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The Selfish Seamstress Because I only want to sew stuff if it's for me. Downloads Who loves free patterns? Everyone loves free patterns! On this page, you can download patterns I have created for your own personal use at no cost. Please DO NOT republish or distribute these patterns without my permission. If you display work that you have created using them online or otherwise, I would request the courtesy of crediting me for the design and linking to this page if applicable. Please do not abuse these downloads- I’d hate to have to take them down! DISCLAIMER: I am not an expert or professional pattern drafter or grader. Use these patterns at your own risk and I highly recommend making a muslin first! I will not be held responsible for any ill-fitting garments or unintentional ugliness, other than my own :) PATTERN: Ballet Skirt for Grown-ups A simple and elegant ballet skirt with no frou-frou. A pattern for a simple ballet wrap skirt, slightly longer in the back than in the front. This skirt has no ruffles, no gathering, and minimal flare. The skirt should fit an adult/teen size XS-M. If you’re worried it won’t be big enough, add a few inches to the center by placing the center front of the pattern parallel to the fold but an inch or two away when cutting. You’ll need about a yard and a half of polyester georgette or polyester chiffon and about 2.5 yards of narrow grosgrain ribbon. Ballet Skirt for Grown - ups Pattern and Instructions, one size fits XS - M (PDF) Page 1 of 31 Downloads « The Selfish Seamstress 11/16/2011 http://selfishseamstress.wordpress.com/downloads/

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11/16/2011http://selfishseamstress.wordpress.com/downloads/ On this page, you can download patterns I have created for your own personal use at no cost. Please DO NOT republish or distribute these patterns without my permission. If you display work that you have created using them online or otherwise, I would request the courtesy of crediting me for the design and linking to this page if applicable. Please do not abuse these downloads- I’d hate to have to take them down!

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Page 1: http___selfishseamstress.wordpress

The Selfish Seamstress Because I only want to sew stuff if it's for me.

Downloads

Who loves free patterns? Everyone loves free patterns!

On this page, you can download patterns I have created for your own personal use at no cost. Please DO NOT republish or distribute these patterns without my permission. If you display work that you have created using them online or otherwise, I would request the courtesy of crediting me for the design and linking to this page if applicable. Please do not abuse these downloads- I’d hate to have to take them down!

DISCLAIMER: I am not an expert or professional pattern drafter or grader. Use these patterns at your own risk and I highly recommend making a muslin first! I will not be held responsible for any ill-fitting garments or unintentional ugliness, other than my own :)

PATTERN: Ballet Skirt for Grown-ups A simple and elegant ballet skirt with no frou-frou.

A pattern for a simple ballet wrap skirt, slightly longer in the back than in the front. This skirt has no ruffles, no gathering, and minimal flare. The skirt should fit an adult/teen size XS-M. If you’re worried it won’t be big enough, add a few inches to the center by placing the center front of the pattern parallel to the fold but an inch or two away when cutting. You’ll need about a yard and a half of polyester georgette or polyester chiffon and about 2.5 yards of narrow grosgrain ribbon.

Ballet Skirt for Grown-ups Pattern and Instructions, one size fits XS-M (PDF)

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PATTERN: The Minimalist Cowl An easy sleeveless cowl turtleneck top

This is a super easy sleeveless cowl neck top in size XS-S. The cowl is more of a turtleneck style rather than the shawl-type that drapes across the shoulders. The pattern is a simple 3 pieces and is designed for knits. I’ve used a double knit in the model but it would also be great in a sweater knit or drapey rayon jersey. Use a stretch stitch, narrow zigzag, or serge to make sure that the seams stay stretchy. Instructions included in the file.

Minimalist Cowl Top Pattern and Instructions, Size XS/S (PDF)

PATTERN: The English Tutor Dress (A kit for use with Simplicity 2473) A L’Wren Scott inspired sheath with contrast collar and cuffs

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This kit contains patterns for the collar, sleeves, and cuffs for the English Tutor Dress. It is intended to be used with Simplicity 2473. (I can’t post the whole pattern for the dress for copyright reasons.) The additions fit the size 4 dress (RTW 0-2, Burda 32), but they are relatively simple so they should be easy to grade up if you need a larger size.

Instructions are included, but I’m not a professional at writing sewing instructions so you may find them a little bit difficult to follow if you don’t have some experience with sleeves and collars.

English Tutor Dress Kit, Simplicity size 4 (PDF)

PATTERN: The Audrey Dress A little black dress inspired by Hepburn and Givenchy

This is a pattern for a dress inspired by Hubert de Givenchy’s gown worn by Audrey Hepburn in

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the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I drafted it in my size (Burda size 32 petite, RTW size 0 petite). If you are a size 32 but not petite, you can probably get away with just lengthening at the hem, as I am long-waisted and usually do not make petite alterations in the bodice when I design for myself.

