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Patterns Discussion / Re: Pattern Reviews - is a +ve or -ve rating relevant
« on: October 02, 2022, 19:06:18 PM »
I use PR (when I remember) and also blog posts when I can find them. But a lot of the reviews don't provide very useful information. From my perspective what makes a good pattern is one that is well drafted with proper notch marks. While good instructions are nice they're not imperative for me as I have years of experience. I find it odd that people complain about Style Arc instructions yet are more forgiving about Burda magazine ones which are similar. And then there's Marfy!
I tend to look at the Style Arc pictures and maybe read the instructions for order of operation since it can matter in things that are more complex. For easy-intermediate level patterns I tend to use the techniques I've favored over the years. Overall I prefer easier patterns because I favor prints which would get lost in detail. I despise overly wordy instructions (I'm talking to you Louise Cutting).
I'm amused by "true to size" as well though it is frustrating that brands don't create consistent sizing amongst their sizes from one style to another even taking ease into consideration. Reviews that explain why they chose the size they did are most helpful to me. I usually measure something similar in my closet and choose the size that is closest.
Probably the most helpful part of a review is seeing the fabric type used as I sometimes go out of the specified range. However, patterns that just list things like cotton, linen, rayon aren't very helpful. What weight/type?
I tend to look at the Style Arc pictures and maybe read the instructions for order of operation since it can matter in things that are more complex. For easy-intermediate level patterns I tend to use the techniques I've favored over the years. Overall I prefer easier patterns because I favor prints which would get lost in detail. I despise overly wordy instructions (I'm talking to you Louise Cutting).
I'm amused by "true to size" as well though it is frustrating that brands don't create consistent sizing amongst their sizes from one style to another even taking ease into consideration. Reviews that explain why they chose the size they did are most helpful to me. I usually measure something similar in my closet and choose the size that is closest.
Probably the most helpful part of a review is seeing the fabric type used as I sometimes go out of the specified range. However, patterns that just list things like cotton, linen, rayon aren't very helpful. What weight/type?