Replies

1. 
   Becky-book | Aug 13, 2007 04:25am | #1

   Try a pattern that is "multi-sized" and as close as you can get to your size. then look at the differences between sizes and "grade" down as many sizes as you need.

   So if you can only get as low as a 4-6-8 mix, measure the difference between the 4 line and the 6 line and step that seam down to a 2 then down again to a 0. Not all seams will differ by the same amount! Copy your size onto a new piece of tissue paper (do not cut the original!) pin fit the tissue . if that looks good, make a trial garment in cheap cloth.

   This advice is skipping over a lot of detail, just a start in the direction of getting a custom fit for you!

   Becky

2. 
   sewingkmulkey | Aug 13, 2007 07:00pm | #2

   Have you taken your measurements?  Please remember that pattern sizes are much larger than RTW.  For example, my daughter wears size 0 or xs but I sew a size 6 or 8 pattern size for her.

   Good luck!

   Karen

3. 
   Teaf5 | Aug 14, 2007 02:32am | #3

   I agree with Karen that you'll probably find a misses pattern size 6 or 8 will fit just fine.  (Sewing patterns are almost always at least two sizes bigger than your dress size.) If not, a misses size 6/8 is approximately the same as a girls 12, so you could use a girls 10 to get the basic size that you can use to alter the misses patterns.

4. 
   tmorris1 | Aug 16, 2007 10:46am | #4

   Xandra;If your frame is quite slender, and not very curvy, you can try patterns for misses, or misses petites. These are patterns designed for early teens, and do not have a lot of ease in the hips or bust. If you find a pattern that looks quite juvenile, don't pass on it. By changing fabrics, and eliminating some of the youthful details these patterns look quite mature. I find that there is much less alteration involved with this method than trying to size down a pattern made for a woman who is naturally more full bodied.T.

1. 
   xandra | Aug 17, 2007 02:17am | #5

   Thank you this was very helpful!