Simplicity Pattern Collection from Threads

JoyceA writes: Graciella-- Don't see that you've gotten an answer to your sloper vs muslin question, so:
SLOPER: This is a garment that is essentially a "second skin". Its purpose is to determine your measurements, including where your shape is unique. This can be used over and over as long as your body doesn't change.
MUSLIN: This is a test garment where you make up your design in a cheaper fabric, such as muslin, to determine what adjustments you need to make that design fit you.
Hope this helps. If you value your fabric and time, it is best to create a muslin for testing the fit of each new design you sew.
Hope this helps.
--JoyceA
Posted: 4:35 pm on March 2nd

Graciaella writes: What is a sloper/muslin? How are they used? Do you make one for ever item you choose to make?
Posted: 8:11 pm on February 17th

sewpaatsee49 writes: I'm looking for a pattern/video? for a sheer "twist n'turn" type cape made in a class, but its a bit complicated; am thinking it was in Threads once, or don't know. Can anyone direct me in this endeavor...
Posted: 10:56 am on February 6th

redtina789 writes: Can anybody help me get a copy of an 'older' BURDA pattern Kombination #8578 design by Wilma Ricker.
Thank you.
Posted: 7:21 am on February 4th

ExclusiveHerb writes: Pattern 2758 does not lend itself to a size 1x and up. Forming a waist is appealing nice in any size, but accentuating over sized hips as well and at the same time does not appeal to most people.
Posted: 2:11 pm on February 1st

HUNGRYmama writes: Hey SELDERKIN.....I think it was on BURDA.
Posted: 5:40 pm on December 23rd

berluz writes: selderkin,
There was a pattern for using a man's dress shirt on burda online: the cuffs were used as shoulder straps, the back yoke was used for the back.
Posted: 3:37 pm on November 24th

JBirdsArt writes: Teenage Textilelover: You should not be using Misses patterns. You should be using Junior's patterns. If all else fails make sure you have your key measurements on hand when purchasing your patterns so you can look on the back of the pattern and compare them. I would do a mock up before making a nicer pricier item I might have in mind.

It is very easy to use the mock up as a base to play around with an item and make your own unique pattern and/or design for yourself or others when using a mock up to begin with.

I use to do it from paper bags in my youth and still use papers that I recycle from pkgs I receive to make bases for clothing and upholstery patterns I make up-you can sew paper as well and get a good idea of the finished product/size of garment you might want to make up, thereby skipping buying muslin for the mock up!

Thank you so much for keeping the tradition alive! Share your love of sewing with your friends and just have a great time!

Posted: 8:57 pm on November 17th

JBirdsArt writes: NubianGoddess: Great name! Hey, just like I was saying to selderkin, you can do an open search for example: free apron patterns and hit enter. There are so many it will blow your mind. Tobe specific you would wanr ro input free apron patterns, 50"s style and then just hit enter. I have seen many on the blogs from the makers on the handmade site Ravelry. Sew Mama Sews is very nice.

I hope this helps!

Happy stitchin'!
Posted: 8:47 pm on November 17th

JBirdsArt writes: Selbian: There are free tutorials on youtube for this as well as many bloggers have some free tutes on this usually handmade items from Ravelry shops. Here is something that might interest you to get you started. http://stitchandboots.wordpress.com/2009/04/30/make-a-mushroom-smock-recycle-a-mens-shirt/

One way to do an open search is for ex. recycled men's shirt tutorials, free and then just hit enter.

Happy cutting!

PS You can make children's dresses and nightgowns using men's shirts as well!
Posted: 8:42 pm on November 17th

selderkin writes: Hello I saw where someone had shown how to take a man's shirt, cutting off the collar, making a new neckline and sleeve alteration but keeping the button placket. I'm thinking it may have been a Threads magazine. Has anyone else seen these instructions??? thanks.
Posted: 12:23 pm on November 15th

NubianGoddess writes: hi i am looking for free apron patterns,or available pictures, the type of design i want to sew is the kind or mum's may have worn, that almost look like a dress. thanks
Posted: 8:43 pm on November 14th

NubianGoddess writes: hi doodle 78, i have mixed different fabrics in a quilt, i generally try to keep them in the same fabric content, or i pre-wash all my fabric so that i can wash the sewn item later, unless it isn't a garment or a blanket and is just something to be admired. hope this info is helpful.
Posted: 8:38 pm on November 14th

doodle78 writes: Is it alright to mix fabric types when making a quilt?
Posted: 10:00 am on November 13th

Vicksvice writes: I have subscribed to Threads since 2001. Recently I visited a local fabric store and one of the ladies had a very attractive flowing type top. She said that she had gotten the pattern from an earlier Threads issue but couldn't remember which one.

