Pattern Instructions

Ann of Gorgeous Things had a post on poor pattern instructions that really hit a sore spot with a lot of readers, myself among them. I am making Hot Patterns Riviera Boulevard cardigan jacket which has some issues. Yes, the instructions are less than stellar, but the only thing that was really unclear were the pockets. I finally figured them out, but not without some ripping. The instructions have you sew one short side and the long side and then turn. Too bulky, and I am using a relatively light weight double knit, not the thick, stable knit the pattern calls for. I re cut and sewed the short edge, turned it and serged the long open side. It is hidden in the pocket layers anyway. But, the biggest issue I have is the lack of match points. We all complain at one time or other about Burda instructions, but what makes Burda easy to use are the numbers that easily tell you what goes where. That is part of the problem I had with the pockets: not enough match points. The other problem I have had so far seems to be a drafting error. There are hem facings that attach to the front facings and then are sewn to the jacket. They aren't large enough and again I had to re cut larger side front facings. They were a good 2" too short, so I really don't think this is my error. The fit of the jacket however is good and I didn't actually have to make an fba. The fit is loose, but the bust fits nicely and doesn't hike up in front which generally happens without an fba. I hope to have this finished by the end of the weekend. Tomorrow is supposed to be gorgeous, so I'll be working in the garden.