Clone Yourself A Fitting Assistant

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Duct-tape dress form #1 (above) uses ordinary duct-tape as both the body-casting material and the final form. Duct-tape dress form #2 (not shown)is a bit more difficult but produces a closer fit.

David Coffin

Molded papier-mâché form is an exact replica of you.

David Coffin

Check out this updated method for creating the ultimate fitting assistant.

Sloan Howard

Duct-tape dress form #1 (above) uses ordinary duct-tape as both the body-casting material and the final form. Duct-tape dress form #2 (not shown)is a bit more difficult but produces a closer fit.

Photo: David Coffin

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by David Coffin
from Threads #75, pp. 37-41

A few years ago I had a custom-fitted body form made for myself, which totally changed the way I fit clothes and alter patterns. Ever since, I've been telling anyone who'll listen how useful it is to have a full-scale duplicate of your body on hand when making clothes for yourself. But the process I used (making a surgical-plaster body mold, then filling it with an industrial foam) must have seemed a bit too costly and/or demanding, since not many people appear to have followed my advice. I've recently been investigating other form-making methods that are so simple, quick, and inexpensive that I've returned to my original evangelical enthusiasm, and am ready to start shouting out the message once again: every sewer needs a dress form!

What's so earthshaking about having a clone in the sewing room? It's simple: fitting is the hardest thing about sewing, especially sewing for yourself, and having a form on which to solve your fitting problems transforms the challenge from a slow, abstract process of measuring and altering outlines on a flat piece of pattern paper into an immediate, hands-on process of playing with fabric (or paper) on a 3-D version of yourself. With a few pins, some muslin, and 20 minutes, you can explore more pattern tweaks (and learn more about fitting) on a custom form than you could in hours of flat-pattern investigation on paper.

Minor adjustments become so easy and obvious when you're looking at the actual problem in fabric on "yourself" that you often don't even need a muslin or a corrected pattern. You can simply reposition the seamlines involved right on the form, when you're ready to stitch them, without worrying that the weight or drape of your fabric might throw off your elaborate flat-pattern changes. This is the process I use on my form, for example, to correct all garments for my nonsymmetrical shoulders. Of course, custom-made forms are just as useful as commercial ones for all the traditional dress-form functions--draping, visualizing, shaping collars, holding garments during sleeve insertion and hemming, and so on.

How accurate, and where?
None of these fitting benefits is possible if the form you're using doesn't mirror with reasonable accuracy your posture, the shapes that make up your shoulders, the position and angle of your neck, and the unique distribution of your body weight. These issues are typically much more important than questions of circumference, since most clothes hang from the shoulders or the waist, and don't fit snugly. And this is precisely what the custom forms presented on the following pages provide (as did my poured-foam form): an accurate recreation of your posture and your shape, while keeping within an inch or so of your current circumference measurements. Commercial forms of all kinds, even if customized, inevitably put the emphasis the other way around; that is, they can be quite accurate about overall circumference but can't as easily mimic posture or weight distribution, so that their usefulness as personal fitting and draping aids is limited.

Speed and convenience
The best feature of all but one of the do-it-yourself forms described here is that they're quick to make, using materials that are very easy to find. With either the duct-tape or paper-tape versions, you can have a working form ready in less than two hours, having spent no more than $15. This essentially eliminates the anticipated-weight- fluctuations objection I've heard so often concerning more time- or money-consuming methods, since you can so easily repeat the process, if you think it necessary, later on.

So, let's look at the form-making methods I've observed over the past few months as I visited folks who'll make a dress form at a moment's notice. Each finds her process the one that makes the most sense for her temperament and gives her results that are more than adequately accurate and durable. Take your pick, and take charge of your fitting problems once and for all!

Duct-tape dress form #1 uses ordinary duct-tape as both the body-casting material and the final form.		Duct-tape dress form #2 is a bit more difficult but produces a closer fit.
		Molded papier-mâché form (left) is an exact replica of you. Paper-tape dress form (above) is the easiest and cheapest of all.

Your custom dressform doesn't need to make you look like a tin man. Check out this updated method for creating the ultimate fitting assistant.

