When I first started brainstorming what was to become Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns, I had a dream that as an elevated service to all of our sewers, our garment patterns (including patterns from our previous books) would be neatly packaged onto one convenient CD with an additional size (XXL), which had been so often requested. That dream became a reality last week when our book was released. But as happens so often, the things we think are going to change our lives in a particular way are often the ones that surprise us in a new way. Such is the case with the CD included with Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns. While many of our customers LOVE the new format, there are a small number who feel frustrated by it.
In our first three books, we recommended that the paper patterns be copied (or traced) before using in order to preserve the original patterns. Many of our readers followed that advice and copied patterns at print shops that had large-format copier/printers in their own communities. This made me think that the switch to CD would be a welcome change: it would eliminate the need for tracing (as the original pattern would always be preserved on the CD) and it would make printing easy (just email the file to a shop with a large-format printer and then have the printout mailed to you or go pick it up).
A reader commented on social media in the last days that I certainly didn’t make the decision to include the CD and blamed our publisher for the new format. That was not the case. The CD was my idea of elevated service. Certainly, I discussed this at length with the publisher and, together, we strove to create the best reader experience possible. On the CD we included not only the three new patterns featured in Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns (Short and Long Wrap Skirt; Classic Coat/Jacket/Cardigan; and A-Line Dress/Tunic/Top) but also artwork for all of the stencils used on the garments featured in the book and all of the garment patterns from the previous books with the additional size.
Yesterday, after reviewing feedback from some dissatisfied customers, our team came up with the following list of printing options that we would like to share. We hope one of these options will suit you:
1) As we originally imagined, open the CD on your computer, send the file for the pattern desired to a local shop with a large-format printer, and order the printed pattern. In the United States many local print shops offer this service (along with big box office shops like Office Depot, FedEx Print Center, and Staples). The charge should be in the range of $5-12 per pattern (also depending on the length). If you don’t have a CD drive on your computer, you’ll have to take the CD to the store yourself.
2) Print out the patterns on a standard-format printer at home and tape the pieces together. To do this, follow the instructions from our blog post How To Print a Garment and/or Stencil Pattern. This will work for whatever size paper is standard in your part of the world—select your paper size before printing. Fortunately, this process has gotten much easier in the last few years thanks to improvements in the PDF program in which we share the pattern files.
3) If you haven’t yet purchased a copy of Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns, you can now add paper copies of the patterns to your order through our online store, as follows:
- Add printed Wrap Skirt Pattern (with Short and Long variations)
- Add printed Classic Coat/Jacket/Cardigan Pattern
- Add printed A-line Dress/Tunic/Top Pattern
- Add printed copies of all new garment patterns
4) If you already purchased a copy of Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns from us or elsewhere, email us a copy of your receipt or the PDF from the CD for the pattern that you want to have printed. We will have the pattern printed and then mail it to you, charging you our costs for printing and handling as shown above plus the cost for your desired shipping method. Email these requests to orders (at) alabamachanin.com
Individual paper copies are available for the Wrap Skirt; Classic Coat/Jacket/Cardigan; and A-Line Dress/Tunic/Top, the three new patterns introduced in Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns. All of the other garment patterns are included on paper in our first three books: Alabama Stitch Book, Alabama Studio Style, and Alabama Studio Sewing + Design.
As always, we strive to provide customer service of the highest possible standard. We are here to help. Please let us know what we can do to improve your experience with Alabama Chanin and The School of Making products.
xo Natalie
i tried downloading the large scallop stencil and it crashed my ipad. this has never happened before, just wondering if there might be an issue for others as well.
Barbara,
We’ve only had a couple of problems with downloads and apologies that this is happening for you. The file is a large as it contains the stencil at full-scale . You may send us an email to orders (at) alabamachanin.com and we’ll reply with the artwork attached. Hopefully this will make things easier for you.
