SMILE!!😁😁 I was at the Madame Joanns, and there was a young teen and her mother struggling to read a pattern. I showed them the cutting directions on the inside of the pattern. She said she didn't know how to read a pattern. So, I pulled up your channel and shared this video with her. She was delighted! You have a few more fans. I did show this to both of my great nieces as well as I mentioned in an earlier comment. You are helping expand the understanding of this craft, which increases love ❤️ and joy of sewing!
Skids to a dead stop MARCY IS HERE. I gave up trying to sew clothes. I wasted a lot of money because it’s a lot more complicated then one would think when you don’t know what in the world you are doing. Especially with the sizes on the outside of the packaged and my real measurements. Thank you for taking the time to encourage all of us with useful information.
Y’all are making me laugh out loud! I love it! It does help to have a really cheap fabric store nearby for practice…when I first started sewing I was lucky to be near LA’s garment district, most stuff was 2 bucks a yard, so many sewing experiments were had!
I'm using fabric from Value Village and the Sally Anne for my garments. They actually have a really good selection... - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi
I love this video! If only it was out a year ago before I bought both size ranges!😂😂 The encouragement to not let it intimidate and it is just paper comment is a gem! Thank you!
This is a great video for beginner sewists and more experienced ones. I didn't learn anything I didn't know already, but I love your energy and enthusiasm. My sewjo needs a boost almost constantly. Currently in the process of doing costumes for a high school production of Mary Poppins. I'm using a blend of commercial patterns and self-drafted. Without RUclips and the community of contributors, I would never have the confidence to do what I am doing.
Wow! This is the absolute best tutorial on understanding the “big four” patterns I’ve seen. I’ve been sewing for years and years, this video is incredibly helpful. Marcy, you’re the best instructor!
Thank you Marcy for explaining that sneaky "ease" on sewing patterns! When I sewed my first dress it was big and loose on me, and I didn't know why, so frustrating! Thanks again, and keep up the great videos!
Body measurements ON the pattern pieces. Mind BLOWN! I've always gone with the measurements in the instruction sheet. You are worth your weight in GOLD! Thank you. I've had the worst time with fitting issues, now perhaps the next attempt will be more successful
Holy smokes. Just discovered you as a RUclips recommendation. Love this tutorial. Love your online personality of presenting too! Thanks and great work!
Oh my goodness, I’m SOOO glad God invented you Marcy!!! I JUST started learning to sew, so my searches on various topics made you show up in my feed. I just LOVE your energy, your attitude, your humor, and the sassy & free way you share your knowledge!!!!! You’re my new sewing sunshine and vitamins!!🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹❤️
Thank you! So much! I ❤ that vogue pattern. I was looking for a skirt and crop top! 😻 I’ve been using patterns for a long time but am self-taught so I don’t know a lot of things. This was so helpful! I never noticed the finished garment measurements on the pattern
Ahh we've missed you Marcy ! Very nicely explains all that paper and what to do with it. I will look at my next pattern a little harder too... Best line: "Dem notches want to help you" Girl, you need a comedy. Anyway, liked, shared, and you know I'm a subscriber...
Marcy I have to share that after watching this video I told my partner. “ I would love to sew with Marcy for a day, she would be so much fun.” I really appreciate you and what you do for the at home sewing community. You always inspire me yo want to sew more. And trust me when I say I sew a lot. Currently I have a quilt, dog blankets for work, a dog jacket, a hand full of clothing repairs and alternations and a purse started. (Clearly I get bored with a project quickly so I have many to bounce around to) enough rambling. Thank you Marcy, keep making them videos I look forward to the next one.
I love that! Maybe I should do a live sew on the channel with Rob shouting out questions as I go….😏 I’m the same way with projects, gotta have options to keep the brain engaged!
Excellent video. It’s been awhile since I’ve seen, the desire for personal style is strong, so back to the sewing machine. Your video is wonderful. Awesome! Many thanks.
Thanks for pointing out the finished measurements on the pattern! I have a skirt that I made and it is so huge; I've taken it apart and hadn't decided how to cut it down. Now I know to check out the finished measurements and decide which size(s) I want to cut the pattern. Merci beaucoup!!!! The unfinished skirt in the closet thanks you!
Much help with this video. My bust is 42 waist 36 hips is 39-40. I usually have to cut between sizes to make a dress. By the way my daughter loves you just like myself and she made the clutch bag you did.
