Sizing Up Commercial Patterns to Plus Sizes, Using Simplicity 8941

I don't know about you, but I've pretty much always had to size up commercial patterns -- basically anything from Simplicity, Butterick, McCalls, or Vogue -- because they tend to only go up to a pattern size 22.
This video covers my methods of how I make commercial patterns fit me (or anyone larger). Using the 1790's bodice pattern that American Duchess created for Simplicity, I will be covering sizing up the pattern, lengthening the pattern to fit both my 5'10" frame and my D-cup bust, and then mocking up and fitting the mockup to myself. Just wait till you see how different the final pattern looks!
I also plan to make a video about sizing up one-size gridded patterns to plus sizes. Let me know if that's something you'd be interested in, or if you have other pattern-related topics you would like me to cover.
Resources
Simplicity 8941 pattern: www.amazon.com...
American Duchess Vlog on changes to this pattern: blog.americand...
Links
My instagram: / ladyrebeccafashions
Become a Patron! / ladyrebeccafashions
Help support my channel on Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/ladyr...
My Favorite Sewing Tools: www.amazon.com...
What I use for filming: www.amazon.com...
Business inquiries: [e-mail]
Amazon links are affiliate links. It really helps me out if you use them!

[@megankrahl1182]

So my take-away from this is: 1. Know my measurements. Not just the standard ones, but ALL the measurements. 2. Accept that the pattern is just a beginning. You will need to adjust. 3. Once you make a mock up that fits, make your pattern from the pieces! This was incredibly helpful!

[@aought2]

When I used to sew "fancy" dresses, I always used the bodice lining material for my mock up (by cutting wide seam allowances) and then transferring the changes when cutting out the good fabric. Saves time on making a separate mock up, as long as your fitting issues are fairly straight forward.

[@midnightqueen3332]

This is one of my largest interests into history-bounding and clothing making in general. The fast fashion "one size fits most" is garbage mentally. As a nearly 6ft tall woman, long torso, long arms, broad shoulders, long legs, and full bust- I look like Frankenstein's monster in most store bought button up/down shirts, even sometimes that way in men's. Fashion lies too much lol!!!

[@sharonquinn9424]

Wow! This was so useful

[@elisabethphd]

As far as I’m concerned, showing the fitting process you go through after sizing up the pattern resulted in huge value added to already incredibly useful information. I loooved that you showed the comparison between the original pattern pieces and the pieces you ended up with that actually fit your body. I’ve been trying to fit patterns to myself and whenever I get something where the shape of the pattern piece changes a lot, I think, “that can’t be right,” and try to “fix” it which never works out. I’ve been so frustrated but now I’m thinking I should just try moving forward with the pieces that fit whether or not they look quite different from the original pattern in certain areas.

[@sgwilsonmd]

It may not have been the video you intended but it was the one I needed to see. Thanks.

[@annettebroomhall8617]

Adding a full bust adjustment would be beneficial too.

[@brigidscaldron]

I need to learn how to do this!

[@annettebroomhall8617]

@@brigidscaldron easiest tutorial to follow is the closet historian. Look her up.

[@czeidman8908]

What I actually appreciated more than anything is - when stuff doesn't fit- it may or may not be a result of me making mistakes. It may just not 'fit me' as a pattern. So thank you.

[@rebeccaburch4837]

I wish I could like this more than once!!!!!!

[@hazelthestitchwitch]

I've always been so intimidated by grading up patterns, but you've made it so much less scary! Thanks for the tutorial.

[@bethkrager6529]

You just pointed out a HUGE economic issue. That sewing patterns are a monopoly. Expect prices to skyrocket. This very issue is why eyeglasses are in triple digits. Every eyeglass vendor, from eyestyles, to your walmart glasses department are owned by one company. Their prices are artificially inflated.

[@breeinatree4811]

I thought that monopolies were illegal here in the states. That's what I learned in school. My how times have changed.

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

I didn't know that about glasses! And yeah, when Simplicity was bought out recently, it did make me worry! And then last year, there was the issue that all tissue paper patterns are also all printed in the same place, regardless of company (even outside of the Big 4), and that their machines weren't working? We're definitely going to have issues from that.

[@aislin2989]

@@breeinatree4811 they got around that by different 'company' names and being all 'oh we own them but they make their own decisions, have their own management, and are independent from us!' - monopolies came back, more insidious than ever because they can hide their "parent" company in the fine print so you never really know who owns what until you dig.

[@AlaysiaMarea]

Yes!! Patterns used to run 1-5$ and now they are $15+😭

[@starababa1985]

If you want to save on eyeglasses, just pay for an exam, then go online and order a pair of glasses from a supplier. There are several. Be sure the examiner includes the pupil distance from your nose on both sides. I paid less than thirty dollars recently for a pair of glasses that would have cost me over two hundred because of a strong prescription. Some sites let you do a virtual try on with a photo.

[@ConstanceCravingnz]

Rebecca demonstrating the superior usefulness of a see-through grid rulers!

[@tarahebert1657]

They are so useful. I have a lot of that sort of thing, along with a self healing mat with its own grid pattern for quilting, and it makes measuring everything i do from sewing the cutting paper for watercolor painting so much easier to measure.

[@cindywutzke7862]

You always look so wonderful. Im glad you wear colors and fitted clothing. Here in Canada so many plus size clothing is black. Dont know what makes buyers think black is the only color.