Warmly,
Natalie and all of us @ Alabama Chanin
I can’t print the patterns, I’ve tried the tile method and it doesn’t work for me. I don’t have a print shop in my rural area so I would be interested in getting printed patterns. I have a receipt for the purchase of the book, I can scan it and send it to you. How can I order the patterns?
Thanks for your help
Hi Rose,
Sorry to hear that tiling isn’t working for you. For pattern copies, you can email orders@alabamachanin.com with a copy of your receipt (if you didn’t order the book from us). Give us a call at +256.760.1090 M-F from 8:00 – 4:30CST if you have any other questions. We look forward to hearing from you!
I sent a Verizon email yesterday with a copy of my receipt, thanks for your help
Thanks for doing this! I love the idea of a CD for the reasons you mentioned, but don’t really have access to a reliable printer (unless I sneak it in at work). And I’ve had issues printing out AC patterns at some of our local copy shops (one Staples flat-out refused to do it, until I found the “OK to print out at copy shops”) language.
So, again, thanks for these options!
I sew many of my own clothes and like to try out patterns from the independent pattern companies, which frequently utilize the PDF downloadable patterns. After purchasing other books with patterns on CD’s, I’ve gotten used to downloading patterns to my computer and printing out the pages myself. As long as their directions about printer settings are clearly posted, I have had no trouble with doing this. I bought a bulk supply of tape to have on hand so that I can print, trim, and tape a pattern together in the time it would take to drive to a print shop and wait. I actually prefer this option to the books or pattern magazines that print many patterns overlapping one another on a sheet or two of large paper.
I love the new Alabama Chanin book and find the number of patterns and stencil designs offered in the book’s CD to be a really good deal.
Thank you, Alabama Chanin!
Thank you Tracy! We appreciate you setting the Staple folks straight… all the patterns and stencils have that language so always ask them to look if you have problems. We’ve had copy stores call us in the past so let us know if you ever need our help. Glad that you figured it out and so happy that you love the CD.
Share your projects on social media with the hashtag #theschoolofmaking so we can follow along.
xoNatalie and all of us @ Alabama Chanin
I am getting my book delivered today and cannot wait to jump in and start sewing. I purchase mainly PDF downloads and have devised a system or maybe just a zen like state when I tape and cut the patterns. I like the print option. Us DIY folks are all over the map with our preferences!
Brook,
I LOVE that… “Zen and the Art of Pattern Construction.” Can’t wait to see what you decide to make…
xoNatalie
While I understand and empathize with access to technology issues, it’s a bummer when you try to do something innovative and frankly generous (all the patterns plus stencils!), and people get bent out of shape. Your generosity continues here. I’m looking forward to the new book. Thanks!
My sentiments precisely. I am very happy with your decision to include the patterns on CD, Natalie. If that makes any difference. 🙂
Thank you Claudia! Onward and upward… #theschoolofmaking
xoNatalie
I am so pleased with this book and the patterns on the cd. I took the cd to a local print shop. I was able to pick and choose what I wanted to print, or do it all. And for a mere $3.50 a pattern…..I had them! I still trace so I have a master and can fine tune fit. Also, the patterns interchange with each other so easily!! Awesome!
Kriss,
That’s wonderful… I love saving some masters too (and then others I just cut right in).
Happy making!
xoNatalie and all of us @ Alabama Chanin
I”M sorry, Natalie, but anyway I look at this situation–it’s either more time or more money—or both. I so enjoyed the first three books, but the CD just creates more work. Ordering the paper patterns adds considerable cost
to what was once included in the book. I ordered my book in advance very early from Amazon and I don’t remember anything being said about a CD. Charlene
Charlene,
So sorry that you feel disappointed about the CD. We did make considered decisions and felt that it would be a great tool to combine all of the patterns in one place. If you bought the book from us, you can return it for a full-refund by contacting orders (at) alabamachanin.com. We take pride in standing by our products and want our customers to be happy.
xoNatalie and all of us @ Alabama Chanin
I LOVE the CD. Previously I would copy the printed patterns, tape up the tiled pages and cut those out, to preserve the original. It worked but was really a pain (read: more work) compared to printing out a PDF (full disclosure: I’m a graphic design professional with access to relatively large format printers).
