Trial and error sewing w/ commercial patterns
How to narrow the shoulders and raise the waist:
Just move the pattern inwards! Rather than aligning the edge of the pattern to the fold, pull it over the edge. I usually go for a little over an inch.
Cut the neck, shoulder, and armhole. Stop.
Because my ribs and waist are not in proportion to my shoulders, I move the pattern back to the normal position of edge aligned to center front fold. Resume cutting the armhole and then down the side.
I didn't take a picture of this, but to raise the waist, you do the same thing. Simply slide your pattern up to the correct position and cut the bottom. For me, I raise it 1/2".
Easy right? Happy sewing!
P.S. Yes, instead of pretty pattern weights, I use canned goods :)
On a personal note (because I have the best luck in the world) I am sick again. That means I had 2 relatively healthy days this month, haha!
Moms - how do / did you battle germs your kiddo brought home from school?
Oh such an informative post! Thanks for posting the step by step instructions! Love the cans....now that's resourcefulness. :D
ReplyDeleteOh now hope you feel better soon just in time for the holidays!! xoxo, Phoebe
omg, that's a genius method to alter the patterns without destroying them in the process! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeletethis is awesome.. and daunting. :) you're so resourceful - love it!
ReplyDeleteif it helps, it improves when the kids get older. seems baby/toddler daycare germs are the most toxic! just keep washing your hands, theirs and get plenty of rest. hope you feel better soon!! xox P
Love the soda can weights! And great tips on changing a pattern to fit your needs, with much trial and error of course! How do I handle germs? With lots of vitamin C and water. Unfortunately, those germs are powerful!
ReplyDeleteI'm a newbie sewer but will tey this when I venture into patterns! As for kids and germs I'm in the trenches big time. My oldest is in elementary school and my youngest goes to a part time day care. I always have purell in the car. I am pushing for more hand washing. We also binge on those cutie mandarins which I think help.
ReplyDeleteBut the number one way to keep well is getting enough sleep. I am sick this week because I've been sleeping poorly. Rest up and I hope you feel better!
Just came back to this post because I'm actually going to try to be brave enough and adjust a dress pattern. With your method, doesn't the armhole end up too big? (Since you're cutting it, and then extending it some more)
ReplyDeleteI love the dresses you make, btw! I wish I could sew like you :)
Hi Esther! It weirdly doesn't (though I'm not sure why)! Here are some slightly better underarm photos using this method: http://sewpetitegal.blogspot.com/2013/02/kate-spade-carolyn-inspired-dress-diy.html
DeleteThanks! I think I'll try this first on a muslin to see how it works for me.
Deleteis there any way that I can print your dress pattern? I am a newbie in sewing and still looking for best patter for my lil body.
ReplyDeleteThanks in advance
Hi Adriani! I'm using a McCall's M5972 pattern in this post and you can purchase it on the McCall's site here: http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5972-products-10559.php?page_id=108
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