Completed: Burda 8488- a repeat.

Sewing for me, is extremely fun.  Patterns and patternmaking is intriguing and challenging at the same time.  I do it because I like to challenge myself, and because there is "always" something new to learn.  However, every time I think about making a pair of pants, I want instant success.  I usually avoid making pants because I don't want to redraft or go through endless pattern alterations.  Thus, as with anything else I would rather have two, or three, or even four if it means less stress.  Shucks the way I am, I may start wearing a "personal style uniform" as discussed  here (uniform dressing)

This is why I think it important to have that one pattern for every style of clothing, that you wouldn't mind using over and over again.

After loosing weight you would think that all the pattern alterations would have to begin anew if using the same pattern. Well that is not the case with these pants from burda..at least for me. I have found that we usually gain and loose weight over a basic body composition. Meaning that if I gain weight I gain it proportionately. (1" at the waist, then 1" at the hip.). The things that changes on me are always proportionate, so when I lost weight I decided to make these pants again using a smaller pattern size.

Pattern Description:

Wide leg pants that are close fitting through the hips.

Pattern Sizing:

34-44, us- 8-18. See my blog entry-- "Making the Grade" a matter of size. for the size differences with the Burda Patterns compared to the "big four" pattern companies.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

They do tend to flare out at the hem, I know it's because this time I used a stiffer linen fabric...the original was a linen blend.

Pattern Review for first pair.

I am really short in the front and the panel tends to crumple down...As it is designed it is two interfaced pieces, sewn together like a pocket and turn right side out through the bottom, then edge stitched. Afterwards, the buttonholes are sewed on before applying to the pants front by sewing only on the bottom and buttoned up the sides. The buttons and holes are still loose.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Since I have made these before, I did not use the instructions, however, I still reiterate if you are a beginner it does take some getting used to to follow Burdas style of instruction. Just take it slow, read all before starting.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
The crotch curve is absolutely magnificent! I only did a 1" rise increase in the back, I was able to leave the curve alone. Normally, I have to extend it to go under the rump roast I carry in the back. They hang wonderfully. I don't have any dislikes for this pattern. I like the fact that the lap zipper is on the side. (finally, a side zip) I like that the panel can be removed from the front and just show the buttons. There is no functioning zipper opening behind the front panel, so its really just a design detail.
  

Fabric Used:
I used a Linen. I knew it would have some wrinkling but I was ok with that....I choose not to line the pants as a result. The pattern doesn't require lining, but I know some people like to line linen to help with wrinkling.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
As I said earlier, I increased the back crotch rise by 1". I lowered the front by 1 1/2", this adjustments makes the pattern look really malformed, but it is my body. The gradual decline starts at the side seam, you can't even tell when they are on the body, the waist actually appears normal....do your adjust and ignore how the pattern "looks".

I left the hem the same from the original pattern, so that they would work better without heels. The regular length would be just fine for the average 5'5" person such as myself.
Everytime I think about making pants, I want instant success.  I don't usually make them because I don't want to redraft or go through endless pattern alterations.  Thus, as with anything else I would rather have two, or three, or even four if it means less stress.  Shucks the way I am, I may start wearing a "personal style uniform" as discussed  here (uniform dressing)

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I would definitely sew these again. This pattern has a lapped zipper on the side, I will make with with an invisible zipper next time.

Conclusion: for those who have seen my ordinal post, I encourage to check it out, there is a cute video that will give you a great laugh.Original review