I suspect it had to be in an issue 2000 or earlier. Can anyone help with this?
Posted: 9:56 am on November 12th

zatorskijoan writes: To Poppaea from Oct. 29, 2009
I'd search no further for that slim-lined, single breasted blazer than the Threads Collection with Simplicity. Their Simplicity # 2645 has been highlighted in many of their ads lately and it seems like it fulfills your criteria.... take a look! Joan in Tucson, AZ
Posted: 12:52 pm on November 7th

applique writes: I purchased 2 yds of boiled wool and I'm looking for a jacket pattern that would be suitable for boiled wool can you suggest one?
Posted: 8:20 am on November 3rd

Poppaea writes: I am wanting to make a fitted single breatsed blazer for myself. All the patterns ive come across so far are retro ones with massive shoulder pads or far too loose fitting. Does anyone know where I can find pattern?Or have any suggestions??
Posted: 11:20 pm on October 29th

anna625 writes: I subscibe to Threads. I looking to start my own business in making bras. I am looking to find pattens. That can fit any size. I work at a retail store now. I am a bra specialist. I have a lot of customers who are hard to fit. And were I live there is no place for them to go. I have one lady that is a 30H. We have one bra in the who dept that fits her. It is not a cheap bra. So I come up with the idea to start my own business to help them out. So if you have any good pattens please let me know.
Posted: 10:45 am on October 25th

sewpreety writes: dear>>>daita if you put your pattern on butcher paper or newspaper, then trace (both) pants pattern mark all areas just the original patterns says then add an inch to TOP of pants pattern. cut out paper pants pattern, hold up to you. you will notice pants are longer. this allows the crotch to DROP DOWN. now if the crotch is too long lower inches untill you get the length that's right for you. i hope i've helped e-mail me, i'd love to know if i've been any help. rosa freeman@att.net
Posted: 5:52 am on October 24th

dkovnat writes: Ranae, in case no one has replied: Dharma Trading Co. in California is a source for clothing blanks -- in cotton and silk, primarily. They're for dyers and fabric artists, so the colors are primarily white and black. I've had good luck with them.

Denise Kovnat
Posted: 9:01 am on October 6th

jklimt writes: Or go to Magazine>Magazine Extras and the pattern is there.
Posted: 8:09 pm on September 30th

jklimt writes: http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/8892/patterns-for-gorgeous-gloves

This is where the pattern is for the gloves
Posted: 8:07 pm on September 30th

Persimmony writes: For the technologically impaired, please tell me how to find the pattern for the GLOVES. My magazine says it is a free download? Where?
Posted: 4:27 pm on September 30th

Erikamr writes: Sorry ! i mean make, not nake!! oops!!!!! !0

Posted: 4:31 pm on September 28th

Erikamr writes: Hey Teenage! I am 12 and i have found that patterns are easier if you nake them yourself. i use my manniquin and pin pattern paper on. then use pencil to draw lines on, just cut them out. then you never need to buy patterns again!
Posted: 4:30 pm on September 28th

DellaLs writes: Where can I find on this web site John Koch's glove pattern mentioned in the current issuse of Thread's/
Posted: 4:18 pm on September 18th

Ranae writes: Sorry, I meant Blue Fish style. I want to decorate myself for my own use.
Thanks
Posted: 9:04 am on September 18th

Ranae writes: Does anyone know where I can buy clothing blanks, ready for painting, decorating that resemble the "Big Fish" style?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Posted: 8:18 am on September 18th

