| |
PatternReview Blog > Archives May 2013
| New"February Challenge - Menswear" Contest Winners | By DianeSev on 2/28/12 1:38 PM |
|
We spend so much time on PatternReview writing about women's garments that we forget about sewing for the menfolk!
This contest was an opportunity to highlight sewing menswear. For this challenge, contestants had to sew something substantial - pants, shirt, coats - for a man over the age of 18 who would also be willing to pose for a photograph wearing said menswear. The rules stated "No accessories allowed!" (Sorry, ties!)
There were 21 participants in this 2-week contest. See what they sewed! As you can tell, shirts were the most popular garments entered in this contest.
First and second place winners were decided by member vote. And there was a tie for 2nd place! Let's meet these contestants now!
First Prize (By Member Vote):
treefrog
 Pictured at left: treefrog\'s DH wearing "Drafted from RTW: Overalls"
treefrog's DH had been asking her to make him a new pair of overalls for a year. This contest came as the perfect motivation. He liked the design of his RTW pair, so she used them as a model.
When she started working on the overalls, the most inconvenient thing happened...her machine broke! The repairman said it wasn't worth fixing (too expensive), but DH saved the day! He made a couple of quick fixes and had the machine working in no time.
She made the overalls from heavy tightly woven cotton drill treated for fire-resistance and used hearts and crosses quilting fabric for the pocket lining. She was able to get the same fabric as the original pair of overalls from mill where the overalls were made. She washed the fabric four times in cold water to preserve the flame-retardant and to shrink them.
She dismantled the original pair, taking lots of photos. DH wanted some features added, and she made some improvements on the original design.
The net result was that the overalls turned out very similar to the original, and (big bonus!) DH loved them! He has already christened them in a project rebuilding huts in the Australian High Country.
Here are some of the comments members made on her review:
Mary Stiefer: "These look fabulous - OMG - I'm sure he will get lots of use from them. You have more patience than I do - Well done."
21wale: "Wow, these are amazing with so many excellent details and a good fit. How great you were able to find the right fabric, too. My husband has been hinting for me to make him coveralls. He think it'd be easy to draft a pattern. hahahaha"
jannw: "Wonderful!! Such a fantastic job!! love the little red bar tacks...and all the other improvements. Did you tell him he is not allowed to put holes in them? A suitable reward for fixing the machine."
Congratulations, treefrog!
Tie for Second Prize (By Member Vote):
CMae
 Pictured at left: CMae's DH wearing McCall's 6044 Men's Shirts
CMae made McCall's 6044 for her DH. She used a medium weight 100% cotton, a contrast fabric for the inside of the neckband and cuffs and pearl snaps for an authentic Western look.
When cutting out the pattern, she added a bit of length to the cuffs because she wanted them to accommodate three snaps rather than just two.
She found the instructions easy to follow, far less technical than for a woman's shirt!
If she makes this pattern again, she will try using a standard shirt weight cotton, because adding the yoke pieces to the front and back of the shirt makes it a bit thick. And, she will add a bit more room across the back to give DH a bit more reaching room.
Her conclusion: "Easy to construct men's shirt. This is a great go to basic pattern for a man's shirt. Went together nicely and the finished product looks like ready to wear!"
Congratulations, CMae!
Tie for Second Prize (By Member Vote):
allycovey
 Pictured at right: allycovey's DH wearing Burda 8186 Men's Suit
allycovey's DH loves blazers like this one that she made from Burda 8186. So of course she had to make it for this contest! She chose a wool with a herringbone weave. She was a little nervous that she wouldn't have enough fabric, so, as she says, "[I] somehow ended up with 9 yards of the stuff" and, as a result, will also make something nice for herself.
She found the instructions difficult, even for a Burda pattern and says that each time she makes it, she understands more about the pattern. It is not for beginners, she states.
She had to make some adjustments in the shoulders and the abdomen (don't tell dieting DH, she asks) but says that the darts and extra seams contour the form of the jacket and make the jacket look very nice on him.
One wrinkle popped up in the process. Her lhaso apso thought the pattern paper was for playtime, so allycovey had to recreate it. Poor doggy is now barred from the sewing room.
She loves this pattern and will sew it again.
Congratulations, allycovey!
|
And congratulations to all our contestants for their wonderful menswear entries!
We thank Threads for sponsoring this contest.
We thank PR member mrsbewley for managing this contest.
Discuss the contest.
Look at the contest rules.
Look at the contest statistics.
Look at all the contest entries
Never entered a contest before? It's easy! Our contest tutorial will show you how to enter.
Check out the current contests.
Check out the 2012 contests.
|
1 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| Jeans Contest Winners | By DianeSev on 2/27/12 4:06 PM |
|
Jeans are a "must-have" part of every person's wardrobe.
