Sewing books have been on and off the shelves for months now but today we actually got the sewing machine set up.  First time in this house. We moved in 11 mo ago so don't be too impressed.  I have a copy of Absolutely A-line and thought it might be a good first dressmaking project for Moira, not to wear, but to make for the little girls. In many respects it was that, but the caveats shared on Amazon do apply.

The pattern is very simple.  There are four pieces to cut out and the written instructions are straightforward. There are no illustrations showing how to lay out the pattern pieces however. (no guidance re:right side up etc) If you have sewn before you can wing it.  It's a great base pattern to teach someone else to assemble a garment.  For $2 used, the paper templates are cheaper than you could buy at the fabric store.  I would not try it for your own first sewing project without an experienced seamstress available. And this folks, is how we keep our amazon credits nice and low around here – discourage you from purchasing lol.  

The measurements given were pretty accurate.  I went a size up for Tess because she has gone through a few sizes in the past year.  It's pretty roomie right now but I expect it won't be by summer's end.  

I worked up this first dress and made enough mistakes to feel confident helping Moira make the second one tomorrow.