The dress is a lined sheath with armhole princess seams on the front bodice, darted skirt, darted back, and side invisible zipper. I recommend using sturdy interfacing for the back neck and the top of the back bodice for structure and reinforcement.

The pattern is quite basic (only 5 pieces!) and it includes seam allowances and hem allowance. However, it is otherwise fairly bare bones in terms of markings and I have not written instructions for it at this time, so I would not recommend it for a beginner. If you have some experience in assembling lined dresses, you should be able to handle it just fine.

Audrey Dress Pattern, Size 32 petite (PDF)

PATTERN: The Coffee Date Dress A basic dress with A-line skirt and ruffle detail

This pattern, designed and drafted by me, is available for download in my size (Burda size 32 petite, RTW size 0 petite), and in a multi-sized pattern in Burda regular sizes 34-42. Be sure to download the correct instructions for your version, either the size 32 petite, or the multi-size pattern, as they differ slightly. Note that the size 32 petite pattern has seam allowances included, while the multi-size does not.

The dress is sleeveless with a slight scoop neck, a-line skirt, and ruffle detail at the bodice front. It has an all-in-one bodice facing and back zip. I would rate this pattern as suitable for an advanced beginner or intermediate sewer.

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Coffee Date Dress Pattern, Size 32 Petite (PDF) Coffee Date Dress Instructions, Size 32 Petite (PDF)

Coffee Date Dress Pattern, Sizes 34-42 (PDF) Coffee Date Dress Instructions, Size 34-42 (PDF)

117 comments Comments feed for this article

October 25, 2009 at 11:38 pm

Free stuff for you! « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply November 22, 2009 at 3:28 pm

arty teach

Just found your site, and I must say I’m well impressed, keep up the creativity and Thanks a mill!hopefully try make your audrey dress pattern, it looks fab on you!will post pics on burda website and give you credit when I do, thanks!

Reply January 2, 2010 at 4:33 pm

Beth

I’m so glad I found this site. I usually wear 0-2 petite, and have been having a tough time finding clothes lately. I have been searching for petite patterns, and just came across your site. Thanks so much for sharing. Your patterns and dresses are so lovely, I hope I can come close.

Thanks,

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Reply May 28, 2010 at 12:11 pm

HowSewBlogger

The grading on your Coffee Date Dress pattern looks great! I have been trying to figure out how to learn to grade patterns. Do you have any suggestions for books/websites from which to learn? Thanks a lot!

Reply September 2, 2010 at 12:45 pm

Alison

I am knew to this whole printing patterns at home thing – what size should I print the Coffee Date Dress at?

Reply November 1, 2010 at 9:39 am

Nikell

I am a beginner at sewing (started in September) but I am glad I found your site. It inspires me to continue to work at perfecting the craft.

Reply May 18, 2011 at 12:53 am

Monika

Hi! I have to tell you that I just LOVE the Audrey dress! I will try to sew it, hope I’ll manage! Thank you sooo much for the pattern! Monika

Reply July 22, 2011 at 7:26 am

cur-jargon

elaine – you are so gifted. so glad to know about your blog and that you share your work is incredible and very inspiring. thank you! imma fan.

Reply

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October 26, 2009 at 5:29 pm

Rosalind Clayton

I’ve just discovered your site, & I wanted to let you know that your list of so-called “lack of qualifications” as far as having the latest equipment or years of expertise has elevated your courage to go online even higher with me! Few of us would attempt what you are doing, & even fewer would be so honest about all the things that don’t turn out compared to those that do!

I look forward to hearing from you, even about any failures. Isn’t that the way we all learn the best? I hope you can make the Vogue interpretation of the Michael Kors dress look the way it really should, NOT like the enveloppe picture!! Keep going, I’m a fan already!

Rosalind

Reply October 27, 2009 at 10:24 pm

Make your own Audrey-inspired dress! « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] that we’ve gotten that out of the way, check out the downloads page. I’ve posted the (free) pattern for my Audrey Hepburn/Givenchy-inspired little black dress! [...]

Reply October 28, 2009 at 9:01 am

jj

I’m totally love both of your dress and I’m so happy that you spent time making free patterns for us. I know how long does it take to make pdf patterns. I can make a dress for myself during that time. Thank you.

Reply November 6, 2009 at 1:39 pm

Anonymous

Thanks! Completely gorgeous.

Reply November 14, 2009 at 11:08 am

Cassidy

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Thank you so much for these beautiful patterns! I just got a sewing machine for my birthday and I am uber excited to start learning to construct awesome garments. I’m looking forward to moving up to making these!

