Once again I had a wonderful group of testers willing to try out my new pattern – the Tahlia top and dress. They were located from around the globe, and were all extremely generous with their time and great feedback.
Sewing patterns are always made much better with a group of testers scrutinising every little detail. From the actual fit of the pattern, to the print out and assembly, the tutorial illustrations, instructions and order of construction.
This pattern had it’s challenges, especially with the pleat detail on the front. It took me numerous samples to get it just right, but the true test is always sending it out for someone else to try. Thanks to everyone’s suggestions, I added more detail to the tutorial and the pattern to make it an easier sew.
My testers agreed that the pattern was at an intermediate level, mainly because of the pleats, but once you work those out, it’s a fairly straight forward sew. A few of my testers said it was far easier then they thought it would be.
Besides the pleats, the other lovely feature of this pattern is the lace on the back. It was interesting to hear where everyone was purchasing their lace, and how limited the choice was for some. I’m starting to take for granted that I have an amazing textile area here in Hong Kong that supplies to the world. I have been stocking up on the laces that I find with the most gorgeousness, and will be putting some on my Etsy shop next month.
The Tahlia pattern has two lace options – the lace can be split into two pieces, with the straps tying in the centre, or used as a whole piece, with the straps tying on the side. The pattern is designed for stretch lace, but some of my testers used a rigid, non stretch lace with equal success.
The Tahlia pattern has a top option or a dress option. The dress has inseam pockets, because we all love pockets right? The pockets were a last minute add, but well worth it I think.
The part I always enjoy the most about testing is seeing my design from someone else’s perspective. I love seeing the fabrics and colour combinations that are chosen, a different interpretation is always so interesting to me. And of course, all the fun photos.
Thank you to all my wonderful Tahlia testers.
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