How to Make Sewing Patterns

by Donald H. McCunn, Robin Lew (Photographer)

Solve the mysteries of pattern drafting with this instructional book. Simple and easy step-by-step instructions with clear understandable line drawings.

Genres: Sewing, Crafts, Reference, Fashion, Nonfiction, How To, Art

190 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

Reviews

[Yi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The definitive guide on pattern making - well explained and well illustrated! I am old-fashioned and analytical (given my computer science background). McCunn's method of creating patterns by taking precise body measurements, to me, is the only way to make garments that fit each individual's body type and curves! This is the book I've been looking for all this time.

I remember when I was a child living in Suzhou, China, in the 80s, my tailor would take several body measurements of mine and make me these gorgeous wool coats, shirts, dresses, pants, etc. Those clothes fitted me so beautifully I am still wow-ed by his talent. It's a lost art.

I am an absolute beginner to pattern making, but very motivated. With this book, and plenty of practice, I hope that my kids could have the same luxury I had in having clothes that made to fit their individual bodies.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book i remember getting at the library as a teenager. i always wanted it at home and finally have it. My copy however, doesn't have the make patterns from your own clothes like the one in the library did. Still it helps you learn to draft scratch patterns. The most helpful part is that it teaches you how to measure obscure stuff you need for pattern drafting and design by yourself. Not everybody has love to sew buddies to do it for them.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book explains with out scaring you with info. The sleeve guide has helped me over and over.

[Yokikojapan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a home sewer. I have no experience making patterns before. This book gives me the overview of how to make pattern, but some parts of the instruction can be difficult to understand (as a complete beginner).

[Sarah Fouad · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's understandable i liked it
I think it's a good beginning guide for drafting patterns and a reference too if you want to refresh your sewing knowledge i really thank the man who wrote this book gave me really good understanding of how to draft patterns in an easy way and some good tips in sewing too

[Margie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear, well-illustrated. Lots of information.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very useful! Good instructions on how to measure yourself.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well thought out manual-easy to understand-wish I had this resource earlier.

[Ann Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful

[Ashadullah Galíb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice

[mere · Rating 4 out of 5]

good visuals and stuff

[Alicia]

I have some other books on this subject on my to-read list but I want to earmark any that look like they might be useful to increase my chances of getting the one I like the most.

[Naomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rated 3 stars because haven't tried it yet since store-bought patterns are so easy to get, but seems like a good resource. Also see Make Your Own Patterns by Rene Bergh.

[Estela]

I used to make my own clothes when I was growing up, and I've decided to try my hand at it again. I'm hoping this book will help me make clothes that REALLY fit!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Helpful in making patterns. I have this book in soft and hard copy.