Make Your Own Patterns

[DarcyFowkes]

Making my own patterns saves me from the frustration of commercial patterns and fitting problems. I use paper patterns that I have made from basic body measurements, and old clothes that fit well that I have ripped apart. So the only pattens I use are a basic pant pattern, a shirt pattern that has a few different neck lines, and a jacket pattern. All of these can be embellished to represent different styles and looks. It take a little time to put this system in place, but beats the heck out of the time it takes to cut and sew a pattern that hangs on you like a bag !:mad:

[westbrook]

I do flat pattern making and draping and recently got interested in making patterns from RTW (ready to wear) so I could instruct those that hate to part with their old favorites how to keep them.

I understand being careful when cutting aprat, adding the seam allowance, but are you actually laying out the garment on paper and tracing it or are you using tape (masking tape) to lay over the RTW garment to take a pattern off of it and not cutting the old favorite apart.

I would love to learn more about this technique.

thanks

brook

[DarcyFowkes]

My 'old favorites' are usually ready for updating so they get torn apart. Sometimes however I will buy something from the store that I want to make, so in order to return the item, I will make a pattern from the garment. I use tracing paper to trace over the seams/darts; haven't tried masking tape yet, this seems like it would take too long...no?

[westbrook]

I have a sloper and design my own, though there are times when I have to use a commercial pattern (I always modify them to fit).

I have never tried making a pattern from RTW, which is why I am interested. I moderate a plus size sewing group and some of the ladies have mentioned an interest in making patterns from their old favorites.

I am interested in passing on any techniques I learn.

Patterns from RTW
http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/th_120_056.asp


copy your favorite pants
http://www.sewnews.com/library/sewnews/library/aatipspants.htm

maybe others would be interested in these links.

Brook

[DarcyFowkes]

Has anyone read this Threads article? Anyone have tips on this process?

[westbrook]

darcy,

the blue tape is that not so sticky tape used on windows when painting. It comes off rather easily.

I have not tried this method but while it does look time consuming it does seem like it might work quite well if you didn't want to take the garment apart.

I am so overwhelmed with sewing projects I can't get to it but will put it on my list of things to try.

brook

[Bling]

I too have had a lot of frustration with commercial patterns, especially fitting. And now I'm in the middle of being frustrated making my own. . .:o maybe I just don't know how to measure or something. Just want to say I'm encouraged reading about the skills you gals have. Maybe if I read enough some of it will rub off on me!

[westbrook]

Bling,

get your self a duct tape double (dummy)! cheap and easy to make and that will help greatly.

Go to your local library and check out some books on flat pattern making and/or slopers. Once you have a dummy you can also look at draping.

It really isn't hard, though the books make it look confusing and stressful. It is really not that bad.

Vogue pattern 1004, butterick as well as McCalls make the same or similar pattern. It is your basic 'sloper' pattern. You purchase one by your "HIGH" bust measurement.

Make a copy. try the paper pattern on, make adjustments to the paper first, make the dress out of cheap fabric (gingham is recommended because you can see if it is running straight grain or now), adjust fabric pattern, (of couse the fabric is sewn in machine basting stitches, easy to take out). This is where the duct tape dummy comes in handy... once the garment fits, take it apart, cut off seam allowances and cut out darts ... copy onto cardboard and wella! your very own personal sloper to start designing from!