Free Sewing Patterns on Printsew.com

A few days ago I got a few free patterns from PrintSew.com. I was a bit skeptical about downloading online patterns. But then I read this thread on Pattern Review; so, I decided to give the site a try.

Below is the pattern that I printed out.
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I'm going to make the dress without sleeves.

The true cost of the "free" pattern

The pattern took 36 pages to print. This doesn't include the few extra pages for instructions and such. I mostly used paper that was already printed on one side so I feel OK about using that much. I calculated the cost of paper, ink, and scotch tape. And I'm certain that I was able to put this pattern together for under $1. So the frugal part of me is very happy about that.

Putting it Together

At first putting the pieces together was a bit challenging. But it got easier as I went along. I used the cork board and thumb tack method mentioned in the thread above. And I think that made all the difference. I think that next time I'll be able to put the pattern together a lot quicker. At least, I'm hoping that's the case.

How it Turned Out

Well, it turned out lookiing like a Simplicity pattern. Except it's much sturdier than the tissue paper. I like that a lot. I won't be able to speak on whether or not the pattern was to scale until I make my muslin. But as of this moment I am very pleased with the pattern. And how could I not be? A free sewing pattern that only took me some time and some cents to put together is a good thing. :)

Storage

After I taped all of the pages together I cut away the excess paper around the pieces. Then I folded the giant piece of "pattern" paper down to a manageble size. I am keeping it in a folder until I'm ready to cut the pieces.

I will definitely make a muslin of this dress first. I've never done that before. When I sewed in high school I just bought my fabric, cut out my pattern pieces, started sewing, and took my chances. I no longer feel that carefree. So, I don't mind taking the extra effort to make sure my final product fits properly.

It will be a little while before I can get to this dress. I want to start wearing more skirts and dresses so I'm very excited.