on the market. Bernina offers entry level machines in that price range while Brother offers the Project Runway model for $500.
I have an older Bernina that was state of the art when I received it which I still love, and an new lighter weight Brother (that I just mentioned). My advice would be to try some machines out, and when you buy make sure you will have easy access to a service dealer licensed to work on your machine brand.
Good luck!
Kym Wright
Posted at 14:11h, 06 FebruaryAre you currently holding a Goodbye Valentino clothes-buying fast for 2017?
Meg McKinney
Posted at 15:16h, 07 FebruaryGreetings!
I discovered Goodbye Valentino this week, and wow! What an inspiration to make our own clothing.
I sew a lot — quilts, clothing, some handy things for home, and have for most of my life.
Question: Is there is 2017 RTW Fast group?
If so, how do I get in touch with them?
Thank you.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 06:45h, 08 FebruaryThank you so much, Meg! I am not fasting or leading a RTW fasting group this year. I am considering for 2018 😉
Jackie Gildea
Posted at 11:45h, 16 FebruaryHi Sarah-I am just getting back into sewing and have so many questions!! I just ordered The Tunic Bible and subscribe to your blog. How did you get your pattern fitting skills when you started back into sewing and do you own a dressform? If so what brand?
Julie Turjoman
Posted at 11:10h, 03 AprilHi Sarah – Your blog is very inspiring to this former home sewist who is just taking the plunge to get back into making my own clothes. In fact, I ordered your book, The Tunic Bible, and it’s a fabulous resource! However, I thought you’d want to know that Amazon ships each copy in a padded envelope that is not strong enough to prevent the book from getting mashed up in shipping. As a result, I’ve ordered replacement copies from them 3 times and every one of them has arrived damaged. Because the pattern envelope at the back is smaller than the back cover, the difference in thickness causes bending and denting during shipment. Perhaps you can advise Amazon to ship copies in a flat box that will protect them better? My inquiries and suggestions have gotten nowhere, but as the author you’ll no doubt have more influence..
Helena A.
Posted at 16:05h, 04 AprilHi!
I have following you for several years. Love your style.
You should have a sewing youtube channel for teaching people who don’t know how to sew (like me!).
Kisses from Portugal!
susan gill
Posted at 11:11h, 07 SeptemberI really enjoy your postings. one question: how do you construct the collars that stand up in the back? (not sure I stated that right) when you do a shirt collar, it shows it standing up and every time I try to get that look it never works. starch, extra interfacing? could you possibly do a posting on some of the tips/tricks you have developed over time? thank you lots.
Vera
Posted at 20:12h, 28 DecemberWould love to try this but working too much, not much my time left over!
Nancy S
Posted at 19:06h, 31 Decemberof all the sewing blogs I follow, yours is my very favorite, as is your style. You make classic look beautiful and timeless. Thank you for all the wonderful inspiration. i am so grateful. I hope to acquire The Tunic Bible very soon. Happy New Year!
Joelle Sell
Posted at 10:22h, 12 FebruaryJust discovered you amazing site and look forward to reading more about your projects
Linda Anderson
Posted at 19:02h, 15 JulyLove the silk blends! No where to purchase them where I live. Have to buy them on-line!
Nancy Schneider
Posted at 16:12h, 22 AugustYou have a video ofCoats and Clark Eloflex thread. I am sewing a lot of knits and decided to try this thread. I have an older Bernina 930 that this thread kept breaking. What time of needle, thread and tension are you using? Did you use this thread in the bobbin as well. Seems my tension in upper and bobbin case are just too tight. Any ideas?
Nancy Schaub
Posted at 15:20h, 01 DecemberYour posts are always such wonderful inspiration. Thank you for sharing so generously.
Deborah Coring
Posted at 14:30h, 30 DecemberI would love to win a new sewing machine!
Kathy Scheuer
Posted at 08:50h, 07 FebruaryI love the Tunic Bible book . I made one of the variations as a wearable muslin and it fits great! My only question is about Maxi dress modifications. There appears to be no reference at all in the book on how to make a maxi dress. Am I missing something in the book?
Any help would be appreciated,
Kathy
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 19:02h, 12 FebruaryKathy,
You did not miss a thing! There is not a marking for the maxi in the book. We suggest extending the length on your own.
Thanks for checking in 😀
Sarah
Rachel Boothe
Posted at 17:46h, 21 FebruaryI LOVE your blog. I am currently trying to give up JCrew because they are super expensive and the clothing I want always sells out before it goes on sale. I can sew and would consider myself and intermediate seamstress. The problem is that J Crew has unique fabric and it is hard to find something very similar, Currently I am wanting these pants in this link: https://www.jcrew.com/s7-img-facade/52211_WD8201?fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&resMode=sharp&op_usm=.1,0,0,0&wid=636&hei=636
They are silk twill. The originally retailed for $398 and I have found a never worn pair in a consignment shop for $175. That is less than half the original price. However, it is $175. I am searching for a similar fabric, and I have found nothing. I have looked on etsy, ebay, and all my fabric haunts. Since I figure it would take only a couple of yards, I would be willing to pay in the $30’s per yard. Have you seen any fabric remotely similar? Thanks.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 06:29h, 22 FebruaryThank you so much for your nice comment, Rachel. I can relate to searching endlessly for a fabric to duplicate RTW, and it’s one of the things I have had to get over as I continue to sew. If possible I recommend letting the RTW serve as your inspiration and create something similar. You’ll be surprised to watch your creative spirit soar 😊 Good luck!
