A Review of The Georgie Pinafore Pdf Pattern by Jennifer Lauren Handmade.
The Georgie Pinafore is a new release from Jennifer Lauren Handmade and I was lucky enough to be selected to be a pattern tester. Jennifer's patterns have a classic, vintage vibe with great staple pieces for your wardrobe.
A classic shift-style 60s pinafore with an exposed zip, front inseam patch pockets and princess seams. A nod to mod with a utility twist.
Source: Jennifer Lauren Handmade
The Georgie Pinafore comes in A0, A4 and US Letter versions with Layers enabled. There are two size charts to select from: The Original and The Curve. Original and Curve patterns are based on two different blocks therefore the shape, ease and proportions vary depending on the block used. Across these size charts there is a High Bust range of 74 cm - 144 cm and the pattern includes A - F cup sizes.
The instructions to help you measure and choose your base size and cup size are very clearly explained and there's a useful chart showing finished measurements for each size. I made a 14D from the Original size chart. The Georgie Pinafore is drafted for a height of 170 cm so I shortened my pattern pieces by 7 cms allowing the Pinafore to hit just above the knees.
The Georgie Pinafore is designed to be semi-fitted with plenty of ease and room to wear something underneath. Princess seams give a great fit over the bust and the exposed zip adds an interesting detail. Pockets are included and are a decent size!
Recommended fabric is light to medium weight woven with some structure such as denim, corduroy or suiting. I chose a faux suede washable fabric from Minerva. I like the fact that it's black, so practical to wear, with the lettering stopping it from being too plain/boring. You will also need a 51 cm (20") zip although there are instructions on how to adjust the pattern for different lengths.
The Georgie Pinafore is my first Jennifer Lauren pattern and I'm really impressed with the pattern drafting and the clarity of the instructions. The diagrams are well drawn and complement the instructions - poor diagrams or photographs can confuse rather than help! The centre front zip is the only time consuming element of this pattern and there are six pages of instructions just for the zip! However, the extra steps of measuring and basting are totally worth it to give you a satisfying neat finish. I actually enjoy having a more challenging element of a sew sometimes just to keep it interesting and to learn new skills too.
Interestingly, sewing the shoulders together is done near the end of construction after the facings and side seams. Again, the instructions and diagrams are excellent and clearly explain how to sew the shoulder seams in such a way that no raw edges are exposed so that the finish on the inside is very neat and professional looking.
Overall, I'm really happy with my finished Georgie Pinafore and can see it getting plenty of wear over the cooler months here in the UK. A Summer version in linen or cotton would be super practical too.
