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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: emermuffin
Date: 10-17-2003, 12:16 AM (1 of 4)
I'm really at a loss about fitting garments for myself. Today, I had a great pattern that I altered in a few spots. I zipped through it in a record 5 hours (for me, quite an accomplishment) and when I tried it on - it just swam on me! I was so disappointed! I do plan to wear it anyway. I wear all my disasters around the house.  But it's the same thing every time I make something for myself. I spend all that time to alter a pattern and the finished product is way too big. I do just fine making clothes for DD & DH but when it comes to clothes for me, they're just awful! I just had to vent a little. Thanks for reading! 
emermuffin
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User: emermuffin
Member since: 03-29-2003 Total posts: 55 |
From: sewserious
Date: 10-17-2003, 07:16 AM (2 of 4)
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Sounds like you are using a pattern that is either too big to start with or has more ease than you like. I have found that Simplicity, McCall's, and Butterick patterns have way too much 'design' ease. Look at the finished bust and hip measurements that are printed on the pattern pieces. How do they compare to your measurements? If the pattern is say, size 12 for a 34 inch bust and the finished measurement is 43 inches, there are 9 inches of design ease in the pattern. Way too much for most people! A size 10 or even an 8 may be a better fit and a better size to start with. I sometimes have to go down a size or two to get something closer to what my acutal measurements are and not what the pattern company thinks is acceptable ease. I just bought a pants pattern that looked close-fitting on the envelope, but had 4 inches of design ease in the hips! Needless to say, I bought the pattern 2 sizes smaller and will make adjustments from there. |
User: sewserious
Member since: 08-24-2003 Total posts: 112 
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From: Debzy
Date: 10-26-2003, 01:20 PM (3 of 4)
so is 4 inches too much? what would be a good amount?
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User: Debzy
Member since: 06-02-2003 Total posts: 71 |
From: sewserious
Date: 10-26-2003, 02:13 PM (4 of 4)
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Ease is a matter of personal preference. I like my pants to be close-fitting. Not skin-tight, but definitely not baggy either. I generally use between 1/2" to 3/4" of ease in my pants depending on the fabric and the style. To me, 4 inches more around my middle and in the hips and thighs is not what I need to look slimmer. It is unflattering and sloppy looking. |
User: sewserious
Member since: 08-24-2003 Total posts: 112
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