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The Sew What’s New Archive

This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: temom
Date: 04-16-2007, 01:46 PM (1 of 7)
I bought a pattern today for 99 cents. I was going to trace the 20 pieces, since it is multisized and I'm using the smallest size (for my daughter), but I stopped myself. How long are patterns usually around for? If I like this pattern, and don't trace it, cutting at size 4, and if a year down the line need size 5, what are my chances of finding it? Or if I like it, should I just go out and buy a 2nd copy for another 99 cents? What do you think?
Theresa
User: temom
Member since: 01-19-2007
Total posts: 410
From: Pudge99
Date: 04-16-2007, 02:08 PM (2 of 7)
temom,

If it were me I think I would buy more now. You never know when they are gonna stop making a pattern. I have seen some that seem like they have been around forever and others I see them once and never see them again.
Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures
Pfaff 2040
Janome Mylock 134D
Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch
Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001
Total posts: 1375
From: paroper
Date: 04-16-2007, 05:03 PM (3 of 7)
Some patterns are seasonal and those patterns rotate out after about 6 months. Then there are patterns that are pretty well sold year around. Often those pattern numbers will be retired when the pattern numbers have run full-cycle, but the pattern will be reissued with a new number (sometimes a new view). As long as a pattern is selling well and it has not cycled out because of season, it may be around for a while. Also, some pattern companies are now offering discontinued patterns at their site (this can be a real blessing). My daughter under estimated the size of one of her brides' maids...instead of size 10 she was a size 22 (duh!) Anyway, her pattern had been discontinued AFTER I had made the other brides' maid dress. This just happened to be the VERY first time the out of date patterns were being offered (talk about a SAVE). The problem is? My daughter cancelled the wedding after that. However, her Vogue wedding dress pattern has been out there about 2 years.
pam

Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch)
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004
Total posts: 3775
From: Anza54
Date: 04-16-2007, 06:08 PM (4 of 7)
I personally always trace out the pattern size I need. Most patterns these days are some what multi sized. I do this because I never know if I will use this pattern again for myself or someone else who might be bigger or smaller than myself. Since patterns these days are very expensive (haven't seen a pattern for $.99 in a very long time). I always seem to miss out on Joanne's $1.99 special. I use tissue paper or a pattern tracing paper. That is just my preference. Besides if I decide to sell or give away a particular pattern, Then it is still in usable shape. Just my 2 cents on the subject:wink: It is a little extra work but I don't mind.
User: Anza54
Member since: 03-13-2007
Total posts: 63
From: temom
Date: 04-16-2007, 11:38 PM (5 of 7)
You are all full of information! Thank you for your pearls of wisdom. I ironed the pieces onto a fusible interface that was .50 a yard, and cut out the size 4. The fabric edges have been serged, and is in the washer with a cup of vinegar to set the colors. I bought the pattern today at Joanns, (McCall's 3677) - the McCalls are .99 this week. The fabric is tutti fruity that is on sale this week for 1.99 a yard (cotton/poly blend that passed the wrinkle test!) I bought several different fabrics, since they were so wonderful! The first outfit will be the view on the bottom, and the fabric is a yellow butterfly print.
http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M3677.htm

After I put it together, if it is easy enough and I like it, I'll go buy another to have it for next year.

Interestingly, when I looked on the pattern envelope just a minute ago to see if the McCall's web page was listed, I saw a pattern copyright of 2002.
Theresa
User: temom
Member since: 01-19-2007
Total posts: 410
From: Pcat
Date: 04-19-2007, 11:33 PM (6 of 7)
FYI -- if you absolutely HAVE to have a pattern that is now out of print, try the pattern mfg website. Many of them have old patterns available. Now they won't be 99 cents, but if you are trying to finish up a wedding party, the full price would be worth it, don't ya think?

Pam
User: Pcat
Member since: 04-17-2007
Total posts: 20
From: VenusElaine
Date: 04-23-2007, 09:56 PM (7 of 7)
As a custom clothier, I NEVER cut my patterns, I always trace them. I do preliminary adjustments to size based on measurements when I trace, construct a muslin garment, and fine tune from the muslin. This may be labor intensive for a child's garment, but if they may grow and you have larger sizes on the pattern, I definitely reccomend tracing to save the pattern.
I also rarely buy new patterns, as I have an entire cabinet full, from which I can pull almost any design (bodice, sleeve, skirt, etc.) and combine them for the look my client wants. I have constructed wedding gowns from casual patterns because the lines of the pattern were the same, only lengthening was involved.
Good Luck!

VenusElaine
"Always put as much effort into your marriage as you do into your wedding."
User: VenusElaine
Member since: 10-22-2005
Total posts: 126
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