I Made a Little Black Dress using the Lutterloh Patternmaking System

[@paulanddebbierowlands1178]

You are not only a beautiful sewist, you are an excellent teacher! Your instruction and tips are easy to understand and very helpful. Your finished dress looks gorgeous on you!! You really can't go wrong with 'simple and classic'.

[@PatternScout]

Thank you so much!

[@leslietaylor1570]

Make a photocopy of the pattern and cut around to tape to pattern paper. It can stay taped to pattern and you don’t mess up the page in your folder. Dress looks nice!😀

[@PatternScout]

Thanks! :)

[@rosalindhamilton4398]

I've had this system for years, keep working with it you will get it. I find it to be fun to have my clothing fit me an not have to adjust a pattern. It slso save me money on patterns. The system has all the patterns and you will be happy with it. Have fun sewing. Love the black dess.

[@PatternScout]

It's a great system and I really enjoyed using it! Thanks! :)

[@janicemcintosh9227]

Hello I have a kit for 23 years now in good condition. I love it and I am glad I had invested in it. I am in Jamaica

[@AngeVPV]

To save paper, what I do is measure the longest measurements and the ones in the tips of the hem and shoulders, so I can have an idea where they will land in the paper and then I adjust the position of the small pattern. Also, photocopy the pattern and cut each small part and tape it in the paper pattern. This avoid pining the original page.

[@PatternScout]

That is a good idea--I'm going to try that next time (and copying the pattern page!). Thanks!

[@aimster2084]

I do both of these things too, with these patterns.

[@juliemulie1805]

When she used the original page I was shocked. I copy, then cut out each piece then tape it to the paper in the direction best suited to the length needed.

[@jennyventer6940]

Angie you said it all. I got the Dot pattern and also my mom bought the Lutheron patterner and we put the drawing pin underneath the pattern in the x and then you can adjust size by popping it off and not moving the drawning pin. I used to photocopy and keep my original safe. I used small piece of selotape to secure on my paper when I draft out pattern.

[@amylenertz1953]

Using translucent paper really helps, too, as you can put the photocopied pattern underneath the paper.

[@sallystapleton4237]

Very interesting system… I would definitely photocopy the patterns my OCD would be on overload putting pins in it.. loved your dress and the fit was perfect in the end, I think until you try a pattern we all add a little here and there just in case 🤣 xx

[@PatternScout]

I am going to copy it next time I think so I can preserve my pattern pages! :) And I am always adding in a little extra just to be sure...it's like a haircut, once it's cut , it's cut! haha. Thank you for watching!

[@theresasmith1000]

Your dress is so amazing on you! I really love watching your process SO much. I work through projects much like you do, changing and adjusting as I go along. Of course as I've said before, I come for the great process and cute results but stay for the MUSIC! ;)

[@PatternScout]

Haha thank you Theresa!! I love being able to share my projects and glad you are enjoying the process (and music!)!

[@jacksonpeterson6899]

Hi! You've a gorgeous picture on your profile ☺️ just decided to stop by and say hi! I hope my compliment is appreciated!

[@DetraDearmas]

Pricey is right! Out of my market for a bunch of patterns I probably wouldn't use. Just need a few basics. It is a great idea though. They need a smaller kit aimed at a seamstress that knows what she wants at about half that price. Just a few classic pieces without odd homesewed clutter on it and how to draft them, that can mix match or alter is all that's needed with pics of variations.That would fly! It's always been impossible to get simple classic patterns in style, that look tailored. It shouldn't have a homesewed look or feel to it like the major pattern companies put out. So until someone fills that void...

[@PatternScout]

It is very pricey and would be nice to be able to select the patterns you like, I agree! Honestly, if they sold the patterns and the tape measure individually, that would be ideal.

[@MichelleTech]

I've had this pattern making system in my supplies for probably 15 or 20 years and I've never used it lol. Maybe now that I'm getting interested in making clothes again I'll actually use it after seeing your video so thank you!

[@PatternScout]

Definitely! haha I am glad to have it now that I've given it a go--I can definitely see myself using it again!

[@vikkibendle1749]

Me too Michelle!

[@chippy1948]

Gorgeous dress and love your insights and commentary along the way.😊 I always pick up something from each of your videos

[@Suid-Afrika67]

Wow, I love it. The empire style fits my body type very well, I'm pear-shaped. I want to learn how to make my own empire-style dresses. The soft and flowy kind of fabric. Please make one someday.

