How to Fit a Top Using the Palmer & Pletsch System

[@diannasills217]

I don't know why you say you're not a teacher. You are a great one. I have learned so many things from you and this video was my favorite. I hope you keep making more like this. Love it.

[@juliannehill1209]

Joy this wonderful and the descriptions so easy to finally be able to understand. I can learn most anything sewing related by warching someone else do it and explain why. I am 76 yo and have been sewing and knitting since a young teen. In adulthood I never got the fit right for the reasons you mentioned as I was sewing for a much larger bust than I had and I also quite small in the upper bust are and a round neckline was way too wide and I am not comfortable exposing my cleavage or lack thereof. Thank you so much for the revelation. We have just moved but now I am very motivated to get my sewing room together and start again with this new knowledgr. Thanks again bubbly lady.

[@Joy4650B]

Thank you very much for your comment. It is wonderful to know that I helped someone to understand something better.

[@christinemartin9449]

Hi from England. Wow, just as the previous lady has said, this is probably the best fitting video I have seen and I am going to put it into practice. I have been sewing for years, I must have made some terrible fitting clothes! I am self taught and without You Tube, just went ahead and made clothes in the size that I buy in ready to wear. I have learnt so much from you. Thank you for doing these videos.

[@Joy4650B]

Thank you, Christine. It makes me so happy to know someone can learn something from me.

[@paulineregan8181]

I love your videos. You keep your instructions really clear. You always make me smile as you are so jolly

[@lynnries7729]

The blouse may not have been your style but it looked fantastic on you...great fit! Palmer and Pletsch should hire you.

[@karenmaddox1212]

JOY! When you made the hinges at the bust dart and added the inch I had a great big lightbulb. I've learned so much from this video. You are a waaaaay better teacher than you think you are!

[@lindarfleete4443]

Fantastic video. Learned some new tricks and will put them to use very soon. Have been chopping up patterns for more years that I want to count and now I know why some worked and why some didn't. Thank you so much for taking the time to create your videos. When I tune in it is like having a wonderful friend come to visit and we speak the same language. How great is this? Have a wonderful day and will see you soon.

[@harrietberg3514]

Hi, Joy! Just watched this video again and i is so helpful! Got the name of the pencils and lots of good instruction. Today is August 13. It would have been my brother's birthday, but he passed away on July 22, 2019. Miss him lots. He was sooo smart. Anyway, as I said, love this video. Hope you are having both good health and good weather. We are drowning in rain every afternoon, but we need it because it has been so hot! Yesterday, here in Plantation, Fl., the "feels like" temp was 106. Way too hot. Bye for now.

[@candiedginger8729]

Thank you ma'am. The way you shared this fitting process is what I needed in order to learn. I've watched amd listened to so many videos that share the steps only, I need to understand the why of things, I need to understand the context and you shared that. Thank you.

[@lauriegreen-schillawski4481]

Oh! I forgot to mention that I also really appreciate that you told us that it took you 6 hours to complete all of the pattern alterations! That helps us keep it in perspective when we go to do our own. And, you are an excellent teacher, because you don't skip any steps! Thanks again!

[@kathleenturowski1631]

Joy I can not believe I missed this video. I have some patterns with the Palmer method just holding on to them. You are so generous with you knowledge and time. Many thanks

[@sewingnibblerbits5641]

Thanks so Much Joy, this tutorial has truly helped me understand FBA and the complexity behind fit for our own personal shape.

[@rosaelinav8036]

Thank you for explaining this of measurement! I find it’s easy how you explained now. Thank you so much for your help..💖💖💖

[@joannlord2953]

Excellent video Joy! You are beautiful in every way and the best teacher ever. I have learned so much from you. Thank you! And keep them coming!!

[@pamketron]

You are a true genius! I don’t sew clothing very much at all (maybe pj pants) but I think with all your help that I could do it. You are the best teacher out there period. You may not think you are a teacher but you are an excellent teacher!!! You know how to do this stuff inside out and upside down because you have done it. You make it make sense and easy to follow along. I like learning even if I don’t sew clothing. Awesome information! Hugs 🤗🧵🌷🧵🤗

[@Joy4650B]

Thank you Pam. You are the reason I do it.

[@pamketron]

Joy Bernhardt 🤗😍😘

[@viddy8379]

I agree with Pam!! Thankyou Joy.

