Roisin McKenna
Technical Editor
Simply Sewing magazine’s Technical Editor Roisin loves every part of the dressmaking process, from sketching to sewing the final design, and enjoys working with luxury fabrics such as silk and chiffon. She’s a sewing pattern pro with a skill for adjusting and hacking patterns to fit and for editing dressmaking instructions to make them accessible to sewists of all abilities. Before she came to Simply Sewing, the tea-drinking fabric-lover ran her own handmade Lingerie Etsy shop. She drinks a lot of tea and shares a mix of dressmaking projects and fashion history on her Instagram @roisin_handmade.
Recent articles by Roisin McKenna
Know your different types of fabric
We’ve put together this comprehensive list to help you understand different fabric types for sewing and what to use them for.
How to sew a collar
Adding a collar is an essential dressmaking skill! Learn how to sew a collar with our step by step guide
How to use a sewing pattern
So you're new to dressmaking and you've treated yourself to your first ever sewing pattern! Now what do you do with it?
How to make spaghetti straps
This step by step guide shows you how you how to make a rouleau loop – use this handy technique when you're making clothes to add elegant waist ties and perfectly sewn spaghetti straps for a professional finish.
How to thread a sewing machine
Learning how to thread a sewing machine is an important skill for beginners to master. Find out how it's done with our step-by-step guide
The best cheap sewing machines for budget-friendly stitching
Looking for more bang for your buck? Discover 2025’s best cheap sewing machines and save yourself some cash.
How to sew a patch pocket
Ramp up the cute factor on dresses, tops and trousers with our step-by-step guide to adding a patch pocket.
How to adjust a sewing pattern to fit
New to sewing and dressmaking? Find out how to adjust a pattern to fit your measurements perfectly. Learn the ropes with our top tips!
How to do a Full Bust Adjustment: wrap dress tutorial
If you have a larger bust and struggle to get the fit right on wrap bodices, you may need to do a full bust adjustment (FBA). Here is our step-by-step guide for altering a wrap dress sewing pattern so you can get the perfect custom fit.
How to make chair cushions
Making your own DIY chair cushions can give your home a fresh new look. Read on to learn how to make your own with our step-by-step guide…
How to use a sewing machine step-by-step
New to sewing and asking yourself how does a sewing machine work? We're here to help! We'll talk you through the different parts of your machine in this step-by-step guide: learn how to set it up and start sewing in no time.
Your essential sewing machine thread guide
Which is the best thread to use with your sewing machine? Our guide to sewing machine threads will help you pick the best type for your project so you can get the best results from your stash!
A complete guide to sewing for beginners
Browse our complete guide to sewing for beginners to pick up all the essential knowledge you need.
How to thread a bobbin – essential guide for beginners
Learn how to wind a bobbin and thread your machine with our step-by-step guide.
The best kids sewing machine to nurture your child's creativity in 2026
A child’s first sewing machine will be something they remember forever and will cherish memories of learning to sew with you. Find out what to look for when you shop for childrens sewing machines and discover a few of our favourite models to get kids started
How to sew a zipper
Create fitted and professional garments with our how to sew in a zipper tutorial.
Brother LS14s Sewing Machine review
Our expert testers try out this entry-level sewing machine – perfect for beginners or those looking for a second machine to take to classes or sewing clubs!
Should you buy the John Lewis JL110 sewing machine?
An affordable sewing machine to please both beginners and advanced users. Expert stitcher Roisin McKenna puts the John Lewis JL110 through its paces
How to top stitch
Learn how to top stitch this workshop. We talk you through everything you need to know including threads, needles and swatches!
Best dress making mannequins
If you're getting into dress making, a mannequin can be a very useful piece of sewing kit to invest in. In this guide, we'll look at how to use a dressform and show you the best mannequins to buy
How to make sewing patterns
Making your own clothes can seem daunting, but it's easier than you might think. Learn how to make sewing patterns with Roisin McKenna's expert advice!
Jersey fabric sewing masterclass
Stretch fabrics can seem tricky to sew without expert know-how. Read our jersey fabric sewing masterclass to help you banish the jersey blues…
How to sew jersey fabrics for beginners
Read our handy guide to learn how to sew stretch fabric, and test out your new skills by making a poncho.
How to sew seams without an overlocker
Overlockers can seem daunting for beginner sewists, so here we take you through how to finish seams without an overlocker (we like to call it faux-verlocking!), using just your sewing machine. We'll show you 6 methods to get started.