[@PatternScout]

Thank you!

[@MsCraftyWPB]

Great video. I have this system from a class I took in the 80s!! So good to know this is still around. I'll have to check out the updated patterns. Hope you do more. The dress is cute!

[@PatternScout]

Thanks! I really enjoyed using it and hope to share more--maybe pants or a coat... :)

[@sherrillsturm7240]

I've admired yur sewing skills and been inspired to do a neater, cleaner job by taking my time and returning to unfinished projects. One tip you might enjoy using when you make a skirt that movie constume designers do all the time. That is, peg your bottom hem in just a little bit so your eye does not continue down wider, but curves back to mimic the body's actual shape.

[@blufaerie]

I remember Wendy sharing that system and I was intrigued as well. Thanks for sharing your experience with it.

[@PatternScout]

You bet! Thanks for watching! :)

[@isabelha8522]

They don't have measuring points for the darts at the waist on purpose, because that is a flexible variable. They say to find out by trying on and pin at the bodyshape. I hope you understand my English :)

[@kerstinshadbolt1003]

I have had my kit for a couple of years - my mother used it when I was growing up, so I trusted it from the start. My Lutterloh patterns have given me the best fit compared with conventional ones. With your skills you will be able to endlessly and creatively update the patterns in your kit.. Looking forward to the next one!🌷

[@PatternScout]

That kit has become such a staple for me...I have really enjoyed using it and have so many more projects I want to use it for!

[@tephralynn]

It's interesting to see that the system really hasn't changed from what it was in the 70s (though obviously the pattern styles have). My aunt owned the system, and she taught me to sew using it, but it was definitely being tossed into the deep end as a pre-teen with no experience. 😆

[@PatternScout]

It's such a cool concept! I just had flashbacks to my sewing projects as a teen 😅

[@isewnow]

I have 6 books of this. I love it. It has the best fitting pants ever. They use the European cut which always fits best. Try any of the pants!

[@PatternScout]

Oh that is good to know! I had my eye on a pleated wide leg pants pattern in the book...looking forward to trying those!

[@normacooper6377]

You’re very methodical in your sewing process it seems. Probably really helps when attempting this new system. Taking a break is usually also helpful to me when doing something complex like this. Congratulations on your successful project!

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! Yes, I get really into the details and love figuring it all out :)

[@HcocoH]

Very nicely done. I love how it fits you so well 😊

[@faithmathingsdal79]

This was so interesting. I’ve heard of the Lutterloh system but knew nothing about it. Your dress turned out fab, as per normal. I hope you’ll show us more from this system in the future. You obviously have the mind of an architect and these types of things are likely a fun challenge. For me, it’s a bit intimidating…but a little bit of drafting and stretching one’s skills is a good thing every now and then! Enjoy your new dress!!!

[@PatternScout]

Thanks, Faith! Now that I have the kit and one project under my belt, I feel like future projects will go really fast. I'd like to try a more complicated pattern for the kit for my next one (actually thinking of doing some fun wide leg pleated trousers...or a coat...or blazer...so many patterns!).

[@jaynesimmons2403]

Nice job. I learned a lot from this video.

[@PatternScout]

Thank you!

[@courtneyx9845]

Love this dress. I also love my lutterloh kit. It's great for pattern hacking.

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! Yes, I really enjoyed it a lot--will definitely use it again!

[@Jennifer_Lewis_Beach_Living]

This is really cool, and your dress came out very nice. I agree with the other commenters that this is NOT for beginners. This is definitely for someone with a lot of experience that doesn’t need a lot of step-by-step instructions on creating the pattern.

[@lisapetitenails]

Thank you for making this video. I have been wanting to make this dress from this kit and u inspired me!

[@PatternScout]

You are so welcome! I really enjoyed the project, definitely recommend trying it! Thanks for watching!

[@Golfgirlv]

That was super informative. I’ve never heard of this kit.

[@PatternScout]

I'm so glad! Thanks for watching!

[@yolandaruiz9527]

Love how you explain everything! Love all your videos!

[@PatternScout]

So glad to know it! Thank you!! :)

[@kaygee4691]

Super cute! A black high heel pump/sandal would work for evening. Great job!

