Butterick 6214 Sew Along with Crafty Gemini: Video #3: How to Read a Sewing Pattern Envelope

[@jellybean-ky1ip]

ive never had anyone explain the back on a pattern.thank you so much.that was a light bulb moment.

[@cdosby43]

Six years later and I'm watching this entire series! I had sewing lessons before, but I NEVER had things explained like this! Thank you for keeping these videos up so those of us who are late to the party can watch and learn!

[@angier536]

Thank you. This is exactly what I needed, as I've never sewn any piece of clothing before, just quilts. Your teaching is just what atonal newbie needs!

[@bmnegus3772]

THANK YOU! This was the best tutorial I have ever had with regard to sewing. This close examination of the pattern which I never knew to do before, will explain why so many projects were less than satisfactory. Will be sticking to the series! (Yes you do talk a lot - of absolute sense!)

[@esterixis]

I think the information you gave was perfect. I'd rather have detailed explanations than not enough. Bah humbug to those who said you talked too much!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks! I can't make everyone happy and I'm glad to help those that appreciate the detailed info. :)

[@sewistnotsewer]

It was great! I'm sure the beginning garments sewists are very appreciative. I just skipped past the areas I didn't need, and watched the ones that were instructional to me. Phooey on the whiners!

[@julie1089]

I have been sewing since before you were born and the explanations you have given today have been invaluable! Thank you so much it has definitely renewed my interest in sewing for myself! MWAAAA Hugs and luvs keep on talkin' girl! xx

[@jenniferpenner609]

I was taught sewing years ago in Jr. High, & and have sewn off & on for myself over the years, being happy with what I make. Mostly I've been quilting now, or crafting. But I have learned or released so much from your videos. Or even your tips are so helpful. The one thing I always hated about sewing was pinning down & cutting out the pattern/fabric. Love the idea of using weights, the way you cut the notches & all! Saves so much time & stress. And I don't remember referring to the finished garment measurements either, which would account for a friend of mine who says whenever she makes anything, it's always way too big at the finish. So she won't try to see clothing anymore. I'm going to share this with her. I think you're a fantastic teacher, because you anticipate all the questions people might have, that's difficult to do, so keep doing what you're doing & sharing the gift God gave you. Thank you, sincerely, Jen

[@sewittoday1]

You don't talk to much your teaching is perfect. I have been watching you since you used to video with one child in a pouch. Loved you then love you now. I have been sewing for over 40 years and still learn all the time. thank you and keep doing what you do. I am busy Sewing and crafting in NH. Love to follow along.

[@marykretschmar5069]

You are an great teacher! I never knew what all of that stuff meant on the back. But now I know why my clothes were always too big. Thank you.

[@pamdempsey3647]

Your tutorials give details that are necessary to complete projects with success. I was thrilled that you taught how pattern sizes differ from the store bought garments we purchase. This particular tutorial pointed out the importance of "the finished garment measurement" that I was not familiar with previously . Thank you for providing these instructions. I'm finally learning how to sew correctly, thanks to you.....and by the way I'm soon to be 57 years old and am hoping to spend much more time sewing. God's blessings to you.

[@heidefries1825]

For those of us who are beginning the details are so very helpful, you stay on point and provide clear info. The investment of time in watching the video series was so worth while - there is always something to learn. The ease/finished measurement was a game changer for me. I tried sewing garments 20+ years ago but never had success. I have general sewing skills but making the adjustments I needed for a proper fit has always been a mystery. Sadly, I never had anyone give me the direction/info you have. Being able to watch/sew along is great and I have a lot more confidence in trying again.

[@sueheartscrafts3738]

That was the best description of reading the back of the pattern! I definitely had a lightbulb moment. I've taken many sewing classes and no one ever explained it like you did. Thank you soo much 😊

[@meloncornets3034]

I love your teaching style. 5 years ago, I learned hand sewing stitches from your videos and even now that I'm more experienced, I appreciate your teaching style. Beginners will appreciate it too!