This was so helpful. I love pattwrns with simple line drawings as theyre easier to hack. I'm plus size and some patterns I like are not in my size, but because some have a lot of ease I just make the seam allowance allow smaller and steal the extra inches from there 🤣🤣 and YES, CAN THEY PUT FINISHED SIZES ON OUTSIDE. This vid is absolutely superb thank you so much
Yes I’m always decreasing that SA on vintage patterns that I just *have to have* that are like….10 inches too small for me 😅 For real. The finished measurements are on the inside…..how hard would it be?!
Oh I just love to watch you and your enthusiastic explanation of how to read a pattern totally awesome learn stuff I didn’t even know thank you so much for sharing your talent❣️🧵🪡✂️💗💓💖❤️
Thanks so much, I have a BUNCH of second-hand patterns that I haven't even opened yet. I think I will go open them now!! The sizes have always confused me, what size I were vs my measurements. Hearing about yours helps a lot.
Thank you for another helpful show. Marcy, would you be able to show us how to make the fabric rosette flowers and maybe some ideas on how you would use them. I have seen them on the runway and want to incorporate them into my projects. Thank you so much.
I’ve done some little rosettes before, but I’d love to revisit that with more options! Here’s a quick tutorial: ruclips.net/video/mCWpmVo0wZM/видео.html
I love watching you on You Tube. I can sew for your home until the cows come home, but clothes NOT AT ALL. When I first started sewing, I figured it would come naturally since my mother had sewn(hated every minute) and my Dad was a tailor during WWll. I read a book on how to sew. When you showed the pattern and all the pieces, I loved listening since all those lines made my head swim and everything started going grey! But I love you! Can't wait until we see you performance dress
🤣🤣oh no Angela! You know what? I thought this video might be boring……now I think I shoulda filmed a couple more pattern close ups! 😵💫 Maybe those excellent sewing genes passed on to home decor. That’s what make *me* dizzy…
I have a significant bunch of vintage sewing patterns that I'm slowly (at this point) working my way through. Right now I seem to be a little stuck on the ease-lesson in the process - part of which is I'm still wrapping my head around the dreaded Full Bust Adjustment. I'll get there. Right now I'm working on a 1951 fitted vest in the most perfect shade of teal for the Foundations Revealed competition. The theme for entries this year is 'nature' so I'm busy hand quilting in fish, followed up by machine quilting the water. In honour of the park near the Rideau River that's my favorite in-city fishing spot. _Question_ - I'm looking at picking up a Featherweight of my own. Which do you prefer working with - the Featherweight or the modern machine(s)? {By-the-by - did you know that there's a zigzag foot you can buy for the old classic Singers so you can sew knits with them?} - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi
Ohhhh lemme start with the Featherweight! I don’t prefer vintage over new; I just love them both for their strengths. The FW is a beautiful, dependable straight stitch that I know I can open up and oil and fix (to a point!), so I’ll never get rid of mine. It’s lovely to sew on an all metal machine. Go for it! Being of the Itty bitty crew, the FBA is something I never had to do 😂. I don’t envy you! But the vest sounds beeyootiful….
Thank you so much for this clear, and concise way of assessing a Big 4 pattern! I am also between envelopes, and your tips of what to consider are super helpful. Sure, it can be only $1.99, but if I have to buy two of everything… I don’t have space for all that 😂 Off to share it with a friend who just started sewing!
Vogue Easy is Simplicity Hard😂 Let’s not lie to ourselves about that. The more number of pieces, the harder it gets, so newbies need to stick to really, really simple things for the first few garments. And maybe start with pillows or bags if they’re really newbies (in my “learn from my mistakes” opinion, anyway). Gotta master sewing lines first!
You interpret Vogue patterns like I do. I think Marcy had a point when she showed the skirt compared to the bustier. The skirt would be "easy" and the bustier MUCH more difficult. Kind of a little truth within a lot of lie.
@@susanrussell8195 @daxxydog HAHAHA that analogy!!! I want Simplicity to come out with “hard” envelopes 🤣 My first pattern was definitely not an "easy" level; but I had zero desire to sew a pillowcase or bag. It didn’t come out great, but it got me into sewing! Just last year, I sewed three pillowcases and wanted to check my machine out the window 🤣
I wish I'd had this video a few years ago when I opened up my first commercial pattern. I dutifully traced out "my" size and faithfully copied the pattern markings to the back of some cheapie wrapping paper... only to end up with a mock-up that was at least two sizes too big. Learned a lot that day!