But how many of us dare to make them?
87 brave souls accepted the challenge to make a pair of jeans for themselves or someone else. The contest rules defined jeans as "trousers made out of denim." The denim could be "stretchy", but couldn't contain more than 10% lycra. And, the fabric could be any color denim.
The entries could be of any style - traditional five-pocket jeans, skinny jeans, slouchy jeans, or trouser jeans - but the rules advised that the way to stand out in this contest was to focus on quality of sewing and special details. Read more of the rules here.
Didn't all the jeans come out great?
By far, the favorite pattern for this contest was Jalie 2908. Many contestants opted to draft their own patterns too!
The contest committee provided a link to a posting of jeans tips and tricks (written by cabinbaby) to help the contestants create the jeans of their dreams.
Members selected the first and second place winners by vote.
And here they are!
First Prize (By Member Vote):
sfshaza
 Pictured at left: sfshaza wearing Au Bonheur des Petites Mains: 0134152 Pantalon droit avec découpes
This is the third time that sfshaza has sewn this pants pattern. Because the instructions were in French, she didn't use them. But practice makes perfect! The first time she made the pattern in black ponte but did not like how the vertical front pocket gaped.
The second time, she made the pattern using an indigo stretch denim and navy thread for top-stitching. She changed the angle of the front pockets and liked it much better.
The contest version benefited from previous two projects. She used black cotton/lycra denim and white top-stitching thread. She changed the design of the front and back pockets and changed the fly to a faux fly front and an elastic waist. She created the contrasting fabric by running the denim through her embellishing machine and added a back pocket of her own design.
She loves the funky styling and comfort of these jeans and would definitely recommend this pattern to others.
Here are some of the comments members made on her review:
HawkeMorningStar7: "These are way cool looking jeans, very interesting design details, love all your topstitching and self made fabric contrasts."
DorothyK: "These pants are fabulous. I love all the versions. Love the faux fly."
mhoutz: "Fabulous...and oh so funky! Love the black and white contrast."
Congratulations, sfshaza!
Second Prize (By Member Vote):
poppykettle
 Pictured at left: poppykettle wearing Vogue Patterns 8774 Misses' Jeans
When poppykettle sewed this Vogue 8774 pattern, she was sewing her first pair of pants. She used turquoise cotton twill denim as a fabric. She followed instructions to the letter but made some adjustments, based on the size chart and on how she likes her jeans to fit (like a glove!). She found the instructions pretty good (except for the section on inserting the zipper) and wished that she had found Sandra Betzina's video on inserting a flat front fly zipper before she had cut out the fabric.
She likes the leg cut and the drop-waist. She was disappointed in the lack of instructions for flat-felled seams, especially considering that it is a Vogue pattern. Although she made a lot of changes to the pattern, she still recommends it. She plans on trying other jeans patterns to see how they compare.
Congratulations, poppykettle!
|
And congratulations to all our contestants for entering the contest and creating jeans!!
We thank Fashion Fabrics Club for sponsoring this contest.
We thank PR member treefrog for managing this contest.
Discuss the contest.
Look at the contest rules.
Look at the contest statistics.
Look at all the contest entries
Never entered a contest before? It's easy! Our contest tutorial will show you how to enter.
Check out the current contests.
Check out the 2012 contests.
|
2 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| PR Day Cleveland, Ohio - Update | By DianeSev on 2/21/12 4:45 PM |
|
by sewpatty
New year, new start, new challenge!
On January 3, Deepika posted that she would be coming to Cleveland to tape a segment for It's Sew Easy TV. (Thank you to PR member K_sew for noticing the post and sending out a mayday to local sewists.) K_sew and sewpatty contacted Janie Chambers, owner of Janie’s Sewing Corner, to see what could be done on such short notice. Janie offered to hold a meet-n-greet with Deepika on the evening of her arrival at the store. Unlike New York or Chicago, Cleveland doesn’t have a large fashion/fabric shopping district. Most of us in the area realized how much we just enjoy getting together to work on projects and mingle with sewing friends, so that is what we decided to do. We set the date for February 16, 2012.
The 5S day group
PR members in attendance for this part of the day were K_sew, leanmeansewingmachine, barbarahf, Lynnek, heidijs, gogozu!, cleverkitty, clr56, Nancy Rhodes and sewpatty. From 10 AM to 5 PM on that day, we had a "5S Day" – Sit-n-Sew, Share, Show-Off, and Shop. Janie offered a special PR Day sale on fabric and notions. PR and non-PR sewists shared in the 5S day. Everyone brought a different project and perspective. Sewing and sharing wouldn’t be complete without some munchies. We indulged in bakery, pizza, salad, and chocolate fondue bar with lots of yummies for dipping.
