Customer Reviews
NOTICE: We are currently in the process of transitioning from Google reviews to reviews that are hosted on our own website here at sussexseamstress.com. So you may notice there are a relatively small number of reviews for individual products right now, as we’re having to start from scratch and it will take a while for the number of reviews to build up. Reviews for individual products can be found at the bottom of each paper pattern page. If you receive an email request to review a pattern it’s a huge help to other customers if you can do so - thank you.
First time I have used your patterns ,am very pleased with them. I found the video instructions easy to follow. The dress is not yet finished but so far I am pleased with the results.
BMBernice M.Verified buyerReally liked these little labels. Will look very neat in my me made clothes.
BMBernice M.Verified buyerIt went together really well and looks fantastic. I made it in a lightweight corduroy. Will definitely make this pattern again.
MDMaureen D.Verified buyerThanks so much Maureen. So pleased you’re happy with your dress ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsQuality of the paper was excellent,can be used many times. I found the shirring around the cuffs a bit tricky,as they turned out too loose,so I narrowed the sleeves.Perfect.!
AAAnnette A.Verified buyerThanks for the review Annette. Sometimes the shirring needs a steam to recover the elasticity and gather it up a bit more- or you can pull the elastic manually once it’s sewn to tighten. Glad you found a way that works for you ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsWonderful pattern which is accompanied by a very clear and explanatory video.
MKMrs K.Verified buyerThank you so much for the review ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsMy latest make is one that I absolutely love. It’s a new pattern. It’s called Rustington and is by Sussex Seamstress. I’ve been really looking forward to making and sharing this one. It’s been months since I first saw the pattern and images. And loved it straight away. As anyone who follows me knows, I’m a big fan of Sussex Seamstress. I love her style. And especially love her clear instructions and diagrams. The free YouTube video’s are always fab. I’ve learnt so much watching them. My Rustington dress I made a straight size 14. My bust and hip measurements put me at this measurement. My waist a size 16. I used a mid weight denim. Which was kindly gifted to me as was the pattern, by Sussex Seamstress. I’ve never made a long sleeved dress before, using denim. So I was a bit apprehensive. As I thought it would be a bit heavy and uncomfortable. The bodice has front and back darts. Which gives the bodice section of the dress a lovely shape. Which I love. The sleeves are gathered around the sleeve head. Again, I love that look. I chose to add my zip 12 cm down from the collar. The zip is designed not to show. It was the easier insertion I’ve ever had. If you watch the YouTube video, you’ll see this easy method. Fabulous. A game changer. I love the way the instructions work through the construction of the dress. Doing the prep work first. The dress was a joy to make. For me there was nothing complicated. It was a lovely relaxing make. What I think of Rustington pattern I can honestly say I love the pattern. The bodice is the best fit I’ve ever had of any pattern I’ve made. The dress is very comfortable. The denim a dream to work with and wear. The fit is just perfect. Enough of a skirt and gather to make it flattering. I did worry about wearing a heavier weight non stretch fabric. As I have pain issues and can’t wear anything too fitted or restrictive. But as I said, the cut of the bodice is exceptional. There has been so much thought gone into the design of this pattern. Adding the front and back darts is genius. Which makes the dress for me. I don’t think I’d wear a similar style if it didn’t have front and back darts. I do prefer a more fitted, flattering style. There is literally nothing I can say I don’t like about this pattern. I would like to make another dress with a summer weight fabric. Even short sleeves. And I have plans to use the bodice for other projects. Maybe even making a jacket. There are so many possibilities. I’d highly recommend this pattern.
+ 3AWAnne W.Thank you Anne. What great photos! You look fabulous. Thank you so much for such a detailed review. ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsI really enjoyed making up this pattern, the instructions and video are easy to follow. The fabric is really cosy. I'll certainly make another one.
BWBridget W.Verified buyerYou look lovely in it Bridget. Thank you for the review. ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsI enjoyed making this coat. It wasn’t difficult to make. The instructions are clear as are the accompanying drawings. The free youtube tutorial is excellent. I chose not to line my coat. I used boiled wool. I made my own bias binding and used that method to elevate the inside look of the coat. I made a size 14. The sizing around the bust was perfect. I did find for me it was a bit large around the hips. So i sized down in that area. I changed the pockets a bit and added pocket flaps. It’s a truly great pattern and i really enjoy wearing my cost. It’s so comfortable.
+ 2AWAnne W.Love your use of fabric and the original pocket feature. Thanks for such a thorough review.
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsLovely fit and looks beautiful
MHMargaret H.Verified buyerGreat to hear that Margaret.