[@mercrn1995]

Explain, talk, teach as much and as long as you like. You are providing an education! Love how you teach, demonstrate and explain. I need it! LOL You are a blessing! Keep up the good work. Thank you for all your efforts :)

[@annamarieh333]

I know this is late but I enjoy your intros! I’m a straight up BEGINNER so I listen very carefully to everything you say, I pause the video, I take notes and I love you and the way you teach us! Trust me I AM LEARNING so much! Thank you!

[@reniforbes7197]

I love the way you explain things. I have sewn patterns many times and am picking up so much information I didn't know before. Thank you

[@rhogoldberg243]

I’ve been sewing for many years and never paid much attention to the finished product measurements on the pattern. I learned from your video how important that is. Excellent review of the pattern!

[@robertharper8518]

Never apologize for taking time to explain the steps to get a top we will enjoy wearing! You are the Best!

[@LeanneFerisZA]

OMG, thanks for such a detailed tutorial! Very helpful and now I don't feel so lost.

[@vivianarodriguez3690]

I think that's why I love this channel, because you go indeep but spirited. Never boring. Always clear.

[@MarieH528]

Vanessa, I do believe that I had said during a different episode of your Crafting that You are a Fantastic Teacher! You have clearly broke down this pattern so well that I believe that anyone who watched listened and maybe took some notes, could easily understand almost any pattern! My hats off to you! Thanks again for Sharing your knowledge and experience with us! I really appreciate it!

[@chattingwithu]

Thank you Crafty Gemini! I never realized that the finished size at the bottom of the pattern was so informative and really helps direct one to the correct size to make! You are a very good teacher!

[@crochetingknitter4751]

Wow! The game changer for me was when you went over the finished garment measurements! I’ve been sewing easy items for me for years and have often wondered why certain items didn’t fit well. Obviously, there were many things I was ignoring, like taking better measurements and the finished garment measurements! Thanks so much for this. As soon as my rayón Chalis comes in, I’ll be starting. Thanks so much for all the details-I always learn so much from you. As a Latina immigrant I like to support my sisters and brothers and I am so proud of you for all your accomplishments. You and your family are some of the hardest working people out there! Mil gracias!

[@carmengonzalez4446]

Oh Vanessa...THANK YOU!! I am 67 years old and have been sewing since I took Home Ec in high school (seems like centuries 😩) in Puerto Rico. Have been watching your videos for a long time and love your teaching style. Coming from a retired High School Spanish teacher, i can honestly say, you are an amazing teacher! I have learned so much from you, and this video, especially the size chart which I had no idea even existed. Keep up the good work, and looking forward to seeing your next videos! Carmen Gonzalez

[@mercrn1995]

Vanessa, keep teaching the way you do!! It works for me and lots of other people too. Ignore the negative people. I need your style of teaching. Thank you ;)

[@nancyw4442]

I love your tutorials. Though I have been sewing for many years, I still learn something from the videos. I never paid that much attention other than fabric, amount and notions. This explains why my finished product never fits the way I like!

[@trishblakely3476]

Vanessa, this is an amazing tutorial! I NEVER knew about the pattern manufacturers easement charts! That was an absolute revelation. I will never read the back of a pattern the same way again. Thank you so much for producing this series! 😀👍

[@robinbequette8824]

I have learned tons and can't wait to get started today! I am a quilter but would have never tied making something to wear without these tutorials

[@amandaowens3955]

Thank you for such clarity and details. I started sewing again, after a 20 year hiatus, and you have saved me in fabric (and money) with this! You are clear, concise, and thorough in your videos.

[@annashetler5618]

I have been sewing for a long time -on and off- (since high school-graduated in 1962) and never realized all the information, I over looked, on the back of a pattern. A very informative video. I do like your teaching method-I have taught for 30 years and have seen all the different ways to teach (supervisor of some) and yours is fantastic (keep talking all you want). Thank you for all your hard work.

[@whoismcgee]

simply perfect - you were as concise as can be given all the important info there is to discern from pattern packet. Truly appreciated.

[@steph8988]

Please don't stop talking! Your videos are the closest thing I have to a sewing class. I've learned so much from watching your videos.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks!