Later in the day, we enjoyed sharing something we made and gave verbal reviews of patterns, fabric, and fitting!
barbarahf holding custom gold corset
heidijs in Vogue pattern red jacket
Nancy Rhodes in lavender floral jacket,
Cutting Line Designs' A Cute Angle
clr56 with Cotton Theory quilting tote bag
K_sew in black floral jacket,
Cutting Line Designs' Anything But Ordinary
Janie Chambers in One-Seam Pants and
Kwik Sew 3915 top and Kwik Sew 3916 jacket
sewpatty talking and waving her hands
in black floral Kwik Sew 3658 blouse
Joined by additional PR members, we headed out to dinner at Mavis Winkle's, an Irish Pub-style restaurant. Back at Janie’s, approximately 24 people were in attendance for the meet-n-greet with Deepika. Janie had books available for Deepika to autograph.
Unfortunately, due to a mechanical problem, Deepika’s flight was delayed, causing her to miss her connecting flight into Cleveland. While we felt bad that we missed the opportunity to meet Deepika, we were even more frustrated for her plight. She wouldn’t arrive in Cleveland until after 11:00 PM and had to film early in the morning.
Despite Deepika’s absence, we enjoyed meeting new sewists in the area and had fun talking about our trials, tribulations and ideas. We added to our stashes of raw materials with new fabric, patterns, and notions. Most of all, we enjoyed meeting new locals who share in our passions. We all had so much fun being able to talk "sewing" with others who get it. We agreed that we have to find a reason for Deepika to come back to autograph her book.
All those we were able to corner for a picture
at the evening meet-n-greet
We have tentative plans to meet for another 5S day on a more convenient Saturday or Sunday later in the year with a challenge to have made something from the fabric purchased on PR Day.
A bit of chatter already ensued about possible ideas for next year. Cleveland has some fabulous educational fashion/art institutions including, – Kent State University Fashion Museum, Virginia Marti College of Art and Design, Western Reserve Historical Society, Cleveland Museum of Art, Vera Wang Bridal House in Akron, Carnegie Textile in Solon, & Tandy Leather. We hope to come up with ideas that are educational, interesting, and fun.
If there are other PR members who couldn’t attend or didn’t get the follow-up group e-mail, please send a PM to heidijs so she can add you to the list. (Thank you, heidijs, for organizing the e-mail group.)
|
6 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| PR Weekend 2012 Registration is now OPEN! | By Deepika on 2/20/12 4:11 PM |
|
Registration is now open for PR Weekend New York City, May 18th - May 20th, 2012!
Where: New York City, NY
When: May 18-20, 2012
Fee: $115
Already registered? Grab a badge for your blog
Copy and paste this code:
<a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/blog?s=1317531"><img src="http://images.patternreview.com/gatherings/2012/prwnyc/prw2012_nyc_imgoing.png" border="0"></a>
PR Weekend is a weekend get-away held to bring the PatternReview members closer, support local sewing-related businesses and share our love of sewing.
As always, this PR Weekend promises to be a fun-filled time with lots of activities, fabulous shopping, great food and plenty of time spent with fellow sewists, talking and learning and feeding on each other's creativity.
We had an awesome PR Weekend last year in Chicago and we are looking forward to another great event this year as we bring you some really fun guest speakers, tours, yummy food and of course GREAT Shopping!
Read on to find out what has been planned for you!
Our speaker this year is none other than Kenneth King! Our much loved online class instructor, author and couturier. Who better than him to inspire us with his "Greatest Hits" seminar in which he'll share with us his work and inspiration from the last 25 years.
AND
MAKE founder and author of the book Sew everything workshop, Diana Rupp!
Our guest speaker event (Saturday, May 19th) will be held at Pace University, in the heart of New York City (One Pace Plaza)
Sleeping rooms have been reserved at the Four Points by Sheraton at 160 W 25th St, a walking distance from the Fashion District!
Breakfast and lunch for the PR Weekend are on your own.
The PR Weekend registration fee is $115 (non-refundable) and includes:
- Dinner at a local restaurant on Saturday night
- Conference Room Rental
- Full-day seminar with Kenneth King and Diana Rupp
- Prizes and Gift Bag
- PR Weekend Program Guide Booklet
Sounds like fun, doesn't it?
Spots are limited, so register early!
When we've filled the spots, we WILL close the registration. So make sure you register sooner rather than later.
Program (Still a Work in Progress)
Thursday, May 17 PM and Friday, May 18 AM
Registration and packet pick up in the lobby at Four Points Hotel.