I can make my own pattern or follow a video that has measurements and instructions on how to make something freestyle. What I don’t know how to read or you make something from an actual pattern. I’ve purchased probably about 50 patterns that I thought were in my thighs but now after watching your video, I’m not sure if any of them are going to fit me once I make them. LOL! Thank you so much for this video. It was very informative!!
Uh-oh...I totally open the envelopes in Madame J's. I have no shame. 🤭I mean, I don't unfold the pattern itself (I'm not a monster!) but I get at those instructions to look at the line drawings of the pieces and the construction before buying the pattern. The ol' 'ask for forgiveness rather than permission' method over here 😬... Can't wait to see your finished gown! It's gonna be gorgeous.
*Chuckle!* I have been known to open the envelopes to sneak a peak at the ease! I do appreciate those finished garment measurements. ... I have a sneaking suspicion that the reason those aren't on the pattern envelope is so that people will buy 2 envelopes (I also think a lot of us fall between the size 14 and 16). Also, that extra ease is even worse in children's clothing patterns: the silver lining to this (pun intended) is that you can make things to fit your kiddos beyond the package sizes, just be prepared to lengthen patterns as this kiddo ones tend to be wider than they are tall (no idea why).
I'm several inches outside of MOST of their largest size. The only way I know if a pattern will fit me is to see the finished garment measurements - which, as you said, they don't put on the outside of the package. So I just don't buy Big 4 🤷♀ I really enjoy your video content - you inspire me!
Confidence IS key! That being said, a lot of the time, they aren't paying attention, they're just expanding all the cut lines out. My shoulders didn't get wider as my stomach did 😄 😑
My first garment was a button down shirt that I just cut to my off-the-rack size and of course I couldn't even close it! Considering myself a pro at that point I tried making an Issey Miyake suit which broke my brain and subsequently never got finished.
Big Four patterns aren't a completely hot topic for me; my local nemesis is Burda. I do have a few, though (most of them actually vintage), so this is still a nice refresher of things to watch out for. 🙂
Ah burda! I started with pdf burdastyle patterns (back in the day I loved them; haven’t tried them recently!), but I’ve never tried their paper patterns.
@@handmadeharriells I have those, too! It's where I know you from. :D Oddly, I don't think I ever made one; I know I started some, but back then I did not know enough about fitting and apparently the things I finished were mostly self-drafted! It's mostly Burda magazines in my case, which are a lot sparser on the instruction. I think the only envelope ones I have are from around the 90s, ones my mom bought... Well, even the most recent Burda magazine I have is from 2012. I really am a self-drafting kinda girl, and recently, I've been buying some PDFs. And I have vintage magazines. I'm probably mostly covered for patterns for the rest of my life. :D
I'm not afraid of commercial patterns, I just don't like supporting brands that don't have inclusive sizing. Plus, a good indie pattern brand has way more support for a pattern (more photos, more hacks, multiple different types of instructions, sew alongs, videos, sometimes email support, etc.).
I like that the big 4 are expanding their range (though yes, it’s slow going). I find it’s not a perfect storm with any company, indie or commercial-for me it’s more about finding the pattern company whose block is closer to my shape and tweaking from there. I used an indie pattern once that had about 70 sewing steps and I was like STAAAAAAAAHP 🫠😂
Marcy, thank you! I am a beginners, beginner. I don't know Jack, but I do know Marcy will not steer me wrong. I don't know when I will ever sew with a pattern. It looks really complicated, still. I did hear that the measurements are truer than department stores, so get ready to sew the truth about your body, lol... Are you performing and if so where?~M
Muzette, sorry I missed this! I performed a few weeks ago in Berkeley, but there are more dates (and more black dresses) coming 🥰 Yes, I do think sewing patterns are more true to size. RTW introduced vanity sizing, and it’s all over the place-for a minute I was a double zero at Banana Republic. That was l u d i c r o u s
Haha! You would think so, but I have a system of using another mark when I use the pattern again (like a slash through the left side of the check). If I use multiple views, it ends up looking like hieroglyphics 😅
Some of the commercial patterns are starting to put all the finished garment measurements on the outside. The only thing is that I haven’t found it to be consistent… keeping my fingers crossed.