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsIM A OLDER BEGINNER., FOUND PUTTING STRETCH BANDS A CHALLENGE , BUT GOT THERE FOUND BATWING TO WIDE FOR ME TOO WIDE IN BODY FOR ME . WOULD LOVE A PATTERN IN REGULAR SHAPE PLEASE. AS WOULD LIKE ANOUTHER GO .
SRSusan R.Verified buyerHi Susan, sorry this style wasn’t for you. I’ll think about doing a more basic sweatshirt type top next year. Thanks for the review.
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing Patterns
I can't say enough great things about this seller and this item! I had questions prior to order, and they were answered in a very timely fashion. Extremely pleasant to deal with! The pattern envelope is wonderful with it's string wrap closure. It's very sturdy paper and will hold up for years. A photo of the pattern is on the front of the envelope, so it's easily identifiable. The pattern is one of the most comprehensive pattern that I've worked with over the years. I've been sewing since I was 9 and am now 67, so lots of projects to compare it with. Everything came together beautifully. My only suggestion would be to offer US/UK conversion metrics. Sizing is quite different as are the standard seam allowances. I'd also specifically list the size of the zipper required, as I didn't see that anywhere. Great product!!!!
KKatherineVerified buyerI have absolutely loved making this firle coat. I've had many compliments and would recommend any of the Sussex seamstress patterns. They are well written, easy to follow and have YouTube videos to help if needed 😊
Thank you JBL ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsVery easy pattern to follow. Will certainly be making another dress
TBThanks for the review ❤️
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsVery easy pattern to follow. Will certainly be making another dress
TBTheresa B.Verified buyerI just want to say what a fabulous little company\nSussex Seamstress\nI have now have ordered a few things including the Amberley kit\nWow pattern fabric needles cotton facing all for an amazing price\nQuick delivery too and all beautifully packed a great touch\nPlease use this gorgeous company and keep our little shops going\nI have also made the same dress in chambray blue linen
CYCatherine Y.Verified buyerI have several of Sussex Seamstress Sewing Patterns and have never been disappointed.The instructions are clear and the QR code is a bonus. The patterns make up fairly quickly and look good in a variety of fabrics.
JJThank you Janis. Good to know you’re happy.
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsI have several of Sussex Seamstress Sewing Patterns and have never been disappointed.The instructions are clear and the QR code is a bonus. The patterns make up fairly quickly and look good in a variety of fabrics.
JJJanis J.Verified buyerQuality paper pattern with easy instructions.
SBThanks Sylvia
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing PatternsQuality paper pattern with easy instructions.
SBSylvia B.Verified buyerGood quality pattern which arrived promptly. The instructions are clear and there are also helpful utube videos which accompany each pattern if you need more clarification -I did with inserting the invisible zip! Would recommend and will certainly purchase again.
LOThanks Lesley.
Sussex Seamstressfrom Sussex Seamstress Sewing Patterns
Is it easy to add in seam pockets to this dress?
Yes, super easy. There is a tutorial on my YouTube channel and a pocket pattern to download from my blog on my website.
could I make this in a non stretch fabric for example vyella
You can make it up in any fabric of your choice. You will just need to make sure it is roomy enough to get in and off if there is no stretch.
Hi. I am a size 14 according to the measurements given. how much fabric will i need for this pattern. Regards, Liz
Hi Liz, to make a size 14 with a waist to gem length of 82cm (Approx) you will need 2.5m of 145cm wide fabric.
I have started to make this cape, but the pattern appears to be incomplete. The back piece, which is cut on the fold, stops before the neckline. Has anyone else had this problem and how did you resolve it please?
Hi Louise. I have replied to you via your original email. The PDF is complete & correct and includes the back piece, it looks like you have a printing issue based on the photo you sent - please see my email response. Best wishes, Jayne
Could you use Jersey for this dress?
Hi Bernice. The pattern is drafted for wovens. You're welcome to try though - let me know how it goes.
Is this suitable for double gauze?
Yes it is :)
I've bought this pattern and wondered if viscose is suitable for it? Thankyou
Yes, a viscose would give a softer look. It would work well.
Beginner here: would it be easy to make this longer?
Hi Sally, yes, just add extra onto the hem to make this one longer.
Hi, I’m confused with the sizing on the pattern. My actual bust measurement is 122cm (size 24), but the finished garment measurement for this size is also 122cm, is this an error? what size do I make to allow for ease?
Hi Sue, this pattern is very difficult to judge bust measurement due to its shape. I’d recommend a toile for the bodice on this one.
I love the style of this jacket. I wondered if it's intended to be lined? If not, is there a tutorial for lining a jacket? Thanks
Hi Helen. It's not intended to be lined, no, and there's isn't a tutorial for this currently I'm afraid.
Thanks so much for the review Bernice.