Monday, July 19, 2010

Jalie Jeans 2908 - a Love Hate Relationship

Pattern Description:
Womens Stretch Jeans
Pattern Sizing:

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?Fairly similar

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, I printed off the instructions from the website. I do however feel they could be rewritten to change a few of the simple but in my mind strange steps.

On the waistband, they had you sew a straight stitch on one side, so it would fold easily. Why not just fold it over and press? It seemed unnecessary to me.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I really like the rise. They don't feel like they are slipping down all the time.
I dislike the cross waistband. I'll be changing that on my next pair to do just a plain straight one.
The zip seems to pull open a bit which I'm not happy with, although I usually wear tops that cover it. I think it is to do with the shape of the fly, i'll be changing that also for my next pair.
I'm not a huge fan of the slim fit through the thighs, although I think the boot leg seems to be quite flattering.
The front pockets are HUGE and are half way down my thigh. And the rear pockets are too big as well. Far too long for me, so once again, I'll be changing that in the next pair.
Fabric Used:
A nice soft stretch denim.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I did the largest size, and ended up taking them in 1cm on each side seam. I also think I could take the inner leg seam in a bit near the crotch.

I didn't include belt loops, as I never use them.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?Yes I will sew it again, however I think I may morph them into my mccalls 5894.

Conclusion:
I'm having a bit of a love hate relationship with this pattern.
Probably moreso due to the fact that everyone had done such glowing reviews, and I am disappointed with the final outcome of mine.
While I do love the shape of the legs, and the shape it gives the rear end, I am still sitting on the wall about them. And personally, prefer the M5894 instructions and construction.

The top stitching on the rear leaves a lot to be desired (was trying to figure out exact placement using my new F600). But I do love my little bartacks on my zip ;o)

To sum it up, I'm happy but not thrilled with these jeans like I am with the M5894.

See how long the pockets are! 
I pushed my hands away from my thighs so you can see just how long.

The zip pulling to the side. But love my little bartack!

2 comments:

  1. Did you use silver thread for the topstitching? It looks really nice on the denim colour (which is lovely and looks slightly greenish or dark turquoisey in the pictures). I like the way the leg below the knee is, but I think I prefer your other version better.

    Still, I can't believe how you manage to make professional looking jeans, especially in such a short time! I want to tackle a pair, but I think I'll wait until after the wardrobe contest to do it. It'll probably take me a month to do! :)

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  2. I did use silver thread, and it's actually embroidery thread! I used the triple straight stitch on my machine and away I went, it was quite cool. I like the different sheen with the embroidery thread.

    And honestly, jeans would have to be the easiest thing to make in my mind, they really aren't anything to be scared of! can't wait to see what you come up with if you make some, they are fun to make.

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