I have opened the envelope at JoAnn’s and pulled out the paper trying to find the finished measurements. According to the envelope I might be this size or that size but in reality?! Who knows until I can see the finished measurements. I’m not afraid of Big 4, I’m fed up with poor information, confusing instructions, and weird sizing. After 50 years I am an indie only pattern buyer.
Ooooooo yes….however I only buy them on sale! Vogue is around 5 bucks on sale at Joann’s, if you’re outside the US I think they have regular online sales too 🤓
SMILE!!😁😁 I was at the Madame Joanns, and there was a young teen and her mother struggling to read a pattern. I showed them the cutting directions on the inside of the pattern. She said she didn't know how to read a pattern. So, I pulled up your channel and shared this video with her. She was delighted! You have a few more fans. I did show this to both of my great nieces as well as I mentioned in an earlier comment. You are helping expand the understanding of this craft, which increases love ❤️ and joy of sewing!
Debbie, this makes me SO HAPPY!!!
No fear in sewing! "It's just paper." I love the way you tackle projects. 😊
TRUTH FRIEND!
Skids to a dead stop MARCY IS HERE. I gave up trying to sew clothes. I wasted a lot of money because it’s a lot more complicated then one would think when you don’t know what in the world you are doing. Especially with the sizes on the outside of the packaged and my real measurements. Thank you for taking the time to encourage all of us with useful information.
"Skids to a dead stop, MARCY IS HERE" is always my reaction, too! 😄
Y’all are making me laugh out loud! I love it!
It does help to have a really cheap fabric store nearby for practice…when I first started sewing I was lucky to be near LA’s garment district, most stuff was 2 bucks a yard, so many sewing experiments were had!
I'm using fabric from Value Village and the Sally Anne for my garments. They actually have a really good selection...
- Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi
I love this video! If only it was out a year ago before I bought both size ranges!😂😂 The encouragement to not let it intimidate and it is just paper comment is a gem! Thank you!
🤣well, now you have two envelopes in case the urge to sew for someone else strikes!
Omg 😂 Im teaching myself to sew and I came across your page and I absolutely adore you and your personality 🌻🤎🤗
🤗thank you so much!
This is a great video for beginner sewists and more experienced ones. I didn't learn anything I didn't know already, but I love your energy and enthusiasm. My sewjo needs a boost almost constantly. Currently in the process of doing costumes for a high school production of Mary Poppins. I'm using a blend of commercial patterns and self-drafted. Without RUclips and the community of contributors, I would never have the confidence to do what I am doing.
I love this! When I’m slam sewing like that, I put sewing videos on auto play and sew with my "friends" 🥰
Good luck with the show!!
Wow! This is the absolute best tutorial on understanding the “big four” patterns I’ve seen. I’ve been sewing for years and years, this video is incredibly helpful. Marcy, you’re the best instructor!
Vallerie, thank you so much! I truly love spreading the sewing joy 💗
I usually draft my own patterns, but you have persuaded me to have a look at some commercial ones again!! Love ya, girl!!(Say hi to Rob for me!!)❤️
Rob says howdy! Yeah, I prefer to draft, but sometimes I just want to cut something our and sew 😁
Thank you Marcy for explaining that sneaky "ease" on sewing patterns! When I sewed my first dress it was big and loose on me, and I didn't know why, so frustrating! Thanks again, and keep up the great videos!
I appreciate the time and energy you put into making this an enjoyable learning process. Thank You Very Much.
You’re most welcome!
Body measurements ON the pattern pieces. Mind BLOWN! I've always gone with the measurements in the instruction sheet. You are worth your weight in GOLD! Thank you. I've had the worst time with fitting issues, now perhaps the next attempt will be more successful
EXCELLENT!!! I love to blow a sewist’s mind 😁🥰
Holy smokes. Just discovered you as a RUclips recommendation. Love this tutorial. Love your online personality of presenting too! Thanks and great work!
So glad to have you!💗
Girl you are correct, you are my favorite sewer on utube. I love the way you explain everything. Looking forward to more of your videos . Thanks
😁😁😁thank you so much! I’ve got a tutorial on the way today 💗
Love your excitement for sewing. Looking forward to watching many more of your videos.
🤗thanks LuAnn!