Reply November 15, 2009 at 4:00 am

Stephanie

Hi Elaine, I decided this weekend I would start sewing clothes (I’ve only made bags up until now) and came across your “coffee date dress” on Burda. I love it and want one!!! My only problem is that I would wear a 46-48. Would the pattern work if I enlarged it on a photocopier? Or is there any chance you’ve got a larger pattern up your sleeve? :)

The good news is that I did a mock-up of one this weekend and feel like even I can make one and have it turn out great! It was far easier than I thought it would be and too adorable!!

Thanks so much! I’m really enjoying your blog and am horribly envious of your skills and style! Stephanie

Reply November 18, 2009 at 4:03 pm

selfishseamstress

Hi! Glad you’re making use of the patterns! Unfortunately I don’t think the photocopier method is the way to go. The issue here is that people don’t scale up uniformly in every direction. So if your bust is 20% bigger than mine, it doesn’t mean that your neck is 20% bigger too or that your torso is 20% longer. If you do an enlargement on the photocopier and get the bust and waist measurements correct, you will almost certainly have huge gaping armholes and neck openings, along with a host of other problems.

So, you can either grade this up by hand (I think the biggest size I made was 42 so it shouldn’t be too hard to go up to a 46/48) or find a pattern that fits and has a similar shape (it’s such a basic shape, you should be able to find plenty of similar patterns), and then use the Coffee Date instructions and ruffle template to add the jabot. Good luck and happy sewing!

Reply May 25, 2011 at 10:18 pm

Deborah

Very helpful explanation on enlarging vs. grading. Thanks!

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November 15, 2009 at 9:45 am

eli schlagman

hi i love your audrey dress and wanted to know how i could make the bodice bigger (42) as i want to change the bottom to a flared skirt but love the idea of the top? is it a case of adding inches or is there a better way?

thanks they both look great

Reply November 16, 2009 at 2:19 am

Tessie

Thank you so much for the Audrey LBD pattern, I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. It is very kind of you to share your design, especially one as flawless as this!

Love & Kisses Tessie

Reply November 21, 2009 at 1:54 pm

English Tutor Dress kit available for download « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply November 30, 2009 at 10:21 am

Brigita

I’ve seen your creations over at BurdaStyle and I’m so glad you posted some of the patterns. I just need to find the right fabric and I’ll try them out! Thanks for sharing.

Reply December 1, 2009 at 8:27 am

Antoinette

I think you are my new hero. Thanks for putting in so much work on these patterns for everyone

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else’s benefit!

Reply December 11, 2009 at 3:35 pm

fiebie

hello elaine, loving your wit….and unashamed selfishness! but thats not right, if you were truly selfish you would not share your patterns…. fx

Reply December 13, 2009 at 5:55 pm

taleoftwovegans

Shhhh fiebie! We want her to keep sharing the patterns! :) Those are lovely, I have my eye on both the coffee date dress and the audrey hepburn dress, although sadly we aren’t the same size so it won’t be quite as easy as I would like. Looking forward to seeing more of your projects! -K

Reply

December 17, 2009 at 10:32 am

Burda 1.2010 and website confusion « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply December 19, 2009 at 6:03 pm

Sally

I am really excited about this dress, but I am a little stumped on how, exactly, to stitch on the ruffle. All the pictures I’ve seen of the ruffle look great, but I’m not sure what you mean by “encase each long raw edge.” I’m new to sewing clothes, I’ve mostly done quilts in the past.

Reply December 23, 2009 at 8:23 pm

Karen

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I love your website and the clothing you’ve produced. It’s comforting to know that I’m not the only person who has started projects and they’ve not turned out as planned!! You are not really selfish….you are just not able to give unconditional time to others re. sewing. People at work ask me to mend skirts/trousers and I have to say no…I don’t have the time. They look at me like I’m mad….like it will only take you 5 minutes. Time is precious and the time I’m sewing for them I could be spending time with my children or sewing for myself!! Keep on posting your creations….even the ones that you’ve decided not to pursue as I think we can learn from our mistakes and others. Thanks :)

Reply December 29, 2009 at 6:47 pm

angie

Happened upon your blog via the BurdaStyle site. Love the blog and love the free downloads! Lucky because I really have too much time on my hands and not nearly enough patterns that I want to complete. Or is the the other way around? Thanks and keep blogging please!

Reply January 7, 2010 at 11:07 am

Natalie

Thanks for the audrey dress pattern, I’m going to lengthen it a little and perhaps scoop the neck by about an inch and have it as my prom dress (in navy blue), perhaps even some pearls. I’m not one for the poofy skirt look :)

Reply January 7, 2010 at 7:56 pm

Dei

I think I’ve found my kindred spirit in a wickedly funny sewing diva. God bless you my chile ’cause I’m boosting every freebie I see. I’ll give them all a test run and holla back on my blog…with kudos to you as requested. :)

Reply January 14, 2010 at 3:31 pm

Tempest

I’ve also seen your work over at Burda. I’d love to see you design something for those of us of ample frame ;p

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I love your style.