Thank you for your generosity, sharing your patterns, stencils and techniques with us!
I haven’t tried printing yet, but am hoping to in the next week or so, after I finish my current t-shirt top from the last book! What I REALLY appreciate is that the sleeve pattern from book 3 can be used with the A-Line dress! Thank you! Thank you!!!
Having patterns & stencils on CD was one of the things I looked forward to most about the new book — and I hope it’s a trend that will continue future books! I made working copies of all the patterns in earlier books at a DIY copy shop, and taking a CD to the print shop (or emailing a file) is SO much easier than wrangling those big paper patterns! Thank you!!
I’m with Vicki! Although the people at my Fed Ex store will miss the entertainment value of me unfolding, wrangling and refolding paper patterns.
Getting ALL the previous and new patterns with the additional size is incredibly…what is the word I’m looking for? GENEROUS. Thank you.
Kay (!) and Vicki,
Thank your sweet souls… and sweet notes. I have to say that I love the image of Ms Gardiner in the FedEx store. I’m rather sorry to have missed that.
Looking forward to see what you both choose to make…
xoxoNatalie
P.S.: There might be a song in that story of the FedEx store: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUOgqefnt_I
You mention here that the new book has a new XXL size, this is very exciting but I have a few questions. Are the older patterns that are included on the CD graded up to include the XXL size or is it only available for the new patterns? What are the measurements for the XXL?
Hi Megan,
The older patterns from our previous books were graded up to include the XXL size as well, as it is now offered for all of our ready-to-wear Alabama Chanin garments and DIY kits. Our standard measurements for the XXL are listed below in inches, keeping in mind that using cotton jersey allows for a little stretch:
Chest: 44-46
Waist: 35-36
Hips: 43-44
We hope this helps. Please let us know if you have any more questions.
I went to the local Staples, but their largest printer was for 11 x 17″ paper. Next time I well call first. I also am interested in the XXL measurements.
It is a loveky book. A joy to have.
Thanks.
The only disappointment i had with the book, was the actual binding of the book itself. The copy I pre-ordered from Barnes and Noble arrived with very funky pasted end papers (gaping) on the cover. I’m debating how to get a better made copy of the book – it may seem like a small thing, but I cherish these books and it bothers me. Anybody else have this problem – is it that way on every book?
The end papers on mine are rippled too. I didn’t notice until I read your comment! I was distracted by the wonderful book. I will glue mine down so no problem for me but something to think about in the future.
Yep. Same issue with Amazon.Com order. In other sad news, like another response, I am unable to view the download of the scallops pdf. “No good deed goes unpunished!
However, in spite of these minor issues, I, too, have your other books, preordered this, and am in love with it, too.
I am so sorry to hear that some customers are not happy with the new CD. I wanted to let you know that I love the new format.
I applaud your efforts to assist those who aren’t comfortable printing on their own. The printing costs are totally reasonable and you’ve done a great job explaining the options for copy shop or home printing to those who may be new to PDF sewing patterns.
Please don’t let the negative comments get you down. I’m sure there are many, like me, who are thrilled (but have’t written to let you know) and delighted by your excellent choice to provide a CD with both new and all previous patterns–how generous! Thank you Alabama Chanin.
Thank you Anne! It matters to me (to us) what everyone thinks and it is wonderful when we get it right.
Let us know what you decide to make. Can’t wait to see all of the projects coming from the new book and new patterns (and from the new patterns all mixed up with the previous ones too).
xoNatalie
In theory I like the idea of a CD (and love the book!) but having several patterns in the prior books was great and quick way to get started. I have tried to print out the coat pattern from the CD several times using 11 x17 paper so I have fewer pieces to tape up and have run into areas where the “tiles” just don’t seem to match up precisely. Are there any measurements somewhere (aside from the garment lengths in the book) that I might have missed that could be used as checks during the taping process? Thanks!