[@absurdo217]

I'm glad I watched this video in its entirety. I have been sewing my own clothes from commercial patterns for a few years now and always stopped reading the back of the envelope at notions unless the finished garment measurements included bust, waist and hip measurements. Never paid attention to this section if it only included lower width and back length measurements because I didn't think they were important at all. Now thanks to you I understand these measurements matter and are useful and even crucial to decide on the size to cut, to adjust the fit and to achieve the best final results. Thank you very much, I am loving this series. And I can listen to you all day long 🙂

[@dottyaraiza5053]

Wow.....I’ve been sewing for 30/years and I learn so much about the back of Butterick patterns! I always had to alter my patterns and here I just needed to choose a different size! Thank you so much for this video. 😀

[@debramejia5091]

Very thorough and concise tutorial, exactly what beginners need! I now better understand how to choose the appropriate size pattern and the value of understanding the finished garment measurements. Thank you for such an in depth tutorial. Please do not let negative comments discourage you nor change your format. Your tutorials are an incredible blessing for absolute beginners like me who don't know where to start and would probably give up without tutorials like yours. Thank you so much!

[@valleycat2010]

I like the way you talk and teach.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks! Glad to help. :)

[@carolynblack1060]

Vanessa, you are a very gifted teacher! Thank you for sharing your gift in such a way to help us to be a better. We must continue to strive for excellence. Great video. Blessings

[@margaretshafer9882]

I’ve been sewing for years and you gave me a lot of new info. Thank you.

[@budoneof15]

I think you have some great suggestions. I’ve been sewing for 40 years and I know you can always learn something new.

[@kellyf4154]

Game changer! Currently a confident beginner Quilter. I do not think that you talk too much at all! Love love love your tutorials.

[@susangannon5621]

First I think you are fantastic and I have learned so much. If someone does not have 29 mins to learn a skill then it is a sad world. So talk away as you make sense and you are a great teacher!

[@dallasdunrobin7662]

This is awesome! I've often wished that Butterrick and other pattern companies would release tutorial videos with their patterns. So Happy you did this!!!!!!!

[@janepalmer1965]

I have been Sewing many years and never knew the pattern company had an ease chart! That is definitely a big help. Than you V

[@michellehenry7008]

What a phenomenal approach to teaching. I am a beginner and have only sewn easy household projects. I want to get into clothing and patterns. This series has proven to give me the push and confidence that I need. Love how you explain everything down to the last detail. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I look forward to your future videos and completing my first clothing project with your instructions as my guide.

[@doloresburrell7434]

I just watched this for the second time. My light bulb moment was in learning how to understand and use the pattern back. I hope you never change your teaching style. Now I’m doing the Winchester dolman top pattern and since I’m almost finished with it, I bought the hack pack and watched it already. You’re. A born teacher.!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Yay! So glad you enjoy my teaching style! 👏🏽👍🏽

[@RoseOriginals]

Whew! Great tutorial! Jam packed with information that I would surely have missed. Thank you!

[@susanbruce-ross6624]

You talk as much as you want!!! Because of your videos I have been able to go from barely putting a button on a shirt to making beautiful quilts, totes, wallets, and now I will be making amazing clothes. Please do not listen to the criticism. You are doing great!!! Thank you.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Hi Susan! Glad you are enjoying the garment sewing videos, too! Thanks for your continued support. :)

[@mariecory9451]

Susan Bruce-Ross I agree

[@debbiezaura5423]

Thank you Vanessa... I never knew that there are "Ease Charts" for each pattern company on their websites. This video is jam packed with helpful information. I have been in search of a video that showed exactly what you are teaching in this series. No detail is left out and it shows what we end up with when we use our body measurements to determine the size to cut out..... I look forward to the remaining videos. I hope to learn how to apply my body measurements to a commercial pattern and the know how to adjust properly. By the way, I love to hear you talk.... Because every word is a "Pearl of wisdom" and so helpful.... Sometimes people just don't understand that it could be the little details they don't hear that could give them the lightbulb moment. Thank You for taking the time to teach us with your videos.

[@colettevalentine9912]

I love all your tutorials, You are a great teacher, thanks for taking the time to explain all the details. I didn't know a lot of things. Wow! refreshing.

