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I mentioned last week that I have seen two different ways to install a collar and have a strong preference for one. In fact, my preference is so strong that I look at instructions before buying a new shirt pattern to see which method it uses - and the answer influences my buying decision. For example, if I see a separate facing piece (like in the illustration above), I will often put the pattern back and keep looking for an alternative - something that looks the same when finished, but is constructed differently.
So, how about you? Do you look at the construction details when choosing a pattern and does that influence you to buy one pattern over another one? If so, what aspects of a pattern's construction influence whether or not you'll buy it? Do you prefer patterns that teach you new construction techniques? Are there approaches that you avoid? Ones that you love?
9 comments:
Instruction details don't influence my pattern decision. I've been reading sewing blogs long enough to realized that I don't have to follow them and there is always another way to construct a garment.
Mostly I'm with Carla. If a pattern has a construction technique I don't like, I'll just switch it for one that I prefer. Sometimes that means drafting whole new pattern pieces (like pockets or facings), sometimes it just means switching up the order in which I assemble the garment.
Once you realize you don't have to follow the guide sheets, the whole sewing world changes... ;)
I'm the same as the others. It's not something I usually look at before I buy. Although in these days of computer pattern shopping, I can and do look at the line drawings but it doesn't influence my purchase. :)
I use an alternative method of making jacket collar and lapel. The suggested method drives me batty so I came up with my own way. I do feel that I'm cheating just a bit; however,I am completely satisfied with the results of my method.
I don't even look at them, and generally don't when making them, so they don't influence me any way.
If the instructions are bad and I need help with the step, I go to a book.
They don't influence me at all. I do a quick check to see how they suggest to make the garment, but usually I do my own thing.
I learnt to sew from the instruction sheets that come with patterns. Now I am a more experienced sewer and I read more widely on the subject, I can change construction methods for others I prefer. I have done a bit of pattern drafting, so if something needs a piece modified for a different construction method, I can usually do it.
Mostly I choose patterns for their proportions and design lines. I have so many fitting issues that I often have to draft a new bodice anyway, and I use the pattern proportions to guide me. I also choose them for the way they fit on the invelope model and on the fabulous contributors to PR.
What I do need to do is read the fabric requirements on pattern envelopes better. I don't have much fabric available locally so usually sew from my stash. I have bought patterns that require 5 - 6 m of fabric and never used them because my stash lengths are never that long. Now I will switch between patterns based on fabric requirements.
Hmm, not sure if I am answering the same question you asked! oh well.
No influence here, either. I consider patterns only a "suggestion". A base. Details can be changed, as can construction.
I don't base my buying decisions on instructions or techniques because I'm still learning. There's a lot I still have to learn ! I DO read them all the way through before starting but if I get in trouble, I grab my books and log into the Internet for all the help and options I could want :-)
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