Pencil Me In - B5249 & S2862

Pattern Description: Misses' Skirt and Belt: Skirts A, B, C, D have princess seams, back zipper, and high waist. A, C: carriers and self-belt with purchased buckle. B, D: side front pleats and pockets. C, D: self-ruffle, A, B, C, D: mid knee length.

Pattern Sizing: 6-20; I made size 14, view B.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes it does.

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were very easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? What drew me to this pattern was the interesting pockets of view B and D. One of my occasional clients asked me to make a few pencil skirts for her. This pattern was the suggested pattern. I really liked it so I decided to make view B for myself.

Fabric Used: Wool from Fishman's Fabrics on Roosevelt and Deplaines. I purchased this fabric last year at this time. It's a very nice wool that I got for half price (2 yards remnant for $22.00). I was able to squezze a vest (S2862) out of it.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I added a few inches to the bottom. Also fully lined it.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes and yes. This is a great skirt pattern.

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Conclusion: This is a nice skirt pattern that is easy to sew.





Pattern Description: Misses' lined vest, hat, wristlet, purse, and tote. Hat in three sizes SML.

Pattern Sizing: 6 - 20; I made size 14, view A with several alterations/changes.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes. Nothing that's really confusing.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like that style of the vest. Also a plus: the pattern contains several nice accessories that I may one day try. So far nothing to dislike.

Fabric Used:Wool remnant purchased at Fishman's last year. This vest was made from the leftover scraps of B5249.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I made several alterations and changes.

- FBA alterations following methods in Fits for Real People. First I changed the Stitching line for the side front. Then I slashed between the notches to add the needed room. Next I altered the front.
- Used two D rings instead of a buckle.
- Didn't use lining for the back -- use fashion fabric for the tabs as well.
- Increased the width of the tab by 1/4 inch.
- Increased the sea allowance at the upper side back to eliminate gap.
- I didn't have enough fabric for the front facing -- so I fused 2 layers of interfacing to the front. This work very well.
- I understitched the edge of the vest before joining the lining side seams.
- I used five buttons instead of four.


Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes and yes. with alterations where necessary.

Conclusion: I like this pattern. My vest turned out well on the first try. No muslin, just follow my normal alterations. Give it a try.

See more pictures on Flickr.