Plus Size Women’s Sewing Patterns: Your Guide to Flattering, Custom-Fit Clothes

Unlocking the World of Plus Size Women’s Sewing Patterns

Finding clothes that fit perfectly and reflect your personal style can be a challenge. That’s where plus size women’s sewing patterns come in! Sewing your own clothes allows you to create garments that are tailored to your unique shape and size. Plus, you get to choose the fabrics and details you love.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about plus size sewing patterns, from finding the right patterns to mastering basic sewing techniques. We’ll cover popular brands, pattern types, and tips for achieving a fantastic fit.

Why Choose Plus Size Sewing Patterns?

There are many reasons to explore sewing your own plus size clothing:

Perfect Fit: Say goodbye to ill-fitting clothes! Sewing allows you to adjust patterns to your exact measurements.
Personalized Style: Choose your favorite fabrics, colors, and embellishments to create a wardrobe that truly reflects your style.
Cost-Effective: Sewing can be more economical than buying ready-to-wear plus size clothing, especially if you find great deals on fabric.
Sustainable Fashion: Reduce waste by creating clothes that last and avoiding fast fashion trends.
Creative Outlet: Sewing is a rewarding and relaxing hobby that allows you to express your creativity.

Finding the Right Plus Size Sewing Patterns

Several brands specialize in plus size sewing patterns, offering a wide range of styles and sizes.

Popular Pattern Brands

Simplicity, McCall’s, and Butterick: These well-known brands offer a wide variety of plus size patterns, from basic garments to more elaborate designs. They often have sales and promotions, making them an affordable option.
Cashmerette Patterns: Known for their well-drafted patterns specifically designed for curvy figures, Cashmerette offers sizes 0-32 and cup sizes C-H. They focus on fit and provide excellent instructions.
Closet Core Patterns: Offers stylish and modern plus size patterns with a focus on fit and quality.
Sew House Seven: Features curvy fit patterns in sizes 18-34, with options for both knit and woven fabrics.
Rebecca Page: Beginner-friendly patterns with curvy size options and clear instructions.

Types of Patterns

Paper Patterns: Traditional patterns printed on paper that you cut out and use to trace onto fabric.
PDF Patterns: Digital patterns that you download and print at home. PDF patterns are often more convenient and allow you to print only the sizes you need.

Where to Buy Patterns

Online Retailers: Many websites sell plus size sewing patterns, including the brands’ websites and online fabric stores.
Local Fabric Stores: Support your local fabric store by purchasing patterns and supplies there.
Independent Pattern Designers: Explore independent designers for unique and trendy plus size patterns.

Tips for Sewing Plus Size Garments

Sewing plus size clothing requires some specific considerations to ensure a great fit and comfortable garment.

Measuring Yourself Accurately

Accurate measurements are crucial for choosing the correct pattern size and making necessary adjustments. Use a flexible measuring tape and follow these tips:

Wear the type of undergarments you’ll wear with the finished garment.
Stand in front of a mirror to ensure the measuring tape is level.
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, waist, and hips.
Compare your measurements to the pattern’s size chart to determine the best size to start with.

Choosing the Right Fabric

The fabric you choose can significantly impact the look and feel of your garment. Consider the following:

Fabric Type: Select a fabric that is appropriate for the pattern and your skill level. Woven fabrics are generally easier to work with than knits for beginners.
Drape: Consider the drape of the fabric. A fabric with good drape will flow nicely and create a flattering silhouette.
Stretch: If you’re using a knit fabric, pay attention to the amount of stretch. Choose a pattern that is designed for the specific type of knit you’re using.

Making Muslins

A muslin, or test garment, is an essential step in sewing plus size clothing. It allows you to check the fit of the pattern and make any necessary adjustments before cutting into your final fabric.

Use inexpensive fabric, such as muslin or inexpensive cotton, to create your test garment.
Sew the muslin together and try it on.
Identify any areas that need adjusting, such as the bust, waist, or hips.
Transfer the adjustments to your pattern before cutting into your final fabric.

Common Fit Adjustments

Here are some common fit adjustments you may need to make when sewing plus size clothing:

Bust Adjustment: A Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) may be necessary if your bust measurement is significantly larger than the pattern’s size chart.
Waist Adjustment: Adjust the waistline to ensure a comfortable and flattering fit.
Hip Adjustment: Add or subtract width at the hips to accommodate your hip measurement.
Sleeve Adjustment: Adjust the sleeve length and width for a comfortable fit.

Beginner-Friendly Plus Size Sewing Patterns

If you’re new to sewing, start with simple patterns that are easy to sew and don’t require a lot of fitting adjustments.

Recommended Beginner Patterns

Simple Tops and Tunics: Look for patterns with basic shapes and minimal details.
Elastic Waist Skirts and Pants: Elastic waistbands are forgiving and easy to sew.
A-Line Dresses: A-line dresses are flattering and relatively simple to construct.

Resources for Plus Size Sewists

There are many online resources available to help you on your plus size sewing journey:

Sewing Blogs and Websites: Find tutorials, tips, and inspiration from experienced plus size sewists.
Online Sewing Communities: Connect with other sewists, ask questions, and share your projects.
Sewing Classes and Workshops: Take a class to learn new techniques and get personalized instruction.

With the right patterns, tools, and resources, you can create a wardrobe of beautiful, well-fitting clothes that you’ll love to wear. Happy sewing!