[@spiritualmatters7835]

Many thanks. On behalf of the too-many tops that were just a tad small and put in the ufo stack, praise God for this video. I will rewatch, and take notes for future use. Again, many thanks. Btw, you have the penmanship of a teacher ;+)...Great job for the time invested. Peace.

[@denisehenkel6371]

I wish I could give you a gigantic thumbs up and or a confetti 🎉 cannon! Thank you thank you thank you I have never seen such a thorough explanation. You are a treasure I wish I lived closer as I feel we could be friends. Love your videos😎

[@laneshiahawkins4795]

Thanks Joy! I’ve watched the Palmer Pletsch Craftsy videos, but I prefer your video. Very informative and lively!!

[@brendacaley9333]

oh Joy! thank you for this video. I'm a novice sewist and having trouble with fit. I span 3 sizes and fall in btwn all of those 3 sizes. urgh. :( Not much point in sewing if things don't fit nicely. Now I've decided to focus on learning fit. This video helped tremendously and gave me an idea of the P&P method. Seems (seams? lol) like there are a few fitting methods to choose from and depends on the pattern/garment which one is going to work best. Thanks again for your great explanations. Will be watching part 2 soon. p.s. found you via vivmom!

[@theskirtlady7890]

Thank you so much, I've being sewing for a very long time and I've done so many Pattern adjustment I think this is by far the best video thank you so much for taking the time to share with your sewing sisters!!!

[@lisegarner4567]

Joy, you're a gem for all the ladies with the "no shoulders & Dolly bustline". Can't thank you enough!

[@rosemcruz4386]

Very nice explanation" 👌 Thank's I appreciate it.

[@countrygirl5393]

Oh my goodness! I’m learning so much from watching your videos. Thank you for all you do and for making things understandable!

[@valeriepoole1535]

Thank you for a very enjoyable video. i have had the palmer pletch books for years, but never got around to using them, I will now however have a go. I love your lighthearted approach, and will look out for more of your videos. Wish me luck, best wishes. Val.

[@louisedavidson848]

What an amazing teacher you are!!!!!! I have read that chapter in their book at least a dozen times and it didn't click till I watched you once!!! Thank you Joy!!!!!!!

[@lanaashley835]

Joy , great video! I never would have thought to cut the arm hole out! Much easier than lowering the shoulder line & redrawing the the whole armhole! Thank you! I will be watching some of the P&P videos.

[@renasiscoe7443]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for this video!!!! I could never figure out why my shoulders were always so big. The shoulder to shoulder measurement really opened my eyes to why my shoulders never fit. I did the Palmer/Plesch tissue fitting and I determined that I need to buy smaller patterns and do a full bust adjustment for them to fit. Also comment all you want about GOD and Jesus and your church!!!!

[@balduvinaarmas8571]

For me, this is the best video in sewing. Thanks so much.

[@kristycranston2676]

Thank you for the wonderful tips and tricks to fitting store bought paper patterns. I now have a better idea why my patterns haven’t been fitting me like I thought they should’ve been. Also, thanks for the tip to the Palmer & Pletsch videos. I’m looking forward to watching them also.

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

I think I get it now. It doesn't hurt that I'm shaped pretty much the same as you on top! This was really helpful. Thanks.

[@valclements7092]

Hi Joy, I don’t know why but I watch the fitting adjustments from Palmer and Pleatsche ( or the other how to videos) and you explain it better my brain gets it. Thank you have a great day. Val 🇨🇦🇬🇧❤️

[@lauralarios423]

You are the best teacher in my book. You talk from experience and that it’s the best.

[@plmlovessewing]

Your best sewing video so far. Thank you for sharing.

[@PowerToolsWithThread]

This is probably the BEST fitting video I've ever seen!! (And I've seen my share). Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!! You are a Master teacher Joy!! I'm going to Favorite this and refer to it again and again. (Hugs!!)

[@cathykieser53]

Tell me how you favorite this?

[@PowerToolsWithThread]

@@cathykieser53 Underneath the video you can give the video a thumbs up. Then that video will show up in your liked videos that you can find any time you want.

[@cathykieser53]

Thank you

[@GayleHallAZ]

@@cathykieser53 Or, you can click on the little plus sign with lines next to "Share" (both are to the right of the thumbs up and down buttons). Then click on Save to Playlist. A popup window displays with a list of folders in which you can save this video. I believe "Favorites" is a default folder there. If not, you can create a new playlist and name it anything you like. Hope that helps :-)

[@joyebert7185]

Joy, thank you so much for this pattern fitting lesson. I am 56 years old and I have unsuccessfully sewn many many tops through the years. I have bought the size to fit the bust, just like you said, it was never a proper fit. I plan to use your lesson on a simple top. I'm so excited to try. And thank you for not having a helper, you show us that it is possible to pattern fit ourselves. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[@joselinahuber523]

Hi Joy Thanks for sharing. I am blessed to know people like you, the online sewing community, my classroom. And, yes I am teachable. Thanks again.