SimpleGirl writes: Teenage Textile: I find Simplicity easy to work with - but a bit large in size. Butterick is the closest - and sometimes smaller than actual measurements. McCall's is somewhere in between. When you find a pattern, or adjust a pattern to fit - make several items from it. Do not be afraid to take items you have that fit great - to use them as patterns. I have used worn jeans as patterns, old coat linings, etc. I was just like you when I was younger - it was my creative outlet.
Posted: 9:10 pm on September 16th

SimpleGirl writes: I am also in a recycle mode - returning to a habit I had when I was much younger. Recycling items in my closet - to give them more wear - and a more updated look. I have always played with changing buttons, collars, sleeve lengths, and waistlines. Adding embellishments - or removing them. This is great if you have an item made of very good fabric - such as a wool jacket.
Posted: 9:05 pm on September 16th

SimpleGirl writes: Robkamm - perhaps your thinking of pattern drafting tools such as slopers and basic patterns. Lutterloh are actual pattern designs - that are relatively a closer fit. I like to hear about other tools, and inspiration for sewing. I am intrigued by wool hat making instructions.
Posted: 8:58 pm on September 16th

SimpleGirl writes: Lutterloh patterns are miniature patterns that have dots that correspond to the outline of the pattern piece. All of the dots correspond to your measurements. Have you ever seen the davinci drawing of a man with circles showing the relationship of of the span of your arms to your height. It is a similar concept. If your bust is x-inches, you would use a tape measurer from an X on the pattern piece, and measure x inches out. There is a paper extension for your tape measurer to convert. This will give you the basic pattern piece without seam allowances. The patterns seem to be true to size in my opinion. I have made several items - a winter coat, several tank tops. The designs are a bit different (European) - not real trendy - more classic shapes. The nice thing is the miniature patterns can be stored in a small binder, and you can draw a fresh pattern in any size.
Posted: 8:55 pm on September 16th

teenage_textilelover writes: hi robkamm, thanks. I'm really impatient too. I'll try what you suggested, thanks again
Posted: 11:34 pm on September 13th

Motherof6 writes: hi I was wondering how to get John Koch's glove pattern with the stitches and Knots They were in the November 2009 issue I tried looking every on the magazine site couldn't find it could someone tell me whre I was to look . Thank You
Posted: 3:27 pm on September 11th

robkamm writes: Hi Teenage -- fitting commercial patterns is the bane of every sewer's existence. Not only does the sizing vary from pattern company to pattern company, you also have to pay close attention to the amount of ease that is added to a given style. Have you tried tissue fitting the pattern before cutting your fabric? That usually gives you a fairly good indication of where adjustments need to be made. I'm an impatient sewer -- once I start a project I'm in a hurry to get it finished -- but have learned the hard way that time spent on the fitting details ensures a much better and wearable garment. The very best way to ensure a good fit is to make a "muslin" before you cut your good fabric.

Robin
Posted: 12:03 pm on September 11th

robkamm writes: Artze, the Lutterloh system is a pattern drafting tool. You are basically starting from scratch drafting the pattern but I can't see why you couldn't use it in conjunction with existing patterns. When I made my jacket I drafted it from scratch but used a similar commercial pattern for the construction instructions. I have used other pattern drafting techniques and have drafted a bodice and used a sleeve, etc. from a commercial pattern -- sometimes you have to play with it a little bit but no more so than trying to fit a commercial pattern.
Posted: 11:54 am on September 11th

teenage_textilelover writes:
I recently made a skirt following a macalls pattern and it ended up 4 sizes too big.
A friend of mine made a dress with the same brand pattern, again way too big.
Has anyone else had bad experiences with macalls misses patterns?
Posted: 6:02 am on September 11th

Artze writes: Can the Lutterloh system be used with patterns I already have, ie; Simplicity, McCalls, etc.?
Posted: 4:07 pm on September 10th

robkamm writes: Artze, I have the Lutterloh system and have used it to make a jacket. The proportions and fit were fine. I bought my system last year and although the styles included in the basic kit weren't ground-breaking fashion, there were quite a few classic pieces which are useful. The only problem someone may have with the system is that you are on your own as far as the construction of the garment is concerned.
Posted: 12:49 pm on September 10th

Artze writes: I recently looked up the info on the Lutterloh Pattern fitting system and found it quite interesting. I have always had trouble getting my garments to fit correctly and am considering buying this system. But before I do, I'd like to hear more about it from past and/or present users. I'm a bit pear shaped and have sloped shoulders. Since I live in Florida, my wardrobe consists mostly of tank tops and shorts or capris. Does this system work for making skirts, shorts and slacks? Are the patterns up-to-date styles? All of your input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks much.
Artze
Posted: 11:27 pm on September 9th

laulo writes: Hey Darleann- What are Lutterloh Patterns? As I we all get older (Me 54) We have differant curves and corners than before. I have Used the Sew perfect patterns and would like to try something else.