Friday, May 18 Shopping Day and tour the Simplicity Pattern Company's office!
Starts 9 AM
Saturday, May 19 Speaker Day
Dinner: Tony's Di Napoli at Times Square! Can't get anymore festive than this.
Sunday, May 20 Optional Circle Line Cruise!
Questions about PR Weekend NYC? Join the discussion.
Registration for the weekend is $115 (no refunds). Register early!
|
19 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| Time to Vote in the Menswear Contest! | By DianeSev on 2/17/12 9:46 AM |
|
The Menswear Contest has finished, and it's time for you to vote. (Yes! More voting! February is a busy month for contests, isn't it!)
In this contest, PR members tried their hands at sewing for men in their lives who are 18 or older. Check out their projects in the contest gallery!
As always, there is a fabulous prize at stake, so your vote really counts!
If you voted in a contest before, you know the routine, but if you've never voted before, here are a few simple steps to follow...
First of all, you'll want to read the rules. And here's the progress report. You can see all the statistics for the entries and all the important contest links there. Next stop is the Contest Gallery, where you can read reviews, see project photos and vote for an entry.
You can talk about the contest here. (It would be nice to get some feedback on these projects from men too, wouldn't it?)
Then vote!
Voting closes on February 24, so don't forget to vote before then!
|
2 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| Here Are the New Vogues! | By DianeSev on 2/13/12 10:23 AM |
|
Vogue's new collection cries "Sophistication!"
from eye-catching blouse and skirt sets
like Bellville Sassoon's 1296:
to Vogue's signature dresses, like the Donna Karan 1280:
Here are three standouts in the latest Vogue collection.
|
Vogue Patterns 1282 Misses Top and Skirt
Donna Karan
Sizes: 4-12, 12-20
This loose-fitting, bias, pullover top has a draped front neckline with weight, no side seams and a stitched hem. Its very close-fitting, below waist pull-on skirt has an elastic waist with contrast facing, pleats, a front extending to side back, no side seams and a right side back slit. Self bias binding finishes the hem.
Suggested Fabrics: View A & Contrast B: For Two-Way Stretch Knits: Rayon/Spandex, Cotton/Spandex. View B: Stretch Wovens, Stretch Denim.
| 
|
Vogue Patterns 1286 Dress
Tracy Reese
Sizes: 6-14, 14-22
This lined dress (close-fitting through bust) has bands, a three-piece bra, a semi-fitted skirt with darts stitched on right side of fabric, and a back-button/self loop/invisible zipper. No provisions are provided for above waist adjustments.
Suggested Fabrics: Stretch Wovens, Lightweight Denim, Lightweight Double Knit. Interfacing: Nylon Fusible Knit.
|
|
Vogue Patterns 1291 Top
Today's Fit by Sandra Betzina
One size fits all.
This loose-fitting, pullover top has a bias neck band. The front sleeve overlaps the back sleeve to form the shoulder opening. This top features narrow hems and no shoulder seams.
Suggested Fabrics: Lightweight Knits, Stretch Lace, Chiffon, Lightweight Crepe.
|
See all the new Vogue patterns.
See all the newest patterns on PatternReview.
Please tell me when new patterns come out!
|
3 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| New Burdas and New New Looks Are Here! | By DianeSev on 2/7/12 10:46 AM |
|
by NoelleMac
We've got new patterns to announce! New Burda Patterns are here! And so are new New Looks!
New Burda Patterns
It is always exciting to open a box of brand new pattern styles- and this box of Burdas did not disappoint. I noticed a lot of styles which caught my eye, but these three stood out as featuring really different silhouettes, so I thought you might like to check them out.
|
Burda 7201 Dress and Blouse
This is a dress and blouse pattern with distinctly kimono-esque lines. They are semi-fitted, with a placket-like cross over front panel and belting at the waist. The design allows for two complementary fabrics to be used for added detail. The style is really pulled together, but casual enough for every day and has a very modern feel. These garments would be gorgeous in a satin, crepe or a lightweight cotton.
| 
|
Burda 7208 Top, Pants and Skirt
The next pattern is for a set of knit coordinates; a top, pants and skirt. The keyhole detailing on the top along with the diagonal shirring at the waist give these pieces a really polished, ready-to -wear feel. And they look so comfortable that they would be the perfect garments to pack for your next trip , or just to wear out to dinner! The top features both sleeveless and long-sleeved versions and would look amazing in either solid or printed knit or jersey.
|
|
Burda 7199 Dress and Jacket
There were a ton of jacket styles in this new set of patterns. Here is one which can also be sewn up as a dress! The semi-fitted design features an elastic waist with buttons or ties, and a relaxed, double-breasted effect to the top. There is a short stand-up collar and slash pockets on the dress which would be perfect in a polished linen or cotton. The jacket also has a stand-up collar and has elastic cuffs. This piece could be dressed up or down easily, depending on fabric choice.
|
Let us know what you think and don’t forget to post your reviews!