[@isabelcoffiel698]

I don"t think you talk too much. I love the way you teach. I do take notes and hope to learn and produce useable garments.

[@janetmoore1124]

Loved this video! Great Job! This is exactly the kind of information that needs to be taught to beginners - and more than a few not so beginning seamstresses. Can not wait to see what comes next.

[@ellastroupe5754]

I LOVE LOVE that you don't assume what I know. I love that you teach in depth. My lightbulb moment was the "ease" information. I had no idea that information even existed. I also learned from the fabric information. To be honest I was so into the video that it was over before I knew it. I am so very excited for the next video. I ordered your fabric and feel more ready with each video. Thank you for going step by step as usual.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Hi Ella! So glad you enjoyed it. :) Can't wait to see what you make.

[@karenconlin9615]

Learned something? I learned tons. Thank you so much for a comprehensive look at the pattern. You know how to teach. Now on to the next learning video. Yahoo!

[@brandypettit]

I think it's humorous that you have to address the fact that you are giving detailed info on a beginner sewing series. People are crazy sometimes! I appreciate the details tremendously, and I am not a beginner but I have only sewn a few clothes from an actual pattern. Most of the time my grandma or mom is handy to just tell me how to make something happen. :) I totally learned things from this video! I had no idea you can get ease information from the pattern designer's website, thank you for that! And as an avid quilter I have made some Hawaiian shirts from quilting cotton (but those aren't usually all that flattering anyway lol!) so it is nice to know I should look into different fabric types in the future. Thank you Vanessa!

[@TheFriendshipchurch]

Reading a pattern is paramount for success! Way to go Vanessa....start well, finish well! Keep talking!

[@rexrover1]

this was awesome! I wouldn't change a thing ! i've been sewing on and off throughout the years and I learned so many things from you today !!

[@karenmcdonner983]

I have been sewing for many many years and I've still learned from you and enjoy your style of teaching a lot! Thanks!

[@adamsallekat1]

I enjoy the through teaching. I learned a whole lot. I haven't sewed since I was a size small now I'm all over the chart at age 63. So what you taught me was awesome. Now I get it.

[@Tinarobb8]

Hello Vanessa, This tutorial was an eye-opener for me. I haven't sewn for 10 years or more and thought this would be an excellent opportunity to refresh my memory. Boy-O-Boy!!! My eyes were opened wide, especially concerning how to use the pattern information; specifically using the Finished Garment Measurements. According to my body measurements I should cut Size "L" but after viewing the tutorial re Finished Garment Measurement, I should cut a Size "S." I never realized you could change the cutting pattern size to produce a better fit that's customized for the body. I'm shocked and naturally am going to recheck my body measurements -LOL. Writing down and noting the specifics I want and need to incorporate into sewing the top has also help clearly define what my plans should be to successfully complete the project. Thank you so, so much. I love your teaching style and you can talk to me all night long because you impart so much useful information. Again, thank you and I look forward to the next video.

[@ashleyg3648]

the finished garment measurements were a game changer! I never knew what those were for. XD

[@TheCraftyGemini]

yup! Glad to help. :)

[@cassiebosch4341]

Oh my gosh, I appreciate ALL the detail. I had been afraid to sew until I found you.

[@carlalissa7693]

Excellent video. Love the explanation of how important is to consider the finish measurements vs. actual and the relation to ease. Took me years to learn. If I had your video would have taken me 20 mins. Thank you Vanessa for all your explanations and effort. It is worth all the talk. LOL

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks for watching the video... even though you don't need it! LOL.

[@LizMcDon]

WOW!! Vanessa, that tutorial is wonderful. I’ve been sewing for over 50 years, having made my own clothing many years ago. I did not know about the ease allowance of patterns. That is probably why some of my garments didn’t hang right on me. While I am no longer a clothing sewing, I am really enjoying your videos and learning from them. Thank you so much.

[@franmcavoy4439]

Thank you.!! I never had garment sewing lessons , so for me this video was very informative. I look forward to the next step.