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Duct-Tape Dress Form #2

Duct-Tape Dress Form #1

Comments (38)

seekingskinny writes: Here's what I immediately thought when reading this...

1) When you cover yourself with duct tape/paper mâché/whatever, you're creating a layer ON TOP of your body

2) So your form will end up being bigger than you actually are.

Could anyone please confirm/deny this? I'm considering making my own dress form because I want to make my own bras, so a good fit is crucial. Then again, I've been dealing with too-big bras for years now, so what's another 32B when I need a 30C? Lmfao.

Seriously though, I'd appreciate it if someone knows how accurate these are and could tell me, and/or which one they think would have the least distortion of my bewbs. :P


Thank you in advance!! I'll be checking back every day until someone answers =^^= (ohpleaseohpleaseohplease?)

-Lacie
Posted: 7:13 am on January 11th

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Posted: 3:31 am on October 27th

Cheena writes: Tip: I placed my duct tape form over a sturdy wooden clothes hanger (that has a freely-rotating hook) before stuffing and sealing it up securely. Now my dress form can hang in the closet or from any bar (shower rod, chin-up bar) at a convenient height and effortlessly turns so that I don't have to physically move around it in order to do fittings. My husband installed a cheap, removable chin-up bar in the doorway of my sewing room at the perfect height.
Posted: 2:28 pm on October 12th

lovingcreativity writes: I found something great!!!! I am so pysched!! here is my story!
Gotta love Fabulous Fit Fitting System..I purchased a Dritz dress form and wasn't completely satisfied. The dials get stuck when trying to adjust the size! It is very difficult to pin due to the thin cover, which means lost of bent straight pins, but then again it is very useful for fitting the dresses that I made for my friends...however, I had problems it no longer resembled my body, I gained weight thorugh the years.....as I was searching online I happened to read a great review of Fabulous fit on amazon.com......Fabulous Fit Dress Form......this is such a great product that was invented, the foam pads are FABULOUS!! and they really work, giving your dress form, life and shape!
Thx fabulous fit...
they also have a web site aside from selling on AMAZON..
The site is: www.fabulousfit.com
Posted: 9:42 pm on September 29th

ShaylaWroe writes: My mom and I tried this with less than acceptable results. The duck tape (or duct tape depending on brand) is too flexible to hold a shape. It basically was easy to do but once we took it off, it did not hold its shape and we tried very hard to pad it to get it right, but it was just too flexible. Was very disappointed. I found it easier to buy a cheap adjustable dress form and put a bra on it to better match my figure.
Posted: 12:54 pm on September 26th

DressForm writes: PGM DRESS FORMS
Professional DRESS FORMS in California since 1983, biggest warehouse to enable buy various dress forms, antique display dress forms, sewing dress form mannequin etc. All dress forms with 3 year warranty 1-888-818-1991.
website:http://www.pgmdressform.com
Posted: 1:23 am on July 15th

yaz11 writes: i made a stand for my form out of PVC tubes and joins from a regular hardware store. it pivots and adjusts just like a real form stand. you can find all the instructions on how to make it here http://lulushion.blogspot.com/2011/06/making-of-form-part-3-stand.html and the best part is that is very inexpensive. Enjoy! :)
Posted: 10:26 am on June 28th

yaz11 writes: Read all about my version of Molded Papier-Mâché Form here. http://lulushion.blogspot.com/2011/06/dress-form-or-making-of-dress-form-part.html
the stand post is coming soon.
Posted: 8:55 am on June 8th

yaz11 writes: I made a plaster bandage cast of myself. You can find all the instructions and tips here. http://lulushion.blogspot.com/2011/05/cast-yourself-or-making-of-dress-form.html
Enjoy :)
Posted: 5:39 pm on May 19th

stace3374 writes: I did it! I didn't want to do the duct tape one but since I had to do it by myself, it was easier. The trick for anyone doing it on themselves is a bit of flexibility and a large mirror. For the back, the best thing to do is to go horizontally up to the bra strap then vertically from the shoulder down to the waist for the upper back with long pieces of tape. You will have gaps but since duct tape keeps its shape, you can fill the gaps when you remove it. Of course you'll have to cut it from the front but this won't affect the shape as long as you do it correctly in the front.

