Advice for a quilter learning how to sew clothes.
12-26-2022, 04:03 PM
#1
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Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,660
Advice for a quilter learning how to sew clothes.
I used to make clothes 40 years ago but now I mostly quilt. The sewing patterns were on sale so I ordered some easy ones. I ordered a book and craftsy class on altering patterns. I believe my sewing machine will be good for sewing clothes Janome 6600. Any suggestions on things that especially helped you? Is there anything like the quilting board for clothes sewing? Or other media you like?
thanks MJP
thanks MJP
12-26-2022, 04:14 PM
#2
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Join Date: Jun 2017
Posts: 1,386
Great question and timely as Santa brought me a coverstitch machine (Bernette B62) for constructing or finishing knit clothing. Already have a dedicated serger that I don't use nearly enough. I was recently looking on Google for sewing forums and found a few but I didn't see anything that held a candle to the interaction here on the QB. Will be curious what other sewers might share here. I've taken a sewing class at a local adult art school and also at a regional/annual Quilt & Sewing Expo - helpful but not enough. What types of patterns did you purchase?
12-26-2022, 07:09 PM
#4
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Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,660
Great question and timely as Santa brought me a coverstitch machine (Bernette B62) for constructing or finishing knit clothing. Already have a dedicated serger that I don't use nearly enough. I was recently looking on Google for sewing forums and found a few but I didn't see anything that held a candle to the interaction here on the QB. Will be curious what other sewers might share here. I've taken a sewing class at a local adult art school and also at a regional/annual Quilt & Sewing Expo - helpful but not enough. What types of patterns did you purchase?
I purchased simple tops, drawstring pants and a Palmer/Plessi Butterick A line dress.
I’ve been watching the Palmer Fitting method on Craftsy. The patterns I purchased are all simple but it’s making things fit, I think is the most challenging.
12-26-2022, 07:11 PM
#5
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,660
Great question and timely as Santa brought me a coverstitch machine (Bernette B62) for constructing or finishing knit clothing. Already have a dedicated serger that I don't use nearly enough. I was recently looking on Google for sewing forums and found a few but I didn't see anything that held a candle to the interaction here on the QB. Will be curious what other sewers might share here. I've taken a sewing class at a local adult art school and also at a regional/annual Quilt & Sewing Expo - helpful but not enough. What types of patterns did you purchase?
I purchased simple tops, drawstring pants and a Palmer/Plessi Butterick A line dress called easy.
I’ve been watching the Palmer Fitting method on Craftsy. The patterns I purchased are all simple but it’s making things fit, I think is the most challenging.
12-26-2022, 07:14 PM
#6
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 1,660
Jackpot for me. I’ll be asking advice of you. My mentor in quilting and my mentor me for clothes sewing!
12-26-2022, 08:18 PM
#7
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Join Date: May 2008
Location: MN
Posts: 24,510
Take your measurements (or of who ever you are making garments for).
It is nice if one can get help with the measuring bit - but so far I have had to "make do" as best I can by myself.
Ready-to-wear sizing and pattern sizing do not always match.
If one know that one has anything that is "non-standard" - large bust, flat backside, - whatever - remember that patterns need to be altered to accommodate whatever is "non-standard"
Loose fitting can only accommodate so much - - - -
Pattern sizing has also changed in the last ?? years.
Anyway, my most important suggestion is to take your measurements - believe them - and then try to find a pattern that is close to your dimensions.
It is nice if one can get help with the measuring bit - but so far I have had to "make do" as best I can by myself.
Ready-to-wear sizing and pattern sizing do not always match.
If one know that one has anything that is "non-standard" - large bust, flat backside, - whatever - remember that patterns need to be altered to accommodate whatever is "non-standard"
Loose fitting can only accommodate so much - - - -
Pattern sizing has also changed in the last ?? years.
Anyway, my most important suggestion is to take your measurements - believe them - and then try to find a pattern that is close to your dimensions.
Last edited by bearisgray; 12-26-2022 at 08:23 PM.
12-27-2022, 12:47 AM
#8
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Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Reno, Nv
Posts: 16,529
If you are making clothing for yourself, get a sewing form and adjust it to your measurements. Have someone measure you so they are correct. The patterns are not like the sizes in the stores. If you are serious about sewing something that fits you NEED one It is a real game changer. I have seen a professional even pad the form to fit here and there even better. Buy some gridded pattern material to be able to adjust or make your pattern perfect. Now some people will even make up a jacket or dress in muslin so they can adjust it at will without worrying about ruining the expensive fabric.
, Like I keep repeating garment making is much easier with a dress form. Most fabric stores carry them.
I have found that Vogue is reliable and many times Butterick is a nice choice. They have more details that make the garment look professional and upscale.
There is a site on-line I have visited called Pattern Review that has tons of information and knowledgeable people to give you some help. There are classes that help you get on the right track.
, Like I keep repeating garment making is much easier with a dress form. Most fabric stores carry them.
I have found that Vogue is reliable and many times Butterick is a nice choice. They have more details that make the garment look professional and upscale.
There is a site on-line I have visited called Pattern Review that has tons of information and knowledgeable people to give you some help. There are classes that help you get on the right track.
Last edited by RedGarnet222; 12-27-2022 at 12:50 AM.
12-27-2022, 05:45 AM
#9
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Join Date: May 2017
Location: Sunny Florida
Posts: 4,425
A few of my favorites for you.
Lots of great tutorials available from these sites. You print the patterns from your home printer or take to a print shop.
I've attended a workshop sponsored by the LQS.
https://angelawolf.com/
The ladies at the LQS have made these patterns.
https://www.cuttinglinedesigns.com/
https://www.lovenotions.com/product-...adies-patterns
ETA one more favorite.
https://emmaseabrooke.com/
Lots of great tutorials available from these sites. You print the patterns from your home printer or take to a print shop.
I've attended a workshop sponsored by the LQS.
https://angelawolf.com/
The ladies at the LQS have made these patterns.
https://www.cuttinglinedesigns.com/
https://www.lovenotions.com/product-...adies-patterns
ETA one more favorite.
https://emmaseabrooke.com/
Last edited by Rhonda K; 12-27-2022 at 05:49 AM.
12-27-2022, 06:18 PM
#10
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 9,595
Pattern Review has a board where they discuss clothing construction. That might be helpful. I used to make a lot of clothing. Now, I quilt and make the occasional pieced jacket. I'm making a shirt/jacket now. I have to do a review of how to put a collar on but it's going well.