[@dustycarter2729]

It’s midnight here in UK, watching your Palmer Plesch Vid I couldn’t stop laughing, had to get up, hubby not very happy! Excellent video and so amusing. xx

[@dianesimmons5048]

So glad to see this video . THANKS!!

[@sewandembmom12]

Love this. Watching this in January, 2023 after realizing that I need to do a full bust adjustment, without dart, on a t-shirt pattern. I would love to see the finished product that you made with this pattern.

[@Sheryl0705]

Joy, I know you made this video 3 years ago. But, it’s just outstanding! Thanks for walking through this process with us. Fitting this way is nearly magical in the difference it makes!! Thank you for helping all of us!❤️

[@40kayjay]

Thank you so much for introducing me to Melissa Watson .

[@carolmendoza9897]

Joy, you say you aren’t a teacher....but you are and a pretty darn good one too! This was excellent. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@sharonjackson4888]

This is a great tutorial and I thank you for sharing and showing step by step how to do this.

[@sharidaugherty9772]

Omg, this is the best how to fit a pattern guide ever. The way you explained it, it actually made sense. Thank you so much Joy. Love watching you.

[@elizabethjohnson631]

Thank you for showing me new tricks in sewing

[@artheapeters3146]

I really enjoyed this. I learned a lot and can’t wait to try fitting a pattern. Thank you Joy. So glad you retired. You will enjoy not having to go to work. We are the same age and I retired in 10/2018. I have gotten out my sewing machines, dusted them off and have been making doll clothes for my granddaughters. Thank you for showing us how to make these adjustments.

[@kalpnapanchal7118]

Thank you for this video and detailed info. Now I understand the adjustments to do on a pattern . You are so funny too. Loved watching this.

[@CookwithCatalina]

This video it reminded me of my college "descriptive geometry " class ( that was back in another country- they don't do that in schools here or it's called differently) when you were supposed to figure out the shape of an intersection between two weird objects , hahaha! You showed this bust adjustment a while ago but I can't have enough of these kind of videos and I dont watch any Melissa 'cause I like to watch you :)) Thank you for yet another great tutorial! If I am not going to be in a lazy mood tomorrow, I will chop a pattern and make it fit ME. I did always considered my size starting with my full bust dimension and, as you said, I got the impression that I must be a Giant.

[@phyllishughes4856]

Awesome tutorial, Joy Joy. As you said, we have modified the way we do Palmer Pletsch to the way it works best for us. The only thing that I noticed you and I do different from each other is lowering the apex of the pattern. Because I do a 3” FBA I find that my apex/bust point drops quite a bit, so I do the FBA first and then check the position of the apex. P&P works really well for adjusting the patterns to our bodies. The only thing I would add is the more you do this, the easier it becomes. Don’t be afraid you will mess up your pattern. The worst thing that will happen is you will have to cut the changes off and tape the pattern back to the original shape. I’ve done it before and, while it is frustrating, it can be done. If you hate the thought of cutting the pattern, get some tissue paper and trace off the size(s) you need instead of cutting into the original paper. Then you can use that original pattern again even if you change sizes, as I frequently do. Also, Melissa Watson is a great teacher and is definitely following in her mother’s footsteps. Don’t hesitate to watch her videos.

[@Joy4650B]

Hi Phylly! I am just now seeing this comment you left one year ago.

[@cathykieser53]

Joy, can I just say you are excellent. This has helped a lot. I love your added humor, you make me smile. Thank you so much for spending so much time on this to teach us. The SFD method does have a few videos that shows how to convert a commercial pattern. Again thank you!!! Now we all want to see the finished garment!!!! Happy sewing!!! God bless you for your efforts 🙏❣️

[@rhealeneorwig9083]

Hey Joy! You have said you are not a teacher but I must disagree...you really are a very good teacher!!! Thank you for taking the time to do this video...so very helpful to me, as I am learning how to fit commercial patterns to my body. You make a lot of sense!!! I really appreciate this!!! Please do more...I am going to check out the links tho...but I really like your style!!!

[@klueless1011]

Thank you! I finally understand the full bust adjustment. You explained it very well.

