You can straighten your top-stitching, neaten your seams, and smooth out your darts, but if the finished garment doesn’t fit your body correctly, none of those will trounce fit.
You bought the perfect fabric, cut out the pattern accurately, stitched the pieces together precisely, and yet…it looks like a dog’s breakfast on your body. Sloppy shoulder lines make you look like you are wearing your husband’s jacket. Straining at the waistline brings a sausage tied in the middle to mind, and a too-high crotch seam causes a bit of “lift and separate” where it is least attractive.
It’s time to take charge of your fitting issues, ladies. I for one vastly prefer an orderly approach to problem-solving (and fitting IS a problem), and IMHO Lynda Maynard tackles fit in an extremely sensible manner. Top down. Big to little. I just spent 3 days watching her fit every conceivable body shape during a hands-on class, and it was magical. Helping women of all ages, sizes, and body types achieve better fitting garments is her passion, and it shows in all she does.
If you can’t get to San Francisco to take one of her classes in person, Sew the Perfect Fit on Craftsy.com is an excellent online fitting tutorial. (Bonus: you can watch the class as many times as you want – it never expires!)
Do yourself a favor and invest in learning more about fitting. You will be happier with your sewing results if you do.
Happy sewing!
Maris Olsen
Maris – It was great to meet you at Lynda’s class this past week. I enjoyed getting to know you better during dinner tuesday night. Can’t wait to put what we learned to use.
Same here Teresa! I am excited to work on a few new spring dresses!
Wow, this looks like a great class! I’m off to a sewing expo tomorrow and will be taking in some fitting and alterations workshops. They won’t be this extensive and hands-on though.
Have fun at the sewing expo, Catja. I think Lynda is a great teacher, and would highly recommend her class to anyone who wants to learn more about fit. The Craftsy classes go on sale frequently – so watch for the next one and sign up. I think you will find it sooo helpful!