If you've been a long-time reader of this blog, it's no secret that I LOVE fashion just as much as I love sewing. I think fashion was probably my first love and sewing was simply a way to manifest it in my life. For as much as I love sewing, it brings me too much joy to sew for individuals for profit. But incorporating it into something such as costume design is something I could definitely see myself doing in the future.

Being on a movie set... being part of the crew and interacting with the cast was definitely a positive experience. It was fun, hectic, entertaining, exhausting and educational all at the same time! There are so many aspects to take into consideration. The movie is still in production, so I can't give away too much. But here is a sample of the fashions:

Description: Unlined, hip length cape has collar, flaps and pockets, front princess seams with openings for belt and purchased trim.

Did it look like the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? It does.

Fabric: Black Wool Felt from Hancock Fabrics and it was a bit of a bear to work with. I didn't want to over press it (which a did a little on the pocket flaps). I had to beat it into submission with my clapper.

Were the instructions easy to follow? They were pretty well-written.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I've had this pattern since it was released and I'm just now getting around to making it. I love that even though it's considered a "trend", this is a classic pattern that I know I'll be pulling out for years to come.


I didn't care for the way the instructions suggested applying the grosgrain trim. I remembered I'd just seen something similar in the book I'd just reviewed called the "Petersham 'Peek' Seam" and I used that method instead.

You would *THINK* that an unlined cape would be pretty simple. Not this one. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't difficult... just tedious. If you notice that it does have a Hong Kong finish. In my opinion, it's quicker to just line it. Also the appliques were a bit time consuming as well. Luckily sewing can often be like meditation when I get into a great project!

Notice the hem is finished with a pinked edge.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't have to make any!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I wouldn't sew this again. It's pretty unique, so one in my wardrobe is enough. I do recommend this.

In the very back of the book is the section called "Essential Couture Techniques". Color me perplexed, but I thought that's what the ENTIRE book is *supposed* to be about!

Even though there are a few things that I found interesting and may give a try, I found this book to be somewhat of a let down. I feel that the term "couture" may have been liberally used. At the most, this book is "couture-ish" and will produce nice ready-to-wear results. I was looking for more hand sewing techniques and the author even lists a serger as part of "The Couturier's Kit". I always thought that was a no-no?!

I would call this book "Couture-ish Sewing Techniques - 101" and definitely recommend this book for less advanced sewers that are looking to step up their sewing game. And for the more "seasoned seamstress", this is a good supplement for the other couture sewing books in your library!