Any chance of drafting some larger size patterns? We like to be pretty too!

Reply January 17, 2010 at 9:06 pm

Beat this Deal « Megnificent Made's Blog

[...] twice. She has generously offered her pattern for download at BurdaStyle as well as on her download’s page on her blog. Coffee Date Dress by Selfish [...]

Reply January 19, 2010 at 7:00 pm

Lindsay

Hi-I happen to have the pattern for the McCalls 4425 pattern..but it is missing a few pieces!!! Technically that only makes 3/4 of the pattern. I was wondering if it would be possible, if I provided the pattern paper and return postage, if I could get a copy traced of a few pieces (just a few pieces!!!) since you have the pattern. Maybe it’s kind of like having 3/4 of a dollar bill…the universe provides you with the last 1/4 because you have the first 3/4?

I would be willing to share patterns..vintage patterns…new patterns..I will share your fabulous blog with strangers on the street. If I don’t hear back I will be forced to A) cry in a corner with my 3/4 McCalls 4425 vintage dress pattern in hand B) drive myself crazy reconstructing the missing pieces myself or C) all of the above!

Please say yes…please please please

TY :) Lindsay H.

Reply January 21, 2010 at 2:53 pm

New Year’s Resolution « Bridalraider's Blog

[...] coffee date dress, and it was designed by an exceptional girl who called Elainemay, who blogs at The selfish seamstress. My efforts look good so far, but I am stuck at the level of interfacing. Will probably have to [...]

Reply January 29, 2010 at 9:25 am

Recycling is chic, the Selfish Seamstress is famous! « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

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Reply January 29, 2010 at 11:45 am

Amy

How unselfish of you to provide free patterns! ;) I am SO going to try that coffee date dress when I can find the time…

Reply January 30, 2010 at 3:56 pm

Free pattern: Ballet skirt for grownups « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply February 2, 2010 at 4:13 pm

Coffee Date Dress « Bridalraider's Blog

[...] it! in Uncategorized. Leave a Comment At last, I have finished this dress. I got the pattern from The selfish Seamstress. The pattern can be found on her blog, and on Burdastyle. You might want to try sewing this at [...]

Reply February 2, 2010 at 10:25 pm

Kaith

Thank you for the Audrey Dress pattern! I’m going to try and resize it and sew it for Zoe’s Stash Bustin’ challenge. You’re wonderful and your blog is awesome!

Reply February 8, 2010 at 12:55 pm

fiebie

yes i think u will have to believe the photos! it doesnt look right but not because the skirt isnt chic and cute, because it is, now contradicting myself…..but because in my very humble opinion you need some dark tights (perhaps u call them stockings in the usa) and a different and perhaps also darker top/shirt. ps were u a gymnast…your pic it very like a move loved by rhythmic gymnasts. enjoying your selfish, sarcastic snips of writting!!!

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fx

Reply February 23, 2010 at 5:18 am

audreyswardrobe

Thought you might like to know that my FIRST EVER sewing project was your minimalist cowl! (I wrote it up in my last blog post, if you are interested in the result.) Thanks so much for providing the pattern, and for the rest of your blog – I am loving it :)

Reply February 23, 2010 at 2:18 pm

Jamie O.

Hi! I love your blog and I’ve made your coffee date dress and love it! I was wondering if you could write basic basic basic instructions for your audrey dress. I’m confused on how to sew on the back neckline. Thanks so much for your generous patterns! I’m extremely petite and it’s hard finding patterns so small

Jamie

Reply March 4, 2010 at 4:35 pm

Selfish Seamstress Nemesis: Juebejue « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply March 28, 2010 at 1:49 pm

SWAP #4 & 5 « Knits & Wovens

[...] top is from my standby – Jalie 2005 T-shirt pattern. I got the cowl from The Selfish Seamstress (who is so generous as to give away pattern drafts!). It just so happened that the inner [...]

Reply April 5, 2010 at 3:49 pm

Gabbix

I love your blog. Its very inspiring!!!

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Thanks for sharing all the beautiful work you do :)

love from Argentina …………………

Reply April 7, 2010 at 10:13 am

TrixieRocket

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

I have been lusting after the coffee-date dress for aaages. I downloaded the pattern from burdastyle but it came with no instructions. I’ve been following your blog for a while but I’ve only just found the downloads page. Hurray! Now I can sew my perfect summer dress! Yay!