Posted: 9:20 pm on September 7th

daleann writes: I have used Lutterloh patterns. I am making a dress now to wear to a family wedding from one of the Lutterloh patterns. The patterns take a fair amount of time to draw and cut out but they do fit when you are finished making the garment. I do enjoy using the Lutterloh system.
Posted: 6:41 pm on August 27th

SimpleGirl writes: How many folks have tried/used a Lutterloh pattern?
Posted: 7:23 pm on August 25th

ata writes: thanks alot dat was helpful!& im not trying to giv up...Not now...i only just start & luvin it! lol
Posted: 11:21 am on July 22nd

DRWsews writes: This is to Sassytee regarding cutting. Once you've tissue fit (or created) & adjusted your pattern, try using weights rather than pins when you lay out your pattern and fabric on a table top. I have a piece of covered plywood sitting on matching bookcases, but when I was young I cut on the floor. I recommend that you spend a minute or two reading up on fabric & pattern grain lines. Taking extra time with your pattern fitting & lay out of the fabric can make the difference something you will never wear and something people will not believe you made yourself. Your comfort with cutting along with other sewing skills will improve with time. Don't give up, start simple & work your way up to more difficult projects. Good luck and have fun ... I've been sewing for 45 years and can't imagine my life without it.
Posted: 6:57 pm on July 18th

sassytee writes: i just started sewing...and im finding it difficult to cut out. when i want to sew anything i usually put the fabric on me or a dummy and pin areas i want to sew. any tip or tips please, any one?
Posted: 11:08 pm on July 17th

ohbegrey writes: sewfashionistic: re: 45/60 inch fabric--pattern layouts are accommodated differently by the different widths, thus another difference in yardage requirements. also, use caution when using crosswise of the fabric for the lengthwise of the garment--the crosswise grain sometimes stretches slightly (more) than the lengthwise grain and can affect the drape/fit of the garment. happy sewing!
Posted: 11:41 am on June 16th

bunbun writes: I am excited about the information in March of '09 on The Golden Rule of Proportions. I am mathamatically challenged, could you tell me where to find more measurments to do for proportions? I love the one for the length of the skirt, what do you measure for width? For jackets? For accessories? Is there a book somewhere for someone with limited understanding of it?
Posted: 7:15 pm on June 15th

SUZAG writes: You can research the age of Grandma's sewing machine on the Singer Sewing Machine Co. site. With the serial number you can find out when it was manufactured. Unfortunately, they aren't worth too much (look on e-Bay)but they make a very stunning decorative piece in a living room. I've cleaned two up and the detail work is beautiful! Treasure it!
Posted: 11:48 am on June 15th

daita writes: I need to lengthen the crotch from a pair or pants. I've been trying to find instruction by so far no luck. Can someone enlighten me please?
Posted: 6:14 pm on June 12th

Creativefool writes: To sewfashionistic: I'll try to answer your question: Well mathematically speaking 1 yard of material that is 60 inches wide has 2160 square inches in it, but a yard of material that is 45 inches wide only has 1620 inches in it. I'm petite so when I make slacks I never need to buy as much material as a pattern calls for, because I can lay the pattern out on the crossgrain of the material, which is different than called for in the pattern layout.
Posted: 10:12 pm on June 8th

sewfashionistic writes: Help please - what is the difference between 45" and 60" and why does the 45" call for more fabric on smaller sizes than the 60"?
Is the light bulb just not working for me?
Posted: 5:30 pm on June 4th

Erikamr writes: EmKay96, Thanks!!!