Check out all the new Burdas.
New New Looks
Flattery is the word for my selections from New Look’s January 2012 catalog. These patterns feature relatively simple designs, but I think they will sew up beautifully to flatter many figure types.
|
New Look 6098 Dress and Top
I have just learned how to sew with knits, so I am very excited to try out 6098.
It is a simple silhouette, with a set-in empire panel at high waist, three-quarter sleeves with gathers, and a flared skirt. The pattern can be made in a lovely tunic length also which would look great with a mini skirt as featured on the model, or Capri-length leggings. A heavier weight knit would be suitable for winter, paired with a nice scarf, and it could be sewed in a cotton interlock for a cool, breezy summer top or dress.
| 
|
New Look 6095 Dress and Bag
The next pattern in my flattery series features a fitted, above the knee dress, with a high, shallow scoop neck and zipper in back. There is cap sleeve as well as sleeveless options, and ribbon detailing options as well.
This dress is designed for woven fabrics such as cotton, lightweight wool, and laundered silks. New Look has also provided a pattern for a nicely sized tote bag, 13x15 inches, with contrasting webbing detail. Sew one up to complement your dress for your next sight-seeing adventure!
|
|
New Look 6100 Shorts
I don’t wear a lot of shorts anymore, but these looked like they would be super comfortable.
The design features a fitted version with cuffs and tie at waist, as well as a looser, more flowing version. Both styles have slash pockets for convenience. Either of these styles would be a flattering option for a dressy short to wear for a summer outing. I would sew the second version in a nice lightweight linen or poplin.
|
|
New Look 6115 Toddler Dress
And last but not least, something to flatter the little one!
This dress for toddlers features a front panel for contrasting fabric, a curved yoke, and back zipper. There are options for gathering the bottom of the A- line skirt to create a balloon effect in addition to finishing options. This sleeveless dress would be darling for a special occasion in satin or for a day out in sweet gingham.
|
Check out all the new patterns from New Look.
See all the newest patterns on PatternReview.
Please tell me when new patterns come out!
|
4 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| Post a Notion Here and Enter to Win the Original "How Much Fabric?" Reference Cards | By DianeSev on 2/6/12 3:53 PM |
|
We have a giveaway to announce!
Reply to this blog entry with your favorite sewing notion and be entered in a drawing to win a set of the Original "How Much Fabric?" Reference Cards. In your reply, we'll need you to tell us if you're from the U.S. or outside the U.S., and here's why...
 Post your favorite notion and your country here and you could win these handy cards!
Donated by gwynhug.com, a U.S. set of these cards will go to 2 winners in the U.S., and a set of metric cards will go to 2 winners outside the U.S.
Each winner will be able to choose one set from this list: a) women's, (b) women's plus sizes, (c) men's, (d) baby & toddler, and (e) children).
These cards are one of those handy notions a sewist dreams of...
These reference cards will help you estimate how much fabric you'll need to buy, without a pattern in hand, as accurately as possible, by providing tables that summarize actual fabric requirements from real patterns, broken down by outfit size and fabric width.
More than 3,000 patterns were used to build the tables, including patterns from Simplicity, McCalls, Butterick, Vogue, Burda, Neue Mode, Kwik Sew, Hot Patterns, & New Look.
You can read more about these card sets at www.gwynhug.com.
So post your favorite notion and your country of residence now, so we can enter you in the drawing! We will announce the winner on February 12th, so post soon!
Thank you, gwynhug.com, for donating this giveaway!
|
177 Comments (Click number to see comments) Login to Add a Comment |
| Editorial Reviews: The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting by Sarah Veblen | By DianeSev on 2/6/12 10:44 AM |
|
Whether it's the thrill of converting a flat piece of fabric to a wearable 3-dimensional garment, or it's addressing those imperfections in our bodies (one leg shorter than the other - raising hands here!), one thing is certain. We all want to wear beautiful clothes which fit us like a dream. Fitting is an ongoing process and just like everything else in life, perfection is not easy to achieve. Which is why I was so excited when I found out that our very own fit expert, Sarah Veblen has a new book out - The Complete Photo Guide to PERFECT FITTING!
We've been reading this book for weeks now, and here are our reviews.
- Deepika
My first thought when I opened the book - this is like a textbook. Which is a good thing if you're serious about fitting. A little intimidating if you're just starting out, which is why I wouldn't recommend this book to a beginner but if you're like me and want to address and solve fitting issues in patterns, I highly recommend this book.
