Patternmaking for a Perfect Fit: Using the Rub-off Technique to Re-create and Redesign Your Favorite Fashions

I think that every sewer should have this book in their library as a handy reference. In the past whenever I had a piece of clothing that I really liked, I'd try to find a pattern that was similar to it if I wanted to copy it. But then I'd have to start from scratch with fitting issues, etc. Now when I look at the garments I have that I like, I think, "I can make an exact rub-off of this!" It's a very empowering, self-sufficient feeling. Save money, save muslin, save sanity! Sounds good to me :)So far, I have only used the principles in this book to do a very basic rub-off of pajama pants, but the instructions are very clear, and I'm confident I could use this for other garments, as well. It's not to say I'll never use purchased patterns again, I just think having a reference for making rub-offs is extremely useful. She also gives tips for how to alter an existing pattern to give it different necklines, skirts, style lines, etc.

I have been sewing forever however I have no experience in sewing pattern creation, only one previous attempt in altering an existing pattern and I am focusing on expanding that knowledge and experience. I do most of my skill learning whether it be sewing, knitting, computers etc from diving in with an instruction/reference book and trial and error. Because of this, I quite often have a number of books on the same thing and learn after a while which is my favorite. This leaves me with some that I never look at again. I purchased this book for its instructions on creating a pattern from an existing garment without taking that garment apart, (which I do not have) and working with a dress form. The instructions are fairly clear and the photos are great, making it understandable and easy to follow. I do not think I will need to look for another book on this technique as this will be my go to book.

This is a beautiful book. It is well laid out, the pages are spacious and clean looking, the information is well organized and presented in a simple, straightforward way. For example, when she tells you which tools you will need, there is a picture of all of those items, labeled A, B, C, etc. The clothing and models all look clean and somewhat timeless. Judging from the small, front cover photo, l expected this to be an older book, but it is copyrighted in 2010. I also liked the inclusion of a small bit of the author's personal history. It is not overdone, but rather gives you a feel for the author's personality and interest in the subject, in a very nice manner. Also, the paper quality is excellent. I gave 4 stars because it would be nice to have information about pants included in any future revisions, however, once l get into the instructions, l believe l should be able to copy pants too.

This is the book I was looking for to take me to the next level in creating a personalized wardrobe. I have a non-standard figure to fit so it stands to reason when something works, why not duplicate the garment into a pattern. Once you establish a correct fit, you can just let the creativity flow. I had already figured out the transfer to kraft paper part. The additional techniques and tips in the book are what was needed to move to the next level. The author explains why certain steps are needed and what can happen if you don't follow them. This is the information missing from my basic sewing books. There are so many tips, I've tagged the pages for quick reference. I especially appreciated the tip about tangling thread. After reading this book I feel like I have gained 20 yrs of experience. Definitely I feel empowered to try more ambitious projects.

I’m conflicted with this book. I was hoping for I guess a more advanced explanation of her technique with more complicated “patterns”. It’s more for a beginner as she shows how to make simple shaped pieces. I grew up using stretch n sew patterns and I can take a t shirt pattern and make a fancy dress. I have also taken apart several old favorite shirts and made patterns from them so I could recreate them in new fabrics. So I thought this technique would add to my skills but the clothing items were so simple. I was hoping to learn how to make patterns a bit more complicated with out deconstructing / destroying them. There was a technique that was interesting but I don’t think the book went far enough for me.

I loved this. The book provides step by step instructions for making patterns from existing garments. The instructions are clear and well illustrated. I’ve already made a new blouse from one that fits me well and plan to embark upon construction of a bikini from my favorite bra. Wish I’d found this book earlier!

And it's fantastic. Her class is great and this is a useful tool. Time consuming b/c I am new to this. But I am in the middle of one "easy" dress and I can see this will just get easier. Amazing class and I recommend taking her class on Craftsy.com. Have fun!

This book is AMAZING! It is helpful to everyone whether they be professionals or hobbyists. The clear and specific instruction is easy to follow. The visual images work brilliantly. It is a great benefit for those of us who have the perfect blouse or skirt we want to duplicate. This book should definitely be a part of every costume shop. It certainly is a part of mine.

I learned this technique at my grandmother's knee, as did the author.If you have never tried the Rub-off technique for making a pattern then you should buy this book.Very detailed - Love it!

If you know basics of pattern making, it’s not very useful as the same designs have been used with a couple of variations. It’s better to buy Helen Armstrong’s book on patternmaking no matter the price that would be worth. But I like building up a library so I am ok with the purchase

Questo libro apre nuovi orizzonti. Io ho fatto la scuola da modellista tanti anni fa e quindi "dovrei" poterne fare a meno ma è irresistibile l'idea di riprodurre esattamente lo stesso capo che adori e che ormai però è troppo consumato o scolorito. Ho potuto provarlo su alcuni capi tra cui una camicetta elaborata e mi sono trovata benissimo. E' un metodo rivoluzionario ma molto efficace e se fatto bene, è molto preciso. Lo consiglio a chi ha già un po' di esperienza su come si fa un cartamodello. Anche se l'ho fatto provare a mia nipotina che è alle prime armi su un capo semplice e ci è riuscita.

I am not a sewer and I am not a regular body shape. I have started at the beginning and love this - flat patterning, that is. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to reproduce their favourite clothes. Having read the 3D patterning I don't think it will be beyond me - once I have practised the flat version. I am full of hope that what currently seems a bit impenetrable will make perfect sense if I just work through the tasks as set. I will admit my first version was awful, but that was my sewing, the pattern block was easy to do and does work, now I can sew better :)Weirdly I posted this on the American site by accident. I must wear my glasses more often :D

very pleased with purchase