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! Yes, as I was getting ready to style this I realized I don't have any black dressy shoes! haha

[@kaygee4691]

@@PatternScout Great excuse to check out DSW!!!😀

[@Tgirldiva]

Oh I love this tutorial!!!

[@gemmasremchevich6719]

The dress turned out really cute. I do my facings the same way you did yours too Casey, nice neat finish.🌷🌼

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! That facing trick is the best! :)

[@marymcilvean2926]

I have just started with this system. You are right in this may not be for a novice, that being said with people like yourself on you tube it makes assembly and drafting very doable, so thank you. On the dress I just made I found my bust apex so the front darts are aligned under that. The other is to trust the system it works well for me I have been adding extra ease to find I was taking it out later. I am lucky I don’t have to make adjustments to the pattern like an FBA. THE 3 items I have made so far fit perfectly and much easier than a purchased pattern.

[@denisedorsey2889]

Good to know!

[@PatternScout]

This is great! I plan to make more of the patterns, I had a lot of fun with it!

[@vickipatridge5094]

I have the lutterloh kit, that purchased years ago. After looking at your very detailed video, I will be trying it out real soon. Thank you

[@PatternScout]

You bet! I really enjoyed it and hope you do too! :)

[@leahjoy2305]

What a great video, thank you for posting your review! My grandmother had a system from the 70s that she found when cleaning out her house for a move and she let me have it. I am loving the gorgeous vintage patterns that came with it and really want to try out the system! I like to watch someone demonstrate things before I attempt them :)

[@PatternScout]

Thanks so much for watching! It is a really fun system and I hope to share more about it in future videos as I try some of the more advanced patterns in the book. So cool that you have one from the 70s!

[@thegirlwithdustonherface]

Very snazzy! The dress looks fab on you! I will say, this system looks too complicated for me to attempt. Seems like I need more knowledge on sizing and drafting first but for those who are already keen, like you, this could be a game changer! Awesome review and Uber awesome dress, Casey!

[@PatternScout]

Thank you!! It's really not too bad! But I could definitely see it being a little bit of a head-scratcher the first time through (like it was for me haha). After I drafted that first piece I felt pretty confident. I'm curious to see how it goes on a more complicated project, so stay tuned ;)

[@kerstinshadbolt1003]

Basic construction skills and sequence of sewing would help. A commercial pattern in the same style from your stash would help too. Otherwise there is always Google and KZbin!

[@cathleenvance4441]

i think your dress turned out gorgeous. I bought the Lutterloh system a couple of years ago and oh my Lord I tried to make a skirt and messed that thing up something pitiful...lol...I have since gotten it right. It was embarrassing. I put that little pin in the wrong spot.lol..But I didn't stop there...I went out on eBay and bought 2 vintage pattern books. I found the most gorgeous vintage Jackie Kennedy dress with the little Bolero jacket like the pink Chanel suit she wore. It's so pretty in pale pink boucle. Anyway, I do like that system for a quick pattern draft...but you definitely need to already know how to sew to use it properly. And !!!! your crochet pillow case top is genius. Seriously, you are really talented Casey. I would have never thought to do that. It's stunning and would also look gorgeous with a lined silk crepe pencil skirt..

[@PatternScout]

That vintage pattern sounds amazing! I love finds like that! I have a few in my stash I want to get to!

[@Floridiansince94]

I love this dress!!!

[@Dana-cp8qz]

I'm currently making the same lutterloh pattern. Thank you for this video!

[@PatternScout]

You are so welcome! Thanks for watching! :)

[@vickithompson1840]

A really interesting concept for creating garments. I have seen this before but never put to practice. I absolutely love your LBD, such a classic, and I love how you styled it. I think this system would give a sewer greater confidence to be a bit more creative, and certainly save space on sewing patterns. Great video yet again. Look forward as always for your next one 🤗🤗

[@PatternScout]

Thanks so much, Vicki! It's such a fun kit and I hope to share more projects with it in the future! :)

[@kathrynsweetzer7438]

Great video and it looks a good product. For how many patterns you get, it's a reasonable price. I love a more classic, tailored design too. I agree with you about watching WithWendy. She's done some amazing stuff. You're a great source of inspiration too, love your vlogs 😍

[@PatternScout]

I'm so glad, thank you! This kit was a good one and I will definitely use it again!

