When I attended school for Fashion Design this book was the centerpiece for the foundation of our paper and ruler (doesn't include draping) patternmaking curriculum. Although my Second edition was published in 1995 the patterns involved are *mostly* timeless classics that can be used a decade and a half later. Having that said there are a few drawbacks that I've noticed after revisiting my textbook after almost a decade myself. 1. Some of the patterns and styles are dated. No big deal. If you bought the newest edition of any patternmaking book it would become outdated before it was off the presses due to fashion's ever-changing styles. 2. The sizing is definitely focused towards the idealistic or *runway model* physique. There's plenty of information on collecting the right measurements to obtain the right size pattern though. However, the book is very vague about grading or up-sizing an existing pattern to fit one's needs. All in all, this is a textbook worth having and I find myself referring to it to this day as a reference guide for it's fundamental values. Hope this helps someone!!!