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I decided to jump in and try this 1939 tennis frock. Last week I drafted it onto wrapping paper -- The measurements given in the sample are larger than mine, but I didn't want to complicate matters on the first attempt by changing them to my own measurements.
Last night I began my test version and I've now almost finished the bodice (still needs buttons, front darts and sleeve cuffs).
I wasn't sure if the pattern included seam allowances, but since I was working from a bust size several inches larger than my own, and the instructions suggested the front darts can be adjusted to fit, I figured I'd risk it. However I hedged my bets and only seamed with a 1/4" allowance rather than the 5/8" I've seen on vintage printed patterns. The result *just* fits, so if anyone drafts this to her own measurements I'd recommend adding a seam allowance.
The major pieces came out ok, but I ended up improvising the collar and facings after I had cut out and assembled the bodice; the front facings were easy, the collar and neck facings required a couple of tries.
The sleeves have a gradual curve on one side and a sharp curve on the other, and the instructions don't make it clear which is the front. I tried it both ways, and settled on gradual-curve-at-the-front, with the tucks at the top of the sleeve near the shoulder-yoke.
Further updates as it progresses.
Last night I began my test version and I've now almost finished the bodice (still needs buttons, front darts and sleeve cuffs).
I wasn't sure if the pattern included seam allowances, but since I was working from a bust size several inches larger than my own, and the instructions suggested the front darts can be adjusted to fit, I figured I'd risk it. However I hedged my bets and only seamed with a 1/4" allowance rather than the 5/8" I've seen on vintage printed patterns. The result *just* fits, so if anyone drafts this to her own measurements I'd recommend adding a seam allowance.
The major pieces came out ok, but I ended up improvising the collar and facings after I had cut out and assembled the bodice; the front facings were easy, the collar and neck facings required a couple of tries.
The sleeves have a gradual curve on one side and a sharp curve on the other, and the instructions don't make it clear which is the front. I tried it both ways, and settled on gradual-curve-at-the-front, with the tucks at the top of the sleeve near the shoulder-yoke.
Further updates as it progresses.
