Pin-up Girls: 1200 (Classic Full Band Bra) - Type:Lingerie  | | Viewed 194 times
| 1 more reviews | Review rated Very Helpful by 5 people | | Reviewed by: | JennaF | 
| About JennaF | | WA USA | | Member since: 5/10/10 | | Reviews written: 23 | | Sewing skills:Advanced Beginner | | Favored by: 4 people | | patterns reviewed: 21 | | Bio: more... |
| | Posted on: | 2/22/13 4:27 PM | | Project Photo: |  | | Pattern Photo: | More Info provided by JennaF | | Pattern Rating: | Easy & Great for Beginners | | | | Fabric: | Duoplex [See other projects in this fabric] | | Related Links | Click on  to add a link |
| Pattern Description:
"A beautifully fitting bra from the Pin-up Girls! This classic full band bra can be made with or without underwires and has great lift and support. It has been specially designed to use with Simplex and other low-stretch fabrics, which give the best support and a flattering profile. This is the pattern featured in The Bra-makers Manual. The pattern has two views - one with lace trim on the upper cup and one
Pattern Sizing:
Four size Ranges. I used the 'yellow' range, sewing a 30E. I'd like to mention that the way the pattern has you measure is to subtract your high bust measurement from your full bust measurement. I chose to use my underbust measurement as opposed to my high bust measurement, since tehre is a 4" difference in my case. 
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Oh. My. Goodness. Yes. So easy. I did have ONE catch up at the very end when attaching the strap assembly to the center back. To my surprise, I actually had a RTW bra that had the same straps. You need to lay your strap elastic down, WRONG side facing the RIGHT side your bra band. Yes. Just slap it on there.
Also, be sure to measure your hook & eye to make sure that it is the same width (height?) as your band. You'll probably need to trim your band down a bit so they'll be flush. Easy peasy.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
They were so thorough; truly, sewing a bra really isn't hard at all. The designer says "If you can set in a sleeve, you can sew a bra!" I whole heartily agree. Fitting is another issue altogether.
Fabric Used:
I used the kit from Bra Maker's Supply.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Not for the initial run through, but it didn't fit great so there are some tweaks I'll need to make for my next tester. I'll narrow the bridge, bring int eh shoulder straps, sew a larger cup & take my band in a smidge. I also had some gaping at the underarm (VERY common for me in RTW) so I'll take in a dart next go-round.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yep!! Getting ready to give it another go any day now. And I highly recommend it.
With any bra, you want to be sure that you're not sewing your cups in wrong. To make sure of this, I marked mine with washi tape. You can see pictures in this blog post
Conclusion:
Though this is quite a daunting adventure, I think it will pay off in spades. I have a very small build with a rather large bust (and I'm nursing) so a good RTW bra will easily cost $80.
Also, I thought I'd share this article of encouragement
Ten Reasons to Sew Your Own Bra |
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 Pattern with more than 5 reviews!
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8 Comments
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Fantastic result for your first
2/22/13 5:21 PM
Great review & the bra looks very nice. Can't wait to see the red one & any other future endeavors!
2/22/13 5:26 PM
Great review. TFS
2/22/13 10:12 PM
Great job on your first bra! You'll find they're addictive! The link to your 10 reasons doesn't seem to work...sounded like fun!
2/23/13 0:25 AM
Beautiful job. I'm working on the same pattern ironing out fit and enjoying the process. It's a great pattern and well worth the effort. Please keep us updated on your progress.
2/23/13 8:21 AM
Thanks everyone! :) ArtAttack, I fixed the link, thanks for the heads up! :)
2/23/13 10:13 AM
Well done :D!
2/23/13 2:38 PM
Love it! You make me want to try to make one..I've been fearful in the past!
2/27/13 8:24 PM