Reply April 30, 2010 at 6:57 am

Silvia

What a beautiful blog and creations. Thanks for sharing your beautiful work. And as soon as I am up to the something nice I swear I will post some pictures… for now I have to be quiet… all my clothes have some flaws

Reply May 4, 2010 at 2:50 pm

Charlie

Hi Elaine

I’ve been following your blog for a while now. Thanks so much for the free patterns, great posts and most importantly the way you always make me laugh out loud. My hubbie can’t understand why blogs about sewing can be laugh out loud funny. Great work girl. You rock!

Keep on blogging – Charlie

Reply May 7, 2010 at 4:13 pm

A Frock by Friday: Coffee Date Dress explosion! « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply May 8, 2010 at 12:36 pm

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Shirley

Thanks for sharing! These are amazing! So inspirational!

Reply May 9, 2010 at 7:10 pm

shinta

oh my god,, i really love all of your outfit :) damn cool :) i want to try to make it by my self :) wish me luck

Reply May 12, 2010 at 9:15 am

Selfish Seamstressing for experts: Another handy guide « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply May 13, 2010 at 3:19 pm

Grosgrain patterns coming soon to Etsy? « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply May 17, 2010 at 2:25 pm

Silvia

Hi! thanks for the beautiful patterns and the blog. I have one question: are the patterns made to be printed out on Letter size paper or A4? Your fan from Europe

Reply May 17, 2010 at 2:31 pm

selfishseamstress

The template should work for either US Letter or A4 paper, as long as you’re printing it out at 100%. I would recommend that you locate the page of the pattern that has the “test square” on it and print just that page to test. The square should be 4″x4″ or 10cm x1 10cm on the printed page. If

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that square prints out at the right size, your printer settings should be fine as is regardless of whether you’re using Letter or A4. Hope this helps and happy sewing. Thanks for visiting!

Reply

May 17, 2010 at 4:26 pm

Men’s Shirt Makeover: the Ruffle Edition « KristenMakes

[...] first did a ruffle on my Coffee Date Dress which is an amazing and free pattern available from The Selfish Seamstress. I loved her version of the ruffle so much, I borrowed the idea for this Men’s Shirt [...]

Reply May 25, 2010 at 9:21 am

Robyn Tischner

Selfish I LOVE YOU! I live vicariously through you. I am a mother of four and my cute size 0 vanished long ago. I worked in childrens design houses before I stayed home to be the mom, so that is where I am comfortable sewing all things small and cute. When I found you I thought, she is right I should sew for myself. While I was shopping at the Walmart the other day they had in the fabric section vintage voile in a fifties print pink with cream flowers that had black outlines. I could picture it sewn up as your sugar snow dress with faux pearls and black patten leather shoes. Tradgedy of tradgedy you have not posted the instuctions as promissed. I am hoping that you will do it soon or maybe I should really start woking out get in fighting shape just so that I can look as good as you do in all things fabulous that you make and than you can take your time getting it done. Now if you have posted let me know where to find it. Thanks for the inspiration.

Reply May 26, 2010 at 10:56 pm

ozzig

Thank you very much for the pattern! I’ll try to make one myself

Reply June 15, 2010 at 3:19 pm

Tasty sewing tidbits « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply

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June 15, 2010 at 6:12 pm

Sarah

Hi Elaine,

I’m planning on making the Coffee Date Dress, but since I’ve never made clothing before I can’t figure out which size to pick. How much ease is built into the pattern?

My bust and waist measurements are both 1/4 inch larger than the size 38 (according to the Burdastyle size chart), so I don’t know whether to just make a size 38 or go up to size 40. Any thoughts? Thank you!

Reply June 20, 2010 at 9:19 am

selfishseamstress

Hi Sarah. I think you could go either way on this one- perhaps you could go with the size 38 and add a larger seam allowance (say, 3/4″ of an inch) and then sew everything with a 5/8″ allowance. Or you could make the 40 to be on the safe side, baste the bodice and the fit it to see where you need to take it in. The bodice is quite fitted with minimal ease. Good luck!

Reply

June 19, 2010 at 9:26 pm

Fay

Hello Elaine,

This is a lovely dress. I so want to make it. A question, in US I wear size 6 but when I looked up in Burda size chart I am close to 12!!!! Any suggestion for me? And also if I want to print the pattern, does each page fit with A4 paper? Thank you so much.

Reply June 20, 2010 at 9:17 am

selfishseamstress

Sewing pattern sizing is different from ready-to-wear sizing and varies by each pattern company as well. The best thing to do is go by your body measurements to figure out what pattern size you

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should use. If you wear a size 6 US, I’m going to guess that that’s probably around a size 38 in Burda, but I’m not sure.

The pattern should work for both US Letter and A4 paper. Just locate the page with the 4″x4″/10cm x10cm test square and print that one out. Then measure the square on the printed page. If it’s accurate, then you know your printer settings are correct to give you the correct size. Good luck and let me know how it goes!