Rachel Boothe
Posted at 16:51h, 23 FebruaryThank you. I am going to keep looking.
Mary Power
Posted at 08:23h, 26 FebruaryCan you speak about dress forms? Which one do you use? Thank you…
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 08:47h, 26 FebruaryMary,
I use a common Singer Dress Form that is adjustable by several knobs. It is not a body double, but is very helpful for making sure the garment hangs properly, shoulder, bust, waist and hip measurements. The neck to waistline length is also adjustable and the overall height.
Betsy Comeau
Posted at 11:21h, 31 MayLove your blog! Am making Butterick 5850 for a wedding in Tuscany in August out of Silk Dupioni. MADE A PRACTICE COTTON DRESS YESTERDAY AND FOUND STEP 7 IMPOSSIBLE TO UNDERSTAND AND also the pivot spot on the shawl collar….I also would like to cut the sleeve holes in a bit more on the shoulders. Any tips? Much appreciated! Thank you! By the way, you ROCKED the Butterick dress 5850!!!!
Margaret Schulz
Posted at 08:20h, 01 JulyI was wondering if you would consider doing a instruction on funky pocket construction? Something to add to tunics, I have a particular tunic I saw in a boutique that I want to replicate but don’t know how to attach a photo.
Becky Thorpe
Posted at 00:18h, 29 OctoberHello,
I have The Tunic Bible, and am trying to make the maxi length dress. There doesn’t seem to be a pattern piece for it, just pieces for the tunic and dress lengths. Any suggestions?
Thank you!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 09:14h, 01 NovemberBecky,
While there isn’t a pattern extension for the maxi, all you need to do is extend the length of the front and back bodice. Good luck and send a photo of your finished tunic. I’d love to see it!
Mark Kosmowski
Posted at 01:17h, 14 AprilI just read “The Tunic Bible” and greatly enjoyed it. Do you have any thoughts on using the tunic for everyday menswear?
Thank you!
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 14:42h, 02 SeptemberMark ~ I’m sorry to be responding in an untimely manner! Peter of Male Pattern Boldness has written about making mens’ tunics – I would check his website 😊
Hildi
Posted at 11:59h, 11 JuneI love your gallery of clothing ! I am trying to do a better job at sewing but I always have problems buying high quality dress fabrics online. Who do you prefer to buy from online?
Lucy B
Posted at 11:49h, 01 SeptemberHi Sarah, I purchased your Tunic Bible just after it came out and just received my copy of A Stylish Guide to CLASSIC SEWING. I love both books. I would like to write a review on my blog and was wondering if it would be okay to snap a pic or two of the artwork inside to include in the review. Didn’t want to step on any toes :0) I love your blog also and have followed your posts since the beginning.
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 07:12h, 02 SeptemberThank you so much, Lucy! Yes, I’d be happy for you to write a review and include photos. Look forward to reading it 😊
Lucy B
Posted at 05:20h, 03 SeptemberThank you Sarah!
Kelly M
Posted at 11:57h, 11 SeptemberI am trying to make the v neck tunic from the Tunic Bible, I noticed that the facings to not match up with the bodice pattern pieces. This seems to be an error noticed by others as well. Is there a correction for this?
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 12:04h, 11 SeptemberIt is not an error. Please follow the directions on pages 78 – 81 and you will understand the technique. I’ve also filmed a tutorial on It’s Sew Easy TV for this neckline.
Kelly Marquart
Posted at 14:22h, 29 SeptemberI am having another problem with your tunic Bible book. I am currently working on the band collar. The band collar uses a 1 cm seam allowance the rest of the bodice uses a 5/8 inch seam allowance. No where does it tell me to trim the neckline’s seam allowance down. What is the correct seam allowance to sew the band collar to the neckline?
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 14:40h, 29 SeptemberKelly ~ Use the 1 cm seam allowance for the band collar. An alternate for the band collar is to use the bias neckline finish.
Brenda Fotos
Posted at 23:19h, 15 OctoberDo you have workshops
goodbyevalentino
Posted at 14:02h, 07 NovemberYes, before the pandemic
susan j gill
Posted at 09:49h, 07 Novemberwhat is the name of the embroidery site you featured? i love your site but i forgot to note the site. i’m just trying to get back to sewing. i work a 10 hour split shift so finding time is difficult. i do quite a bit of embroidery and i really like the more upscale look. i’m not really interested in little bunnies wearing boots. thank you
Marolyn Sayre-Smith
Posted at 22:38h, 14 OctoberHi Sarah, I had been subscribed to “Goodbye Valentino” for a few years and cannot get back on it. Did you discontinue your posts? I do not understand.how to get back on.
Please help because I love all your posts and sewing instructions. Thank you. Marolyn
Marolyn Sayre-Smith
Posted at 22:40h, 14 OctoberPlease help me resubscribe to “Goodbye Valentino.” I have tried a few times but cannot get on. Thank you.
Susan Owens
Posted at 15:28h, 12 FebruaryHi Sarah,
Of all the sewing blogs I read, yours is my favorite. You have inspired me to spend more time sewing and learning to fit my 70+ multi sized body. Haven’t seen much from you lately and just checking that everything is okay.
Thanks,
Susan
Marilyn Winograd
Posted at 17:07h, 15 JulyA lOt of your readers, including me, miss your writings, musings, reviews and advice. Most of all, we miss you. I hope that you and your family are well. Sincerely, Marilyn
Vaune Pierce
Posted at 16:11h, 28 AugustHave you started scheduling classes again?