Anyway, I hope that helps for anyone that doesn't have a helper. Plus, it's a bit of a workout so make sure you have plenty of water near and a good air conditioner! Oh and if you don't know how to get the goo off of your scissors, soaking them a bit in any kind of oil will clean off the glue residue.
Posted: 8:58 pm on May 7th

HollyJ writes: I think my prayers have been answered. I have not sewn for myself in a number of years, but after a bi-lateral mastectomy in October I have been having a very difficult time finding clothes that fit my "new shape". My husband went out and bought me a new machine on Saturday, and I found this site today. As I am not ready for reconstruction, but still require clothes, I think this will come in very handy. No more darts in the wrong places for me yeah!!!
Posted: 3:04 pm on March 21st

BodyArtbyA writes: I'm super excited about making my own body form. I make body jewelry & can't even begin to describe the difficulties of creating & fitting my work. This has also inspired me to try my hand at sewing as well.
My main concern is whether I can find someone to help me who will do a proper job of it. The process seems kind of complicated & lengthy for the average volunteer. On the upside I feel confident that can create forms for my repeat customers which will be fantastic! Any tips or shortcuts anyone would share would be very appreciated!
Posted: 8:29 pm on March 9th

Hugh_Haiker writes: So awesome! I can't wait to try this. I've been shopping for a men's form for myself, but they are often very expensive and/or very basic in shape. So often, sewing needs are approached from the needs of women sewers who are making clothes for women. This is a technique I can adapt to make clothes that FIT me (unlike anything off the rack in the U.S. these days)!
Posted: 6:07 am on December 17th

julie1910 writes: I haven't made a form out of duct tape as yet because I couldn't figure how to get it off. I thought of cutting it off, but was afraid it would weaken it. I now know to put a long zipper in the back.
Posted: 6:05 pm on December 14th

suzq49 writes: It was perfect timing to find this site. I know it will be a regular from now on. My son and I need to design and make some garments for someone who lives about 6 hours from us. Making this form will that possible. Though we haven't tried it yet, the process just makes sense. Thanks for the help!
Posted: 2:48 pm on October 5th

Ansola writes: Hi MelindaK30,
How many cans of the foam filler did you use? Did you leave the newspaper in too? Which brand of filler did you use? Thank you in advance! : )
Ansola
Posted: 9:44 pm on August 17th

melindak30 writes: I made it and stuffed with newspaper, Just wasn't firm enough. I purchased a few cans of the expanding foam insulation stuff. PERFECT. This is an awesome helper.
Posted: 10:13 pm on July 14th

writerinfact writes: This is all very cool, but . . . I don't wear dresses! How are you supposed to fit pants on this thing? Yes, I know I'm "short" but I still want both pant legs the same length, preferably the same length as my own legs; that's easy enough, I suppose, just make sure the stand puts everything at the same height as me. But I can't for the life of me figure out how to fit the hips, crotch, rise, etc. This is a major issue, since commercial ready-to-wear pants end up looking almost like strapless jumpsuits. Any ideas or tips?
Posted: 8:37 pm on June 26th

Sedary writes: Ah! It pays to have been in a military style marching band in High School!
I was just doing a search online to see with what I could fill the cavity of my new plaster body cast my husband helped me make the other day.
In order to NOT get faint at all while standing for the long session, you MUST keep your blood pumping back up through your legs! To do this, first, it is very important that you space your feet apart (at parade rest, if you please) almost as far apart as your shoulders are but not enough to spread your hips wider, of course. Next, ALWAYS wiggle your toes and, if need be, tighten and release leg muscles throughout the duration! The toe wiggling is the most important. And do not lock your knees.
Posted: 5:07 pm on June 7th

sewinggal1 writes: I made one of these a few years ago with some help from my husband. It just about drove me nuts wearing it, it was so hot and uncomfortable, but it was worth it. I would recommend it to anyone with fitting problems. Its worth its weight in gold!
Posted: 8:40 pm on March 17th