You are hilarious! I’ve been sewing Big 4 for 30+ years and you are saying all the things we’ve been thinking! Love it!
“Choose your own adventure section” 😂 You’re the best!
😁😁😁I’m glad you liked that!
Oh my goodness, I’m SOOO glad God invented you Marcy!!! I JUST started learning to sew, so my searches on various topics made you show up in my feed. I just LOVE your energy, your attitude, your humor, and the sassy & free way you share your knowledge!!!!! You’re my new sewing sunshine and vitamins!!🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹❤️
This made me grin form ear to ear! Thank you so much 💗💗💗!
*from. Grinning too much to type properly 😅
@@handmadeharriells You are TOO precious!🥰 Your reply made my day!
Thank you! So much! I ❤ that vogue pattern. I was looking for a skirt and crop top! 😻
I’ve been using patterns for a long time but am self-taught so I don’t know a lot of things. This was so helpful! I never noticed the finished garment measurements on the pattern
Ahh we've missed you Marcy ! Very nicely explains all that paper and what to do with it. I will look at my next pattern a little harder too... Best line: "Dem notches want to help you" Girl, you need a comedy. Anyway, liked, shared, and you know I'm a subscriber...
😁it’s one of my favorite things in the world to just Act. Ridiculous. Thank you for the sub!!
Marcy, this is a FABULOUS video and confidence builder!
Just in time!!! I have 2 great nieces just learning to read patterns and learning to sew! This is a great tutorial for them to see!
Oh how WONDERFUL. I hope they fall in love with it!
I just simply LOVE YOU! you are so informative and I love your sense of humor. I have been using patterns for years, but you have helped me SO MUCH!!
I’m so glad to hear it! Thank you!!
Marcy I have to share that after watching this video I told my partner. “ I would love to sew with Marcy for a day, she would be so much fun.” I really appreciate you and what you do for the at home sewing community. You always inspire me yo want to sew more. And trust me when I say I sew a lot. Currently I have a quilt, dog blankets for work, a dog jacket, a hand full of clothing repairs and alternations and a purse started. (Clearly I get bored with a project quickly so I have many to bounce around to) enough rambling. Thank you Marcy, keep making them videos I look forward to the next one.
I love that! Maybe I should do a live sew on the channel with Rob shouting out questions as I go….😏 I’m the same way with projects, gotta have options to keep the brain engaged!
I want to see your finished gown!! Love your humor and the two of you together,,,,so fun and ❤️
I really need to show y’all the gown! Well… at this point, *gowns* actually 😅
@Marcy Harriell YES YOU DO!! didn't mean to yell! It's excitement lol
Excellent video. It’s been awhile since I’ve seen, the desire for personal style is strong, so back to the sewing machine. Your video is wonderful. Awesome! Many thanks.
YES. I hope you’re sewing up a new wardrobe!
Can't wait to see how your gown comes out. I'm sure it will be amazing.
It’s looking dicey 🤣🤣
@@handmadeharriellsDon't give up! You can do it!
Hello Marcy I love our sewing video I have been sewing for years but I enjoy how you explain the notches and things
Very valuable information! Thank you! Love your channel!
Goodness, I miss seeing new content from you. Hope you're doing well. Thanks for all the inspiration and positive energy you've put into your videos.
This was such a good video. I remember the first pattern I bought I was so scared to cut in to it. Thanks Marcy!
Thanks for pointing out the finished measurements on the pattern! I have a skirt that I made and it is so huge; I've taken it apart and hadn't decided how to cut it down. Now I know to check out the finished measurements and decide which size(s) I want to cut the pattern. Merci beaucoup!!!! The unfinished skirt in the closet thanks you!
You’re welcome to all 😁! The day I learned about FGM was the day my sewing life changed 🥰
I really needed this. Thank you!!
I’m so glad I found you! You’re so very informative, very funny, and such a doll! Can’t wait to learn more from you! Thank you sooooo much!
Hi Marcy,
Great video! I have never tried a Vogue pattern, but I will now! Thanks for your help. Because of it I off to see the Vogue!
Much help with this video. My bust is 42 waist 36 hips is 39-40. I usually have to cut between sizes to make a dress. By the way my daughter loves you just like myself and she made the clutch bag you did.
oh that is awesome! I hope she loves it!
Excellent easy to understand tutorial.
