Pattern Fitting 101-Part Two
Have you purchased or sewn a garment that doesn’t fit? Likely the answer is yes. Well, we can’t have that happen! So, in this featured Sewing With Nancy episode, Solving the Pattern Fitting Puzzle, Part Two, Nancy shares that fitting patterns doesn’t need to be puzzling. Learning to fit sewing patterns is definitely a sewing necessity, but it doesn’t need to be complicated.
The common sense approach that takes the mystery out of the pattern-fitting puzzle. In Solving the Pattern Fitting Puzzle, Part Two, we’ll continue where we left off after part one, and show you additional fitting tips. By the end of this program, you’ll have the confidence you need to fit and then sew patterns with ease.
Nancy shares her Sleeve Fitting Changes, including measuring and altering sleeve width and length.
Then, she covers Shoulder Fitting Changes, including narrow shoulders, sloping shoulders, and square shoulders.
Next, move on to Back Fitting Changes—including swayback and rounded back.
Finally, finish up Solving the Pattern Fitting Puzzle, Part Two, with Skirt Fitting Changes including waistline and hipline.
Check out last week’s post on Patten Fitting 101, Part One, where Nancy covered the pattern fitting basics; bust, waist, and hip adjustments, along with the Right Size Measurement Fitting Chart (below).
You’ll find all of Nancy’s pattern fitting techniques in her book, Nancy Zieman’s Confident Sewing Collection.
Bonus: You can practice these skills using mini-pattern pieces, which you can download for free.
Watch Solving the Pattern Fitting Puzzle, Part One and Part Two, on Sewing With Nancy online.
For a chance to win a Solving the Pattern Fitting Puzzle DVD from Nancy’s Notions, please leave a comment below sharing your pattern fitting puzzler.
The randomly selected winner of Nancy’s Grandmother’s One Patch Template Collection from Clover, from the May 1st posting, is Kathryn Englebretsen. Her comment was:
I would love to win the template package. I have been wanting to make a hexagon quilt but have been worried about sewing all the angles. The mod hex would be so much simpler. I need to explore mod prints and colors for the challenge since it is outside my comfort zone. I usually stick to more traditional fabric. This will be a fun new challenge.
The randomly selected winner of a Farmhouse Floral Fat Quarter Pack, from the April 28th posting, is Patti J. her comment was:
I have attended almost every Sewing Weekend since it started. I enjoy the chance to go to seminars and the shopping is fun. The first time we were in the warehouse it was almost overwhelming. So thankful to have met Nancy, and I have enjoyed taking classes from her staff through the years.
Happy Sewing,
Team Nancy Zieman
Nancy Zieman Productions, LLC.
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Susan Meyer
I am so glad that someone took the time to write all this information down for us. It is so discouraging to put all that time into a garment that doesn’t fit. I’ve done it many times.
Anne Z
My pattern fitting dilemma is placing darts so tops fit properly.
Teresa Williams
I haven’t sewn garments for a long time. These videos have rekindled my interest in sewing. I didn’t know how to make the adjustments and appreciate the tutorial.
Wanda Stephen
My lack of fitting skills and the ensuing ‘Wadders’ or UFO’s (Unfinished Objects) have dampened my sewing enjoyment for years. If I could just learn to fit without the mumbo jumbo found in most fitting books I know I could make beautiful garments as my construction and sewing skills are well done.
Rosie
PANTS!!!. They are so hard to get to fit perfectly. I’d love this information to learn how to do them correctly.
Karen J
Pattern fitting is truly a puzzle. Basic store-bought patterns are never exact. I need to adjust every measurement…..narrower here, wider there, longer/shorter, adjust darts, etc. You name it, it’s needs adjustment. It can be such a dilemma. I would love to win this DVD!
Amelia
It is always difficult for me to fit a pattern. I have so many stored away including my mother’s from the 40’s and 50’s that I would love to make but they never turn out because of the fiting issue. I would love to know all the tips to get it right!
Jean Palionis
Do I ever need this! As I have gotten older my body shape has really changed and sewing for myself has really become a challenge and a chore. Thank you so much for a very useful book.
Carol Wiitanen
Hope to win this to figure out how to make proper fitting slacks
Clovis
Thanks for the chance to win. On a top, I have a small waist and bust and hips are bigger. Sometimes it’s hard to make the changes I need.
beth d.
I need the fitting puzzle. I feel that I need help in using the clothes patterns.
Pat
My pattern fitting dilemma has always been the correction for a swayback. Wonderful to see that correction in Part 2. Thanks so much for the information and the chance to win the book.
Brenda Fish
I am a plus petite size, and frequently when I buy ready-to-wear, the garment shoulder is much wider than my shoulder. The top of the sleeve fits as if it were a drop shoulder. It seems like the manufacturer just makes the whole pattern piece larger instead of just making wider where it needs to be. The shoulder line is the most important for how the entire garment hangs. On top of that, I also have a rounded back, so any garment with stripes looks like the stripes are climbing uphill. Thanks for the opportunity to win this book!
Becky Canuteson
My biggest sewing dilemma is the right fit for pants. I am also petite so I need to shorten everything.
Judy H
Even if I am not the lucky winner of this incredible giveaway, I will purchase the book and DVD, as throughout the years I have loving constructed far too many non-fitting garments.
Thank you for this great opportunity and Part 1-2 lessons.
Pam
I have a problem fitting shoulders and darts. It seems if the shoulders are correct, then the garment hangs right. And, then to add shape with the darts or princess seams.