Are you printing them with an overlap? I’ve been successful using a 1″ overlap and putting them on a light table to line everything up. If that isn;t working maybe your paper is being stretchy (yes, paper actually stretches in the printer!) and switching to a heavier paper stock would alleviate that.
Thanks Erin, I did have overlap but will try better paper because the distortion I’m seeing does almost seem like the paper is “stretching”. Never heard of that!
The CD with book four is a good addition. Some of us have a problem with innovation; A new way to do the old thing. Good for AC in moving forward. We will adjust, you better believe it. And we will thank you for staying ahead of us. (Have you heard of Steve Jobs?)
Sandra,
This made me smile and laugh. I read the comment aloud to the team in the design studio the other day… Sweet. Sweet. Thank you!
xoNatalie
The book is beautiful! I haven’t tried to print out the patterns using the cd yet but have had no problem with this format in the past. I will be printing at home as I live in an isolated area with no print stores around. I think the offer of printed patterns at additional cost a generous solution. Thanks!
Thank you Renee… everyone on our team worked so hard to try and make a beautiful book so it means the world to hear that you like it. Let us know how things go for you when you print and share your pieces on social media with the tag #theschoolofmaking so we can see what you are up to.
xoNatalie and all of us @ Alabama Chanin
I too love the new CD. Most of the sewing books I buy have them and I’ve used lots of PDF patterns. I print them at home and tape them up. To me, it seems like less work than tracing, but that may just be in my head. I remember I hated tracing Burda patterns and then I still had to resize them. It took forever.
This new book also has me considering styles that I had dismissed before. That is thanks to more diverse body types being pictured in the clothes. Thank you for that and the directions on customizing for fit 🙂
Thank you, Natalie, for the new book and patterns. I took the CD to Office Max and got 3 patterns and the new leaves stencil printed for about 15 dollars.
It seems like I just heard you say that you weren’t writing anymore books at Zingtrain! Thank you for reconsidering. Love the book.
I would like to say that I am glad you didn’t change your sizing, but just added the larger size, because I am accustomed to your previous sizing.
Love from Michigan,
Rae
Rae,
So happy that you got your patterns (and that you liked our reasoning about the sizing)… it was a difficult decision to make so it’s always nice to hear when it feels right.. And so funny about the new book! You’re right, I did say that–whew, when am I going to learn? 🙂 What a great day it was at Zingtrain. I’m looking forward to coming back soon…
xoNatalie
Thank you Tina! This made my day when I first read it… I appreciate everyone taking the time to comment. It makes the work worthwhile for our entire team.
Happy sewing… share what you are making and tag #theschoolofmaking in social media so we can follow along.
xoNatalie
So sorry to hear that there was negativity about the CD! I thought it was a great idea. Not only did the new book come with new patterns, but it included every pattern ever made available with any of the books (with the larger size added) — and then the art work for stencils on top of it! That’s a lot of value. I don’t mind paying for printing the patterns. I have used the previous ones as “masters” that I trace onto pattern paper and will do the same with my new ones. But it is nice to have back-ups that I can print in case I spill coffee on my patterns (or who knows what).
Thanks for the new book — beautiful images as in all the books. Really cool to see the clothes on women with such diverse body types. Shows how versatile the patterns are.
Marijke,
It was such fun to work with all of these great women on the book. I’ve always said that the pieces stretch and are much more accommodating to every figure type than one might think. So, it was good to put that to the test. AND it makes me happy to know that you find the CD a good idea. Let us know how it continues to work as you dive into your projects. (And tag #theschoolofmaking so we can follow along.)
xoNatalie
Hi. Just want to let you know that I live all the way up in nyc and my book is beautiful, the patterns are great and the cd saves tons of space! You guys have me sewing…and yes the process requires a little elbow grease but I just love the clothes. Thanks a million for all of the thought and effort and beauty you offer each and every time! Alabama Chanin has enhanced my life greatly!
