How to measure yourself accurately

Always measure yourself before you choose a pattern size to cut out. The sizes do vary greatly from pattern to pattern, so it’s always best to measure yourself accurately and then refer to the pattern

YOU WILL NEED ■ Main fabric: 1.5–2mx110cm ■ Elastic, 25mm wide: enough to fit around your waist ■ Brass eyelets, 7mm, and installation kit ■ Cotton cord, 4mm wide: 1m ■ Matching thread ■ Basic sewing

MATERIALS ■ Lightweight woven fabric: 2m ■ Matching thread ■ Basic sewing kit Designed by Portia Lawrie@portialawrie What better way to showcase a favourite fabric prints than with an oversized floaty

Understanding how breasts change with age will make sure you care for them the right way, says Tanith Carey

Gravity has a lot to answer for as you age, especially when it comes to your boobs. But while you can’t regain the perkiness of youth, there are ways to get them in the best shape possible – without g

■ Pattern sheets x2 (Tracing required) ■ Instruction sheet Version A: ■ Sizes – 6-20: Fabric 3.6m of 150cm wide fabric ■ Sizes – 22-30: Fabric 4.8m of 150cm wide fabric Version B: ■ Sizes – 6-20: Fabr