Make a Dress Using a Pattern
Sewing is a wonderful hobby that allows you enormous creativity. Following a dress pattern can be daunting at first, but once you learn how to read and follow one they can help you a lot.
Steps
- Buy a pattern. Craft stores will have a stock of many different patterns and brands. Some brands have markings for easy or beginner level patterns. Choose a pattern that fits your skill level, but that actually makes something you want to use.
- Size it correctly. Pattern sizes are not the same sizing as ready-to-wear sizing. You must take accurate measurements. From these measurements you can select the correct pattern size. When in doubt, start from a larger size and take in the sides later.
- Consult the pattern book for the measurements for each size. If you have a 39 bust/chest and the pattern sizing shows a 38 or 40, you should probably choose the size corresponding to {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}. However, if you think you have a small frame, measure your chest under the arms. This measurement is called the high bust/chest. This measurement might be more accurate insofar as choosing the proper size and you may determine the proper size will be that which corresponds to the size 38 chest.
- Look at the back of the pattern envelope to find the amount of fabric, interfacing and notions you will need to purchase. And don't forget thread. You will also notice what types of fabric best suited for this garment. Follow these instructions as you would not want to use an inappropriate fabric.
- Take out the pattern. It will probably be printed on several sheets of very thin paper. Unfold the pattern completely and lay it flat.
- Mark the parts you need to cut. You can use a bright colored marker or colored pencil to outline the places you will cut on the paper. The pattern will have lines in different places for different sizes. Once you have selected all the parts corresponding to your size, you can begin cutting.
- Cut out the pattern. Follow the lines carefully, and cut slowly so that you do not rip the paper. If you rip the paper you can tape it, but it will not be as flexible.
- Arrange the pattern pieces on the fabric. You should turn the pieces so that they take up as much of the fabric as possible. Try to avoid wasting fabric.
- Pin the pattern pieces to the fabric. Once the paper pieces are in place where you want them, use pins at every corner and in the center of long sides. This will keep the paper from moving around while you cut.
- Carefully cut the fabric. Follow the edges of the pattern closely. You can cut a bit outside the pattern, if you want to leave more space at the edges for potential mistakes. Extra fabric at the edges can always be cut off later.
- Arrange the parts how they will be put together. The pattern might have tips for what order to sew in, or how to arrange them. For example, a pattern might suggest beginning by creating the skirt and bodice separately, and then putting those parts together. You can remove the paper at this point if you would like, or you can leave it and rip it off after sewing. If you want to save the pattern to use again, remove it now.
- Choose two parts, and begin sewing. The pattern might have tips for what type of stitch to use such as zigzag or straight stitch. When you begin sewing, place the outside of the pieces of fabric towards each other.
Tips
- Notions will be explained as thread, buttons, lace, elastic and so on, together with amounts.
- The back of the pattern will also tell you whether this garment is loose, medium, or form fitting. This is generally referred to as "ease" in the industry.
- A good book on fitting is very important, especially when making pants.
