Reviews

"This edition (the first was published in 1973) continues McCunn's thorough, comprehensive approach with some updates, including an extensive series of photographs of a model taking her own measurements (an elemental step toward creating custom-fitted garments) and incorporation of the quarter-scale "mini-me" approach to practicing and prototyping new designs.

"McCunn starts from the beginning, describing in detail how to measure the body to create a sloper-an individually customized master pattern from which a variety of garments can be designed.

"The second half of the book focuses on ways to alter the completed sloper to design well-fitted custom garments for men and women. McCunn also provides information about working in quarter-scale, including directions for constructing a customized quarter-scale dress form.

"Sewists interested in exploring patternmaking will find an abundance of information and benefit from the thorough coverage of measurement and fitting techniques."

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"Beyond the impressive range of material in How to Make Sewing Patterns is the author's obvious concern that readers understand what they are doing and why. There are many helpful tips throughout the book, some quite clever and unexpected.

"The section on drafting a sloper contains excellent explanations of the various body contours, measuring, and fitting. Text, drawings, and photos of the human body from every angle illustrate the various interrelated contours and just how a pattern accommodates them. He even gives detailed instructions on how to measure and fit yourself."

"Don McCunn has certainly mastered pattern drafting and fitting a wide range of bodies. Whether or not you have taken pattern drafting in a class, this book is a good reference in a very readable style. I especially liked the exacting instructions on taking measurements on the body and the solution for side seams which are not perpendicular to the floor."

"Your explanations are very clear and the many illustrations you provide are really helpful in understanding the steps you describe. I'm also impressed by how comprehensive your book is, covering almost every type of garment and different types of fabric. I also like the fact that you discuss many different ways of altering patterns in such detail."

"I feel fortunate to have learned pattern making from this book first, because it provides a conceptual basis to flat pattern work. It explains how seams and darts, pleats and gathers can actually shape fabric to fit a three-dimensional body.

"I think the new sloper drafting process, together with the full discussion of fitting with gingham and grainline treatments, makes How To Make Sewing Patterns, Second Edition well worth considering as an upgrade from the first edition."

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