https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 11 Apr 2026 05:01:05 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole/page/2#post-2236226 Thu, 04 Nov 2021 13:33:43 +0000 approprio 2236226@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good thread!<i></p> <p>the easier it is to adjust a garment for my specific attributes the more flattering that garment is likely to be.<br /></i><br />I propose that henceforth, this shall be known as Jenava’s Law. I am also discovering the corollary as it applies weight fluctuations. Anything that looks good in a size too large belongs in your wardrobe.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236192 Thu, 04 Nov 2021 09:30:57 +0000 rachylou 2236192@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>The embroidered top is especially beautiful! And the difference in the trousers are quite amazing. I certainly can’t see the sewing imperfections in pics. I imagine a few more goes and you’d work it all out… </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236140 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 20:29:02 +0000 Jenava 2236140@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh yes, that is quite a good point,<b> Cardiff girl.</b> When we control all the variables we see no reason for anything to be out of place, whereas I own and am quite happy with MANY ready to wear items that have fit issues! <br /><b>Phoebe</b>, yes exactly, too many alterations and it becomes a mess/a different design altogether anyway. You articulated my thinking here a little more clearly with that comment; certain designs simply do not accommodate my shape and retain their integrity at the same. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236135 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 20:14:44 +0000 Cardiff girl 2236135@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Goodness yes fit is so frustrating when you start sewing isn’t it.l think that you have done an excellent job.l feel that we are far more picky about things on clothes that we have made our<br />selves than we ever would be about shop bought versions .Anything that you make yourself ,you always see the faults in ,,in my experience. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236110 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:09:21 +0000 Anonymous 2236110@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jenava, I understand that the fabric for the blouse was leftover but the texture of the linen adds so much interest and substance to the simple design!&nbsp;</p> <p>So true, that "..the easier it is to adjust a garment for my specific attributes the more flattering that garment is likely to be.". When making "improvements" I find that beyond a certain degree of tediousness the garment either loses something design wise or just takes on a negative association.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236106 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:52:35 +0000 RobinF 2236106@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>These actually look really good to me! I have made my own clothes but not so much these days. I follow some fun Instagram accounts though, that make their own clothes. There are some great new indi-type patterns available now too.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236105 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:23:48 +0000 Jenava 2236105@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lynn, thank you for those links! I will definitely check them out. I want to make blocks for myself too.&nbsp; When I get the time. I have a 5.5" diff between high and full bust. But even so, a pattern already designed for a 4" diff is much easier to modify that one designed for a 2" difference!</p> <p>And I do want to make time to take some classes. It isn't easy trying to piece it all together from books and YouTube...I have found a couple of channels that are good. Alexandra Morgan (in house patterns that you mention) is one. </p> <p>Lyn, I hand embroidered the top; I don't have an embroidery machine and anyway I enjoy the meditative act of hand stitching.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236102 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 15:41:00 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 2236102@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>These pieces are amazing!&nbsp; &nbsp;I am in awe that you created these from scratch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>If you have the artistic eye to see where tweaks and improvements can be made, that means the skill development can/will follow.&nbsp; &nbsp;It's the same for any performing or visual art - you just have work on your practical skills.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p>Some ideas to do this inexpensively:</p> <p>1.&nbsp; &nbsp;Work with some of your older clothes you're on the fence about, or thrift a big bag of stuff to play with.&nbsp; &nbsp;If you're in the States, Goodwill has a color-of-the-week, when all items tagged with that color are 50% off, and Mondays are $0.99 cent on the previous week's color.&nbsp; &nbsp; I believe a lot of chain thrift stores offer similar perks.&nbsp;</p> <p>2.&nbsp; &nbsp;Get your friends to bring their 'planning-to-toss' items over, re-fit their stuff to them, and practice your alterations skills.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p>3.&nbsp; &nbsp;If your local schools have drama programs, they are often looking for volunteers to help alter or sew costumes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236069 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:57:47 +0000 Janet 2236069@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Even with the flaws you mention, these look great and your skill is evident! Interesting observations on fit — sounds like there are lessons we could all learn from that knowledge. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236042 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:02:55 +0000 Lynn 2236042@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ah, the fit rabbit hole. I have been in it for years!!! &nbsp;I totally agree that a well fitting garment makes a huge difference in appearance, not to mention comfort. In addition to books, there are several good web based resources. Sarah Velban does some classes through her website <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.sarahveblen.com">https://www.sarahveblen.com</a>&nbsp;and through pattern review.com. <a rel="nofollow" href="https://sewing.patternreview.com/bio/Sarah_Veblen">https://sewing.patternreview.com/bio/Sarah_Veblen</a>.