barbaragailknighton writes: I need help....my duck tape won't stick. How do you make it look so smooth? barbaragailknighton
Posted: 10:28 am on February 9th

cynsew writes: I made a duct tape dummy with the help of my husband about 10 years ago. We never laughed so hard together! I hooked it to an old cloak tree. It still stands in my sewingroom as good as the day I created her. She is my very best sewing friend. Without her, I was a great seamstress, but nothing ever fit right. She has been the best sewing tool I ever had. Everything fits now, because I can check out the pattern first. If I see problems, I adjust the pattern and then stitch out a muslin. Making the final adjustments. Now it fits me perfectly!! I did not fill mine with foam, I used batting and stuffed it tight. Be sure and try this, you won't be sorry!! Cindy
Posted: 8:42 am on February 2nd

larainy writes: I' excited to try this. I once made a form out of chicken wire and stuffed it with whatever I could find. the wire tended to scratch. I covered it with material and it worked out okay. But the ducttape idea is great.
Posted: 7:01 pm on January 20th

scribblelikeme writes: For your chance to win a free Dress Form, become a facebook fan here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/MannequinHubcom-Mannequins-and-Dress-Forms/210125848556?ref=search&sid=193300099.3856938594..1
Posted: 9:12 pm on December 26th

Pokeydog writes: I don't think I would ever want a custom fitted form as my weight is always up or down. So my body double works great for me as I can change the size as needed. If I had a custom I would be spending money to make a new one everytime I wanted to make something. So for me the body double works great.
Posted: 2:56 pm on November 17th

shassy writes: An update on iv pole cost. I goggled IV poles and found the one for $17 dollars after shipping the total cost is $25 to be delivered to your front door. I did look for form stands and lowest priced one was $70 before shipping and actually looks a lot like an IV pole.
Posted: 1:45 pm on October 5th

shassy writes: I had a wonderful idea regarding the stand and what would possibly work. I priced IV poles and was shocked to see they ran about $17. They have the rolling wheels with locks and a nice sturdy pole. They are also adjustable in height. I am sure with a little creativity people could use them. just an idea I thought I would share.
Posted: 1:23 pm on October 5th

JenWen writes: NEVER MAKE A PLASTER BODY CAST!!!
I tried the idea of making a foam double from a plaster cast of my torso. I had read around a few sites and it seemed pretty simple. My husband helped me (against his will and better judgement). We started by covering myself with a plastic garbage bag and using a bit of duct tape to define the contours. Then we used bandages already coated in plaster of paris that you just wet and apply. I had never read any warnings or possible troubles on any of the websites or forums. I had to wait 20-30 minutes for the cast to dry. It wasn't restrictive or too tight, but snug and form-fitting. After 20 minutes my husband came back out to check on me and I complained of feeling light-headed and woozy. I wanted him to start cutting it off even though it wasn't completely dry. (It was dry enough to hold its shape) After a few snips I started freaking out because I was seeing stars and I knew I was fading fast. I'm not claustrophic or anythig, by the wooziness was rapidly increasing.
The last thing I remember was my husband yelling "Hang on honey!" as I started to lean forward. I woke up in a chair that was near by, covered in vomit and shards of plaster. I had passed out and vomited everywhere while he frantically cut me out of the mold. He said I stopped breathing and my face was bright red. I don't remember feeling uncomfortable or having a hard time breathing, but somehow things went downhill fast. Maybe I was taking shallow breaths intentionally so as not to distort the mold, I don't know.
So $30 dollars, and 1 1/2 hours later I still don't have a dress form and my husband is traumatized. I don't know if duct tape would have a similar effect on me, but I'm too afraid to find out!
Posted: 2:19 pm on September 19th

Buddleia writes: Hello everyone - I'm not new to sewing, by any means, but I am really new to the idea of using a dress-form. I just started a draping class and have been told that I 'must' have a form made from foam in order to use it for draping. Is this true? Or can I use one of these forms for draping? Any answers truly appreciated!


