Choosing your pattern size is the most important step and we will help you determine this with these easy to follow steps.
- When taking your measurements ensure that you take them against your skin and not over clothing. One can wear a comfortable bra and knickers whilst measuring, as this will provide you with the most accurate measurements.
- Tape measure has to sit firmly around the points you are measuring. But be careful not to pull it too tight, as this will give you the incorrect size.
- When measuring circumferences (B, C, D, E) it is important to note that the tape measure must remain parallel to the floor. It is sometimes best to take the measurements in front of a mirror; this will help you see the angle of the tape measure.
- You will only require the basic body measurements to determine your pattern size which is indicated on our mannequin below:
A. Shoulder Breadth
Place the tape at the edge of the shoulder. Measure along the top of the shoulder blade/across the highest point of the shoulders to the other edge, following the natural slope and allow an extra finger for ease of any movement.
B. Upper Arm Girth
This point is taken as a circumference at your widest point of your upper arm.
C. Bust
This point is taken as a circumference parallel to the floor at the fullest part of your chest.
D. Waist
This point is taken as a circumference and taken at the smallest part of your waist.
E. Hip
This point is taken as a circumference parallel to the floor at the widest part of your hips.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
j**y (verified owner) – :
What an easy, but oh so cute dress. I knew that there had to be an easier way to attach facings via the sewing machine & this pattern teaches it! Maybe this makes a statement about how mundane my life is, but ‘Lena’ taught me the foolproof way to attach the facing & dress without having to do the old fashion way of hand sewing & the pockets are easy: I love to learn new things & ‘Lena’ taught me those two so I am very happy. It’s not that I do not like hand sewing but doing projects on the machine is faster & more secure. It’s a great pattern & dress.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
l**a (verified owner) – :
Have already made 2 of these dresses, pattern is easy to follow and ture to size. With my last Lena, i added a large band in a plain colour, just cut the patterne at the shorten line and used that as a template.
Format Reviewed: Printed Pattern - Single-Size
l*******n (verified owner) – :
I love this pattern! I have made 3 new dresses from it. I shortened the length a bit and altered the pockets to be on the outside of the dress.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
M************r (verified owner) – :
I’m in the process of making my 5th Lena. As I used patterned fabric I omitted the bottom strip which makes it a quicker sewing project. I also assembled the top of the dress as you do when making the June Sheath dress. As I’ve made 20 June dresses so I’m a bit of an expert assembling the bodice. Lena is such a comfortable dress with beautiful roomy pockets. I’ve also made one with a lawn fabric and lined it with muslin. The size 14 fit perfectly with no adjustments required.
Format Reviewed: PDF Digital Pattern - Multi-Size
d*********o (verified owner) – :
Great fit. I cut out my true size. Very pleased with my purchase. I will be coming back for more. thank you!!