Anyone used Reconstructing History patterns?

[abendgules]

I'm a longtime self-taught sempstress and have learned using measurements, and gradually moved on to fitted garments with cloth and paper blocks, with pretty good results.

I've used modern patterns a bit, for modern clothes and can follow pattern instructions.

I'm now tackling (or hoping to tackle, eventually) a couple of projects where I don't have much experienced - full hose, mens' doublets, Italian ladies' clothes - so I'm considering lashing out on patterns for guidance.

Does anyone have experience with these patterns? Are there any assumptions I should know about?

Comments

[bend-gules.livejournal.com]

Yes, have followed the growth of Kass' business with interest, and the development of the GFD over the years.

I've gotten a couple of people replying saying the instructions for RH patterns are critical to their success.

It's hard to fault someone for developing a pattern system, where *following the instructions* is important. :-) Duh - that's why you buy a pattern, instead of working from scratch.

But it seems a lot of tailors and sempstresses want to simply use the pattern, and ignore the instructions.

Since I write instructional text for a living, I don't have much sympathy for people who don't at least *read it through* to get an idea of the construction process.

Of course I read the manual when I bought my laptop...so I realise I'm not typical.

[my-stitching.livejournal.com]

I'm totally guilty of using patterns without reading the instructions. But, more often than not, I am only using one or two pieces from a pattern so that I don't have to draft them myself. I especially do this with sleeves. I hate them so I cheat and start with someone else's sleeve. Easier to alter than to draft!

But with Kass' patterns, I follow the instructions. :)