[@miaochs7716]

Dress nicely done. Looks great. Beginner here. Would like to keep this kit in mine for future. Looking for some in person classes to learn collars, darts, zippers pin tucks and other speciality detail items. On my third dress right now. My first jersey knit. Having challenges skipped stitches. I change thread and using New Jersey needle. Lots of correcting and resewing. It’s challenging but fun. Need to learn more about tweaking to make fit better. I can see myself asking for this system for Christmas

[@PatternScout]

That's great! I think this kit would make an awesome christmas gift! Thanks for watching! :)

[@melissagraham4569]

Looks wonderful!

[@Jillybean620]

Wow, that came out beautifully!

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! 😊

[@jennyventer6940]

Cassie the waist coat pattern is very nice. The 9ne on the brochure

[@StayStitching]

I have the system. I have made one dress using it, and I LOVE the dress. It's just a lot to deal with. However, there are virtually no fitting issues. I'm guessing it isn't a whole lot more time consuming than using a ready made pattern. It is very confidence building to make a pattern with no written instructions. I think it will increase my understanding of how things go together instead of dogmatically relying on pattern instructions. Great dress, and you look great in it! **OMG!** That facing trick!! I have NEVER seen that before, it's brilliant!

[@PatternScout]

Oh yeah, I felt like it went really fast (especially faster than printing and taping pdf patterns...and maybe about the same as cutting a paper pattern)! It certainly helps to have some garment construction knowledge. And that facing trick is my go-to! Love that one! :)

[@StayStitching]

@@PatternScout I almost never print my indie patterns myself. I send them off. It's well worth the added expense. I also never trace patterns. I'd honestly rather buy another copy than trace. Oddly the Lutterloh doesn't feel like tracing, I guess because it's drawing?;)

[@PatternScout]

@@StayStitching I agree, it does feel much less tedious than tracing a pattern!

[@wendyb7993]

Great dress. If it’s any help I was once advised to put the dart 4-4 1/2 inches from centre front or back 🙂

[@debweaver9412]

Thanks for reminding me of Lutterloh. I’m encouraged to dust off the book and use it again! You do need to understand sewing construction to use it but I liked it when I used it. 😊

[@PatternScout]

Yes, i definitely think it is good to have some sewing knowledge. It's such a great little kit if you have a little experience and want to shake up your pattern drafting projects! I hope to use it again soon!

[@barbaramatthews4735]

I bought a version of the pattern set on Etsy. It is OK for a pdf copy. I think once I get paid, I am going to get the real deal and have everything. I really like your dress. I want to make a little black dress, but with sleeves. I'm a little heaver and older than you. I could widen the straps and try. You look good in it. I would have too when I was younger.

[@michellemabelle100]

That turned out so well!

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! :)

[@catfish542]

that ruined out cute I looked at that system thank you for sharing this info

[@PatternScout]

You're welcome! I really enjoyed using it--had my eye on it for a while!

[@ljwilliams755]

that is a great little dress on you. Is there somewhere the written directions for how you handled the facing? It looked so neat, but I didn't comprehend everything as I was watching. Many, many years ago my Mom and I purchased the Lutterloh system - totally hooked by the presentation - and never made a thing. Don't even know where it is anymore, but I still use the curves

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! The kit doesn't include much instruction for pattern assembly for the individual patterns, just some general sewing techniques at the front of the binder. I also share the facing technique here in this video in a little more detail at 3:52 kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4PMcoCBodagqKM Hope that helps! :)

[@ljwilliams755]

@@PatternScout awesome, thank you

[@amberandrews162]

Regarding the placement, i usually measure it out the cf and cb beforehand so that i can align them with the edge

[@kerrymcilwaine]

Just found your channel! I have the system but haven’t used it yet, I would value your opinion as I wear an F cup bra and always have to do an FBA on patterns, will this be an issue? This is why I haven’t tried the system yet x

[@PatternScout]

Yay! Yeah, I think for larger cup sizes it would probably require a bit of adjustment. The sizing is based just off of the full bust (and full hip) and doesn't offer options for a greater full bust to high bust ratio. I think if you wanted to use this system, you'd have to draft for a smaller bust (based on a 2" difference from the high bust), then do an FBA on the pattern to make it fit correctly. It's a really cool system and I think if you have some drafting knowledge, it is a great starting point for so many types of patterns. And the drafting process is so quick! But it really comes down to how much you are okay with adjusting the drafting. I think it would still be quicker than drafting from scratch though! Hope that is helpful!

