Book Review: The Essential A-line: Make 17 Flirty Skirts from 1 Basic Pattern

Most of you reading this blog have no need for this book. It is really for beginners. Now, keeping its audience in mind, here's why I think it's a very nice book:

I bought the book was because it teaches you how to line the skirt. I am so frustrated about the lack of linings in RTW and the how-to in most skirt patterns. I really wanted an easy-to-understand reference for a lining and this book is it. 

The information is presented clearly. The photos are great! The author gives thorough instructions.  Just what you need in a sewing book, right? The skirt variations are cute. However, if I don't make a single one of them, the book is worth it for me. I just like having a skirt reference book.

I do think the book lacks in some areas. The first is fit. Although the pattern is sized to 20, there are no instructions for how to alter the pattern if you need a bigger size. What if you find that either the front or back hem is longer than the other? There's no info on how to resolve the issue. Good thing I kinda know how to adjust skirt patterns for me.

The book doesn't have any information about fabric choices or preparation. The one technique I wish the book included is how to use hem lace. The book has four options for hems: turned and stitched, rolled, bias and ruffled. I realize I'm being extremely picky.

Newbies should be able to get a quick win with this book.

Too Big

5.12 Update
Correct pattern arrived yesterday :-)  Pattern Review was kind enough to send me a coupon for my next pattern because of the error. I' start working the top next weekend.

5.09 Update
Decided to order the new pattern from Pattern Review.com. It arrived last night. I was dutifully ironing the tissue this morning when I noticed that I was ironing L-XL-XXL. Crap! Pattern Review sent me the wrong size. There goes my easy weekend project. Now I'll have to think of something else.

Just finished the muslin for B5480. It's too big in the neckline - waaay too big. I made two attempts to insert the elastic into the casing. Did I stretch the neckline out that much? I tried shortening the elastic, but there's just too much fabric. *sigh*

Ruby is smaller than me, the top isn't as big on me in the hips.

I traced a large (my high bust is 37.5") and added at the bust, waist and hips. I think I hear Marta Alto in my head telling me to always use the smaller size because there's enough ease to get me to the next size. So, I'd like to add the same amounts to a medium. The sleeves could be lengthened a bit and I don't need the length I added in the back for my round rear. There's only one problem. I have to buy the medium pattern and that may not happen until Tuesday evening. Bummer.

On the bright side, I learned that there is little room for error in sewing a casing. I trimmed the seam allowances before sewing the casing, which I guess is a no-no. My narrow edge foot and I are back in sync. I also learned how to do a narrow hem. I might break out my rolled hem foot and give it a go on the bottom hem for practice. (Can you tell I've been watching the Great British Sewing Bee over and over again? "Give it a go." Really.)

Pattern Envy

It's been a sec since I waxed poetic about patterns, partly because I'm really trying to limit my pattern purchases. I'm out of storage space -- at least until I sew through an entire bin of fabric! However, there are some recent releases that have me excited.

Starting with Simplicity.  I love maxi dresses. The back of this one is so sexy.



Butterick best bets
5872 -- lined!




5886



5894 -- at last!! Although, I;m confused about why this wasn't issued as a McCall Plenty by Tracey Reece pattern.


Moving on to McCall
6760 -- Damn!



6473 -- hello summer!



6741

6751



6750 -- with all these darts, fitting should be easier!


Vibing with Vogue!!!

8902 -- Custom Fit!


8895 -- Custom Fit!


8906


8893


8907