I am very new to sewing so this might be a silly question.
I bought a dress pattern to make for my daughter. The problem I have is that I bought the wrong size pattern. She is a size 8, but the pattern is for 12 to 16. Is there anyway that I could alter the pattern? Should I make the dress then alter it to her body?
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In my opinion, since you are new to sewing, I would not use the pattern. It would be too much work and worry for you. Most places don't accept returned patterns, so I suggest you put that one away for a few years and go get one the correct size.
By the way, are you certain of her size? Before you do anything be sure to check the chart on the back. Remember Ready-to-wear sizes are different.
Thank you. I did measure her and her measurements are for size 8. In everyday clothes, she wears a 10. I hate to waste the money I paid for the pattern, but then again, making a larger size would waste the fabric not needed. I will go get the size needed. Thank you again.
I know that wasn't what you wanted to hear, but believe me it would be really, really difficult for you to alter it since it is so much bigger. Your sanity is worth more than the price of a new pattern. Maybe she'll grow REALLY fast and you can use it next year.
Are you sure about the measurements?? generally people will take a larger pattern size than ready to wear. Although, these days ready to wear sizing makes no sense whatsoever. I wear a size 8 - 10 in RTW and usually use a pattern size 12 or 14
Yes I am sure of her measurements. She is a 8 for the pattern, but I Plan to make it a 10. She does not need to wear it until May so I know she will grow into it by then. You know how children are, they grow like weeds, real quick. Thanks for all the help.
You probably have the correct size pattern, and you can check it easily by comparing the pattern pieces to a similar ready-made garment that fits her well. My daughter buys a size 6 dress, but I have to use a size 12 pattern for her. The numbers aren't very useful, but comparisons with finished garments are!If both sizes are on the pattern, you can see where there is only about a 1/4" at each seamline between a 14 and a 16. A 12 will be the same amount smaller in those same areas. If there is only one line for both sizes (at the armhole, for example) then that is a standard that won't change for a 12, either.
oops, my goof, I guess I didn't realize your daughter was a "little" person. My sons are full grown (22 yo twins) so I guess I just thought of your daughter as a misses size 8 not a kiddies size 8!enjoy her while she's little still, all too soon they become teenagers and then they up and leave you - but still cost a fortune while in college!
Judy
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