Wave 8 of COSPLAY by McCall’s deviates from the previous formula of full-clothes patterns inspired by themes and characters. ROVE, one of three patterns from wave 8 provides patterns lined bolero jackets with collar and sleeve variations. With this pattern, cosplayers have SIX styles to choose from, all in one envelope. It’s great!
Here are the specs:
Skill level: Easy
Sizes: 6,8,10,12,14
Pattern number: M2070
As usual, the COSPLAY by McCALL’S line has patterns printed on a somewhat thicker paper with blue ink which should make it easier for those who want to trace their patterns onto tissue paper. The directions are easy to follow and are printed on thick paper that will be easy to fold back up.
The inside of the packaging has helpful tips on pressing collars. It explains the difference between ironing and pressing, which is useful information. Additionally, there are some notes on making perfect collar points – which I know for me, making a perfect right angle hasn’t been an easy task.
There is a ton of variety in this envelop, which is fantastic for people who want to reuse patterns for different cosplays. There are short sleeve and long sleeve variations of the same bolero – my only peeve is that they don’t deviate enough from the basic pattern provided. Of course, any cosplayer knows a pattern doesn’t need to be followed to the very line. I can’t think of one cosplay where I didn’t need to modify the patterns in some way or another. Fortunately, the patterns here give you enough to just work with as is if the pattern already suits your needs, OR you have a really great jumping off point for some modifications.
Of course, like most cosplay patterns, this bolero set would work for non-cosplay uses. It would make cute jackets to dress up (or cover up) dresses or strappy shirts. While I don’t have much else to say about this pattern, I can see it getting a lot of mileage for a variety of uses in and out of cosplay.
I’m not sure that this pattern is a dire need for every cosplayer’s pattern stash, but it definitely has its benefits if you’re on the market looking for a bolero jacket pattern. You have six patterns, some with button closure, zipper closure, puffy sleeves, high neck or hook and eye closures. There is a lot of variety here that can lead to a lot of inspiration.
*This item was provided for review.