[@tangorhumba3777]

I have this system and agree entirely with you. It is not for absolute beginners. You need to have some basic construction knowledge and you have to know your own body shape and idiosyncrasies. For example if you have sloping shoulders, short or long waist etc. there is a group on Facebook for this system which can be quite helpful. I have made several garments which I am very happy with. I like to comment below about placing the pattern so you don’t waste paper by measuring length and placing small pattern in the right place. Also I learned from FB to photocopy the page so as not to use the original page. There were also comments about making the small page larger which does not alter the measurements by all accounts! I have not tried that. Many thanks for the interesting video As always I have enjoyed your way of making clothes.

[@PatternScout]

Thanks for the tips and thanks for watching! :)

[@enahitt]

I just bought this kit but havent used it yet but think it is going to be great to draft things I want ....plus printing off the section you want to make is easier than using it right our of the book . great video

[@jacksonpeterson6899]

Hi! You've a gorgeous picture on your profile ☺️ just decided to stop by and say hi! I hope my compliment is appreciated!

[@zoeclearwater]

Go to homedepot and get a huge roll of brown paper. It’s in the paint section.

[@keelyjohnston19]

I brought this system a couple of years ago when I first started sewing 🧵 The problem I had was no instructions so I got lost really quickly. I’m going to give it another go now I’m a few years in and a know a bit more. The dress looks beautiful on you ❤️

[@PatternScout]

I can totally see that being very frustrating! There were a few spots where I expected a little more guidance for sure. Thanks so much! :)

[@daniellefike]

This is so interesting! I hadn’t heard of this kit and I’m definitely going to keep it in mind. It’s actually the perfect answer when my parents ask what to get me for a gift. Oooh, would you ever consider doing a sewist holiday gift guide? Then I can just send a link to the people in my life who need suggestions. 🤣

[@PatternScout]

Omg that is such a great idea!!! I need to do that for sure...that will be fun to research, too. 🤓🤩 Thanks, Danielle!!

[@daniellefike]

Yay!! I have plenty of suggestions for what NOT to buy based on past experiences…my people need to hear that unless your sewist is a quilter step away from the quilting cotton, no matter how cute it is! 😂🙄

[@PatternScout]

@@daniellefike YES!! PREACH!! 😂

[@alexandraemrick2799]

Thanks for making this video. I looked at this system 2 or 3 years ago and forgot about it. I may have to revisit it. Oh, and Happy Birthday! (Off to check out some of your patterns while they are on sale).

[@PatternScout]

Thank you for the birthday wishes! :) I really enjoyed the Lutterloh kit--so glad I tried it!

[@darihernandezstudio]

I have had this pattern system for over 10 years and I paid good money for it, but I have yet to use it. I would love to see another pattern made with this system. Your dress turned out cute!

[@dotschischloh9767]

So Carole has made a few outfits using this system.

[@PatternScout]

Thanks! I am curious to try one of the more involved patterns...maybe pants or a coat this fall/winter!

[@lynnries7729]

There are several tutorials on KZbin under Lutterloh or Golden Rule sewing system.

[@kimf1993]

Wow- you look expensive and chic in this. So well made!

[@margiebrincheski4293]

I have this kit. But I struggle with needing a FBA on most things I make. In your opinion would you use your high bust measurement an do the FBA or use the actual full bust measurement with these patterns. FBA are fear inducing.

[@PatternScout]

I would use the full bust, since the full bust and hip are what the pattern measurements are based off of. Then adjust the pattern to fit the high bust (that is what to had to do). You could also try taking your high bust measurement and adding two inches to get the industry "standard" full bust to draft the patterns, then do a full bust adjustment on the pattern. I feel like that is the main limitation with this system...if you usually need a full bust adjustment, you'll probably need it for these patterns. There might be a workaround that I haven't figured out yet, though!