[@angelitafrancisco5092]

Wow!! You are a great teacher, Joy, and a very generous person, too. Hats off to you! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

[@leonstanford6810]

We agree, the best fitting information, thank you Joy, now we know how to deal with the FBA on the SFD pattern, just for a little extra ease. Thanks that you've shared your passion with us. I like to help my wife with the cutting of the paper and small stuff.

[@sharonmika4786]

Joy this video blew my mind! I have done everything you showed in the video but I NEVER would have been able to explain it like you did. Great job!!!! You go girl! 💫

[@JS-tv8sf]

You're an excellent teacher.

[@brendastevens8325]

Wow that’s a lot for this simple beginner ......hopefully won’t have to do all of this anytime soon but will save this video for future use!

[@patsyadams1833]

Excellent video, thank you for such a comprehensive explanation

[@karenlowes7802]

You did a great job explaining this for us. Thank you for all your work Joy!

[@c.ranger4748]

Thank you, I need to learn these steps as I have been frustrated with some patterns. I love your "non-Madonna" comment.

[@Bc-wq7rv]

Great, I mean great video Joy. Your a natural born teacher. Thanks so much for sharing 🤓

[@Fingerchisel]

Thank you Joy for this video. I have seen things about chopping up patterns to make them fit, but i have never fully understood them. This was fantastic, I feel I can go at last and adjust a pattern. All I need now is loads of tape. Thank you once again.

[@NadoCrowFriend]

Sweetish Tracing “paper” is excellent for this method of fitting- I copy the pattern onto the Swedish paper & you can actually SEW it up. This “paper”. ( which is rather like cloth) can be sewn, & you can then try the garment sample on.

[@JulieAnnGilman]

Thanks for this aunt Joy. I saved it to my sewing playlist to be referred to when modifying my patterns.

[@lavajen1952]

I can't wait to see the finished blouse! Thanks so much for doing this video, you have inspired me to learn how to adjust my patterns. You're a joy to watch, Joy! :)

[@sgerritz]

What a great video! You are an excellent teacher. I have had the Palmer Pletch fitting books and video's for years but have only thumbed through them. I can't wait to get started. Thanks Joy!

[@lavernecady8832]

Excellent video. So glad I watched it to the end.

[@jdcogar180]

Thanks for the lesson on this method of fitting. It looks simple enough to do. I am so glad that you like talking to the “eye of the camera” because you do so much sewing in such a short span of time it makes me know I can get back to sewing for myself again. And you make it so much fun. Thanks again.

[@4016kiwi]

Thank you so much. Made lots of sense and enjoyed your demonstration! Who says you can’t teach!!!

[@vickidame6487]

Joy, I bought the Fit Book because of you and I did the FBA on a pattern last summer and the dress fit me awesomely! Thank you for recommending that book! Tonight you did a fantastic job explaining what to do to fit a pattern. I really enjoy your videos! Even your Sunday sermons! Take care and keep on keeping on! You are truly a JOY!

[@maryjackson5906]

Love that you have your tape dispensers marked! I have my removable tape in a dispenser, but still using the small plastic tape holder and it is a nuisance! Off to the dollar store to buy another tape dispenser!

[@louisemaher2688]

Oh my goodness. You are so good. You make it look so easy. Why am I such a nut case when it comes to this?

[@craftscor]

I really enjoyed this video and your approach to her teaching method. It has helped me get a better understanding on how to adjust my patterns. I have been sewing just about all my life and it is shocking that I never took the time to learn this. I never needed all this adjusting when I was younger, but find it necessary now. LOL I'm eagerly waiting to see the finished item. Thanks Joy!

[@lauriegreen-schillawski4481]

Thank you so very much Joy! The way that you explained things cleared up a couple of big issues I was having, but didn't know what was causing them or how to fix them! Everyone explains or does FBA's. However, in all of my research, no one pointed out that I just need to mark my apex on the pattern while I'm wearing it! That tiny little bit of info is a huge game changer for me. The other was in the shoulder slope. They mention it, but not how to correct it. So, thank you so much for this very concise explanation! I think I may be investing in the Sure-Fit Design Patterns. I look forward to seeing your finished top. If I ever get that far, I'll send you a link to my finished top. Have a wonderful day!

[@Joy4650B]

Awesome Laurie! I would love to see your finished garment. Please let me know if I can help answer any other questions.

[@lauriegreen-schillawski4481]

@@Joy4650B Thank you Joy! I'm sure I'll have tons of questions once I get started.

