Ive been doing alot of thinking about patterns of late especially with the change of seasons. Im slowly coming to the conclusion that there isnt much choice out there in new patterns.
Dont get me wrong there are few fantastic patterns that I have my eye on. Just waiting for the offers to come up here in the UK. For example some of the Vogue designer patterns are very clever, I always seem to be drawn to the ones that look like they would be tricky to sew. Something different and challenging.
Dont get me wrong there are few fantastic patterns that I have my eye on. Just waiting for the offers to come up here in the UK. For example some of the Vogue designer patterns are very clever, I always seem to be drawn to the ones that look like they would be tricky to sew. Something different and challenging.
 |
| Vogue 1362 |
 |
| Vogue 1360 very similar to a pattern I made. tricky but rewarding. |
But when you get looking at the other pattern they are very deja vu The photos are good, here is a good example. This shirt looks intricate but its all in the fabric choice. Take another look at the illustration. You will see that it its just a simple straight shirt pattern. Now surely we all have one of those in our patterns.
 |
| Here we have a basic long sleeved top that is made from 2 pieces of fabrics that makes it appear different. |
 |
| A jacket cut across the waist, puts a different twist on this style |
I look at the illustrations and think "Well thats like this pattern I already have but with........" With a little skill and imagination we do not have to buy lots of patterns but just think different. Unless of course you like doing that.
Here in the UK patterns are not cheap especially the Vogue, which are ridiculously expensive, but for me its not just about saving a few £££ its more about being creative.
I'm starting to resist buying new patterns, and use the current trends as inspiration to adjust patterns I already have. I never had the confidence before to design for myself, but now, unless there is a new feature I really need instructions for, I'm going to have a go myself.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree. I have a stash of patterns, many of which are the same basic style/silhouette. I think slowing down on buying and spending more time in designing details for the patterns I already own will pay off for me. Really, how many knit tee patterns do we need???
ReplyDeleteI couldnt agree more. Unless its special or I havent got one like it, I would rather spend my pennies on nice fabric than a pattern.
DeleteYou are so right about the lack of innovation in patterns lately, although I really do like your first two choices a lot. The first one looks especially interesting to me. The cost of Vogue patterns is pretty horrendous in Australia too, but if you like Vogue patterns a lot it is well worth joining Club BMV for their $4 online sales. I order 5-7 at a time, you can get past as well as current seasons too, and even with postage it is a considerable saving :)
ReplyDeleteThose patterns are divine. I do tend to buy mostly Vogue patterns,I have looked into joining Club BMV the shipping is high so I would have to only buy them when they ar very cheap. but if I can join a club in the UK I can get half price patterns and free postage. I may join up with one of them soon.
ReplyDeleteI have a stash of patterns that are just basics and I try to use my own imagination to either create new ideas of my own, or recreate things that I see in stores or online. That's not to say that I don't buy other patterns, too (especially if the technique is a mystery to me).
ReplyDeleteHi Louise,thank you for your sweet comment. Part of me WILL miss my blog but I get just as much fun out of reading others.
ReplyDeleteYou are very creative and have such a good eye for detail...I wouldn't have the patience...or skill..to make my own clothes!
Take care and have a good weekend.
Bellaboo X
That's very true! I tend to spend my sewing allowance on fabric (an the occasional Indie pattern), so if I see some fancy details, I try to see the basic pattern underneath and think about how to add the details myself. :)
ReplyDeleteI understand your point, but I'm so weak:))
ReplyDeleteAAh, yes I know that one.
Delete