i took some measurements, cuz i'd like to sew something and i normally wear a size 18 in womens....when i was looking at patterns going by measurements it says i'm a size 24....also when i looked up a size chart for a clothing store it also said my measurements make me a 24....
how come i wear a 18 (in numerous brands/styles...i'm not just going by one maker) but all the "charts" say i'm a 24??? and which size do i go by when i choose the pattern???
i'm confused!!
2007-01-30 04:04:44 · 5 answers · asked by SNAP! 4 in Games & Recreation ➔ Hobbies & Crafts
i JUST bought my sewing machine and am an extremely new sewer....i really want to know the correct size for the pattern cuz i know that if i go thru the trouble of making a garment and it's the wrong size i'll be totally discouraged...
thanks for the help!
2007-01-30 04:06:04 · update #1
Definitely go by the pattern measurements. If you cut out the pattern using the size 18 measurements, you're outfit will come out very small. I don't know why pattern manufacturer's do this but trust me on this one. I've been sewing since I'm 9 years old (I am now 55)! Also, a trick I've learned over the years is to not cut out the pattern on the lines for the size, try to fold the tissue under the lines; that way if your size changes you still have the pattern to use over and over. My favorite hobby is sewing, If I can help any just e-mail me. Have fun with your new adventure!!
2007-01-30 05:20:19 · answer #1 · answered by honey 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
The short answer is that pattern sizes are still in something like 50's measurments and clothing sizes have trended toward "vanity" measurments to make us feel good.
My best suggestion is to get some cheap muslin or fabric off the clearance table or an old sheet and cut the pattern in the size you want to make. Then do a quick job of sewing it together and try it on. You don't need to do any of the finishing or facing pieces, just the basic pieces that will show the fit. That way you'll see if you need to make it larger or smaller. I haven't had much luck with pattern sizing lately, even after measurements so I do this with all my patterns now.
Also, since most patterns come in multiple sizes on one set of papers, you can either try to be really careful and not cut the other sizes off the piece or you can get tissue paper and trace the pattern size you need out on that. It can save a trip to the store if you find your measurments didn't match up.
2007-01-31 05:12:09 · answer #2 · answered by Critter 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pattern sizes are different than what you would wear if you were buying clothing at the store. You need to take your body measurements and compare them to the pattern you are making. You can always make adjustments after you look at the pattern itself. Best of luck to you!
2007-01-30 07:43:54 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have someone else take your measurements instead of doing it yourself -- it will be a lot more accurate. Then use the pattern size indicated by the measurements.
2007-01-30 05:22:30 · answer #4 · answered by MyThought 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's a pretty big difference. The only thing I can suggest is to double check your measurements, maybe get someone to help make sure everything is lined up right. Here's a link on how to take measurements.
http://plussize.about.com/od/dressingforyourlifestyle/ht/measurements.htm
Good Luck!
2007-01-30 04:55:19 · answer #5 · answered by DishclothDiaries 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