I've always had a problem with McCall's patterns fitting me. So, I've been reading up about it on PatternReview.com. (Pattern Review Board) and also talking to the ladies that work in my local JoAnn Fabrics and in the fabric area of Walmart. Everyone says the same thing, "McCall's patterns NEVER fit!" I've read it's because McCall's patterns have 'lots of ease'. Has this been true for you too, or am I losing my mind?
Cyinda from near Seattle
I've never had any luck with McCall's either. Simplicity patterns are much better.
I've also had the same problem with McCall's. Their sizes seem to run small. Using a size larger or those patterns with 3 sizes on it helped.
I have been sewing for years and it used to be that all patterns ran too large....you would have to buy a pattern smaller than what you would wear in readymade. Then they started going the other way. I don't think it is McCalls but all patterns run small. They also are not as clear in directions as they used to be.
I don't notice major differences in how the various brands fit. I wear a 12 in patterns, though, and a 10 in purchased clothing. The problem I have in patterns PERIOD is that there is extra fabric at the back of the waist, above my rear end.
There are variations within pattern lines too, depending on the style. You can check before you cut. Take a garment of a similar fabric that fits you well and measure it. Measure shoulder width, bust, waist, hips, or whatever is critical for this design. Now check those measurements against the pattern piece. This will help you select the right size and perhaps adjust the pattern.
BTW, Patternreview.com is a wonderful place for information about sewing. You can find reviews on specific patterns. They often include comments about the fit.
LRS
Not had a bunch of luck with simplicity either. Ive done several costume designs, for period costume work, both from simplicity and mccalls and both have had horrid fitment. Simplicity at times even seems to forget whole sections of finishing details in the patterns and instructions, a pattern showing a gathered leg pant in both drawing and picture, yet the pattern and instructions make no accomodation to match the clothing to the picture, ending up with freakishly large leg openings, with finished edges as if they werent intended to be gathered as in the photo/drawings.
I recently started buying mccall patterns and I admit that they run small by 2 to 3 sizes. I thought I was going blank with the instructions.
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I have been sewing for over 50 years; I make all my own clothes. I have noticed recently that the patterns have such lighter print, I can't read them and the pictures of the pattern pieces are much smaller. I have 20/20 vision.
By Linda
You are correct. For some activities I now use a magnifing sheet. It is like a magnifying glass except it is 8x10 size and you just lay it on top of what you were trying to read.
That is probably true. You might need to buy a large magnifier that will accommodate a book page.