Reply

June 26, 2010 at 11:01 am

The Slothful Seamstress and Sidonie « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply June 30, 2010 at 6:10 pm

savanna

Hi Elaine, I love the coffee dress, but when I tried to make it in the largest size it was to small. Luckily I made the bodice out of old fabric to see if it would fit. Do you have any tips on making it bigger?

Reply July 2, 2010 at 9:40 am

seemane

Hi Savanna (I hope the Selfish Seamstress doesn’t mind me replying – I’m sure she won’t, it’ll give her more “selfish” time to sew LOL!),

To enlarge the pattern (i.e. increase the whole thing everywhere by 1, or more sizes) then you need to Grade the pattern.

Here a couple of links to tips/tutorials on grading (1-4 are on BurdaStyle.com):- (1) Grade skirt and pants patterns (2) Grade a bodice pattern to a larger size (3) Make a Pattern Larger or Smaller (by the Selfish Seamstress herself!) (4) TEXTEnlarge a basic BurdaStyle pattern (For sewers who just want to enlarge a multi-sized pattern by a couple of sizes without using grading techniques). (5) Making Sense of Pattern Grading (from Threads Magazine’s website) (6) TEXT (from The Dressmaker’s Resource, Pattern-Making.com).

Regards, Seemane :)

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Reply

July 2, 2010 at 9:21 am

seemane

I’ve been browsing the internet & I came across your Coffee Date dress shown in an article here (from January 2010) Free Ruffle Dress Pattern, they mention it’s available from BurdaStyle – but not that it’s by the Selfish Seamstress (boo :( !!).

Reply July 7, 2010 at 3:09 pm

Bloggy fun: Fill in the blanks! « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply July 15, 2010 at 5:18 am

Em

I found this on ivillage.com

http://www.ivillage.com/refined-details/5-b-217237#content

Omg! Has someone stolen the coffee date dress? How rude!

Reply July 17, 2010 at 4:52 pm

15-minute houndstooth skirt « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply July 20, 2010 at 9:31 am

A Selfish Seamstress Gallery « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply August 1, 2010 at 1:55 pm

Lyndsey

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Have you seen this? Did they copy you? http://www.anntaylor.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=25856&N=1200007&categoryId=180&pCategoryId=3939&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_180&

Reply August 3, 2010 at 7:33 am

Who’s ripping off the Selfish Seamstress? « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply August 9, 2010 at 12:42 pm

Coffee Date Dress « Sewing Princess

[...] is my version of the Coffee Date Dress. I really liked working on this pattern and the instructions were easy to follow. I particularly [...]

Reply August 14, 2010 at 3:39 pm

vera fernandes

gosto muitissimo deste site demais!!!!!!!!!

Reply September 7, 2010 at 2:52 pm

Alex

Seemane, thanks for all your lovely links to grading information. I too, was wondering.

And Seamstress, thanks for the beautiful patterns. I think I’m going to attempt the cowlneck.

Reply September 10, 2010 at 1:52 pm

laurwyn

Hello! I hope that your relocating is going well and everything. I am planning on posting a how-to upgrade a pattern on my blog. A few persons were interested to use patterns but didn’t know how to make them bigger. I will probably use your Coffee Date dress pattern as it is the easiest one for me to use as an example for the basic easy technique.

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I hope that you won’t be annoyed by it… I tried to find your e-mail address but could not. If you are unhappy about it, after all, it your pattern, you are the one to decide, I can change my post…

Reply September 12, 2010 at 1:37 am

More SSS! « KristenMakes

[...] Self Stitched! Coffee Date Dress by the Selfish Seamstress Top: Gap Earrings: made by my Sister in Law, Amanda, of Ampersand [...]

Reply October 1, 2010 at 12:19 pm

Ballet Skirts « Red Knits

[...] I saw the Selfish Seamstress‘s pattern for the Ballet Skirt for Grown-Ups, I knew that it would be perfect for my friend. I made the black skirt (pictured center, above) for [...]

Reply October 11, 2010 at 11:58 pm

Alina

Thank you very much for patterns. They are great! You are special because they have done for us!

Reply January 7, 2011 at 2:18 am

Antonina

Hi,

I had seen your coffee date dress in Burda, but I just discovered your site. Thanks so much for uploading these patterns! They are so amazing!

Nina

Reply January 12, 2011 at 3:38 pm

Erin Cumming

I just read a number of entries on your blog, and was laughing out loud to most of them. Kudos,

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and I hope to read more in the future!

Reply January 21, 2011 at 6:13 pm

Isabel

Hola estoy muy agradecida ya que sus patrones me han ayudado mucho,soy modista pero no me gusta mucho hacer moldes y con lo que se comparte en tu sitio me facilitas muchisimo mi trabajo. Desde Puerto Montt -Chile

Gracias

Reply February 1, 2011 at 10:00 pm

Behind the Seams: The “Giddy with Polka Dots” Dress « The Sew Convert

[...] even considered recreating the second grey ruffles dress with the Selfish seamstress’ Coffee Date dress pattern and simply adding sleeves to it. And the vintage pink dress with rose was just calling out to me [...]

