First the story ….The summer after my freshman year in college, I worked as the Nature Instructor for a posh summer camp in the mountains of the Sierra National Park far, far away from all signs of civilization (okay, about 60 miles north of Fresno). The money was a pittance – we figured that we were making something like $0.60/hour – but I really liked working with the kids and camp staff, and being out in nature. Besides, how many students actually get a paying job (other than fast food or retail) after freshman year? Anyway, I really enjoyed meeting counselors and instructors from all over the world. Over the years a few of us have kept in touch from time to time and last year I got back in touch with a friend M in Japan via email. I probably randomly mentioned – as I am wont to do – that I wanted to learn Japanese pattern drafting technique at some point and that I was collecting all kinds of goodies in preparation. I used to have a Mrs. Stylebook subscription (you can get it at Sasuga Books), and I have some magazines and books that I found through various online sources (mostly eBay), but I’ve never tried my hand at drafting anything.
The Japanese technique really piques my interest because it seems similar to what tailors and seamstresses do back home in Nigeria. There you just go to the market and pick out a fabric. Gorgeous Swiss laces which are sold by the yard, batik- or tie-dyed cotton brocades sold whole to make a bubu, or in various matched sets of 3+3 yards for a top & bottom, or Dutch waxes and java prints with either traditional or modern motifs sold in 6 yard pieces. Then you take your fabric to the tailor (usually in the same market) and describe the type of garment you want, or pick a style from the ubiquitous picture books available in the tailor’s stall, or (best of all) rely on the tailor’s experience to design something suited to your figure, style, and the occasion. He will quickly take your measurements, and in a week’s time you’ll have an extremely well-fitted, sewn garment to take home with you!
This is what my Aunt’s tailor whipped up for me last year and I wasn’t even there!
He keeps my measurements on file and sews with 2 inch allowances in case I have to get it amended here in the U.S.
Okay, okay … so look what the Easter Bunny (a.k.a. M) sent me:
Wooo hooo! Pattern Magic vols. 1 & 2; Female, Winter 2008; and Female, Spring 2008! I'll post some pics from Female next time - I've already got a few marked in the Winter Collection.
For now -- Thanks M! And Happy Easter to the rest of you!