Posted: 5:13 pm on June 1st

EmKay96 writes: Erikamr,
Have you contacted museums in your area? They could probably provide you with the best advice. Barring that, contact your local library and ask the librarian to help you with a search for museums or organizations that might be interested in treadle sewing machines.

Sometimes the phone book and the librarian are your best resources. Good luck!
Posted: 11:10 pm on May 29th

Erikamr writes: My Grandma has an antique Singer tredle sewing machine.

SHOULD THIS MACHINE BE IN A MUSEUM???
IF SO, WHAT ONE!!!!!??????

Posted: 6:29 am on May 27th

Acker writes: Good day. very Interested info on your site. I have found the many information in the Internet. adjustable baby sling
Posted: 10:21 am on May 18th

pandora31 writes: Grannybecky, i have used this pattern many times, as i am in the habit of losing my slings!
http://www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/Baby/index.html
she has all kinds of baby goodies on there!
Hope this helps!
Posted: 7:31 pm on May 6th

sewphisticate writes: KayN - I don't know if this appropriate to post here or not, but KwikSew has polo shirt patterns. #3059 is the misses sized pattern. They have them for men and children too.
Posted: 12:09 pm on May 4th

Erikamr writes: KayN: The T-shirt is the exact same thing as a polo shirt.

I hope that this helps!!!
Posted: 10:24 am on May 3rd

Erikamr writes: My Grandma has an antique Singer tredle sewing machine.

SHOULD THIS MACHINE BE IN A MUSEUM???
IF SO, WHAT ONE!!!!!??????

Please help us!!!!
Posted: 10:21 am on May 3rd

GrannyBecky writes: I'm looking for a baby sling pattern. Any info where I can locate this pattern would be helpful.
Posted: 1:58 pm on April 26th

KayN writes: I'm looking for a polo shirt pattern any size. Do they even exist?
Posted: 2:58 pm on April 23rd

Meialoha writes: Help! I'm looking for an old pattern: Vogue 2372 DKNY size 18-22 Denim skirt & Jeans. There's one on ebay, but I closed my ebay account when I must have been out of my mind.

If you come across V2372, please let me know. I'll trade you for chocolate macadamia nut candy from Hawaii! Thank you. :)
Posted: 4:31 pm on April 22nd

Sue_UK writes: Can anyone advise me please? I'm just about to make a shirt using a crinkly fabric. Does anyone know if I approach the cutting and serging differently?
Posted: 3:25 am on April 8th

mrscolumbo writes: To cookmartyn3 / Melody .. this pattern company is Canadian .. I have the pattern and they are really cute ... also have a couple of their handbag patterns. Hope this helps.
http://www.favoritethings.net/patterns/Slippers

Toby
Posted: 4:52 pm on March 25th

Ckbklady writes: Altz was wondering how to get Marfy patterns. Altz, go to www.butterickpatterns.com and check out the Marfy link on the main page - it will lead you to a shop/order page.

I've used a couple of Marfy patterns and can tell you that while they're certainly stylish and pleasingly challenging, they're no better than Threads/Simplicity or Burda. I never was a Simplicity fan until Threads signed on. Their shared patterns were a thrill to see on the runway at the Sew Expo in Puyallup last month.

Good luck getting Marfy, and let us know in Gatherings how you like them!
Posted: 2:59 pm on March 18th

altz writes: I am trying to locate a source for the Marfy pattern 1666 that was featured on Page 15 of the Feb/Mar issue of Threads. I emailed them but nothing. Where can I find that pattern? Thank you!
Posted: 5:28 pm on March 11th

cookmartyn3 writes: Hello I am looking for a download of a fur boot or slipper pattern for adults , searched the internet can't find one any help out there.
thanks
melody
Posted: 1:43 pm on March 10th

