This is such an easy question to answer. Which boutique or clothing store would have the selection of styles that I can find in the McCalls, Butterick and Vogue pattern catalogues? What’s more, I can make these styles in the fabric of my choice and in the colour that is most flattering to me. I can select the correct size and if necessary can alter to fit perfectly. More generous seam allowances can be added to cope with fluctuations in weight (manufacturers tend to make them skimpy). I can bask in the satisfaction gained from producing an outfit that attracts compliments. Most importantly I can sew at a fraction of the cost that I could buy the equivalent garment in ready to wear. How do I know all this, because I have been sewing since I made my Mum a satin pyjama case when I was six years old!
My name is Irene Le Tissier and McCall’s have kindly asked me to contribute to their web site and newsletter. My company is Creative Image but some of you may remember when we were called Sew Special. I have been an image consultant, now called stylists, for twenty five years and for those twenty five years much of my focus has been within the sewing industry. My passion has been to advise home sewers on correct pattern and fabric choices. Many of you I am sure would have been to our seminars which we did throughout Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia. In recent times we presented in all Spotlight Stores in Queensland, NSW and Victoria and naturally we attracted corporate sponsors within the sewing industry including Bernina Sewing Machines.
Now that I have told you a little about us I would like, via this news letter, to help and advise you on pattern and fabric choices. We all come in different shapes and sizes, thank goodness, so my advice will be irrespective of your size, shape, age or budget and it will be specifically for you the home sewer. I will be suggesting patterns that will enhance your unique shape, whatever that might be and showing you how to minimise figure challengers with the best style selections from the McCall’s, Butterick and Vogue catalogues.
Do please continue to watch this space and tell your sewing friends too!