Reply February 11, 2011 at 2:00 pm

Free Pattern – The Coffee Date Dress « Britex Fabrics

[...] detail at the bodice front. Talented Elaine, the Selfish Seamstress, designed and drafted this pattern as a free download, and I love what sweetiepiebakery on BurdaStyle did with the ruffled bib! Done up in red velvet, it [...]

Reply February 14, 2011 at 10:59 pm

Merry

Hi , Elaine, Thanks for sharing the free patterns…. I am so interested in sewing myself.

I am learning by myself by reading on internet.

I really want to create designs . I love the coffee date dress, and I am going to try one .

Thanks …

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Reply February 21, 2011 at 1:49 pm

Mirian S. Tatum

Thank you for sharing this beautiful pattern. I have been looking for a pattern similar to this cut but this one is definitly prettier. As soon as I make it I will send you a picture. Thank you for your kindness.

Reply February 25, 2011 at 7:54 am

Ee Ling Chan

Hi

I love Audrey Hepburn and her dress style and was on Burda when I found your “little black dress” from Breakfast at Tiffanys.

You are so talented…I’m a novice, but will try to reconstruct this classic dress in the near future…

Thank you so much for this pattern.

Cheers!

Reply March 5, 2011 at 1:15 am

CB

When I print out the pattern it has margins on the page, should I cut the margins off or have you allowed for those margins in your pattern?

Reply March 8, 2011 at 12:17 pm

dlm.

Thank you SO much for your stunning dress pattern. I can’t wait to make this for my eldest DD for her next high school dance.

Reply March 15, 2011 at 6:32 am

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tk

hi elain , do you perhaps have a pattern for a tunic thati can download in pdf file?

Reply March 16, 2011 at 9:17 am

anna

Nice to meet you “selfish seamstress!” I loved your description of your ballet skirt’s attributes (although I disagree with your assessment of your so-called gymnastic legs, I, myself, unfortunately do have them!), but having never used a non-full-sized pattern, how do I enlarge it? Do I keep making ever larger copies on a copier machine until your 4in x 4 in test square actually measures out to 4 in on my copier paper, and then connect the pages? Please excuse my ignorance and enlighten me, because I would really like to make a skirt in a fabric of my choice. Thank you so much!

Reply March 29, 2011 at 6:55 pm

anna

I was reading past postings and found my answer, so please disregard my earlier question! Anna

Reply April 2, 2011 at 1:09 pm

Introducing the Boston Branch of the BurdaStyle Sewing Club | Grey's Fabric and Notions

[...] Seamstress: The SS has a great reader gallery of this pattern as well as some other downloads available. The Coffee Date dress, free from [...]

Reply April 28, 2011 at 5:44 am

Dorte

What lovely dresses – all though they are a bit small, I would give it a try to sizing them up. Unfortunately the PDF for English Tutor Dress seems to be damaged – I can’t open it.

Reply April 30, 2011 at 8:08 am

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welcome home dress, take two « Life As I Knit It

[...] I have a lovely lightweight cotton broadcloth, and I’ve been planning to make it up into the Coffee Date Dress, with thanks to the Selfish Seamstress for her sweet free pattern! Michael Miller cotton [...]

Reply May 1, 2011 at 4:17 pm

Nell Hendricks

I made the Coffee Date Dress, with a weird green mushroom printed fabric that was actually pretty cute. I didn’t know how it would turn out…and being a self taught twelve year old, i think i did pretty well.:)

Reply May 4, 2011 at 3:42 pm

Nicole

I can’t wait to attempt this ballet skirt!

I have finally understood the purpose of blogs- and I approve! Good job and thank you!

Reply May 8, 2011 at 1:48 am

Luna

The Audrey Dress is verry nice ! I like it ! But I have a size 40 and it’s not a multisize pattern –’ (I don’t know to change a pattern…)

You’re verry crative and you habe many talent !

Reply May 24, 2011 at 8:00 pm

homemade me, day 5 « Kristin's Photo-a-Day Blog

[...] promised, my “put a bird on it” dress. It is from The Selfish Seamstress. She calls it the Coffee Date dress. My dress name comes from the cute birds on the fabric and [...]

Reply May 28, 2011 at 10:54 am

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Renee

Hi, LOVE LOVE LOVE the Audrey dress, I have been looking all over for the Breakfast at Tiffany’s pattern! Yours is brilliant! Just wondering if you have some good recommendations for the best fabric to use. What fabric did you use for your dress?

