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?
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.
ReplyDeleteMostly 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.
ReplyDeleteOnce 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. :)
ReplyDeleteI 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.
ReplyDeleteI don't even look at them, and generally don't when making them, so they don't influence me any way.
ReplyDeleteIf 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.
ReplyDeleteI 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.
ReplyDeleteMostly 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.
ReplyDeleteI 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 :-)
ReplyDelete