Bonnie,
Thank you so much for your sweet note. I’m so glad that you love the clothes (of course, I do too). We always talk about how important it is to feel good in our second skin. Tag #theschoolofmaking as you create your pieces so we can see your progress.
xoNatalie
Such a beautiful book! I was intimidated by the printing issue but taking the CD to the local UPS store was easy and not expensive and so much less time and expense then printing at home would have been. Thank you for offering solutions and alternatives to those who may live in more rural places.
Amy,
Thank you so much and so glad that it was easy for you. That was my experience as well that it’s cheaper to print than at home and also that I can print exactly what I want/need.
Happy sewing,
xoNatalie
Love the book, the stencils, the patterns, and the CD. I actually enjoy printing and taping the patterns together. And, you can print and create patterns over and over in different sizes. Some people are never happy no matter how much generosity is offered.
Pattie,
I love that you have a method for printing at home. Thanks for your sweet words. We appreciate your support!
xoNatalie
I think the price for the paper copy option is very reasonable. The book is priced reasonably to begin with. Multiple patterns in all sizes plus a beautifully photographed book with instructions. Where can you get a designer to release all their designs and patterns for $40? Is this what we are complaining about? Really?
Thank you Moni!
xoNatalie
I am happy with the CD, I had liberty fabric destined for the wrap skirt since I first knew about the book coming out, so went straight to copy shop and they charged 24 euro for one pattern, I shouldn’t have agreed but instant gratification got in the way. However that can’t continue so is there anyone else in Ireland who knows of somewhere more reasonably priced or even on line where I could get a decent service, just so you get how expensive that is, 24 euro is equal to 25 US dollars, Liz
Ohhh… the Wrap Skirt in Liberty fabric sounds lovely. We will spread the word in Ireland to see if we can all come up with a less expensive option for you. Any ideas team?
Send us pictures of your skirt when you are finished!
xoNatalie
I received my book last week and immediately called around as advised in the book for printing prices. Most of the big office supply places like Office Depot and Staples had 24″ width limitation and were charging around .50 cents a square foot. I then found a blueprint printing company that specializes in large format printing for architects. I took the CD in and they had no problem loading and bringing up the PDFs. I told them what ones I wanted printed and they did them while I waited. It ended up being .27 cents per square foot. So considerably less than the office supply places. I got 3 full patterns and the new leaves stencil printed for less than $17.00 (the new leaves stencil was $2.30). I am thrilled with the CD format and how easy it was to get what I was interested in printed. BTW I live in a moderate sized city, Lafayette, Indiana, so you don’t have to be in a really big city to find a blueprint type printing company. Thanks for the great book and the CD. Sylvia
Sylvia,
That’s such great news. I love our small, locally owned print shop as well. So glad that the CD proved to be a good tool for you… tag #theschoolofmaking on social media when you post about your projects. That way, we can all see your progress.
Happy sewing,
Natalie
Thank you all for your comments! We know that it takes time to leave your words and thoughts here…. keep them coming. Hopefully, we are answering all of the questions and have gotten back to everyone. If we’ve overlooked anything at all, please reach out to Emily here: orders (at) alabamachanin.com
Emily, Maggie, Caroline, and Erin has been working each and every day to get every single person, every thing they want or need. Let them know they’re doing a great job–because I ADORE them each and every one. It makes all the difference in the world to work with people you love.
Happy sewing and creating to you all…
Share what you are making on social media and tag #theschoolofmaking so we can follow along.
xoNatalie (and all of us on the Alabama Chanin team)
I am extremely happy with the CD, but your positive response to those who don’t speaks volumes about you and your company 🙂 So refreshing in this day and age!!