THanks!

Reply June 16, 2011 at 2:33 pm

Britex Fabrics - Blog

[...] from the SelfishSeamstress made up this classically simple ballet skirt pattern for grown-ups: a simple and elegant ballet skirt with no frou-frou! It is practically tailored. This floaty skirt [...]

Reply June 26, 2011 at 4:45 pm

Anonymous

Elaine I would like to thank you for these wonderfull patterns.I’ve been looking on the internet, with no luck ,for weeks for a nice dress and I found 2 only from you.You have great taste and talent.Thanks again!

Reply July 10, 2011 at 2:34 am

Anonymous

Any tips on finding Mens clothing patterns???

Reply July 18, 2011 at 4:18 pm

Cycling Crafts: Summer crafting to fancy up your two wheel buddy |

[...] that I’m a selfish crafter, haha. She has a nice little selection of free patterns, including this cute ballet skirt, which I think would make for a perfect cycling [...]

Reply July 19, 2011 at 5:30 am

Madison

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hii i love the coffee date dress i would love to do it but i`m not a size 32 petite i`m only 11 and i want a size that i could fit in so can you please help!!! also i am taking a fashion design course and i was wondering if i could make it for our runway show. i need a reply soon thanks….

Reply July 27, 2011 at 1:46 am

northwest is best

Thanks for your wonderful coffee date dress pattern. I’ve just finished making one and I’m really pleased with the result. It’s definitely an 18 hour dress – something I can wear to work and then out for a meal/to the pub. I’ll be making a second one soon!

Reply July 28, 2011 at 10:57 am

Vannerz

I love all your patterns. I am planning to make the coffee date dress pattern this week, but I am absolutely in love with the Audrey! Thank you so much! You are amazing.

Reply August 2, 2011 at 3:37 pm

Raelynn Ann

As an amateur with an incredibly tight budget and a love of home-made elegant outfits, you’re resources are a gold mine! I have the ideas, but not the pattern making capabilities and sometimes need a bit of direction! Thank you so much!

Reply August 21, 2011 at 1:56 am

Amanda Lachner

I’m making the coffee date dress and I’m having a bit of trouble with the ruffle. When attaching the ruffle to the bodice front, do I lay the ruffle with the side not sewn to the dress pointed upwards while I sew and then flip it over when I’m done to hide the seams, or do I just sew it straight down and hope the ruffle seams are all hidden by the ruffles above them?

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Reply August 31, 2011 at 8:59 am

Oh, Etsy seamstresses. « The Selfish Seamstress

[...] Downloads [...]

Reply September 2, 2011 at 11:24 am

Jen

Wow…just stumbled across your site via A Few Threads Loose. You are talented AND fabulous (based on your Oh, Etsy Seamstresses…People!). And thank you for the free patterns—I can’t wait to play with them. Thank you! The Tutor Dress is darling, and the Coffee Date, and…eeee! Everything!

Reply September 6, 2011 at 8:37 pm

Britex Fabrics - Blog

[...] otherwise known by the moniker of The Selfish Seamstress, says that she loves to design and sew garments, but only if she gets to keep them. What a greedy [...]

Reply September 7, 2011 at 4:55 pm

Free! Little Black Dress Pattern Inspired by Hepburn & Givenchy | EmploiCouturiere 28062011-01

[...] Inspired by Hepburn & Givenchy septembre 7, 2011Elaine, otherwise known by the moniker of The Selfish Seamstress, says that she loves to design and sew garments, but only if she gets to keep them. What a greedy [...]

Reply September 11, 2011 at 1:34 am

Ruhammmie

OMG!! I was thinking about what to be for Halloween, this year I thought Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany’s with that little black dress because I wanted to sew something couture, not costumey. So I googled it to research it and your site came up in one of the first couple of plages. THANK YOU for providing this pattern for free!! It gives me a template to start with for altering to my size and lengthen. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! I’ve already sewn the coffee date dress too, by the way, when Grosgrain did her FBF sewalong. If I finish, it will be posted on my blog, but not until October. Thanks again!

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Reply September 20, 2011 at 3:10 pm

A Fall Starling - Version 3

[...] [By the way, the complete pattern & instructions for the Coffee Date Dress, including the ruffle, can be found here]. [...]

Reply September 30, 2011 at 5:43 pm

Jeanette Hargrove

I am new to your web site and I just wanted to let you know that I think that you are a talented seamtress. I would love to meet you. Keep up the great work as I am so inspired to improve my garment making skills.

Reply October 26, 2011 at 4:05 pm

The Selfless Seamstress « Life As I Knit It

[...] understand why. I’m working on one of her designs (Selfish has made her lovely dress pattern available for the whole world to download for free! Maybe she’s not so selfish) for a friend, and there are a few challenges already in this [...]

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