Twig + Tale is a magical place where time slows down and imaginations run wild. A printable sewing pattern transforms into a journey.

Natural, recycled fibres become whimsical coats and wings. Here, all skill levels are welcome and anything is possible. Creativity and community abound.

Help on Hand

Fully Tested + Achievable

Made in New Zealand

Secret Garden Embroidery Design Handbook from Twig + Tale
Our Latest Pattern...

We feel there’s a timeless problem worth solving: never having enough pockets!

Inspired by 17th–19th century tie-on pockets, our NEW Epoch Tie-On Pockets bridge history and modern sewing. With three pocket styles in multiple sizes and clever contemporary construction, they’re a hands-free, wearable nod to the past — perfect for everyday adventures or the would-be time traveller.

Moved by the makers of the past and their heartfelt embroidery, we’re introducing a new-to-T+T guide to creating designs that are uniquely your own.

So much more than "just" an embroidery pattern, the Secret Garden Embroidery Design Handbook is chock-full of design theory and principles to help you bring your own visions to life in needle and thread.

For a short time we are offering a bundle of both here

Scissors, thread, and a spool of thread on a wooden surface
Learn to sew

At Twig + Tale, we’re passionate about helping people learn to sew with confidence and feel the joy of creating something with your own hands.

In our new Learn to Sew series, we cover the essential sewing basics - guiding you step by step through the foundational skills and knowledge you need to create something beautiful, meaningful, and made to last.
If you’re new to sewing, welcome - this is where your sewing story begins...

Pixie Hat - the perfect choice for a first sewing project, the Pixie Hat is a simple and satisfying project with a charming result. Using basic sewing techniques, you'll create a fully lined hat - all the seams are enclosed, so it has a beautiful, neat finish. 

Customer Love

“Twig + Tale has changed everything for me. It's like having your own private sewing instructor with you as you sew.”

Jean P, Scenic Top

“Absolutely amazing patterns as always, I learnt so much from the detailed tutorial, both video and written. Having tried new techniques I'm now confident i could use them again on other projects. ”

AC, Ridgeway

“I love T+T patterns because they give me results that make me feel like a professional, even when I am an absolute beginner.”

Sashanna Hart

“Beautifully thought out sewing patterns. Intelligent and simple, yet with a real soul.”

Marilyn La Haise

“I honestly would have paid for just the tutorial alone. I cannot describe how much confidence it gave me to sew a garment that FITS and that is so inclusive. The directions for adjustments are amazing and so easy to follow. ”

Shannon, Fable

“Sewing this company's patterns is helping me develop an appreciation for the process as much as the product.”

Dani Schlueter

“As always, Twig + Tale has made learning something new easy to understand and not feel daunting”

Ally Pedder

“Twig + Tale patterns teach me something new every time. all of my other projects benefit from what I learn here.”

Hallie Ridgley

Welcome to Twig + Tale

Kia ora! I'm Lisa Spearman, founder of Twig + Tale. I started sewing after a devastating injury in 2008 to my right hand left me unable to perform everyday tasks and hand therapy became my life.

Though it took me weeks to finish projects that others might whip up in a nap time, the joy of creating something beautiful from such a painful experience empowered me to keep hoping, working, and creating. 

Today, Twig + Tale is a flourishing small team, and a wide community. I invite you to join us on your sewing journey...

Meet the team