What they don’t tell you…

but should. Why, oh why, do pattern companies assume sewists know to do the little things? As I was re-reading the instructions for this Vogue pattern–something I always do before moving to the next step and after I’ve paused my sewing, especially when making a more intricate design, to make sure I didn’t overlook or skip something— I noticed the little things were missing. If I had not known to do them, then I would not have done them at all.

Some things may not matter as much, but other little things can make a huge difference. What has my panties in a bunch specifically right now: dart construction. The Vogue instructions say: sew darts <period>  no additional help or technique??!? Really?
When sewing darts, it’s really important to tie the thread ends together at the point of your dart. Especially since I am trimming the seam allowances of said darts per the instructions.

To sew a dart, one sews off the fabric at the point of the dart. If the threads are left, they may come undone, and so will your dart. Not-so-pretty looking, imho. I’m sure my DD would not want to experience this at prom either.

To avoid this fashion malfunction, leave the threads long, and tie them together into a knot.

Not such a big thing, but can keep your dress or blouse from looking unfortunate. So why don’t they include this information in the instructions? Pattern companies should not make assumptions about the sewist’s knowledge base, and they should do all they can to help the sewist to succeed. In this situation, less is not more. Information is a good thing–knowledge is power. Badly done, Vogue.