Sarah starts with fundamentals of fitting and how fashions and fit have changed over the years. Commercial pattern size charts and symbols are also discussed in the introduction which are very helpful.
If you're not willing to make muslins (test garment) to learn from this book, walk away now However, if you let her, Sarah teaches you the fundamentals of fitting muslins and goes on to fundamentals of alterating paper patterns.
Fitting and Pattern Alteration are addressed separately, which is very different from what most of us are used to. But if you think about it, it totally makes sense. Most of the fitting is explained on unbleached muslin on a sample body with wedges, pinned darts and such. Once the problem has been identified, Sarah talks about how making one change can affect other areas of the garment.
Impatient that I am, I looked up some of the alterations which I need most. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the fitting chapters are grouped not only by body type but also by garment type. How helpful! I learned that not only do I need a big closed wedge in the back, I need to follow it up with a dart in the front. This was news to me! I cannot wait to try this alteration on my next project. Thank you Sarah!
And because Sarah is so generous with her knowledge, she also talks about using style lines to create pleasing proportions in garments.
The book is beautifully edited with easy-to-read font styles and color coded chapters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is serious about FIT. You will not be disappointed.
Diane Severin:
Of all the aspects of sewing, fitting is the one I dread most.
I would love for every commercial pattern to come out of the envelope suited perfectly to my body. Unfortunately, that will only happen in the world of fantasy!
So...fitting is a necessary evil. And it seems so daunting, unless you have a system for attacking it and a good instructor who can show you the whys and wherefores.
That's why I found Sarah Veblen's The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting so interesting.
Early on in the book, Sarah gets to the crux of the problem: "Since no two bodies are the same, fitting requires individualized problem solving."
We don't all have the same body issues: right shoulder higher than the left, the left shoulder higher than the right, the full bust, the small bust, the pear shape, the apple shape, the pencil shape (some of us wish!), but we can all made adjustments to a pattern to make a garment look more like it does on the pattern envelope and not some parody of it. Sadly, there is no airbrushing in real life!
With this book, Sarah strives to give "a methodology that will help you interpret specific fitting examples, and then apply the information to your own fitting issues..."
Among the many topics in this book, Sarah discusses taking your measurements, creating muslins to test the design, transferring the changes to flat patterns, and making adjustments to the pattern.
This book solves many problems that you thought you had to live with: that shirt front hem that bows up, that shirt back waist that creases, that bodice front that's tight, that sleeve that pulls in a funny way and how about those crinkle lines that form around the crotch. Sarah gives you solutions to them all, accompanied by illustrative photos.
Speaking of the photos, there are many of them (650!), and they capture the problems well. Each photo is sequentially numbered to illustrate the text that describes it.
One thing occurred to me in reading this book. How do you fit yourself? Sarah recommends having a "fitting buddy". In this way, you can fit garments on each other and put your heads together to solve fitting issues. (And it takes the pressure off your having to problem-solve all the fitting details on your own.)
At 224 pages long, this book is not light reading but is a good one for the sewist who is seriously interested in fitting.
And I'm a little less intimidated by fitting now that I know that there's a good book to help me through it.
Noelle MacMahon:
Sarah Veblen’s new book, The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting reads like a text book - it is very dense and very detailed. As an occasional sewist with no patience and a love of unstructured garments, this book is far beyond my abilities or inclination. However, if you are interested in finding the perfect fit for your exact body measurements, this is the book for you.
Sarah has designed this as a visual step-by-step guide to fitting so that you can see in great detail exactly what is happening with each adjustment. For the visual learner, this is a great feature. The photographs are really instrumental in explaining the process of adjusting a garment for fit from every step along the way.
There are three main chapters, with a series of sections within each chapter so if you want to skip around to a specific fitting topic you may do that. Sarah covers literally everything from how to see the body as a volume, to scaling patterns up and down.
I am sure this book will become an invaluable addition to many sewists’ home libraries.
Win a free copy of this book!
We have a signed copy of this book which we'll give to one lucky winner who posts her or his fitting challenges here on this blog posting. We will announce the winner on February 10th. Good luck!
Don't want to wait? Buy your copy from Amazon.com
|
133 Comments (Click number to see comments) Login to Add a Comment |
| Member in Focus: dixiediy | By DianeSev on 2/3/12 9:47 AM |
|
Your PR Name: dixiediy
Your Full Name: Dixie Davis
Member Since: March, 2011
Your Birthday: April 11
Your Blog: http://dixiediy.blogspot.com/
 Pictured at left: Member In Focus dixiediy models her newly-made Vogue 1247 top
How did you learn to sew?