Thank you Linda… xoNatalie
I had preordered the pattern book soon after I saw it offered for sale. I have all three other books and have ordered several items from the website. I knew based on the quality of all the products and service I’ve recieved, that I would love the book. YES! I love the book!! I also appreciate the special items included with my preorder.
I was expecting 3 new patterns. I was astounded that ALL of the patterns with variations were included!
I appreciate all the work and spirit of giving that comes across in the text and photos. I have not yet printed using the CD, but don’t anticipate any problems.
Please know how much I love the work that has gone into all your books, especially, this latest addition.
Honestly, I was surprised to see any negative comments, because I recieved SO much more than I was expecting from this book! I will be ordering more copies as gifts.
Thank you again,
Nancy
Could someone please tell me exactly how many patterns are on the CD? I had issues with my Amazon ordered book, which I’ve returned for an exchange. I just want to be sure when I get the new one it’s right. Thanks!
Penny,
This is a very good question. The CD contains 10 pattern files in PDF form. On those files, you will find patterns for the following garments: Swing Skirt, Corset, Camisole Top/Tunic/Dress, Tank Top/Tunic/Dress, Gore Skirt, T-shirt Top (Sleeveless, Cap, Short and Long Sleeves), Bolero (Sleeveless, Cap, Short and Long Sleeves), Long Fitted Dress, Fitted Top/Tunic, Fitted Skirt (Short, Mid-Length, Long), Poncho. And new to Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns: the A-Line Top/Tunic/Dress and Long A-line Dress, Classic Cardigan/Coat/Jacket, and Wrap Skirt (Short, regular-length, and Long). Plus three bonus pocket patterns. That’s over 34 variations of core garment patterns featured in all of the Alabama Studio Series. And five stencil designs, with a sixth for free here: http://alabamachanin.com/resources/large-scallops-stencil-artwork
We hope this clears up any confusion with the disc. There’s a lot to choose from… so let us know what you decide to make by using #theschoolofmaking on social media.
xoNatalie and all of us @ Alabama Chanin
WOW! What a hit you have!
I was glad to return home to find my package yesterday.
The AL Chanin family did a great job with the book and CD. You thought of everything. I couldn’t wait to show my sister the models of different body types used. Especially, since I have a daughters of the same types of models. Can’t wait to make a outfit for them! So grateful you showed women who embrace their body. Thank you.
PS.
I saw Jan Crawford on CBS This Morning (4/15) wearing the new leaves pattern long coat in gray with black appliqué. She interviewed Maddie and Tae. (Ms Crawford is a proud from Alabama!)
Congrats on new book!
Stephanie
I’m confused. The CD I received with my book only had the new patterns from Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns in it but on page 87 of the new book it gives a list of patterns that far exceed that and include all the patterns from previous books? I am sorry to be critical as I am a huge fan and love your work so very much. But I do miss the paper patterns as I always traced them in my sewing room altering as I went. I dont have good luck with with my local print shop because they constantly size my patterns wrong, charge excessive amounts of money and are a 45 minute drive away. I spent awhile trying to figure out how to tile print from my computer but have yet to figure that out…
I think my disappointment from this new book actually stems largely from my long awaited anticipation that there would be some more complicated patterns for some of your jackets. In reality that disappointment is my own fault, I have just been hoping for jackets since you announced you were working pn a new book last year! In my dreams I have always wished you would sell full sized paper patterns on your website because I would gladly pay $25 for a pattern shipped complete to my door. Thank you for sharing your work with us and sorry for being such greedy children who alway want more and more of it !
Hi Zoe,
The CD should have patterns from the entire book series 10 master pattern files (with up to 34 standard variations) and 5 stencils. If your CD does not have these, please return it for a new copy. We apologize for the mistake and will note this with the publisher. If you bought the book from us, you can return it for a full-refund or exchange by contacting orders (at) alabamachanin.com.
