Marfy patterns

Evelyn · Joined: 25 Jul 2008 Posts: 3 Location: Massachusetts

Has anyone used the Marfy patterns Vogue is selling?

I know I am an experienced sewer and actually draft my own patterns a lot of the time, but I was a bit intimidated by the warnings on the Vogue website about being sure to print the picture since none comes with the pattern. Barb told me I was worrying unnecessarily, but nevertheless, it seemed like a leap into the unknown.

So, I finally got my first Marfy pattern and I'm actually looking forward to trying it.

It does have some printed markings on it, but not the type we are used to in American commercial patterns. Also the translations seemed a bit odd, but I finally figured out that "half-front" was the same as center front that sort of thing. And of course there are no seam allowances, but I'm used to that.

Not only does the pattern not come with a picture, it doesn't come with facings or any instructions on construction. There are matching letters, but there are a couple I haven't figured out yet.

I'm pretty sure I'll be able to get it right, but the pattern I chose, F1548, has a sweet neckline inset and on the paper pattern it looks like the inset is supposed to attach into the bodice neckline seam. I was thinking it would look and fit better if it continued into the raised waist seam but that doesn't seem to be their plan.

So now I'm looking at working with an unfamiliar pattern and also trying to change it! I'm not planning to make this for anyone, just for the fun of it (I know I'm a bit crazy), so I can play with it in muslin a bit.

I'd love to hear of others' experiences with these European patterns. BTW, It actually came registered mail from Italy!!

Evelyn

Nata · Joined: 14 Apr 2007 Posts: 86

It's a pretty dress. I haven't used Marfy patterns and can't help you with your questions, sorry. I'd be interested how it comes out. Please keep us posted. It's a little more complicated design and looks like some instructions would be helpful. OTOH, not having any instructions would make it a very fun project Smile

Good luck

BrendaJo · Joined: 20 Apr 2007 Posts: 41 Location: Cape Cod

Evelyn, I have never used a Marfy pattern but I did make a wedding dress from an original 1930's Vogue pattern. It had absolutely no printing on the pattern pieces, I had to identify the pieces by comparing them to a schematic. The markings consisted of a series of dots. It was a challenge but fun, probably what you are going through with the Marfy. Good luck and enjoy. Brenda