Almost two years ago, I got excited by a vintage pattern that was far too large for me: Anne Adams 4882.  I set it on the back burner of my brain, thinking I'd try grading it down someday. 

Combining my new sloper with the nice pattern illustrations for Anne Adams, I was finally ready to make myself this dress!  This won't be a comprehensive project diary, just a highlight reel. 

Patterns are expensive... around $20, sometimes, for the Big Four ones.  I understand why they cost a lot: a ton of work goes into making a decent sewing pattern!  But I am glad of that work and want to support the people who do it. 

I also like to scrounge through the second- or third-hand patterns at a thrift store and find cool patterns to try!  I find patterns I might not spend $20 on (because I would save that amount for a truly unique or special pattern), but patterns that nonetheless are fun to sew and often become favorites.  My thrift store experience is broad: I grew up with the Salvation Army thrift store and local church and charity shops, and as an adult, I now frequent Goodwill thrift stores, which are plentiful in my area.  So if you want to buy second-hand patterns, here are a few tips.