Customer Reviews
Fabulous book on Pattern Cutting/Making - By: Yolandi Mare, 19 Nov 2008 
I like this book very much. It's got everything (and more) that a pattern design/cutting book should have. The only thing I would add or change about this book is the fact that it's not in the metric system, but in the imperial system. Great textbook for anyone who wants to learn pattern cutting/design.
Finally I understand! - By: Anne, 25 Sep 2008 
I am a little surprised about the comments that this book is not for a beginner. I have never understood pattern-making despite reading other books, having it explained to me in words of one-syllable etc. Finallly I get it - this book couldn't have explained it in a more basic way if it had started off with the words "This is a needle - the thread goes in the end with the hole......" Since reading this book I have successfully drafted a full set of basic patterns that actuallly fit me, & I have made several items that also actuallly fit me. If you want to learn how to make your own patterns, adapt existing patterns, understand why things don't fit & put it right etc etc, buy this book first!
Wow - what a book! - By: Scally Cross, 15 Sep 2008 Worth every penny - like other reviewers I've bought libraries - this replaces the lot! And the 4th edition does include how to draft slopers for your sizes too - which undoes my only reservation when I bought the book based on other reviews.
Already made a childs waistcoat & a dress (D&G copy) using the pattern drafting techniques in here, & both are a perfect fit. Will save me a fortune in the long run (no more buying patterns) & takes less time to draft from scratch than to alter the ready made patterns.
Hoorah!
Expensive - but worth every penny - By: Isis, 30 Dec 2007 I have spent many months looking longingly at this book before taking the plunge & buying it, even with the amazon discount it is still a lot of money for a book. But what a book! The author demonstrates how to adapt basic blocks to create your own styles - perfect!
She does not show you how to construct the garments though so this is not a book for the beginner. The chapter on children's wear is inspiring me to make my own kids clothes with additional fahoin features not found on commercial patterns.
Although this book is aimed at the fashion design student, it is of great value to the experienced home sewer who wants to do more than just follow a commercial pattern.
Wow,Wow, Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - By: , 12 Jul 2004 I have searched far & wide, bought booookkkks, i mean a whole library of books on pattern making,but t his one stands out!!!!
I mean i made a pair of pants that fitted, i didnt even have to make a mock up from the pattern.
Though quite expensive i have no complaints at alll.
Its value for money.
I will surely more of Helen's books!
Word of warning though,....i dont think this book is for a complete beginner! It doesnt teach you how to build the bodice block from scratch!
