Pattern Testing with Printapattern: The Oval Skirt

Well, it had to happen at some point. I am blogging about something I actually made!

And I am really happy this is my first offering. I have never tested a pattern before and it was a really fun experience. I spoke to other bloggers before I did it and I had some feedback that not all testing is a positive experience, but I am glad to say that IT WAS SO MUCH FUN. Erin, ran 4 tests all at the same time and she was always on hand to listen to our comments. I am really excited to see when the other patterns come out and what people have made with them. They are really lovely and I would have loved to test them all but I did not want to over commit myself.

Pattern testing isn't necessarily a quick process as you have to follow the instructions exactly. You also have to remember that this is not a finished product and pieces might need to be reissued. I would recommend if you pattern test that you do buy a little more fabric in case this happens. I got a bit sweaty at one point but miracles and the sewing angels blessed me and I got it on.

When you start to put the pattern together, you have to go in with a blank slate like this is your very first pattern. When a pattern has a simple layout, normally I tend just to crack on. However, I was a good girl and tried to put myself in a stitchlings' position and Erin was really receptive to any of the testers suggestions. I think you could put this together in less that half a day, maybe quicker if you are experienced. I really like the zip instruction and the finish is really clean - even if my language during Zip insertion is most definitely not.

The pattern is really versatile and there is so much room for creativity! The fabric I used was a cotton drill which I had in my stash from the dawn of time. I despaired of finding anything cool to use the fabric for but this pattern it was ideal. Cotton drill is very affordable and you can have a whole rainbow of colours. I have just made the one so far but I have bought some brocade, which will give the next version some more movement. There are 4 views and I think I will make the shorter version with the pockets very soon. The panels will enable some great uses of scrap fabrics and the topstitching means that you can really add your own spin. I finally got to use some of the decorative stitching on my machine. I also used the decorative stitch for the topstitch on the hem. I love how the waist is shaped and makes my waist look snatched.

The size range is really good and the larger sizes have been formed on a plus sized block. As you can see the fit is really good and its really refreshing that a new indie designer immediately recognises that plus size sewists need to be catered for and doing this from the outset, by using these larger blocks it really shows a commitment rather than lip service which I feel some companies are starting to do

In conclusion, would I pattern test again? Absolutely! I love feeling like I am helping to develop good quality products, it taught me to slow down a bit and I have gained a bit of insight into all the work our designers have to do to give a good quality product. I know that there is debate whether pattern testers should be paid. Personally, I feel this is a way of giving back to new designers in particular and no one is being forced to do this. However, if any pattern designers are reading this....1. you can absolutely ask me to test 2. If your pattern is fabric hungry, maybe a team up with the fabric supplier, perhaps with discount code? Two businesses and your testers would benefit and you would likely get more luxurious fabrics being used, making better sample photos. So look out for the hashtag on instagram. I can't wait to see all the versions that are going to be made

Pattern Company: Printapattern

Size: 20W, 22H

Pattern: The Oval Skirt, View D

Fabric Cost: £13.00