My grandmother taught me hand-sewing basics which I used to sew A-line skirts as a kid. When I got a sewing machine in high school, I made handbags. Later in college, I moved on to clothes. I'm mostly self-taught, which explains why it took me so many years to be "good" at sewing.
What aspect of sewing do you find most challenging?
Keeping up my enthusiasm for a project I've spent so much time on is most challenging. The longer I work on a project, the more likely it will end up in the UFO pile. Once a garment is assembled enough to try on, I just want to be finished. All those hems and button holes and zippers and seam finishes are time-consuming. I've got to keep my eye on the prize!
Which sewing book do you refer to most often?
For basics I tend to look online, but for pants and jeans - [Palmer-Pletsch's] Pants for Real People is like a Bible. I think all of Wendy Mullins' sewing books are great for learning to alter patterns.
What are your sewing goals for this year?
Building a wardrobe of wearable clothes and filling in gaps in my closet. I also want to design more patterns and learn some advanced skills.
What are you sewing right now?
I'm in the middle of Megan Neilson's Darling Ranges dress pattern and refashioning an old 1950's skirt. The 50's fabric has several decorative beads and sequins, but upon closer inspection, they are all severely damaged. So now I'm going back and hand-replacing every sequin. It's crazy, I know, but I've convinced myself that it will be worth it.
Pick your favorite pattern (only one please).
I don't often make the same pattern more than once so I'm choosing based on design. I love Colette's Macaron because it's classically stylish, it flatters so many body shapes, is easy to wear, has pockets(!!!), and you can make it as fancy or as casual as you like.
What you love most about PatternReview?
I love using it as a resource before I dive into a project. I read reviews to see if anyone had problems with sizing or length or fit. If enough people claim that the skirt is too short, I'll know to add a few inches and avoid regret later!
What's the most challenging aspect of writing a sewing blog?
Keeping up with the audience. I love the support I get from readers, many of whom have their own blogs. I want to share the love and leave comments on their blogs too, but with so much sewing, emailing, blogging and dealing with everyday life, I sometimes feel like I neglect that part. Interaction with readers is so important because community is what makes a blog great, especially in a niche topic like sewing. I want readers to feel appreciated! Compared to that, picture-taking and writing about seam finishes and fabric sources is easy.
You offer downloadable patterns on your blog. What is your favorite pattern among these? What inspired you to design your own patterns and to share them with other sewists?
My favorite is probably my Two Piece Tunic, because it epitomizes my feelings of being a "lazy sewer." I like getting to the finished product ASAP. This pattern has no set-in sleeves, only two pattern pieces, no facings, no closures and no shoulder seams, but I still think it is a cute design with the gathers at the angled bust line. At first pattern making was just another challenge. I liked learning ways to manipulate patterns. Eventually I began sharing my own patterns with others to get feedback, in particular with instructions. I'm most surprised to see people adapting the patterns in ways I never would have thought and putting their own design spin on them.
In addition to documenting your adventures in sewing, you have some other fun sections on your blog, like re-styling and crafting (we love the Amoeba Pillowcase, BTW). Where do you get your ideas?
Pinterest is addictive! I like to read magazines and design and craft blogs. Oftentimes inspiration comes from a need to use up a supply that has been cluttering up my craft room! I'm on an endless mission to use up scrap pieces of fabric, for example.
You mention on your blog that you like to support independent pattern companies. How do you find indie pattern companies? Whose designs attract you right now?
The more pattern options the better, I believe. Sometimes the Big 4's styles get tiresome. If I want to encourage creative designs, I should support the few indie companies out there! A Good Wardrobe has a running list of indie designers. I find new companies through blogs, Etsy and browsing PatternReview. Right now, I'm loving Victory Patterns for their fashionable styling and classic, versatile silhouettes. When a company shows chic samples of their patterns, I am way more excited about trying them.
What would PR members be surprised to know about you?
I currently have purple hair. Yep, I took the plunge and dyed my hair for the first time in years and in a crazy color. I figure this year I want to have some fun and step out of my comfort zone. The best part is that it is only temporary, so once I've had my kicks, I can go back to my normal brunette.
Is there anything else that you'd like to tell us about yourself?
I love meeting other people in Austin (and Texas in general) who share my love of sewing. I know you're out there!
Any other hobbies?
I like making handmade cards. I'm a film school grad so I love watching classic movies. I'm also a big architecture history buff. I own a couple vintage cars that my boyfriend works on (free mechanic!), but I get to drive. I love to travel, and I'd probably go anywhere if given the opportunity.
Your profession, where do you live, etc.
I'm a videographer and editor for a website here in lovely Austin, TX. You'll often hear me complain about the weather on my blog because it is always HOT.
Thank you, dixiediy!
Read dixiediy's reviews.