Posted: 4:12 pm on July 13th

Lady2k7 writes: Finding someone to do the tapeing is my problem. I really want to try this form. I've always padded my purchased form to duplicate all of my measurements. This is great to know!
Posted: 1:40 am on June 30th

Lemonshrew writes: Great tutorial! I finally have a dress form!

The polyurethane foam was a bit out of my price range so I tried kitty litter.

It worked!

I used extra padding (paper towels) in the bust and shoulders to make sure they would keep shape, a bag of polyester stuffing in the center of the cylinder to keep the weight down and filled it up with the litter. I've moved the form several times and have had no problems with it loosing it's shape. It may eventually sag, but let's face facts, so will I! If you're on a budget like me, you might want to try it. Just make sure any holes are well sealed before you pour!
Posted: 3:37 pm on May 27th

LorraineA writes: Sewbobbi mentions putting a separating zipper up the back of her duct tape form. How did she attach it? Does sewing work or would you get it all bent out of shape?
Posted: 1:10 am on April 26th

Carwinian writes: You were featured in a Threadbanger episode on "how to make your own body form"!!! http://www.threadbanger.com/episode/THR_20090403 Thanks!
Posted: 6:01 pm on April 3rd

darcien writes: I am thrilled to see this! I started making duct tape "mummies" about 11years ago, when a commercial pattern fit so ill and I couldn't get the adjustable dress form to adjust to ALL my measurements. I then thought to myself how much better a duct tape form would be-- though it was an original idea, I had not known others to have had the same idea, lol! Though i have moved onto packing tape instead of duct tape as packing tape does not gum up my pins.

Thanks for spreading the good idea!
Posted: 3:13 pm on April 1st

nursie1 writes: I'm thinking about trying the duct tape and filling with polyurethane foam. I'm at a loss, though, as to how much to get (how many cubic feet are a torso?) and what weight to use. Has anyone tried it this way?
Posted: 9:45 pm on January 26th

sewbobbi writes: I have made the Duct Tape form several times. I find it works great for a couple of years and by that time, I want a new one because my body has changed one way or another.

I am making a wedding dress for my niece, and had her complete one also. This time I put a separating zipper up the back, so it zips from neck down. I then slip it over my purchased dress form for a custom fit. This allows me to use more than one Duct Tape form on the same stand.
Posted: 6:03 pm on January 3rd

SEW_WHAT writes: I HAVENT TRIED THE FORM YET ,BUT I'M SURE EXCITED ABOUT IT ,BECAUSE ITS REALLY FRUSTRATION TO MAKE AN ITEM TAKE IT OFF, PIN IT UP, SEW A LITTLE MORE, TRY IT ON AGAIN SO ON AND SO FORTH, AND ALSO I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHERE CAN I PURCHASE A STAND TO SUPPORT MY FORM? THANKS
Posted: 5:54 am on January 2nd

JoanatChesterleStreet writes: I agree with David Coffin totally. I have, with Hubby's help made two dress forms. The first was duct tape, following a Threads article a few years back. This was relatively easy but wrapping in the right direction was essential in order to get the best shape for yourself, I found. The form turned cylindrical over time so did not keep well, but it inspired me to have a go at the plaster/ foam one. This required a very trustworthy assistant who had to promise not to open the door during the plasterwork. He was not trustworthy enough as he had decided that it was a bit extravagant to buy the plaster cutting scissors, and I bore scissor scars for a while.Our friends and family have had so much amusement at it all. We had to have two goes at the plaster wrap as the inside needed a lot of work to release a nice foam surface. I was able to do a bit of "liposuction" with this by pouring plaster onto the inside cast surface. The form really duplicated my posture so is invaluable for fitting, but is not brilliant for fitting close fitting garments as it is a tad bigger than me, even with the relining.
Being wrapped is not for the faint hearted, I am not prone to claustrophobia or fainting but I was a bit lightheaded standing so long during the process.
My dress form is kept in the wardrobe, unlike a regular dressform as it is a bit strange having my torso on display if visitors turn up because they always comment, and have a laugh.
Posted: 7:08 pm on December 16th

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