Marfy 2014/2015 Catalog

I would like to begin this post with a disclaimer … I’m not affiliated with Marfy in any way and receive no compensation for promoting them.  I’m just a little fascinated with their style and want to pass news to those of you who, like me, don’t have ready access to their patterns.

So, having said that, I received this in my inbox yesterday.  I’ve mentioned in the past that while Marfy catalogs are dear, they include free patterns which often make it well worth the cost.  Not to mention the fun of having these style books at hand to browse and be inspired.  I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve pulled out my Marfy catalogs looking for inspiration on a style change I wanted to make.

Did you notice this catalog has TWENTY free patterns.  That’s many more than I’ve seen in the past.  Honestly, they are not all patterns I would use, but I think the patterns I do like make up the difference.  Here are a few of my favorites.  The center blouse is simple, classic and elegant.  I can see getting good use of that one for work.  And the dress at the far right is precious.   (The photo here is pretty small.  If you want a closer look, click the photo to go to Marfy’s site.)

And the shipping cost is fabulous!  That’s half of what I normally pay to the ‘States.  I’m browsing the patterns to see what was on my wish list so I can combine a catalogue and pattern order.  The last time I did that, the patterns did not increase shipping costs.  Crossing my fingers that holds true this time.

You know, at some point, I really need to start cutting into these patterns and stop adding to my ‘library’.  I know none of you do that, right?   There is a New Year’s resolution list building in the back of my mind.  That may have to be part of that list in some way!

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!  I hope this season finds you and yours richly blessed.

Ramona

Lagniappe, courtesy of Marfy

Here in Louisiana, Lagniappe is that little something extra.  That’s exactly what I found in my email inbox yesterday!

Marfy is offering three free pdf patterns to their newsletter subscribers.   What a fantastic way to try their patterns.

Being in the United States, shipping costs can be a bit dear when ordering.  If that has stopped you from ordering a Marfy pattern in the past, this is a great opportunity.

Marfy patterns are cut without seam allowance.  Although I learned to sew using the seam allowance as most US patterns are drafted, I recently moved towards marking the seam instead and have found it really works well.  It is becoming my favorite way of marking fabric to sew.  I love that I can leave extra fabric in the seam allowance in those problem areas.  If an adjustment is needed, I know I have that extra fabric there to play with.

Also, another note on shipping costs.  I recently ordered a catalog and three patterns from Marfy.  The shipping cost on the catalog is just as expensive as the catalog itself.  By combining the catalog and patterns, you can save on the shipping cost of the patterns.  And the catalog always includes free patterns which is pretty awesome.

So jump over to Marfy and sign up for the newsletter.  You can then take advantage of these great patterns and fall in love with Marfy yourself.

Just curious … which is your favorite pattern maker?  and why?  I have always been a Vogue girl myself, but I am falling pretty hard for Marfy.

Full Bust Adjustment

Red pin marks dart point.

I have a difficult time sewing tops and dresses due to full bust adjustments.  I never seem to get them right.  I will be attempting to draft a pattern from this blouse that is a decent fit.  It needs more ease in the bust and I feel the slanted darts coming from the princess seams are set a little high for me.  I worry that lowering them will cause them to APPEAR too low.  I considered removing the darts, but feel they help with the fit at the waist.

It’s difficult to see, but I’ve marked the dart point with a red pin here.  The measuring tape is starting at the yoke and not at the top of the shoulder…easier for me to adjust front piece that way.

If you have any suggestions or tips, I would love for you to share.