Thanks sooo much for sharing your knowledge!❤️❤️❤️
This was so helpful. I love pattwrns with simple line drawings as theyre easier to hack. I'm plus size and some patterns I like are not in my size, but because some have a lot of ease I just make the seam allowance allow smaller and steal the extra inches from there 🤣🤣 and YES, CAN THEY PUT FINISHED SIZES ON OUTSIDE.
This vid is absolutely superb thank you so much
Yes I’m always decreasing that SA on vintage patterns that I just *have to have* that are like….10 inches too small for me 😅
For real. The finished measurements are on the inside…..how hard would it be?!
Oh I just love to watch you and your enthusiastic explanation of how to read a pattern totally awesome learn stuff I didn’t even know thank you so much for sharing your talent❣️🧵🪡✂️💗💓💖❤️
😳 you said SPOTLIGHT!!!!❤❤
😁😁😁one day I’ll visit one in person…
Great! You explain patterns so well. Just for your channel, subscribed. Will be binge watching. 😂❤
Welcome, we’re so glad to have you here! I love that we have enough content to binge watch now, that’s 🤯🤯🤯
Thanks so much, I have a BUNCH of second-hand patterns that I haven't even opened yet. I think I will go open them now!!
The sizes have always confused me, what size I were vs my measurements. Hearing about yours helps a lot.
Look for those targets! The finished measurements are everything 👍🏽
Thank you for this video. I learned so much. Well done. ❤
Thank you for another helpful show. Marcy, would you be able to show us how to make the fabric rosette flowers and maybe some ideas on how you would use them. I have seen them on the runway and want to incorporate them into my projects. Thank you so much.
I’ve done some little rosettes before, but I’d love to revisit that with more options! Here’s a quick tutorial: ruclips.net/video/mCWpmVo0wZM/видео.html
I love watching you on You Tube. I can sew for your home until the cows come home, but clothes NOT AT ALL. When I first started sewing, I figured it would come naturally since my mother had sewn(hated every minute) and my Dad was a tailor during WWll. I read a book on how to sew. When you showed the pattern and all the pieces, I loved listening since all those lines made my head swim and everything started going grey! But I love you! Can't wait until we see you performance dress
🤣🤣oh no Angela! You know what? I thought this video might be boring……now I think I shoulda filmed a couple more pattern close ups! 😵💫
Maybe those excellent sewing genes passed on to home decor. That’s what make *me* dizzy…
This was very helpful, I love sewing but I have always been intimidated by the pattern envelopes. Thank you for the break down!
You are so welcome, I hope you crack open a pattern envelope! The first one is always intimidating, then you’re a magician😎
i had almost given up thank you so much info
I have a significant bunch of vintage sewing patterns that I'm slowly (at this point) working my way through. Right now I seem to be a little stuck on the ease-lesson in the process - part of which is I'm still wrapping my head around the dreaded Full Bust Adjustment. I'll get there.
Right now I'm working on a 1951 fitted vest in the most perfect shade of teal for the Foundations Revealed competition. The theme for entries this year is 'nature' so I'm busy hand quilting in fish, followed up by machine quilting the water. In honour of the park near the Rideau River that's my favorite in-city fishing spot.
_Question_ - I'm looking at picking up a Featherweight of my own. Which do you prefer working with - the Featherweight or the modern machine(s)?
{By-the-by - did you know that there's a zigzag foot you can buy for the old classic Singers so you can sew knits with them?}
- Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi
Ohhhh lemme start with the Featherweight! I don’t prefer vintage over new; I just love them both for their strengths. The FW is a beautiful, dependable straight stitch that I know I can open up and oil and fix (to a point!), so I’ll never get rid of mine. It’s lovely to sew on an all metal machine. Go for it!
Being of the Itty bitty crew, the FBA is something I never had to do 😂. I don’t envy you! But the vest sounds beeyootiful….
Thanks!
Thank you so much for this clear, and concise way of assessing a Big 4 pattern! I am also between envelopes, and your tips of what to consider are super helpful. Sure, it can be only $1.99, but if I have to buy two of everything… I don’t have space for all that 😂 Off to share it with a friend who just started sewing!
Hahahaha those envelopes take up VALUABLE REAL ESTATE! Truth! Thank you for sharing the sewing love 💗
Thank you so much. This is a wonderful video; learned a lot. Love your channel.