&nbsp;She is great teacher. Also In-house patterns has a series of excellent videos on fit.&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://inhousepatterns.com/blogs/news/pattern-and-fitting-tutorials-have-moved">https://inhousepatterns.com/bl.....have-moved</a><br />BTW if you are still looking for a peasant style blouse try the Rhapsody by Love Notions. Almost all of her patterns offer a full bust option (DD) already included which allows for a 4" difference between upper bust and full bust. Cashmerette are great patterns offering a large range of bust sizes. Previously they focused on a larger size range but they have recently extended their size range down.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236023 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 11:55:41 +0000 Ginger 2236023@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you for the info about the books! I've got some old drafting textbooks that have sometimes helped and sometimes not; I think more advanced would be helpful given my individual parameters. But I'm sure I'll get both anyway. You can't have too many good resources.</p> <p>I've been mulling over what you said about body shape analysis and I think I'm there with you. It's to the point where I&nbsp;<i>know&nbsp;</i>what I like on me, or if it falls short, how/where it would need to be altered to work. (Often those alterations are possible only at the patterning stage.) But I find myself working backward to analyze: What is it about this cut that makes me not like it? Instead of starting from a list of things to wear or not wear.</p> <p>Result: there are items of clothing I practically never buy. It's not because the item itself isn't in the right category, it's just that the typical cut/fit isn't the best for me. Some things I make instead (most skirts) and some I haven't bothered with yet (trousers). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236018 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 11:30:59 +0000 Anonymous 2236018@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm in awe of your sewing skills too! I tried to learn, but gave up for the time being. Big yes to working with your specific body in terms of the fit! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2236016 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 10:37:33 +0000 lyn67 2236016@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are certainly 100% right about achieving best fit possible by alterations on existing items or sewing patterns-that is the only key to an consequent gorgeous style. I was said by Angie- and other fashion guru's too.&nbsp;</p> <p>Congrats for you newly achieved sewing skills-I do some of these often- but indeed, trousers are worst....great fit and lovely&nbsp; embroidery (handmade or maschine work?) on that peasant linen blouse! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235988 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:03:58 +0000 Jenava 2235988@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ah, well, my sewing skills are far behind where I hope them to be some day! And Firecracker, I think you likely have a lot of ingrained knowledge about construction and what will fit you, instinctively. I've also attempted to make a camisole that was adjusted for a larger bust. I messed it up but I'm going to try again with a satin elastic bending for the edging and straps. And in excited to try a tee or even a woven plain shirt...altering it for a bust of course. I found a tutorial for an adjustment without a dart, and another that uses a shoulder and bust darts. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235958 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 03:18:41 +0000 Anonymous 2235958@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I so admire your sewing skills. &nbsp;The result is fabulous. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235949 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 02:42:21 +0000 Sloper 2235949@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>So instead of the body shape analysis and coming up magically with the answer of what is flattering I've begun to think instead purely in terms of fit for my specific body.<br /></b> </p> <p>This should be engraved on the mirror of every fitting room in the universe.</p> <p>I envy your sewing skills! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235947 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 02:35:49 +0000 Jaime 2235947@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh my goodness! My kingdom for a professional sewer that understands things like this on non-conventional pieces. Amazing job on the trousers. Both #1 and #4 are excellent outfits. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235924 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 01:37:42 +0000 DonnaF 2235924@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Years ago I completely gave up on buying trousers because they are never cut for a pancake behind so never hang right on me but have many folds across and down the leg. It's the kind of thing that has to be corrected at the pattern stage. Congrats to you! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235922 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 01:21:04 +0000 Firecracker (Sharan) 2235922@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><div>That's so impressive, Jenava! You've done a fantastic job, and it's fascinating to read about what you've learned. <br /></div><div>While I sew a lot, I don't often make things that require such precise fitting. I choose less structured styles and make a lot of t-shirts--haha! Still, I do have some pattern alterations that I generally know I need to make (and do, usually), even on the t-shirts. Pants are so difficult! </div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235921 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 01:17:00 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2235921@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, the difference between 2 &amp; 3! Nicely done.<br /> And I’m sure you’re right about things fitting well being the main part of flattery. I think the fruits/letters/geometric shapes are supposed to be shortcuts to that, but it is far too easy to get caught up in deciding which model is the closest to you instead of remembering that they are just bridges to get to what we really want, the fit. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235916 Wed, 03 Nov 2021 01:02:02 +0000 shiny 2235916@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't sew anymore, but I sewed enough to get an appreciate for fit, which makes me so picky about off-the-rack clothing, and also knowing what can or cannot be feasibly done by a tailor.