Amanda Dress Skirt Modification of Adding Side Seam

In this guide, I demonstrate how to modify the Amanda dress skirt pattern to add a side seam. I explain how to separate the pattern at the side, potentially add some ease, and transfer the modification to both front and back pattern pieces. Steps: This modification gives you more control over the fit of the […]

How to Measure the Body

In this lesson, I demonstrated how to properly measure the body and mark important reference points for dressmaking. I used a real-life model to illustrate the process. I emphasized the importance of wearing well-fitted shapewear and standing in a natural, relaxed posture during the measuring process. I also recommended taking photos from the correct distance […]

How to Find Your Armhole on Your Dress Form and Your Armhole Depth

This guide teaches how to find the proper armhole depth for creating slopers and fitted garments. It covers measuring key points like the shoulder line, chest line, and back shoulder blade to determine the armhole shape and depth, which should be slightly smaller than the final desired fit to allow for adjustments during draping and […]

How to Give a V-neck to Your Block and Continue to Back Pattern

In this guide, I demonstrate how to modify a basic bodice pattern to create a V-neckline. I explain the steps involved, such as marking the desired depth of the V on the front pattern piece, curving the neckline slightly, and making corresponding adjustments to the back neckline. This allows for creating a flattering V-neck opening […]

How to Make Your Pattern Neck Circle Smaller but not the Shoulder

This guide teaches how to alter a dress form or pattern to better fit your body measurements, especially around the neck and shoulder area. It emphasizes the importance of having a well-fitting bodice and sleeve block that represents your body, which can then be used to transfer the correct measurements to any draped or patterned […]

Where is the Chest on the Dress Form

In this guide, I explain the importance of accurately capturing the chest and shoulder measurements when resizing a dress form. I emphasize that the transition from the chest to the shoulder area varies for each individual body, and it’s crucial to replicate this gradual curve on the dress form to ensure a proper fit. I […]

Where is the Placement of Back Line on Dress Form

This guide discusses the measurements and markings for the back neckline and shoulder area when draping or sewing a dress. It provides instructions on locating the center back neck point, measuring down from that point to find the appropriate length for the back neckline, and determining the shoulder slope based on the intersection of the […]

How to Correct Your Pattern for a Sway Back

In this guide, I demonstrate how to correct a sway back issue on a pattern when the pattern is designed for a straighter back. I explain the process of pinning and marking the excess fabric on a test garment, transferring those adjustments to the pattern by creating a center back seam or adding a dart, […]

Jersey Info – What to Choose for Your Draping Project

In this guide, I discuss the different types of jersey fabrics suitable for draping projects, focusing on their stretch properties, weight, and drape. I explain the difference between two-way and four-way stretch fabrics, and recommend using double jerseys or interlocks with a nice drape and weight for draping cocktail dresses. I also showcase various jersey […]

How to Turn Your Bodice Pattern into a Block Pattern

This guide teaches how to turn a well-fitting pattern into a block pattern, which is a sturdier base pattern made of thicker paper that can be used for future pattern modifications or creations. It covers the steps of transferring the pattern onto manila paper, marking important points like darts and grainlines, and cutting out the […]