Pattern Review McCalls #5662

Pattern Description:

Empire style top/dress with variations

Pattern Sizing:

xs-xL

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

yes (with modifications)

Were the instructions easy to follow?

I skimed through the instructions to get the jist of the pattern. Since it was an easy pattern, if you have constructed a shirt before, the steps are pretty straight forward. as per some of the other reviews, the instructions are a bit choppy (go here for this part, and go somewhere else for this part)

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Fairly easy pattern overall. I bought this pattern in a pattern sale, and as I was 6 months pregnant, guessed at the size. It turned out way too big and I had to take in about 2 inches on either side to make it fit right. And the large pattern seems to be drafted funny, as there is no room for the gathering of the bust into the waistband as drafted.

Fabric Used:

Cotton Interlock

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:

I made view E, without the gathering in the waist band. (didn't feel it needed extra bulk). Pattern also calls for a self-faced waistband, but I omited that as well. Ended up taking in about two inches on each side to adjust for fit.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Nice shirt, but not my favorite. Probably not.

Conclusion:

This seems to be McCalls version of the project Runway patterns that Simplicity has released. I find this one an easy pattern, but feel that a beginner would be confused easily by the instructions. I will probably not be making this one again, and don't easily recommend it. (even though I think it is a good idea and a cute top). Too much of a hassle all around for a simple pattern.