[@dianamay6017]

I’ve never spent so much time on reading the back of a pattern. That’s why the top I made was in the wrong fabric and didn’t fit. This has really helped and I agree it’s good advice for any pattern. Thanks for taking the time to explain it so well Vanessa. I’m looking forward to getting started

[@hbailey8372]

I love your teaching style! There is nothing wrong with being thorough!

[@marykowalski7349]

Wow - I would have made every mistake in the last video and NOW you have empowered me to really dive in and give this a try. Thanks, V!!!

[@sandraborger9774]

I have been a sewer for years. Wish I’d had all this information then. I’m an avid quilter and I want to get back into sewing my own clothes again. A medical mishap has changed my body so this video has given me the info I need to get things going on the right direction. When I did make my own clothes for work I always used rayon challis for my dresses and tops. Love the stuff

[@simplychristal6526]

This is an awesome video. I learned so much. Thank you for taking the time to teach us from the beginning. It's exactly what i was looking for. ☺️

[@barbhermening6082]

Great video and very thorough. I’ve been sewing for over 40 years and learned through trial and error. I did not know that the pattern company website had a description of ease, and I’ll use that in the future. Thank you for your videos!

[@wendykakogawa1861]

I appreciate at your hinting where the Pattern is available for purchase, along with pointing out that the Pattern Envelope provides necessary information just to help you get started with the prep work. It's like learning a new language or deciphering codes. Fun! I'm so glad you took the time to explain the measurements and encouraged us/emphasized not to get caught up in the sizes; thank you for also having the Clip & Slide Self-Measuring Tape available on your website. I hated waking up my husband just to measure me.

[@cornwallcrafter8410]

You are a star! Great video, I learned so much more about reading the back of the envelopes. Thank you so much!

[@robbinbaughman1048]

Thank you!!! I've been a struggling in my sewing. Now my teenage daughters want to learn. Your video is on my saved list for them. Yippee, they will enjoy sewing more than I have. I'm looking forward to putting all this into practice.

[@Ann-fn4vc]

Because of your teaching style I was able to sew a skirt. You're the best instructor!

[@tonyalee6072]

This video was the best I've seen so far. The finished garments measurements is so important. I never knew to look for that. Now I know what to look for and it will make things much easier. Thank you so much.

[@queenwinchester479]

I really appreciate the level of detail & explanations you provide. Thank you for all the information, time & energy you put into this video

[@donnacornell6340]

The Ease charts are my light bulb moment. I am getting back into sewing after a 20yr break so your information is just perfect and presented clearly and concisely.

[@Renab1230]

You rock!!! Got so much important points on what I was doing wrong in garment sewing. Will watch this series over and over. And will have my daughter watch when she starts sewing. Thanks keep up the GREAT work.

[@CrazyZee69]

I am soooooooooooo glad that you are teaching me how to sew my own clothes. I didn't know there is so much information that you needed to know about making your own clothes, WOW. So, you are never too old to learn. Thank you, thank you, and thank you so very much for taking the time to teach and btw luv, luv your videos. This is a game changer for me, Thank you.

[@michellehedgcock1107]

I wish I could hit the thumbs up button multiple times. This information was great! I had never understood how to read the back of a pattern envelope. Thank you!

[@mercrn1995]

Vanessa, thank you so much for explaining everything I need to know about understanding the back of the pattern. You have made it very clear for me. I did wonder about all the stuff on the back of the patterns when I saw them in the craft store. I am soooo glad I watched and took notes. If I follow what you have taught, I hope that with care, I won't make too many big mistakes. I completely understand what you have taught. How you explained is truly a game changer, now I don't feel intimidated by all the info on the pattern. Wow! I am thinking I can do this. Now I have to put all this to practice.

[@woollyelephantpodcasts4057]

I am so glad you have come out with this series. I have been wanting to sew my own clothes for a while but haven't been too sure where to start. i have sewing experience, but only with bags. Thank you for how in depth you went for this video. So helpful x

[@karenbadger9311]

Ease charts are so difficult to understand. It will be hard to cut out a size that is different than my measurements, but I DO know that I am rarely happy with the fit, so yes, that's my game changer. Looking forward to the next video. I like the clarity you accomplish in the way you teach. Thank you!

