Tag: plus size sewing

  • Common Sewing Pattern Mistakes for New Home Sewers

    Common Sewing Pattern Mistakes for New Home Sewers

    Making your own clothes with PDF sewing patterns is rewarding, but many new home sewers run into avoidable mistakes. These errors can ruin your fabric and waste your time before you even finish sewing. Read this guide to learn the most frequent pattern mistakes and simple ways to prevent them.

    1. Printing PDF Patterns at the Wrong Scale

    This is the #1 mistake for digital sewing patterns. If your printer scale is not set to 100% / Actual Size, the whole pattern will be too big or too small.
    Always print the test square first. Measure the square with your ruler to confirm it matches the size stated on the pattern before printing all pages. Do NOT use “Fit to Page” printing option.

    1. Skipping Body Measurements and Using Ready-to-Wear Size

    Many sewers pick the pattern size based on their usual clothing size. Different pattern brands have different sizing standards.
    You need to compare your actual bust, waist and hip measurements against the pattern size chart. If you haven’t learned how to take measurements correctly, check our guide about how to take accurate body measurements for sewing.

    1. Ignoring Seam Allowance

    Some PDF patterns include seam allowance, while others do not. If you forget to add seam allowance when cutting fabric, your final garment will turn out too small. Always check the pattern instructions before cutting.

    1. Wrong Fabric Choice

    A beautiful pattern will look terrible if you use unsuitable fabric. Stiff canvas is not good for flowy dresses, and thin jersey cannot hold the shape of a coat.
    Read the recommended fabric list on your pattern carefully.

    1. Not Making a Muslin / Test Garment for Fitting

    For plus size or fitted garments, it is smart to sew a cheap test muslin first. You can catch fitting issues before cutting your expensive fabric. If your measurements fall into multiple sizes, pattern adjustments will be needed. See our previous tutorial: how to adjust PDF sewing patterns for plus size bodies.

    1. Hurrying and Cutting Fabric Without Checking Pattern Pages

    Multi-page PDF patterns need proper taping and alignment. Misaligned pattern pieces will create shape errors. Take time to match the marks and tape pages together neatly.

    Final Tip

    Start with simple projects as a beginner. Our patterns come with clear instructions and size charts for home sewers.
    Ready for your next sewing project? Browse our collection of well-drafted plus size PDF sewing patterns.https://www.tanjarpatterns.cn/shop

  • How to Take Accurate Body Measurements for Sewing |

    How to Take Accurate Body Measurements for Sewing |

    How to Take Accurate Body Measurements for Sewing
    Getting accurate body measurements is the most important first step before cutting any sewing pattern. Many home sewers end up with ill-fitting handmade clothes simply because they took wrong measurements. This guide will walk you through all key measurements you need for PDF sewing patterns, especially for plus size bodies.

    What You Will Need

    • Soft measuring tape
    • Pen and notebook
    • A well-fitted thin top and pants
    • A mirror

    Step 1: Bust Measurement

    Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust. Keep the tape level, not tight or loose. Do not pull the tape too hard. Write down this number.

    Step 2: Under Bust Measurement

    Measure directly under your bust. This measurement helps you adjust the bust fit for patterns.

    Step 3: Waist Measurement

    Find the narrowest part of your waist. Wrap the tape gently around this point. Many people confuse waist with hip, so double check in the mirror.

    Step 4: Hip Measurement

    Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, usually about 20-25cm below your waist. Keep tape horizontal.

    Step 5: Back Length

    Measure from the base of your neck down to your natural waist. This is critical for top and dress pattern fitting.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    1. Pulling the measuring tape too tight. You should fit one finger under the tape comfortably.

    2. Measuring over thick clothing. Wear light fitted clothes only.

    3. Leaning or twisting your body while measuring. Stand naturally.

    4. Using a rigid ruler instead of soft tailor tape.

    Match Measurements to Your Sewing Pattern Size Chart

    Once you finish all measurements, compare your numbers with the size chart on your PDF sewing pattern. Do not just pick your ready-to-wear clothing size. Sizing varies widely between different pattern brands.

    If your measurements fall into different sizes, you will need pattern adjustments. Check our previous tutorial about how to adjust PDF sewing patterns for plus size bodies.https://www.tanjarpatterns.cn

    Ready to start your sewing project? Browse our collection of well-drafted plus size PDF sewing patterns. Each pattern includes detailed size chart and fitting notes for home sewers.https://www.tanjarpatterns.cn/shop