Customer Reviews

Lingerie Secrets

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a beautiful book, with lots of pictures, including fitting advice. Some patterns are drafted from body measurements, and those can fit everyone. But others are only available in 4 or 5 different sizes, to be copied (and enlarged) from the book. Only one model of bra is included, and that is not a very supportive model, so not suitable for fuller figures. The book give many ideas for night wear and lounge wear, using both woven and knitted fabrics. Both design/drafting and sewing tips are included.

Many wonderful tips are given to get beginners and those with experience started with sewing basic, conventional lingerie. If you're looking for more provocative lingerie, you'll have to look elsewhere as this book just covers the basics of constructing conventional lingerie---a basic slip, half-slip, full coverage panty, light bra (for smaller sizes) and boxers. Instructions are given for making a pattern for the camisol and slips only. For the bra, panty and boxers, a pattern is given, but will need to be photocopied and expanded. The instructions given in this book are easy to follow and the pictures clearly illustrate the techniques being presented. Highly recommended for those who want to start making conventional lingerie/undies.

The only bad thing about this book is the copy I got to see is a library book and to buy one, they are currently more than my budget allows! That being said, I love this book. Very ample, clear, color photographic illustrations. Choices on how to do something was given including instructions for a conventional bottom of the line sewing machine (as long as it can zigzag) and serger. I hate books that say there is only one way to sew a seam, she gives optional stitches or tells you how to trim with lace. We also learn how to use different elastics and when to use and how the clear elastic.

One of the best things about this book is she remembers those of us who aren't conventional skinny girls. She tells you how to make maternity panties and even a nursing nightie (which looks like you can take those instructions and make nursing tops also!). For those who may be disabled she explains how to make a full slip that buttons or snaps in the front so there is no need to pull itover your head and also shows how to makes a button closure wrap half slip for those with difficulty dressing themselves.

Even though some of the patterns in the book need enlarged, instructions are also given for how to convert a regular sewing pattern into slips and other garments. Almost all the designs and instructions given would actually be helpful in sewing your conventional camisole, slip and nightie sewing patterns.

I learned a lot about sewing just from reading through this book and will definitely be looking to adding it to my sewing reference library.

A while back, I created my own underwear pattern from scratch, but I couldn't seem to perfect it. So when I found this book, I was hopeful that I'd finally be able to make a pair that fit just right. I found the sections of the book that dealt with choosing and using materials (fabric, elastic, trimmings) quite helpful and have been able to put many of her tips to good use.

Unfortunately, the patterns in the book were disasters. I'm not sure if this is because they were initially made for a different body type (I'm slim and usually wear a 6 or 8), but I saw my measurements in several of the tables in the book, so it wasn't aimed only at larger women. I followed the instructions and double-checked all my calculations (of which there were many) for both the underwear and bra patterns. As I was making the patterns, I knew something was wrong. Despite using accurate waist, hip, bust, etc. measurements, both patterns turned out incredibly large. I had to cut 2-3 inches off all sides of the front and back pieces of the underwear and another 2 inches on the top and sides of the crotch piece. One cup of the bra pattern was large enough to cover my entire chest. The amount of elastic suggested also didn't work for me at all.

I ended up going back to my own home-made patterns and making a few minor adjustments based on this book. So while this book was somewhat helpful to me, it certainly did allow me to "sew a perfect fit" for my body, as the title suggested it would.

Jan Bones has a 30 page book on her website for $10 entitled Lingerie Secrets. Could it be the same? Jan is a super experienced, practical teacher. Her information is stuff that you can really use.

There are a lot of useful information.
I tried to make the panty pattern ,the result is too big .I didn't add seam allowrance!

love the patterns and book by Jan Bones. I especially like the detailed fitting instructions, the scaled patterns, and the tips for fixing the trouble spots.