Essential Stitches and Techniques for Dressmaking and Sewing The taking of measures is the most important part of drafting. If the measures are not taken correctly one can never hope to make a draft that will fit. The drafting of a garment is no different from the drafting of a house, a bridge, or a…
Learning To Sew Sleeves Learning to sew sleeves effectively ensures both aesthetics and comfort in the final garment. Properly sewn sleeves contribute significantly to a garment’s overall fit, allowing ample movement and imparting a well-finished look that enhances the wearer’s appearance. Mastery in sleeve construction equips one with the ability to adapt various styles, adding…
Vintage Style – Make a Shirtwaist A shirtwaist, also known as a shirtwaist blouse or simply a shirtwaist, is a type of women’s blouse that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a tailored blouse with a button-down front, often featuring a high collar and cuffs, and it was typically…
A Flattering Skirt For Most Body Shapes A five-gore skirt is a type of skirt that is made up of five panels or “gores.” Each gore is a triangular or tapered piece of fabric that is wider at the hem and narrower at the waist. When sewn together, these gores create a flared skirt that…
Crafting an Empire Tea-Gown – A Modern Guide In the delicate world of dressmaking, creating a graceful empire tea-gown balances on the elegant alignment of simplicity and intricate detail. While a tea-gown doesn’t demand the exact fit of a dress, many still reflect a refined, dress-like allure requiring meticulous attention as the piece comes to…
A Modern Guide to Making Lined Skirts Lined skirts frequently need stiffening at the bottom to allow the skirt to fall into proper folds and to keep it well-distanced from the feet. Different designs and seasons may require varying stiffness levels. The guide below provides a modern take on creating lined skirts, ensuring that they…
In dressmaking, the finishing of a skirt’s bottom is a crucial task requiring careful attention and skill. Velveteen is frequently used for binding because of its durability, although various types of plain and brush braid are also popular options. Through trial and personal preference, one can choose the best material for the task. Many prefer…
Shirtwaists range from plain utilitarian styles to elaborate silks with gathers and lace. Carefully fit the neckline so collars sit properly. A snug but not tight fit is best. After fitting the neck, adjust the waist fullness with a tape, pinning gathers evenly. Many have plain back pieces with slight waist fullness. This may be…
When selecting a skirt pattern, know both the waist and hip measurements, and choose based on the hip size if different, since it’s easier to alter the waistline later. To shorten a gored skirt, fold darts perpendicular to the grain about 6 inches below the hip on each panel. Mark new cutting lines. For full…
For proper sleeve fit, first measure the upper arm from shoulder to elbow, and the forearm from elbow to wrist. Adjust sleeve length in two stages, at the upper and lower arm, to retain proper elbow placement. Altering only one end distorts proportions. To shorten above the elbow, fold a tuck halfway between elbow and…
