Metric Pattern Cutting for Women′s Wear Hardcover – 29 Feb. 2008

I am a pattern cutter and have had this book since my student days. I bought this recent version for my daughter who is studying fashion at the moment. It is an essential reference book for basic block making and creating patterns from block. It is straightforward and to the point. It doesn't cover draping or more complicated cutting but ultimately that's something you learn over time anyway. Would definitely recommend.

Using this book I was able to cut myself a pattern for a pair of stretch denim shorts to fit my shape. This was only my second foray into pattern cutting, the first being by adaptation of a basic pattern, (Betty Foster), but by carefully following instructions I was able to create the paper pattern, and make the garment to fit me. This book contains instructions for creating patterns for just about every conceivable womenswear garment you'd want to make, with the exception of lingerie. It includes instructions for using stretch and jersey fabrics as well as the more traditional woven fabrics. I wouldn't be without this book. I would recommend it to anyone who has experience of dressmaking and pattern adaptation but wants to branch out into creating their own patterns. It isn't so suitable if you don't have any experience as it *is* a technical book and it does look daunting on first opening because of all the detail inside. I'm currently doing some courses in simple pattern cutting and my tutor uses this book, though she does suggest trying blocks from different books as they do vary and it's important to find a block that suits your own figure if you're using it for personal garment construction. I intend to use this book over and over and over again. Your local public library or college library will probably have copies if you want to borrow before you buy!

I love this book, when i learned to make patterns we used pre made blocks & changed them to get the shape out of the patterns. THis book allows you to start from the basics. As i have a understand of patterns already this book allows me to understand the break down so i can make my own pattern pieces. I have already used the male version to make a suite & hoping to do something like that with this version. There is a small problem & that is that some of the maths is off, so it's always good be create the garment out of cheep fabric to make sure it's how you'd like it to be.

I originally bought this book in 1982 and have used it loads.I'm not an average size and shape so got fed up of trying to alter comercial patters to fit. It takes a bit of patience, trial and error, lots of paper and material to make mock ups, to eventually understand exactly how to construct patterns for real people. The book in essence is still aimed at comercial designers. An additional chapter on how to adjust the basic blocks for individuals would be useful. I have a small back in comparison to my front and I am deep as oppsed to wide. I draw lines down my side and take measurements seperately for back and front and use those to draft the front and back seperately as opposed to using the full bust, waist and hip measurements as in the book. I bought this new edition for my daughter and will be borrowing it back as it has some very useful additional chapters to my original.You do need some experience of garment construction to use this book as there are no instructions on how to make up the garment, or else you need someone who is familiar with pattern drafting and construction as a "phone a friend".You will be amazed how much better you look in clothes that are made specifically to fit you.

I love the way that this book takes the basic shapes and shows how to adapt them to create such a huge variety of garment shapes and sizes.It is well written and easy to follow - it provides a great reference guide. Recommended to me by my tutor and I can't thank her info for letting me know about it.

This book is a great basic book if your thinking of designing your own patterns. There are straightforward instructions for creating a basic bodice, skirt, dress, trouser and sleeve block. Ideal for those serious sewers, one for the collection!

A good book for learning how to make your own patterns, design your own clothes, just the way you like. It takes time to learn the tactics for doing this, but well worth it and saves me loads of money on commercial patterns which do not really meet my design criteria

Unbelievably useful...bought this series of books when I was new to pattern drafting and have drafted lots of patterns with their help. I found them easy to follow and would recommend them to anyone wanting to learn the art!