For anyone who loves the idea of sewing their own clothes but has been let down by projects that don’t fit or turn out quite right, take heart. This article is for you. We’ve all spent hours, or even days, working on a garment, only to find it isn’t wearable. The challenge can be even greater for plus-size sewists, as many commercial patterns are not size inclusive. It’s frustrating, demoralizing, and can make you want to give up on sewing altogether. But I’m here with a solution that will move you forward.

Winning sewing strategy

I’ll show you how to find that quick win using sewing patterns that are beginner-friendly, forgiving, and almost guaranteed to leave you with a garment you love. We’ll talk about how to take accurate body measurements, how to choose the right sewing pattern to minimize fit issues, and why you should always make a prototype before cutting into a favorite fabric. I’ll also share my experiences working with three simple and stylish designs—each of which could easily be the basis of a wardrobe you’ll love sewing and wearing. Let’s get started.

ChaCha N. Hudson is completing her PhD in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design at Iowa State University. She is the featured instructor in the Threads online course Fundamentals of Fashion Draping.

Threads Recommended Products

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Style Arc, Hendrix Coat

The Hendrix coat sewing pattern from Style Arc is an unlined, panelled design with long two-piece sleeves, a button or snap front, and optional top-stitching. It features binding along the neck, hem, and sleeves, along with angled patch pockets and dropped shoulders. Recommended fabrics include wool, linen, faux fur, or velvet, with fabric estimates and trim details provided for sizes 4-30.

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Vogue 1642

Pattern A has pleated patch pockets with flaps. Pattern B has side seam zippers. This Vogue sewing pattern kit was designed and printed in the United States and comes with sewing templates, instructions, fabric recommendations, pattern pieces, and sizing guides for (2) shirts and (1) pair of pants. Women's clothing patterns can be made to fit sizes 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14.

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Know Me 2064 Vest and Jacket

Know Me patterns offer stylish and versatile designs, including the ME2064 rain jacket, which combines a cropped jacket and a vest that can be worn together or separately. The boxy-fit jacket features a hood, snap closure, and multiple pockets, while the vest has a zippered front and cargo pockets. This sewing kit includes templates, fabric recommendations, and instructions for sizes 44-52, proudly made in the USA.

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