A few months ago, I discovered Viki Sews an online Russian pdf pattern company. They sell a mix of men’s, women’s and children’s patterns and are active on social media so there is lots of inspiration.

I discovered Viki Sews through blogger Sleepless In Bavaria. She has completed a number of projects with Viki Sews patterns. Click here to see the projects that she’s reviewed on her blog.

I purchased two Viki Sews patterns for the total cost of $3 NZD during a sale. I figured at this price it was worth trying them! Normally they range from $2 NZD to $5 NZD so very cheap.

When you purchase a Viki Sews pattern you purchase a pattern for one size and height range – a concept I love! After purchase, you download the pattern from your Viki Sews portal. The instructions are a pdf so can be translated from Russian to English through Google Image Translate once printed. I didn’t bother to translate the instructions as the diagrams in the pattern instructions gave me enough information. I’ve provided the image above from one of their patterns to give you an example.

Both patterns I chose from the Viki Sews range are simple designs but have lovely design features. I made the Lidi jumper  (pictured above)  first. The fabric was given to me from a fabric cutters workroom clear-out – ideal for a first test garment. I really like the use of a facing on a knit jumper it makes the neckline sit really nicely. The shape is different from other jumpers in my wardrobe as it doesn’t have a waistband. I shortened the pattern by around 5cm front and back due to fabric constraints – it’s a perfect length. I made size 40 – one size down from my measurements. Click here to see other versions of the pattern on Instagram.

The fabric is a mystery blend which has unfortunately matted quite quickly. I have since made a second version using much thicker wool from The Fabric Store. I used the same pattern as the original. The styling isn’t the best but it’s so cosy perfect for the winter weather at the moment. 

Because I had so much success from the sweater project I decided to use the Sati skirt pattern   #vikisews_сати using a remnant purchased from The Fabric Store. I decided to use the fabric to make a skirt rather than a dress – as I had originally planned – as I tend to gravitate towards separates. This pattern is bias cut meaning it uses lots of fabric as the skirt is cut on a diagonal. I haven’t made a bias cut garment before so I was a little worried I would hate the style. The pattern has two darts at the back and none at the front and is a pull on style with an elasticated waist. It’s surprisingly easy to sew – it’s a nice advanced beginner project which practices some nice finishing techniques ideal if you don’t own an overlocker!

I love this skirt and this pattern! I love how bias cut fabric skims over any lumps and bumps and makes the fabric flow. The pattern instructs you to sew french seams to finish the side seams and a hand-rolled hem  – lovely finishes to a simple design. As per the instructions I used elastic for the waistband using the same stitch and fold method. My skirt is size 44.

I love this skirt and plan to wear it a lot during winter! I think it will be a wardrobe staple which I can dress up or down.

I am really impressed with Viki Sews patterns and recommend them highly! They have excellent instructions and use lovely techniques which teaches you to make a beautifully finished garment. I have purchased a coat pattern which I’m very excited about making. Their instructions have lots of visuals and use different techniques which are shown well in the instructions and accompanying video.

Hopefully, this blog post inspires you to check out Viki Sews or other pattern companies who speak a different language to you. I’d love to hear if you’ve tried any patterns from Viki Sews or any other Russian pattern companies.