#2018 MAKE NINE (Pattern 1)...

...you haven't seen many Burda patterns around here.  I really like their designs, but have probably only made 2 or 3 of them.  Why?, I just can't get used to their instructions or having to search in several places for vital information - it's just not my cup of tea.  I guess I'm just Big 4 (or is it now 5) spoiled.  However, all of a sudden ruffles and flounces are really trending WITH ME.  I spotted two such patterns in their catalog, so I've added them to my new #2018MakeNine list.

Not being a real Burda user, I felt comfortable making a muslin first.  I choose this yukky fabric that made into my cart before you know who closed.  The color is very pretty, but the quality of the fabric - not so much.

I do like the top, and plan on making another in  better quality fabric soon with a few changes: 

• Reducing the size more in the neck, shoulder and bust area even more
• Using an alternative method of finishing the neckline.  The pattern uses a self binding that wants to flip out even after being top-stitched down.  I think I can finish the neckline by eliminating the self binding altogether by simply serging first and turning down twice before top-stitching.
• The flounce is left unfinished which I know is best, but will take getting use to for me. 
• Now let me get real adventurous (with my pattern designing self) and say that I think the top would benefit from having a center back seam that curves in at the waistline for a better fit.

For me, using any new to me pattern (Burda or otherwise) is a learning experience.  Even though I now consider myself a seasoned sewer, each new to me pattern presents challenges and new opportunities to use and evaluate new techniques.

So one down - and eight more patterns to go...