Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Margrete on September 5, 2012 at 10:53pm

I ordered it last week, so it's in the mail! (I chose the cheapest shipping, so it might take a while, though). I'm really looking forward to checking it out myself.

Permalink Reply by Ruby duVin on September 5, 2012 at 10:55pm

I preordered mine, and it arrived super early.  I must admit, I am a bit intimidated by all the techniques.  Practice makes perfect.  And so do muslins!  I'm sure you will love it.  And the pattern section?  She calls it "The Wardrobe", with variations on each pattern.  And it really is a perfect starter vintage wardrobe.  Well, aside from say, oh everything on PUG!

Permalink Reply by Desilu on September 6, 2012 at 8:34pm

Thanks for the recommendation - I saw it on a blog earlier today and wondered about it. Think I'll order a copy! Oh - how do you use the patterns - do they pull out of the book or do you trace onto a pattern paper or ??

Permalink Reply by Ruby duVin on September 6, 2012 at 8:38pm

I haven't used them yet, but tracing/pattern paper is recommended. There is a huge envelope on the front inside cover with all the patterns (like the Colette Sewing Handbook - another good one) Then you can do the multiple looks. And reuse the patterns!  I got a huge huge roll of pattern paper for $10 at my local fabric shop.

Permalink Reply by Christine Cochrum on July 30, 2013 at 6:34pm

I recently bought the book, but I am so new to sewing still that I'm quite intimidated by it and by the patters. I've taken a few classes at my local fabric store, but I've only made placemats and napkins so far. I'm making a tote bag tomorrow. I haven't worked up the courage to actually make an article of clothing let along attempted a pattern yet. 

Are you an avid seamstress? Are patterns really that scary or am I psyching myself out? 

Permalink Reply by Jen Robinson on July 31, 2013 at 8:50am

If you're new to fitting yourself, then I recommend starting with Colette patterns or with Gertie's book, since if you're not exactly the size of a Big 4 pattern (Vogue, McCall's, Simplicity or Butterick) it can become frustrating for a beginner to try to fit yourself. Colette patterns are definitely shaped more like the modern woman. If you're bigger than a B or C cup in the bust, then you'll have better luck with the fit of Colette - Big 4 patterns are based on a B cup so those of us who are more on the generous side in the bust have to do a Full Bust Adjustment. Tutorials can be found online if you look. Also, if you've got a smaller frame and a large bust or hips, then don't go by the bust measurement to find your size - go by your high bust measurement and then do the FBA. Otherwise the size will be overall too big. If you have a small waist and larger hips, try to go with your waist size and do a Full Hip Adjustment, or if the difference in your hips and waist is really big (mine is) then go with a size that is in between the 2 measurements and adjust larger for your hips and smaller for the waist. Definitely have someone else measure you so that you're not twisting your body and so that your measurements are accurate. Also, do your measurements wearing the underwear/shapewear that you will wear with the garment. This makes a TON of difference in how the finished garment fits you.

Permalink Reply by Jen Robinson on July 31, 2013 at 8:39am

I got this book for my birthday but since I'm pregnant right now I haven't bothered to start any projects from it. Hopefully in the fall I can start something. Have you tried taking any of her online classes? I've heard good things about them.