[@Alaskaraised]

I appreciate the detailed information. I have made a few tops and am still a beginner in my opinion. I want to learn to make clothes from traditional patterns. Your video helped fill in the gaps. The most important take away from this video for me was when you pointed out the purpose of the "Finished Measurement" section. I didn't realize how important that was and why. This will make a huge difference in my finished garment fitting me the way it should. Thank you for being detailed and striving to make sewing fun and not stressful for those that are wanting to learn! Happy sewing! :D

[@TrishaAnnwithanE]

Thank you for this video. I’m so stoked to try garment sewing. I really like your teaching style. Edited to add: I found the ease chart and finished sized so helpful. Also, the “how much fabric to buy” section was explained very well.

[@cheriebentz3265]

Excellent video! I learned quite a few things from your video. I never really understood what the lower width meant. It was definitely a lightbulb moment. This is the kind of stuff that I would have liked to learn from when I first started sewing. Vanessa, you’re thorough and you make it very interesting. You’re a very good teacher. Thank you!

[@lilaboss6894]

I think you do a wonderful job! I've grown up doing bits and pieces of clothing sewing and have never really been happy with the results. You have inspired me to try again! The ease information blew me away...I had NO idea what any of that was! Keep up the good work!

[@junielane507]

Thank you! I always wanted to get started sewing clothes. I am grateful for the detailed videos especially about the finished garment information and adjustments. You have walked me through receipes, quilts, bags and now clothes . Looking forward to this new adventure

[@michellec1006]

I really liked the walk through on how to read the back of the pattern. Feeling more confident now to try this pattern or another. I'll keep watching. Thanks!

[@BanAvtai]

OMG! No wonder I've never been able to make anything work out even with the "easy" " beginner" patterns. What a wonderful video -- thank you so much, Vanessa!

[@maryg65]

I learn so much from you Vanessa! You are a excellent teacher! I can’t to begin to tell you how long I have wanted to learn to make my own clothes. Video 1 is what I usually get in super small version. 🙃. Thank you 😊

[@Quilts4fun]

You are a fantastic teacher!! I love how well you explain everything. I am a beginner and learned so much on how to read the back of the pattern to find what is actually going to work for me. Yeah. Feeling so much more confident

[@fredawade9115]

When I was in high school I took all the home ec classes I could because I enjoyed it so much, especially garment sewing. We learned pattern fitting and fabric terms like challis, chamber, broadcloth, etc. today ladies may not understand some of the standard terminology you are explaining on these videos. This would be good for future videos, as would Sewing for children. I know you have several videos for children, but young moms might benefit from more. Thank you.

[@beverlylemay4004]

Great video. I’ve been sewing for 50 years, (I can’t believe it’s been that long) & I think you did an excellent job of explaining the envelope information.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Wow. What a compliment. Thanks so much for your kind words. :)

[@kamillasandera-zech4008]

You are the BEST INSTRUCTOR i ever see on line . You deserve TRIPLE AAA. THANK YOU. Kamilla Canada.

[@saraw8503]

My mother taught me to sew. I also had a hone ec class in high school that included sewing. I have no recollection of either teaching this much detail about reading the pattern package. This was a terrific tutorial for this sewing veteran who has had a lifetime of misinformation.

[@lovingYaYa006]

Hey Vanessa This makes perfect sense to me now. I won't say I'm 100% there, but I now know how I came to hate commercial patterns. I will try to get this pattern and follow along. I have so many. Oh and I really don't think you talk too much. You speak with such energy. I love it. Great explanation.

[@leahg4596]

I never took the information on the ease of garment into consideration and did not know you could look it up for exact size of ease. Thank you for pointing that out.

[@donnad57]

I appreciate how detailed your explanations are! Finished size and ease - wow! I had no idea.

[@elizabethcromwell9402]

Great explanations, I have been sewing for 50 years and this is great advice on the back of the patterns! I never did learn how to make the pattern fit, so you are getting me there, AND your pattern B6214 is exactlY what I have and was thinking of making a blouse. Not at all too much talking!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad you enjoyed it! Happy sewing!

[@erincrandon5562]

This was so helpful and clear - thank you. The discussion about ease was a lightbulb for me! Great tutorial