Happiness Through Sewing
It would be nice, or at least a lot simpler, if the way to hem pants was the same for every type of pant. Of course it isn’t, and the technique isn’t even the same for the same pants if the amount you’re hemming is less or more than 4″. So let me answer a […] Read more…
This post is all about how to move the shoulder seam forward because when a shoulder seam is too far back, even just a little, it’s uncomfortable and creates draglines that nobody wants. Moving the seam line forward to match your shoulder is going to give you a better and more comfortable fit. This video […] Read more…
This post is about how to relocate a bust dart, but this method works to relocate a waist dart as well. Darts on patterns are all too often not placed where you need them. And when this happens the fabric bubbles, and puddles, and strains, and well, just makes a mess. It’s not you, it’s […] Read more…
This post is one in a series about getting a better fit from your patterns through simple pattern adjustments. The Small Bust Adjustment, aka SBA, is needed when the garment is too loose across the bust. There is just too much fabric in the front of the garment and not on purpose. Luckily, like its […] Read more…
This post is one in a series about getting a better fit from your patterns through simple pattern adjustments. The Full Bust Adjustment, aka FBA, is one of the most common adjustments women need to make to their sewing pattern. (Did you know the average bra size in America is a 34DD?) Luckily, it’s also […] Read more…
It is said that 25% of your sewing time (or more) should be spent on fitting. Well, let’s keep it to 25% and no more by starting with the size that will give you fewer problems, then it’s a matter of measuring the flat pattern and making some common pattern adjustments before any fabric is […] Read more…
Knowing how to do some basic alterations can save you a lot of money. Not only are you not paying someone else to do them but you can keep wearing the item you altered to fit and avoid buying a replacement. One of the basic alterations you’ll come across is Taking In. And while this […] Read more…
Note that while this post is about taking in a lined, sleeveless dress along the side seams there are some basic tips for altering any garment included, mostly in the first two sections. Do I Keep It? What to Look for Before Removing the Tags I bought this dress because I liked the style and […] Read more…
How do you feel about wearable muslins? It’s a thing in the sewing community to make your first attempt of a garment in a slightly, what? cheaper? less-liked? fabric in case it doesn’t work out. After that first attempt, you’re supposed to work out the fit and construction details and sew it up in the […] Read more…
All of us have asymmetrical bodies even asymmetrical faces. Yet all the clothes for sale are symmetrical. Usually, our body’s uniqueness can fit into these clothes but for some, especially those with scoliosis, a very common condition in which the spine can form a sideways S or C, finding clothing to fit well and be […] Read more…