&nbsp;</p> <p>My mom taught me to sew when I was a teenager (well even younger than that-- she taught me to sew dolls first). She's an amazing seamstress. Recently I was helping her move into independent living and we went through her wardrobe, she tried everything on during the decluttering process. Everything, she had tailored impeccably to fit her. Size tags had zero meaning, and none of it fit me at all as we're very different body shapes though weigh the exact same. It was fascinating to me-- the power of tailoring.&nbsp;</p> <p>I am sure my mom would give you two thumbs up!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235865 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 22:38:14 +0000 JAileen 2235865@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have found sewing for me to be very frustrating. &nbsp;So I gave up. &nbsp;</p> <p>I’m working on a Hawaiian shirt for my son for Christmas. &nbsp;I’m using a pattern my mother used to make a shirt for my grandfather in the 60s. &nbsp;I’ve made several shirts my husband and son.</p> <div><br /></div><div>1. &nbsp;The pattern - notice the model smoking!<br />2. &nbsp;The fabric - you might be able to see the pocket.</div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235863 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 22:35:41 +0000 Jenava 2235863@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Tanya, I had to sew 5 buttons on that shirt and it was the most annoying part of the whole process. LOL.<br />Ginger, I think The Perfect Fitting book is more advanced, the Palmer/Pletsch is more user friendly (but perhaps less complete) so they both have their merits. lozz_oz, YES, the muslins were absolutely key. They also let me practice and understand the instructions before the real deal, which I definitely needed (and I still made many mistakes). I did tissue fittings and muslins for both of these before I sewed them up, but I made the armhole adjustment on the pattern and didn't sew up a second mockup (hence it being off...fixable, but will I take the time, given I did a French seam on the armholes? not likely...) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235856 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 22:21:37 +0000 Tanya 2235856@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>As someone who can barely sew a button, I am in awe of your skills!&nbsp; Your projects look amazing and I hear you on the fit. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235834 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 21:40:36 +0000 Ginger 2235834@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Fantastic! Were the books helpful? They're on my list to buy when the right project comes up.</p> <p>Those pants look really good already. I'm impressed, actually, by how good the pleats in this version look on you. I have a 30s slacks pattern that has a single pleat stitched down, I think 4-5". It's a really good look on someone with low hips. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235832 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 21:36:11 +0000 lozz_oz 2235832@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well done on home sewing!<br /> There is certainly a science to pattern making that takes years of learning and practice. Sounds like you are working towards creating your own personal ‘blocks’ that take into consideration your specific measurements and shape. I’ve created a skirt block,; trousers are a work in progress.<br /> Remember to make toiles first in fabric with similar drape to the fabric you intend to use. Good luck! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235831 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 21:32:06 +0000 Jenava 2235831@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ginger, I already got both those books! And these pants are from a 1940s overall pattern (just the pants part though). My next iteration I think I'll make a single deep pleat at the front and perhaps stitch it down a bit from the waistband. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235807 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 20:21:03 +0000 ChristelJ 2235807@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So impressed by your skills! Making home-sewn garments fit as well as you did is not for the faint of heart. Worth the perseverance, though. Look at your lovely results, wow! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235806 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 20:15:09 +0000 Ginger 2235806@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Fit is such a rabbit hole! One thing I'm picky about now is sleeves. It's amazing how restrictive blouse sleeves are; they feel tight with movement even though there's plenty of bicep room. Poor drafting.</p> <p>I've also realized that my back is narrow! Some tops and dresses end up with gallons of excess material in the middle of my back. Partly it's upright posture, partly just my measurements.</p> <p>I had a shot at some trousers fitting years ago and quickly realized how many variables there are. It is a&nbsp;<i>deep&nbsp;</i>rabbit hole!</p> <p>If you're interested in a couple books, these have been highly recommended by close friends who have a lot of both technical and practical education/experience in pattern making and fitting:<br />* The Palmer Pletsch Complete Guide to Fitting: Sew Great Clothes for Every Body<br />* The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting</p> <p>I will say, decent-fitting woven trousers are amazing. There was a time when I was working a physical job (as opposed to desk) on a daily basis. I ended up wearing overalls I'd made from a 1940s original pattern; almost like a wide-legged jumpsuit with a fitted waist. They were so comfortable, nothing pulling or needing adjusted. I wore regular stretch denim jeans one day and was so aware and uncomfortable, so I went back to the overalls after that. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/home-sewing-and-the-fit-rabbit-hole#post-2235794 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 19:36:36 +0000 approprio 2235794@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It had to be the trouser fit rabbit hole. The Lord of Darkness lives down there, you know. ;)</p> <p>You’re doing great. Trousers are the worst. </p> <p>Your reasoning on body shape and alterations has the ring of truth about it. Never thought of it like that, but you are probably right.&nbsp; </p>