[@estilobyelizabeth]

The dress looks amazing on you! I like the idea of this but I think where I'm at now is just having people make the pattern for me and me buying it, tho maybe sometime in the future! Appreciate the real review if it :)

[@PatternScout]

Thank you! :)

[@susancampanelli4245]

I’m just starting my sewing adventure with your fern blouse pattern. Being able to draft my own clothes is my dream. Thank you for the honest review. BTW Nippies needs to sponsor you!

[@PatternScout]

Yay! Hope you enjoy the Fern pattern! I can see this kit being a regular tool in my sewing practice--it goes so fast! And Nippies does need to sponsor me! haha in addition to talking about them here, I tell people about them all the time 😂

[@denisedorsey2889]

Susan, welcome to the wonderful world of garment sewing! The Fern top is great. It’s one of my go-to patterns. I just recently made my fourth Fern. It’s worth sewing up a pattern more than once. That first go, even if it turns out beautifully, is still a learning experience. Once you have that first make, the second go gives you confidence, allows you to experiment with a different fabric, neckline, etc. And it makes sense from an economic standpoint. Enjoy your adventure, we’re all here supporting you.

[@petarahmatalla2796]

wonderful tutorial, I have learned a lot from your videos, thank you so much for sharing. Do you ever do midcentury vintage projects? or would you consider doing one? Many thanks again, from the UK x

[@heidicook2395]

Thank you for showing how to adjust the waist when one's hips are significantly larger than the waist.

[@denisedorsey2889]

I’ve heard of this system but never really understood what it was. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience with it. My big takeaway- your treatment of the facing!😆

[@PatternScout]

It's a really neat concept! And the facings...that is my go-to! :)

[@jwenting]

How well does this scale to people with larger sizes? I find most patterns you find online, or in books and magazines, are way too small for me (even ones that are listed as going to my size usually end up needing to have a few inches added to the waistline and length (I'm awkwardly sized, with an overly long body compared to my legs and a rather large waist)).

[@maryjanegibson7743]

Making a copy of the pattern page will keep your pattern book in good condition. The kit can be expensive, unless you use it often, and keeping the pages intact will be important, especially if you use the patterns often. What I have done is to copy all of the patterns I'm likely to use, and I keep them in large envelopes that I keep right in the binder. A little tape over the punched holes in the envelopes keeps them in good shape and I like the convenience of already having the patterns copied; I just make a list of the pattern numbers on the front of the envelopes. Two envelopes were enough to keep all the pattern copies. And once the patterns have been drawn on pattern paper, I make a note of that right on the envelope to save me the trouble of making a second copy of a pattern I've already drawn out. If my measurements change, I can alter the patterns I've already drawn or make new ones.

[@gabss2618]

“I will see you tomorrow which will be less than a second for you” And then the ads started 😂 so no, it was several second haha

[@natashah4420]

You talked about adding to the dress in the hip, bust etc. and as you sewed you talked about removing from the dress in the end did you have to adjust the pattern to fit you the way you wanted or did you make the dress as it looks and is drafted in the book?

[@PatternScout]

I adjusted the dress to fit me the way I wanted, which is what I do with all patterns and sewing projects. The pattern is just a starting point for me :)

[@TeamD2012]

I wondered about that …where to put the pattern on the paper. Thank u!

[@diversos-barbarakazzan3882]

Ameiii muito bom mesmo Aooow Gratidão

[@ColeAlisa]

Does it show you how to draft a pattern of your own design?

[@lavadaroufs]

I know there is supplements to the original package but what is the cost for the future new designs?Do they come out every year and are they required and how much more $?

[@PatternScout]

I'm not sure off the top of my head...Best to check out the Lutterloh website! I think there are pretty reasonable :)

[@lisafeldmann9863]

How do you think those would work with someone with a DDD cup? Do they address a FBA for their patterns?

[@PatternScout]

For the kit I purchased, I do think it would require some extra fitting around the bust for most of the patterns for greater full bust to high bust ratios. They offer kits that seem to be designed for an extended size range, but I couldn't find any explanation of how they address a fuller bust or FBAs, which is a bummer. The kit definitely has some limitations. Hope that helps!

[@audreywring1920]

FBA is addressed as follows, not in kit. Use your high chest measurement to draft from mid armscye and above which will fit your shoulders. If you are a C or D use your full bust measuring to draft to the waist. If you are bigger than a D put the rest in FBA to accommodate your chest. Draft a pattern that fits you well and use this as a template for all other patterns to see if the new pattern drafted needs adjustment. The system works very well. 10 full price big 4 patterns is equal to a kit in the UK.