[@ginahamel4053]

Joy, you explained this so well, I think I finally understand! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this video. I enjoyed it very much. I wish you lived nearby, I would love to have a sew day.😊💓

[@chrismurphy5013]

Just watched those last night, wonderful wonderful. I must say Joy, you make this system fun, you are so so fun to watch. Thank you so much! Dee Murphy

[@karenlowes7802]

Thanks so much Joy for sharing this important info about Melissa Watson!

[@donnarichey144]

You are so smart Joy, I don't know if I could do all that. Thank you for sharing. Love to watch you.

[@virginiah1690]

Joy, awesome video on fitting and doing a full bust adjustment. You are really enjoyable to watch. Thank you!

[@kscheuerman5378]

WOW! This was so awesome to see because it is so informative and fun. Great job, Joy. God Bless.

[@maryflynn1951]

So awesome Joy!! I've been sewing for years and always ditch what I've made...but following you I have learned sew much!!...I'm going to give this method a try, I don't have a lot of time available but I'm going to give it a go...by the way you are an amazing teacher and you're fun!! Thank you for you time!! God Bless 💞

[@daraharper2003]

Hi Joy I always rewatch your videos. Can you show how to measure your shoulder width on a sewing pattern. I would like see it on camera to make sure I am doing it correctly. Thank you SO much for ALL you do!

[@Joy4650B]

I will do that. You measure from the CENTER OF THE PATTERN to the SHOULDER ON THE PATTERN (minus the seam allowance). That would be one-half the shoulder distance. I need 7 1/2" for my 15" shoulder width.

[@daraharper2003]

@@Joy4650B Thank you Joy!

[@rebeccaphipps7943]

Thanks so much! I never knew why my blouses looked so bad. Now maybe I will be able to make one that fits!

[@rosalindabarrett7508]

Gee thanks for your knowledge. I am going to watch some more. McCall 7352 Palmer pletsch dress. Is my challenge.

[@judym414]

THANK YOU! I have the SFD blueprints, but you're right...sometimes it's nice to use a commercial pattern for its styling instead of trying to create it. Thanks to you I'll now be able to get a better fit. You really are delightful. :)

[@sandyheller5438]

Wow! You are amazing. I love your tutorials. I learn so much from you. You are so talented. Thank you Joy.

[@havalove1596]

Thank you Joy! Another great video. I have so many patterns that just don’t fit. Going to give this a try. 👍

[@cherylwinstead8969]

My friend and I were discussing pattern fitting today and so your video is such perfect timing. We are both getting ready for a second honeymoon cruise in May and want to make some dresses, tops and even a Mumu or two. We have been buying Vintage patterns and as you know, you get what you get so we will have to adapt these patterns to fit each of our bodies. I am new to all this pattern fitting, but I love it!! You have made me feel like I can actually give this a try and maybe be successful! So I guess I can get removable tape from Amazon?? Also, what paper do you use to insert in your patterns? I know I’m full of questions, but would love to find out what to order to work on these vintage patterns. Thanks so much Joy! You are such a joy to watch.

[@ckim5134]

extremely good info. good close ups.

[@annescanapico2181]

This was great...thank you so much for taking the time to show us. I especially enjoyed the shoulder change. I haven’t done that before.

[@charmainekirk1512]

Thank you for your information. Great demo!

[@zainylainy1]

Your instructions are amazing! I Thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@carolharris4620]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!! I love your videos!

[@dianabryant702]

Thank you I’ve really enjoyed your videos

[@shirleyontiveros612]

Thank you so much for this tutorial! Very very helpful. PS... where is your coffee? 😀

[@jaclynmoylan1905]

Thank you so much for taking the time to film this. This video is very helpful!!!!

[@dianeroy1378]

Thank you thank you Joy for doing this demonstration. It makes so much sense to me now. I will definitely be trying this. Can’t wait to learn more!

[@anitacrane160]

I enjoyed and learned so much from this video. I have watched the Craftsy video and it did not excite me as much as this did.Really good job!

[@charlenehutchings6286]

Awesome video! All of this is so helpful. Thank you Joy and you are very good at explaining things. Next blouse I will be doing this. I have gotten back to sewing my clothes. I seem to have the same adjustments, shoulder, bust and sway back.

[@viddy8379]

Joy. Thankyou Genius! Could you do a video on how you did the shoulder adjustment and also the round back too as my husband round back is huge. But i need to know how to make the seams right in his pj patter.