Pattern Review: Simplicity 3850

Time to do some catching up on my posts. This is my eighth entry into the Pattern Stash Contest at Pattern Review. I am finding that I am making way to many dresses. I like dresses a lot but really only wear them once a week to church or on a date with the hubby. So I need more separates.

So I went for a capri pant using this pattern. The pattern is for a slim leg pant, capri, or shorts. They have front pockets, and flap pockets in back. I got the denim at Joann Fabrics for $14. Then I got jean buttons and a zipper for an additional $5.

I did not have any trouble with the construction but I have made pants before. There are several steps and I wouldn't really recommend this to an absolute beginner. But with a little experience, they shouldn't be a problem.

I made a 14 which is one size smaller than my measurements recommend. I am happy with the overall fit. Except... my butt never looks quite right in home sewn pants. First of all, the flap pockets are probably not the most flattering. If I use this pattern again, I will probably go with a typical patch pocket that you would find on most jeans. Second of all, I have a big, round, butt. I am not being self conscious or fishing for compliments. I know I have a big butt. I've been told I have a big butt. I embrace it. But my butt does not fill out these capris. So there is some strange sagginess going on in that region. I will probably continue to make pants in the quest to perfect my fitting techniques and find a well drafted pattern for my rump. I would show you a picture... but I couldn't bear to post the most unflattering view in these capris.

Aside from the butt issues, I think the rest of the pattern design is very cute. I really like the hem band at the bottom with the loop and button closure- I think it's a unique touch.

I will wear these but with an over sized sweater or cardigan to cover up my bottom.




~Byrdie

Simplicity 5062- Pattern Review

Here is garment number one for the Pattern Stash Contest at Pattern Review. The copyright on this pattern is 2004 and I'm assuming it has been sitting in my stash since then.

It is difficult for me to buy a pair of capris ready made because my legs are so short. They end up looking like high water pants on me. So of course I had to make a pair that would work for me.

I used a light blue stretch sateen from Joann Fabrics. This fabric has also been sitting in my stash. I cannot recall what I paid for it but I'm assuming it was about $15. Then I purchased jean buttons to go on the cargo pockets. And a zipper for the fly.

I love the cargo look of these capris. The pockets and drawstring hem is fun. I did quite a bit of top stitching. For the side seam, I did a faux flat fell seam to give it a jeans look. If your machine comes with the stitch, use a triple straight stitch for the top stitching. It creates the look of heavy top stitching thread.

I shortened the length by about 3 inches. And I'm happy with the results- I think I avoided the high water pants look!

I know that camouflage is probably so last season but I always wanted a pair of camouflage capris. So I will probably use this pattern to make another pair in camouflage.




~Byrdie