Susan B
I could use this dvd on fitting adjustments. I have pieces I am ready to tackle. I have tried in the past and haven’t always got it right. Nancy always had a way in her teaching to assist me in learning proper techniques.
Kathryn E
I have a difficult time fitting pants. My waist is big and my butt is flat.
DebbieW
My pattern fitting puzzler is allowing for a larger bust without distorting the rest of the pattern.
Crystal Conrad-Kauffman
I never seem to “match” a size. One size at the bust, another at the waist, yet another at the hips!!! Never know how to adjust the pattern to make it work. I would love the chance to win this valuable resource that will answer my troubles! Thank you!
Linda
I sewed clothes a long time ago. My sister said we should start sewing together again and make some tunic tops “they would be easy to make.” They sure would with Nancy’s instructions on solving pattern fitting. Thanks for a chance to win. Linda
Barbara Thomas
My pattern problem that I wear 3 sizes… I actually keep 3 sizes in my closet because my body varies from day to day, with a stomach & waist problem due to IBS. Top that off with being petite.. Shopping is a nightmare and making my own clothes almost the only option! Except that I have a tough time allowing for the variables… I have several times thrown out what I have made. The only pattern I have been able to adjust to my narrow shoulders and small breast is a tent dress!! Was even able to make one for a friend who is taller & larger. Just haven’t been able to successfully make slacks or skirts or fitted blouses. Still have no idea how to get my 3 sizes into one petite size! I hope that I am lucky enough to win this Book & Dvd. I love to sew and am a quilter but had given up on clothes, sure would love to finally solve this combination of problems & be able to create my own clothes. Thank you sew very much for giving me hope to be able to learn how to solve my puzzle!
Judy G
Now retired, I’ve been toying with the idea of sewing my own clothes after several decades of only hemming and mending. Alas, as my body has matured, my once busty figure has become more so, and gravity has caused that dreaded sag. I’m afraid to even get started and could really use the confidence boost “Solving the Pattern Fitting Puzzle” provides.
Lynnette B.
My pattern fitting problems is my upper arms and bust area. I have tried numerous ways in how to solve this issue. It wasn’t until I saw Nancy’s pivot and slide method that gave me a better understand on pattern, oh how I truly miss Mrs. Nancy Z ieman and her helpful tutorials. I wish the best for all the entries and whoever wins, they have the best dvd in pattern solving. God bless to all.
Jan C
I am not shaped like patterns! Abs I’m tired of wearing clothes shaped like tents. I would love to win this to help give my garments form.
Patritia Dyke
I have a hump at the top of my spine and a skinny neck. It always gives me trouble in fitting. I like to cover the hump and make the neckline smaller. Not easy.
Noreen
Nancy gives you so much easy to use information on making patterns fit better. I’m long waisted and my shape has changed from when I was younger. Also, I have learned what styles work better for me, so with Nancy’s help, I can modernize and adjust patterns.
Courtney
I’m making clothes for my granddaughters now and their shapes are so different from one anotger. I could use this lesson to make their clothes fit better. Nancy was such a blessing to everyone who loves to sew. She’s deeply missed!
Bonnye
My fitting problem is narrow shoulders. I never know exactly how to alter the shoulder without affecting the arm hole. Also, a problem in the stomach area. I have had several abdominal surgeries so I need to alter this area.
Bonnie
My biggest dilemma is getting the right fit for pants. This DVD would be an excellent source for learning how to overcome this problem. Thanks for the great giveaway!
Kelly Sas
I’ve never been able to master pants. I have a high waistline and a flat butt.
Karen
Definitely triangle shape here, narrow shoulders and wide hips and now a little tummy…oh my! I enjoyed part one and two of fitting 101 and I hope to gain the confidence to try and sew garments again as the store bought ones do not fit well!
Candace Blanton
I bought the book Fitting with Confidence back before it became a triad with Serge with Confidence and Embroider with Confidence. They are all awesome books. I just wish they would continue to offer them independently. They are easier to sell in my store individually.
Having said that, this is an awesome book.
judy
As I age, my body becomes more out of proportion requiring more alterations and guess work. I’ve turned to more ready to wear t-shirts and baggy jean. Not at all attractive.
brenda
I am going to see if these techniques will also be successful with our grandaughter who has the typical Down Syndrome fitting challenges. What a Godsend if this helps !!!! thank you
L Watson
As I age, the waist on pants are too tight even though the rest of the pant looks good. So, in general my changing body type is hard to keep up with.
Carol
My fitting problem has always been narrow shoulders. Shoulder bags always slide off so now I wear cross body bags!
Susan Brown
I hope I win. I just bought a dress form and I really need this tutorial on pattern making too.
ReneeS
I sewed most of my clothes when I was in junior high and high school. I stopped sewing for a long time. I’ve recently started again and find that patterns no longer fit like they used too. In the past, I only had to add length to the sleeves – now everything needs adjusting and I know Nancy’s instructions will be a big help.
Barbara Fogarty
I’d all but given up on garment sewing except for my grandchildren until I recently took a class at a local sewing store, and the teacher adjusted the shirt pattern for me – it turned out so well I am thrilled and had so many compliments, I am now geared up to give it another go, and see the article that shows up in Nancy’s Blog. God Bless her for being so good at this business, and being able to write it down\record it so that it is easy to understand.
Esther
Oh.my.gosh. This 2-part series has been a godsend! I especially appreciated the suggestions for hip, bust & shoulder alterations. Talk about a-ha moments! The series has given me the confidence to attack garment making again. Thanks so much!