Thank you, Rose!
Super helpful, thank you!!
Super helpful!
Vogue Easy is Simplicity Hard😂 Let’s not lie to ourselves about that. The more number of pieces, the harder it gets, so newbies need to stick to really, really simple things for the first few garments. And maybe start with pillows or bags if they’re really newbies (in my “learn from my mistakes” opinion, anyway). Gotta master sewing lines first!
You interpret Vogue patterns like I do. I think Marcy had a point when she showed the skirt compared to the bustier. The skirt would be "easy" and the bustier MUCH more difficult. Kind of a little truth within a lot of lie.
@@susanrussell8195 @daxxydog HAHAHA that analogy!!! I want Simplicity to come out with “hard” envelopes 🤣
My first pattern was definitely not an "easy" level; but I had zero desire to sew a pillowcase or bag. It didn’t come out great, but it got me into sewing! Just last year, I sewed three pillowcases and wanted to check my machine out the window 🤣
I wish I'd had this video a few years ago when I opened up my first commercial pattern. I dutifully traced out "my" size and faithfully copied the pattern markings to the back of some cheapie wrapping paper... only to end up with a mock-up that was at least two sizes too big. Learned a lot that day!
😆been there. I guess it’s better than going too small……
@@handmadeharriells That's a good point! I'd rather add a dart than a gore!
Have you done any videos of the items you have made with this pattern and added boning? I’m very interested.
Is the top your wearing in this video something that you sewed? Love the fabric too! Thx for the review!
It’s not, but I’m working on something similar. I love this thing!
I can make my own pattern or follow a video that has measurements and instructions on how to make something freestyle. What I don’t know how to read or you make something from an actual pattern. I’ve purchased probably about 50 patterns that I thought were in my thighs but now after watching your video, I’m not sure if any of them are going to fit me once I make them. LOL! Thank you so much for this video. It was very informative!!
Ooo I hope you’ve broken the seal on some of those envelopes!
Thanks!
I was hoping to see your finished dress.
Uh-oh...I totally open the envelopes in Madame J's. I have no shame. 🤭I mean, I don't unfold the pattern itself (I'm not a monster!) but I get at those instructions to look at the line drawings of the pieces and the construction before buying the pattern. The ol' 'ask for forgiveness rather than permission' method over here 😬... Can't wait to see your finished gown! It's gonna be gorgeous.
🤣I love this method, it’s in effect 24/7 over here too 🤣🤣
*Chuckle!* I have been known to open the envelopes to sneak a peak at the ease! I do appreciate those finished garment measurements. ... I have a sneaking suspicion that the reason those aren't on the pattern envelope is so that people will buy 2 envelopes (I also think a lot of us fall between the size 14 and 16). Also, that extra ease is even worse in children's clothing patterns: the silver lining to this (pun intended) is that you can make things to fit your kiddos beyond the package sizes, just be prepared to lengthen patterns as this kiddo ones tend to be wider than they are tall (no idea why).
If there is a silver lining to sewing for children, I guess that’s it 🤣🤣🤣
I'm several inches outside of MOST of their largest size. The only way I know if a pattern will fit me is to see the finished garment measurements - which, as you said, they don't put on the outside of the package. So I just don't buy Big 4 🤷♀ I really enjoy your video content - you inspire me!
I hear ya. And with all that info on the outside of the envelope…how hard would it be?! Maybe you can find a quiet corner in a Joann’s 😎
Confidence IS key! That being said, a lot of the time, they aren't paying attention, they're just expanding all the cut lines out. My shoulders didn't get wider as my stomach did 😄 😑
My first garment was a button down shirt that I just cut to my off-the-rack size and of course I couldn't even close it! Considering myself a pro at that point I tried making an Issey Miyake suit which broke my brain and subsequently never got finished.
🤣🤣🤣you know what, that beginner’s bloom of I CAN SEW ANYTHING is kind of the best. You oughta tackle that Miyake again….
Now we have Know Me patterns. Now it's the Big 5!
Ah yes! I thought KnowMe was under McCalls??
So glad I don't have to be worried about the rhythm getting me anymore 😅
One less thing to worry about 😂😂🤣🤣
Big Four patterns aren't a completely hot topic for me; my local nemesis is Burda. I do have a few, though (most of them actually vintage), so this is still a nice refresher of things to watch out for. 🙂
Ah burda! I started with pdf burdastyle patterns (back in the day I loved them; haven’t tried them recently!), but I’ve never tried their paper patterns.
