Question about patterns

**Jayne** · 06-10-2005, 09:58 AM

Are patterns running even smaller than usual ?.....I bought a Simplicity pattern for a sun dress and I wear an 18 womens store bought so I cut out the dress a size larger, because I have been told patterns run smaller....well I got the darn thing put together and it was way to small...so would an eighteen really end up being a 22??...I am mad cause I ruined the pattern and the fabric(I had to play Incredible hulk to get the thing off me)

**Michele Annette** · 06-10-2005, 11:29 AM

Sorry Jayne. The easiest way to resolve this is to go by your measurements and make adjustments to the pattern and to the garment as you sew. I can never make an item and have it fit me right as the pattern is designed. I'm sorry you went through all that work. Fitting as you go saves much time, frustration and aggravation!

**daddys3chicks** · 06-10-2005, 12:35 PM

Yes, I have to go by the measurements because sometimes I have to cut the top by one size and the bottom by another.

**kymom** · 06-10-2005, 08:15 PM

I bought 5 patterns monday. And yes the do run smaller now. I buy 2 sizes up and fit it to me. That way i don't ruin anymore fabric. Sorry yours is ruined.

**SewCrafty** · 06-11-2005, 05:42 AM

Originally posted by Michele Annette
Sorry Jayne. The easiest way to resolve this is to go by your measurements and make adjustments to the pattern and to the garment as you sew. I can never make an item and have it fit me right as the pattern is designed. I'm sorry you went through all that work. Fitting as you go saves much time, frustration and aggravation!

I agree. It's sad as the big pattern companies used to run large. Doesn't matter which way they go, I always end up adjusting them some way. Sorry your fabric was ruined Jayne,

**patches** · 06-28-2005, 11:01 AM

I don't know what the deal is with some of the measurements! Some patterns I adjust larger because the envelope shows that the measurements will be too small so I sew the darn thing and it's like a tent!

I think they don't even measure the things, the designers make them on computer, send them out and the pattern companies print them. Their ease is my disease.

I have decided this year that I am going to make a dress dummy if it kills me in the process (hopefully hubby won't leave me in the plaster strips), LOL!

**Michele Annette** · 06-28-2005, 04:54 PM

I have decided this year that I am going to make a dress dummy if it kills me in the process (hopefully hubby won't leave me in the plaster strips), LOL!

**Michelle** · 07-22-2005, 08:38 AM

I have had great luck with Kwik Sew patterns, for both adults and children.

If anyone is interested in trying a KS pattern, plmk. I know of a couple co-op groups where you can get the patterns at 40-50% off retail prices.

Also, I like to read about patterns before I try them, on www.patternreview.com There are members there who will rate a pattern after using it.

HTH!

**many houseapes** · 07-22-2005, 09:35 AM

I had always had to buy patterns that had several different sizes...like a dress pattern that has sizes 6-8-10. I wear about a 7-8 if I were to buy a dress from the store, but if I make it, I have to make it in a size 6....and so far, I haven't found any difference between quick sew, simplicity or mccall's.

**patches** · 07-22-2005, 03:48 PM

I normally wear an XL or an 18 ready to wear, but if I buy a pattern what has been happening is that I will check the measurments and end up enlarging the pattern. Then when I sew it it is too big.

I'm going to have to go back and cut them back down and resew them.

I just got some vintage patterns and I'm wondering how they will run. Learning to sew my own bras.

**SewCrafty** · 07-22-2005, 09:16 PM

With the newer patterns, generally 3 sizes in each package (and I think with the older ones too) check on the main part of the pattern piece. Whether it is the front of a shirt, or the front of the pant pattern, they always give a finished measurement which includes ease for wearing. I go by this measurement as opposed to the back of the package measurements.

This way I know to cut a size 12 armhole,14 bust and a 12 or 14 waist. That's the beauty of these multisized patterns, you can make it fit you before you pin and cut it out.

Good Luck gals, it just takes practice, and if you are unsure and don't want to ruin your good fabric, purchase enough muslin and make a test one. That way you will know whether it fits well or it you need to make adjustments.