I had an idea that - in lieu of a much-needed holiday - I'd use a different part of my skills base and make a garment pattern for a change. A "quick little dress pattern" sounded like fun - and it has been... to a point.
But then I started writing instructions.... and (you know me...) I couldn't leave the detail out. I had to fill them with tips and notes and ways to do things quickly.
I had to include few variations (and stop myself from adding too many more).
I even wrote tips on pressing.
And of course, every step has needed a diagram and/or a photo to help explain things as clearly as possible. It's taken me MONTHS!!! So much for "quick"....Anyhoo - I now have a lesson-in-a-packet for people who are just branching out into garment making. I have my usual pattern-testers lined up already, but I need ONE MORE PERSON to fill a gap in the testing process....
If you fill the following criterior:
- Beginner-ish sewing/dressmaking skils.
- Have a small girl (size 2-8) to try the finished dress on.
- In Australia - so the whole thing doesn't get slowed up by the postal service (heaven knows, it's having enough problems at the moment)
- HAVE NOT USED ONE OF MY PATTERNS BEFORE (this is important)
- Will READ instructions and have a good eye for detail (for typos and unclear explanations).
- Have time to sew a little dress (which is actually QUICK when you're not writing instructions for it!!) before mid-January.
- Can give detailed feedback
- Can show me the finished dress (or photos of the finished dress - blog/flickr is fine)
Please email me TODAY at nmallalieu@optusnet.com.au.
It's a bit tight.... but I'd like to get the kits out this afternoon. Tomorrow at the latest.
EDITED TO ADD: Wow! Overwhelmed by the response!! Many thanks to the volunteers - I took the first two offers that came in and we now have our testers.
10 comments:
dang...I'm 2 requirements short. Good luck with the new pattern!
I have a 5 year old daughter, I have been sewing since February this year but am still what you would call a beginner.
I am in Qld, I always read patterns 3 times before even contemplating cutting, I am known for picking up grammatical errors (despite often making my own lol), I am happy to take photographs, and I can start the minute the pattern arrives. I have Never used any of your patterns yet.(I say this with embarrassment lol)
No worries if you have someone though.
Cheers
Rose :)
Hi Nikki,
I've made a hat before so I guess I am no good for what you are seeking. I can fill the other requirements though so I thought you may like me as a backup...
I am a local (I could pick up).
I am a teacher so I have lots of time on my hands for sewing right now.
I have a six year old niece (she'd love a dress).
I also consider myself a beginnerish sewer...
Good luck.
Ellen
Drat, my daughter is 9.
Any chance the pattern could be made up to a size 10, pretty please :-)
Nerts. I live in the US and I'm too late to boot.
I'll be keeping an eye back to see the pattern/completed dresses. I am slightly terrified of garment construction, but really want to try because I have a 2 year old who LOVES when mommy makes stuff. :)
You know that bit about TAKING MONTHS? About PRESSING TIPS? That's why we love your patterns.
Just thought you should know.
(merry Christmas lovely lady) x
Hi Nikki
Haven't been blogging much for a while, though hope to be doing more in the new year again. Hope you and your family are well and that you have a joy filled Christmas and happy & healthy 2010.
Lots of love to you, Cinta
xx
Yes, funny how that can happen! But, it is much better to have more info than less!! I hope you and your family have a happy and safe Christmas Nikki and may 2010 be a fab one! Kathryn.
So glad you got the stitchers you need.
Andi :-)
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