To me it is the ones that don't have any idea how to write a pattern that can be followed by the average person. They need to hire a formwe teacher to edit their direction. Most know how to give directions that can be followed.

I looked at the two websites listed on the pattern cover and found that neither of them had corrections links. I sent the info that I have to both of them. I hope that they'll take the time to add a link for corrections. I was quite surprised to find that the actual designer of the pattern I'm working on was a 20 year editor at a major quilting magazine and now does this design work for fabric designers, pattern companies, major magazines and has co-authored a pattern book. I'm shocked with this much exposure that no one is testing the patterns before they are released. What a shame when we can't even trust the work of the "pros".

As a consumer and new quilter I would be pretty frustrated if a pattern I purchased was full of errors that stopped me from completting the project. I would more then likely go back to the quilt shop were I bought the pattern and ask for help. If they couldn't figure it out I would request a refund either from the LQS or the manufacturer and if it was the manufacturer ask for a refund on the fabric I bought to make the project.

lot of the patterns from fabric lines will have not yet been tested. Also often for shop samples we don't prewash so as we construct the steam and heat from iron as we press can alter the dimensions it only takes a fraction to go from precise to OMG WHAT HAPPENED! LOL I also really read and sketch out and use the calculator to make sure the pattern makes math sense before cutting. Once the pattern is workable I send the questions and my solutions along to the contact email for the particular fabric. Of course this is why I have come up with my own patterns too.

I have made a lot of quilts, I have never found a problem with the directions. I guess I'm just lucky. The only pattern I had a problem with is the Bow Tuck Purse, and that was a user problem. After I figured out the directions, I was fine and made 2 purses.
Sue

I too have had problems with patterns. It can be a nightmare. I re-drew what the author had done as it was incomplete in what she showed in the pattern.

I have rarely found as many mistakes as stated here. I find that many times it is in the interpretation of the instructions. Sometimes just reading them a few times, or getting a friend to read it out loud helps. I may not cut or make it as the pattern says, but usually the pattern is correct.