We’re sorry you are disappointed with the jacket patterns. We felt we made the best decision for makers by including the Classic Cardigan/Coat/Jacket in the new book. We encourage you to look at some of the custom techniques that are highlighted throughout.
Everyone who has purchased the book can now buy paper patterns of new garments by emailing orders (at) alabamachanin.com. Note the dropdown option for pricing here: http://alabamachanin.com/alabama-studio-sewing-patterns
Or if you are buying the book for the first time, make your selection when you purchase. Sorry for the confusion…
Happy sewing to you!
xoNatalie and all of us at Alabama Chanin
Hi Zoe,
I don’t know if you were hoping for the swing-type jackets, but I love those. It’s a shape that looks great on my (somewhat hefty) hourglass body. Those patterns aren’t included on the CD, but I can tell you that I have made a homemade hack that looks really nice/similar, as both a great dress and a soon-to-be jacket.
(I hope this is OK to talk about–if not, delete!)
I use Swedish tracing paper to make my patterns, so that I can use them again. It’s very inexpensive on Amazon.
Basically, I took the Chanin master-pattern of the tank dress and added sleeves. It took me a couple of tries to get the armscythe the way I wanted it, but there are lots of tutorials online that talk about how to make a sleeve. I started with the sleeve from Deer and Doe’s online free T-shirt pattern, as it fit fairly close then altered it until it looked nice (I use old T-shirts to make muslin first-attempts). (The Deer and Doe T looks FAB in Chanin-style, btw.) Then, once I have added sleeves, I mod the neckline to be higher. I wear a leg brace each day, so I like my dress-length to be longer. I expanded the length on all the pattern pieces, keeping the original degree of flare or expanding it in a few places, if I had enough fabric.
I’ve made the dress several times now, with long sleeves, I’m planning more short/no sleeve ones for summer, and I’m getting ready to do a jacket version. For the jacket, I’m going to split the center seam down the front, add enough to create a flap/placket, and then add a jacket collar. I think it should be nice and swingy, although I may also play a bit with the hem–I like frock coats that have short front hems and long back hems.
The last thing I’ll add is that you can hit the big box stores for patterns on sale for $1, quite frequently. If you find one you like at that price, it’s not a big deal to cut it all up and rearrange it around, experiment to combine the big-box pattern with the Chanin-pattern to make something more you. It’s one of the reasons I love the swedish tracing paper so much–I can lay two patterns on top of each other and draft the lines together into a single piece.
Hope some of this is helpful, and again, apologies if I’m using the patterns in ways they weren’t designed for. (I never was good at following the rules.)
I would like to report that I went to the UPS store in Mint Hill, NC and had the T-shirt, the A-line dress, and the wrap skirt printed for $14.50. Ladies, you do not have to know anything about computers. Just hand the CD to them and tell the clerk what you want. I would recommend not going at noon on Monday if time if of the essence. Charlene
Hi! Just purchased the book and couldn’t wait to pop the cd into my computer. Nothing! Won’t open…I have a MAC does that make a difference?
I love the CD- I hope naysayers will consider all the positives and change their minds. Especially for those of us who need the larger size, it’s a great thing. PDF patterns are common with indy pattern designers these days (at $10-20+ a pop!), so I think it will be commonplace and accepted sooner than later.
I like the idea of the CD but have to say that I wasn’t thrilled about the $60 I had to spend to have 5 patterns printed. When I purchased your 1st book the paper patterns were included in the price of the book and I could start sewing as soon as I had the book. That said, I love the new book and all the patterns in it.
How can you not understand why people are pissed off ? I went all around town today (and I’m in NYC, I can’t imagine how people in the middle of nowhere do it) and was given prices ranging between $100 and $150 for the A-line top pattern, because it is a poster size and with poster paper.
The cheapest I got was at Staples, where they had something for $25.
I am not cheap, I buy all my patterns from indie designers, ranging between $10 and $20, but paying $35 for the book, then 25 for each pattern is ridiculous. As far as printing at home, it has to be easier than having to freaking tile the pattern yourself.
