Organizing and a quick pattern giveaway

Even though I am not buying new patterns very often I seem to have quite a stockpile. Which previously was contained in a reasonably neat manner but now seems to have become a messy jumble. I am one of those people who, when looking for something rummage through the patterns, or my recipe book, or workbench in the garage and then once I find what I am looking for dash off to do whatever project was underway. Often leaving the other stuff tossed aside. Mostly tools and patterns for some reason.

And then I get motivated and put everything back where it goes. Until the next time :)  All  you neatniks are shuddering at the thought, right?

Anyway - I did notice that I have some patterns I will never use and thought I might do a drawing for international readers for these two patterns.

Which look rather blah on the pattern envelope. A strange combination of both geriatric and juvenile. How is that even possible?  But they are useful basics that you might want to try if you are located somewhere these big 4 envelope patterns are prohibitively expensive.



The Simplicity pattern is one of there Amazing Fit patterns, which has both cup sizes and lots of info on fitting in the pattern instructions. (it is size US size 10-18, EU size 36-44 although the finished bust measurements run from 36" to 45", allowing for a good 4-6" of ease there. I know that seems excessive but I suggest choosing your pattern size by measuring your high bust and take it from there.


The McCalls pattern is a Palmer and Pletsch pattern, they are well know for fitting - while I don't agree with all their methods or assessment of fit their books do explain really well how to diagnose and adjust most any fit adjustment. Their McCalls patterns are kind of clever as the patterns have pre-printed lines on them for doing an FBA, swayback etc.  This is for knits and is US size 16-24 which says a finished bust measurement of 39.5 to 47.6".  It looks like it would make a quick and easy knit dress for summer or winter depending on the sleeve choice.

Last year I did a giveaway of the Frixon marking pens and decided to toss in a extra pattern with them. I received this response  Marisa in Spain
"The pattern was a complete surprise! Thank you! It is my first envelope pattern e.v.e.r. and I never thought they came with so much information! My first Simplicity pattern too! Usually I buy Burda magazine and Patrones, which are both famous for their  sparce instructions. But those pants, those pants are a complete lesson on how to sew pants!"
"I have read and re-read the pants pattern like if it was a novel. So much information! I might have to think about investing in some Simplicity and Vogue patterns in the future. Meanwhile, I need to source the fabric and the courage to sew a test version."

I hope Marisa doesn't mind that I used her words but they are so charming!  I hope she has had a chance to try out the pants pattern (which was a Simplicity Amazing fit pants pattern). I like the idea of reading a pattern like a novel. As someone who has recently started using Burda patterns I can completely understand about the sparse instructions. I think if I were a beginner they would lead to a lot of tears and throwing things. I know people complain about pattern instructions and I have tried to look at some of my vintage McVoguerick and Simplicity patterns and then compared to current ones - the instructions seem remarkably similar. I think it is just what you are used to.

OK - so international readers only  - please leave a comment and let me know what country you are in, and which pattern you would like. I will do a drawing on Thursday 6/16.

Speaking of Burda - here is a sneak peek of Burda 06/2016 # 105A which has currently jumped into the lead spot for favorite item  of the year. I know - I know. Not a stitch of tailoring, not a lapel to be seen, nothing tricky, just a simple denim dress but ooooh pattern love.



Dress completed, pictures taken and I will post this one next. By the way if you look at my Instagram you have seem this already. So what is the etiquette for repeating pictures? Is it repetitive to use the same ones on IG and the blog? Does it even matter?

Happy summer sewing,
Beth

garden photo for the day - there are just a few blossoms on the lemon tree, mostly baby lemons trying to make it to next spring. And delicious lemons on the tree, from last year's blossom. fyi, it is a Meyer lemon and they stay on the tree all year round.