[@cinemaocd1752]

This is like spirograph for patterns. It's so weird but also it's been around so long, and I'm tempted. My big concern is no instructions on how to sew the thing, just the shapes provided. I'm a beginner and I would have no idea where to start...

[@sd1212yt]

What kind of fabric did you use? Was it knit or woven?

[@PatternScout]

I used a non stretch linen (woven)

[@yolandarowe3094]

To keep my patterns hole free, I use a copy to do my drafting. A quick trace onto exam table paper, and I'm off to the races. ETA: I also used hole reinforcers to the patterns while in the binder.

[@PatternScout]

Oh that is a great idea! Thanks for sharing! :)

[@chrystalsummerfield1859]

I've been tossing up between the lutterloh and Surefire Designs systems, as standard patterns never fit me. This has been informative, but I'm still unsure.

[@PatternScout]

I haven't tried SureFit but have seen it here and there (now I'm curious about it!). I was really happy with Lutterloh! I do think it follows a typical sizing standard, so i imagine that adjustments will still need to be made to the patterns if you usually have to do that.

[@Floridiansince94]

I was not able to find the ironing board you have ;/

[@TeamD2012]

Question…how do u figure how much yardage to buy?

[@PatternScout]

I kind of guess-timate! :) Usually for short sleeveless dresses, 1.5 to 2 yards is enough.

[@deboraheliason188]

Maybe a stupid question, but how do you fix the zipper where it sticks out? That has me stumped.

[@PatternScout]

Not a stupid question! I actually didn't have to do anything else to it once it was permanently installed. I think because it was basted in and I didn't have the sizing finalized/straps holding it in the right position, it puckered a little. Once I got the zipper sewn in with regular stitches, it smoothed out. Hope that helps!

[@debbieh7564]

How did you calculate the position of the grain line on the back? Right angles to waistline? Right angles to top of pattern?

[@AngeVPV]

It is the pattern, parallel to the center back.

[@debbieh7564]

@@AngeVPV Thanks for the prompt response. I just rewatched the video and centre back doesn’t look like a straight line. It looks like it’s segmented into 3 sections. Top to waist, waist to hip, hip to hem with slight angle inwards from top to waist, slight angle out to hip and then hard to tell if an angle between hip and hem with respect to the other 2 segments.

[@PatternScout]

I used the waistline as a guide and drafted the grainline perdindicular to that (I should have mentioned that in the video, sorry!). You are right, Debbie, the center back was shaped so I couldn't use it as a guide for the GL.

[@mariannagonzales7856]

Hi, somebody knows what kind of fabric is it??

[@PatternScout]

Linen :)

[@mariannagonzales7856]

Thnks ! 🫰

[@NancySchober]

I really like this kit, but I'm an experienced seamstress. I think it would frustrate a beginner or someone who needs detailed instructions. I believe Lutterloh is drafted for 5 foot 7 in tall. There's an arrow indicating the grain line that you can extend onto your enlargement. I note on my draft the supplement & pattern number plus my bust and hips measurements used and the seam allowance. Those are especially help when reusing a pattern over and over. Once I made the slopers (please ALWAYS start with a fitting block bcs it will indicate what adjustments need to be made after the piece is drafted) pretty much any part of any pattern could be combined from the kit. I'm adventurous enough to also combine parts of patterns from favorite cloned garments. My biggest complaint about the system is there is no index.

[@PatternScout]

I think it depends on the person, but yes I think those with a little more experience will enjoy this kit most. Thanks for the tips!

[@jadeelise7982]

this looks intimidating and i am not a beginner lol...

[@PatternScout]

It's really not too bad! :)

[@maryaltman9978]

The trouble with this system is that the math means that fat=tall. So, every time I draft something, I have to take several inches out of the length.

[@thesnowgirl]

You are supposed to make a copy of pattern so you don't ruin original. You can also leave copy taped to paper. They say beginners can do this kind d of drafting but you better know how to construct and sew. A friend and I vintage kit. Long before DVD lol

[@genesisasmith5879]

Next time make a photo copy of the pattern and you only need to use the specific pattern.