@@handmadeharriells I have those, too! It's where I know you from. :D Oddly, I don't think I ever made one; I know I started some, but back then I did not know enough about fitting and apparently the things I finished were mostly self-drafted!
It's mostly Burda magazines in my case, which are a lot sparser on the instruction. I think the only envelope ones I have are from around the 90s, ones my mom bought...
Well, even the most recent Burda magazine I have is from 2012. I really am a self-drafting kinda girl, and recently, I've been buying some PDFs. And I have vintage magazines. I'm probably mostly covered for patterns for the rest of my life. :D
I'm not afraid of commercial patterns, I just don't like supporting brands that don't have inclusive sizing. Plus, a good indie pattern brand has way more support for a pattern (more photos, more hacks, multiple different types of instructions, sew alongs, videos, sometimes email support, etc.).
I like that the big 4 are expanding their range (though yes, it’s slow going). I find it’s not a perfect storm with any company, indie or commercial-for me it’s more about finding the pattern company whose block is closer to my shape and tweaking from there. I used an indie pattern once that had about 70 sewing steps and I was like STAAAAAAAAHP 🫠😂
Marcy, thank you! I am a beginners, beginner. I don't know Jack, but I do know Marcy will not steer me wrong. I don't know when I will ever sew with a pattern. It looks really complicated, still. I did hear that the measurements are truer than department stores, so get ready to sew the truth about your body, lol... Are you performing and if so where?~M
Muzette, sorry I missed this! I performed a few weeks ago in Berkeley, but there are more dates (and more black dresses) coming 🥰
Yes, I do think sewing patterns are more true to size. RTW introduced vanity sizing, and it’s all over the place-for a minute I was a double zero at Banana Republic. That was l u d i c r o u s
Are you Carly Marcano from NCIS? ❤❤
Don’t the check marks get confusing when you start using the pattern multiple times?
Haha! You would think so, but I have a system of using another mark when I use the pattern again (like a slash through the left side of the check). If I use multiple views, it ends up looking like hieroglyphics 😅
Some of the commercial patterns are starting to put all the finished garment measurements on the outside. The only thing is that I haven’t found it to be consistent… keeping my fingers crossed.
You know, I heard they were starting that, but yeah, it’s so random! And then sometimes only the waist…🧐
@@handmadeharriells here’s to hoping that it becomes consistent and clear across the board.
thanks for clarifying you were the curly haired one 😝 where is the baldy haired one?
🤣🤣I like to avoid confusion. He’s making a quick appearance later today!
Haven’t bought a pattern in quite a while. Did I read that right $32?!?!
YEP. However….I’ve only bought a full price Vogue once, when I was on a deadline! I always grab them when they go on sale for $5 at Madame Joann’s 😉
Ok, eat ALL THE (bread) CRUMBS. 📝✅️ Got it.
I have opened the envelope at JoAnn’s and pulled out the paper trying to find the finished measurements. According to the envelope I might be this size or that size but in reality?! Who knows until I can see the finished measurements. I’m not afraid of Big 4, I’m fed up with poor information, confusing instructions, and weird sizing. After 50 years I am an indie only pattern buyer.
But this is great info Marcy, thank you for sharing it. A lot of it applies to any sewing pattern, not just big four.
You’re so welcome! I find that there’s pros and cons to alllllll the pattern companies, it’s all about finding the handful that work for you 💗
X
Hey Marcy. It's no longer the big 4. It's now the big 5. The newest pattern company is Knowme Patterns. Great video!
Yes, someone else said that too! I thought KM was under the big 4 umbrella. Good to know! (Haha no pun intended)
I wonder if men's pattern pieces come with "nipple targets". 🤔 😆
I just opened up a simplicity men’s shirt pattern to check…no target! What gives! Men have nipples too!
You are very beautiful mija❤
Was that pattern really $32 ??? that's just crazy, you can buy an outfit for that price.
Ooooooo yes….however I only buy them on sale! Vogue is around 5 bucks on sale at Joann’s, if you’re outside the US I think they have regular online sales too 🤓
I wouldn't mind someone being tbat cringey about me 😁
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Lots and lots of super thin crinkly paper. 😂
Thanks!