MissAtomBomb1953 writes: Hi,
I'm looking for a good book or instructional on how to alter clothing (not necessarily patterns). Any advice will help!
Thanks.
Posted: 11:36 pm on March 9th

grannynanny writes: I feel the same as Carolina. Just loved the blouse on page 76 in Threads #141. Please send the pattern name and number. thank you. gn
Posted: 6:33 pm on February 21st

shaedee writes: Looking forward to doing more here, but am having trouble posting on my page. Looks good here, and by the way Sewmanydogz you might check for the patterns that are done by the woman who does the coats and other vests etc, with pockets for travelling, she has quite a few choices in coats, also a site named sewingpatterns.com or sewingpatternreview.com,
The one which I like a lot is called thesewingplace.com
it has the various designers listed and then you click to see the entire line of patterns. good luck with your search. marcia
Posted: 3:41 am on February 11th

carolina writes: I would like to have the pattern number for the top illustrated in Threads #141, page 76. It is beautiful with the under garment. I would like to have more information about obtaining this pattern.
Thank you and I love Threads magazine.
Posted: 9:15 pm on February 9th

kittle writes: I am trying to find fabric similar to that shown in Simplicity Pattern 2703, which is a Thread's Magazine collection pattern.

My daughter would like to sew this for a 4H project this year and LOVES the patterns of the dress and shirt.

Any ideas where I can find a similar fabric?
Posted: 10:52 pm on January 22nd

sewmanydawgz writes: Have been to lots of post-holiday sales, Magellan's & Travel-
Smith's websites, and a few other etailers, and some catalogs
and still can't find what I want in the way of my "dream travel coat", so (as usual) I'll have to make it; Single-
breasted (concealed placket a plus-), 3/4 length modified-
type Swing coat, w/ removable liner and hood - anybody have
any idea where one might find a ready-made pattern for such a thing ? I can make the pattern, but would like to find it
already done just to save some time - but based on what I've seen in the major pattern co.'s offerings (and some online
pattern co.'s as well), it's slim-to-no pickins for this item, which is why I'm asking ? ? ?
Posted: 3:25 pm on January 17th

BeverlyKnight writes: To Gayela--- Add a yoke to the top of the skirts. If they have pleats and a waistband, stay stitch the pleats before taking off the waistband. Add the yoke-the desired length-then re-attach the waistband. Use a co-ordinating fabric for yoke.
Posted: 1:27 pm on December 31st

kreativelady writes: Hi, Just finished reading article for making the perfect garment for different shapes. I believe they referred it to a manican-style body using tight fitting material. It peaked my interest. Teaching children to make simple outfits for their projects appeals to me. Sizes are`always unpredictible, and outfits are time consumung getting each one to fit properly. Where is this information for this source to order? dancersimage.
Posted: 7:54 pm on December 18th

smartsewing writes: Hi Neufiesmom
If you have a pattern that has a collor with a stand attached. You can use the stand just to mak a mandrine collor.
Posted: 11:33 am on December 16th

smartsewing writes: I would add lace to the hem or wear over leggings. You could also add plain fabric to the hem matching the tartan, put some of this trim in pockets or belt to make the addition look as if it was always there.
Posted: 11:28 am on December 16th

secretsquirel writes: watergirl21403

what is the garment you want to make
Posted: 1:46 pm on December 13th

watergirl21403 writes: I have 42" sari fabric and most patterns give layouts for 45" width. Looking for pattern suggestions and how to make gold edge of fabric go down the center front of garment.
Posted: 6:24 am on December 13th

neufiesmom writes: I have a question.
I'm looking for a pattern of a manderine collar shirt for women. I had one and love the shirt but in moving have lost the pattern. any help would be wonderful. The shirt has button front and cufless long sleeves.
thank you

Posted: 4:43 pm on December 5th

sewpatty writes: I like doing lots of cross-stitching which incorporates sewing and beading techniques.I am quite creative and like doing intricate things which involves many different ways of sewing.
Its only because i get bored doing a one way stitch method,and its a great new challenge too.
Posted: 10:31 am on December 3rd

Gayela writes: I have a couple of tartan skirts 19" in length that I would still like to wear but think they are too short - suggestions of how to alter to make them wearable and still look good is requested
Posted: 9:29 am on November 30th

sue7429 writes: I subscribe to Threads and recently saw a project using some old jeans to make a purse. After finding the jeans and getting ready to make the purse, I could not find the right issue of the magazine. Am I imaging it or can someone tell me which issue it was in. I also take Sew News, but I was certain it was in THREADS.
Posted: 11:40 pm on November 24th

Threads - for people who love to sew

Simplicity Pattern Collection from Threads

Comments (85)