Buffi Jashanmal

(94) Many books for 20-something stitchers focus on "just eyeball it" designs, "trace something you already own," or commercial patterns. So it's a pleasure to see a book for 20-something sewers that advocates for the development and use of a sloper for custom-fit patterns and clothing. By focusing on a handful of dress shapes (e.g., shift, sheath, and princess-seam), variety of sleeve lengths, pattern-drafting techniques, and sewing strategies, the book unpacks the basics of self-directed design and sewing. While the hemlines and sleeveless/strapless styles have a more youthful vibe, the basics are classic. One disappointment is the styling of the dresses in the photographs: some seams look puckery, and the fit seems awkward in a few garments, particularly in those with raglan sleeves. Still, three cheers for slopers!… (meer)