Read dixiediy's review for the garment she's wearing in the picture at the top of this article (Vogue 1247).
|
4 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
| Fabric Stash Contest Winners | By DianeSev on 2/2/12 12:48 PM |
|
Remember all the fabric you bought at last year's PR Weekend? And the PR Weekend before that? You intended to make lots of great things with it, but somehow that never happened...
...until this Fabric Stash Contest came along!
The objective of this contest was to reduce the size of your fabric stash significantly in one month! This contest was a great motivator to use your 6 month old or older fabric in making all kinds of usable sewn items: clothing, accessories, home dec, things for pets. There were some rules you had to follow, though.
For example, you couldn't use more than 5 yards in any sewn item. You could make muslins before the contest and pre-wash the fabric, but you couldn't actually cut out or sew the fabric before the start date of the contest. See more of the rules here.
The winners were determined by points. Contestants were awarded points based on the total yards sewn up during the contest. Each yard sewn earned the participant one point.
There were 158 participants in this contest...all eager to make that stash disappear! They made a total of 893 projects and sewed a whopping 1043.40 yards. Wow! That's a lot of fabric! (Almost 9 football fields' worth, if the Super Bowl is on your mind these days...)
Curious about what projects they completed? Check out the gallery.
Now it's time to announce the winners! It was a close run for second place. Just under 1.5 yards separated the second and third place winners.
First Prize (By Points):
racehorse
 Pictured at left: racehorse wearing Jamie Christina: The Mission Maxi
racehorse accomplished the following in this contest: 82 points, 46 projects and 82.765 yards sewn. She made tops, pants, dresses, pillow covers, grocery bags, kids' clothes, toddlers' clothes, swimwear, loungewear and skirts. Busy lady!
She is pictured wearing the Jamie Christina: The Mission Maxi, a dress that she had made before this contest and sewed multiple times specifically for this contest.
She rated this pattern "easy and great for beginners" and finds it very flattering on her. Because she likes wearing her dresses long, she lengthened it by 10 inches (way to use up that stash!). She sewed it in a rayon-lycra from Emma One Sock.
She calls it "[A] great pattern, a real winner" and highly recommends it.
Here are some of the comments members made on her review:
annie11: "Gorgeous dresses. I love your fabric choices."
SewWil: "Love, love, love these dresses!!!"
no7262: "Love it! I have made 3 for myself and will most likely make more this summer."
Sounds like a "must-sew"!
Congratulations, racehorse!
Second Prize:
Sarah Sew and Sew for 58 Points, 30 Projects and 58.125 yards sewn.
Congratulations, Sarah Sew and Sew!
|
And congratulations to all our contestants for entering the contest and reducing your fabric stash!
We thank Patterns From the Past for sponsoring this contest.
We thank PR member Aroura for managing this contest.
Discuss the contest.
Look at the contest rules.
Look at the contest statistics.
Look at all the contest entries
Never entered a contest before? It's easy! Our contest tutorial will show you how to enter.
Check out the current contests.
Check out the 2012 contests.
|
5 Comments Login to Add a Comment |
|
Copyright © 2013 PatternReview.com® , OSATech, Inc. All rights reserved.
Conditions of Use | Posting Guidelines | Privacy Policy | Contact Us
| SearchSubscribe 
Connect on    Previous Posts
 The Great Gatsby in Fashion Giveaway
5/20/13
Member in Focus (Sewing as a Business): SheBear0320
5/16/13
Editorial Reviews of Angela Wolf’s How to Start a Home-Based Fashion Designer Business
5/16/13
PatternReview on Facebook: Sewing as a Business
5/14/13
Pantone Color Contest Winners
5/14/13
Simplicity 2-Day $2.99 Sale!
5/14/13
Sewalong - Summer Street Dress - May 15th - June 15th
5/13/13
Winner of the Eureka! Pants That Fit Giveaway
5/13/13
Using a Ruffler Foot – Construction: A Picture Tutorial by newmama
5/13/13
Who Won the Pattern Stash Contest? It's a Tie!
5/13/13
Archives
May,2013 (16)
April,2013 (15)
March,2013 (16)
February,2013 (10)
January,2013 (14)
December,2012 (19)
November,2012 (14)
October,2012 (15)
September,2012 (10)
August,2012 (6)
July,2012 (10)
June,2012 (8)
May,2012 (15)
April,2012 (13)
March,2012 (11)
February,2012 (14)
January,2012 (11)
|
|Login|Help]
GeriRoyer
dintas
gemma
Congrats, ladies! I love the detail on the black shirt! The overalls look like they'll stand up to lots of wear & tear, and the suit is so nicely fitted.
2/29/12 9:10 AM