DRESSMAKING
TRAINING

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     Make It Fit    

 


Advice to give you perfect results every time

Making your own clothes is very satisfying but, if after all your hard work the garment doesn't fit properly, it can also be very frustrating. To avoid wasting money, time and effort, follow these ten tips to make sure you select the best pattern and materials for you...

1. Pattern sizes do not correspond to ready to wear sizes. The pattern size you need may be larger than the size you are accustomed to. 2. To determine the pattern size you need, take accurate body measurements, then compare with the pattern industry standard charts printed in the back of the catalogue. 3. Most patterns are sized for a B cup bust, if you are a C cup or larger, match your high bust measurement, not the full bust, on the size chart to determine  the correct pattern size. This will ensure a good fit at the shoulders, necklines, chest and upper back.  Then enlarge the front bust.
4. If you are larger than a B cup bust size, styles with seams and darts will be more flattering to your figure. 5. Multi size patterns will accommodate different size bust, waist and hips. If you are in between sizes your personal fit preference will enable you to select a smaller or bigger size. 6. Read the pattern description and look at the back views to examine cut and style. Often important details are not visible on fashion photography.
7. A pattern description outlines the type of fit of the finished garment. For example:
Knit fit - very close
Fitted - contours closely to the body
Semi fit - skims the figure, following body shape
Loose fit - relaxed or easy fit
Very loose fit - oversized
If you prefer semi fitted garments, a fitted or loose fit style will require adjustments.
8. Check finished garment widths and length on the pattern envelope. Trousers may be too wide, skirts may be too short for your taste. 9. Consider the time you have and your sewing ability. Very Easy patterns  offer stylish designs with easy to follow construction and few pattern pieces to cut and sew.

10. Work with the suggested fabrics and notions to avoid disappointment. The weight, thickness and drape of fabric are very important to the success of a garment.

 

 

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