And the worst part is, I’m in love with the book, the way it is presented, and the patterns. I was lucky to get it through the library and was going to order it right away, but now I don’t know what to do.
Hi Emilie,
We are sorry to hear about your frustrations with printing the patterns in Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns. The intent of the CD was to provide an elevated service. If you look to purchase the book on our website, you will see that we offer the option to add paper patterns of the three new patterns (A-Line Top/Tunic/Dress/Long Dress, Short/Long Wrap Skirt, and Classic Cardigan/Coat/Jacket) for $8 – $12 or all three for $30. http://alabamachanin.com/alabama-studio-sewing-patterns
Our patterns are printed on uncoated text weight paper. It looks like the poster paper might be driving the price up. Using a different paper type might get the cost down. We also suggest exploring online printing services as another alternative. With all of the resources available in the books — instructions, tips, paper patterns, and stencil artwork — we feel the price of the books is very fair and affordable for the set.
We sincerely hope that if you do purchase any of our books that you enjoy, learn, and create with all of the tools provided. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to email office@alabamachanin.com or call us at 256.760.1090 if you need any further assistance.
Hello,
I recently bought a copy of Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns, and I’m very excited to start sewing! I really appreciate having all of the patterns in one digital format, my problem is this: in 2018 the CD is antiquainted technology. I optimistically thought that I might be able to pull an old desktop out of storage and make something work, but alas, it’s drive is broken. Otherwise, between newer laptops and iPads we haven’t owned anything with a working CD drive since 2015. Is there a link on your website anywhere where I might enter a proof of purchase code and download the PDFs? I am happy to print and tape, and I would much rather use the money a print shop would charge on more fabric instead.
Best wishes,
Sarah
Good day. I am a fan of your fashion and my husband recently gifted me a new copy of ‘Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns’ (w/the intact cd). I am very familiar with printing/using pdf patterns from home; however, something about yours is not working for me. I am trying to figure it out (and not get frustrated) but I would very much appreciate any support you can offer.
I was gifted with a used copy of sewing patterns book, but the cd is missing, can I purchase it sepretley?
Dear Kim,
Thank you for your message. Unfortunately, we do not have individual copies of the cd available for purchase – they come already attached to and included with the books when we receive them from our supplier. I apologize for this inconvenience!
We do have other patterns available digitally – you can find them on our website here: https://alabamachanin.com/t/collections/the-school-of-making/studio-books
If you have any additional questions, please let me know. I am happy to help.
Sincerely,
Erin W., Customer Service @ Alabama Chanin
Please let me know how to print patterns from CD. I bought sewing patterns book yesterday.
Sincerely,
Grace Walker
Hi, Grace. You can print the patterns two ways. Print at home on regular paper by making sure to select “no page scaling” in your printer settings (check that the printed test square measures two inches); the pattern will be printed on multiple pages, which you can then tape together. Alternatively, you can take the CD to a printing shop to get your pattern of choice printed on large sheets paper. Some printing shops might request a copyright permissions letter, which we are happy to provide. If you need this letter, please email office@alabamachanin.com. Happy sewing!
Help! I can’t find my CD from the Alabama Studio Sewing Patterns book since I moved. Is it sold separately, so that I can replace it?
Hi Catherine,
Thank you for the comment! Someone from our guest services team will be reaching out to you.
This is great, but my printer who does large format printing doesn’t have a CD reader, and another I called also doesn’t have one.
Is there a way to get the digital information rather than have to access the CD?
Are there new options since CD/DVD players are virtually non-existent these days? I don’t live in the US so some of the paper options won’t help. Basically, download access seems to be the way forward? It would be easy enough to include a code with the book, or allow download with proof of purchase.
The book that I purchased did not have the CD in it just the sleeve for the CD. I should have looked more closely.
What is the process for obtaining the printed patterns?