[@breeinatree4811]

I never knew that patterns were made for a B cup. That makes so much sense. Now I know how to adjust patterns to fit me better. Thank you for that nugget of information.

[@peggyr9623]

I thought this was a great video. It was real life. You start in one direction, make a turn and then end up going in a different direction to get to your destination. It seems that upsizing a pattern is a lesson in life patience! Thank you!

[@dee-annegordon5959]

Such a helpful resource video to be able to refer back to.

[@blazertundra]

This is why, if you can afford it, indie pattern makers could use some extra love. A few of the companies, like Cashmerette, deliberately build their blocks off larger sized models so their patterns can fit plus sized women right out of the packet.

[@expatpiskie]

I love Cashmerette, not only do they have the larger sizes but they've also done the full bust adjustments for me too.

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Thanks for the recommendation - I'll go check Cashmerette out!

[@maggegene]

Thank you. I don't feel you devolved at all, but just showed the whole process needed. Patterns are never standard for anyone.

[@AlaysiaMarea]

Patterns are standard for dress sizes that were set in the 1950’s and then again in the 1970’s

[@horsenroundstudio]

The important part of sizing up IS also changing the shape to fit you individually. Also the importance of going through the pain of mockups for a fitted garment! This was excellent.

[@stevezytveld6585]

Sizing up is one of those 'it is what it is' things in life. You are literally taking something and fitting it to your unique body. It's like a fingerprint, almost. There's the tricks of dart adjustments but everything after that is custom. Which, for me, is kind of the point. Right now I'm in the middle of sizing up a (oooh so deceptively) simple Japanese dress. It's a process. Right now I'm working through my grumpy part of that process. But I know it's getting closer. Your mock-up looks great. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown

[@tarahebert1657]

Oh wow i wish i had seen this before i made an awesome 1940s apron last month because i had just been hoping that making the biggest size would be good, but then when you explained the 22 is like a 14/16 and im closer to a 16/18 in the bust and it all became clear to my beain and i will very much be coming back to this video in the future to remind me of these techniques!

[@clarestebbing2901]

Great video. Good useful information.

[@miriamlewis2345]

I think this is great. One. of the things it demonstrates is that the standard shapes that we are used to seeing and expect to see, only apply to a very small set of "standard" body types and that when we alter patterns to fit our unique selves, that those shapes will be more unique shapes. And that's a good thing.

[@romeoslover817]

Even their standard sizes are not the average of the American woman. I do not know about other countries’ averages.

[@yezzyjames]

This will be so useful for all the costumers that just can't get store bought patterns to fit. :}

[@PsychoKat90]

This was a great demo, thank you! Fitting adjustment is part of sizing up so I'm glad you showed all that, too. I think it would have been a disservice to leave it off after the drafting step, and imply that the job is done. Thanks again!

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Thank you! That's kind of what I realized as I was making it - I knew this pattern needed way more work!

[@BCSchmerker]

+LadyRebeccaFashions *Extrapolating from the Simplicity chart, Size 28 would dimension thusly:* Bust: 50"; Waist: 44"; Hip (9" below waist): 52"; Back-neck to waist: 18½". A gown and robe consistent with Pattern S8941 would therefore require 6 yd (with 1¼ yd lining) for Gown A, 5½ yd (with 1⅔ yd lining) for Robe B; the bust for Gown A and Robe B, allowing for wearing ease, should be 52½".

[@chrystivelting6150]

I have many of the same issues in the bust area! I have a rather large bust and NOTHING ever fits me correctly in that area. Thank you for the tips! I’m currently working on AD’s other pattern with the shift, stays, and panniers, then onto the coordinating gown, this video is most helpful!

[@lesleyharris525]

Hi, thanks for spending the time to not only show how to size up a pattern but how to make sure it fits after all the alteration work is done.

[@Dianestitchcraftrelax]

You are teaching me patience and perseverance. I enjoyed and liked this video.

[@spatch1000]

You really nailed it for me with your comment. I always want quicker results and with this video see it takes more than I have been willing to spend to do it right!!

[@angelaross1]

You look so good, and I’m learning so much from you. I have been sewing for 50 years and still feel like a newby

[@WhimsyCourier]

So So Helpful! THANK YOU!! I am larger and shorter and I feel like you have a equipped me to try out some of the patterns I got from a neighbor. Thank you thank you thank you

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Thank you - I'm glad it was helpful!

[@rebeccatirrell8321]

When I count my 2020 blessings (tons of them surprisingly) I count you twice.

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Aww, that is so sweet! Thank you!

[@leisongivangomo5656]

Thank You Thank You Thank You! I agree with Rebecca Burch and wish I could give you more than just one thumbs up! This was exceptionally helpful 😃

[@craftynekoLM]

Thank you for sharing this. It really helps to see how different the pieces end up in the end.

[@curlyclaire2]

I'm so, so glad you made this video. I'm also a plus sized lady, and I turned to sewing my own clothes so I could wear stuff that fitted properly. Given the last few years, even the larger size band of patterns don't always go up to my measurements. This is about thev2rd time I've qstched this video and I've now added it to a special playlist for help sizing and fitting. Thank you so much.

[@eyesofthegoddess2967]

This teaching is a huge lesson, believe me, we need it. Plus you have shown that we are all unique and we need to tweak what needs to be done so we have these beautiful dresses that FIT. Thank you

[@vikkizoo1]

I am a clothing size 12. I use a commercial pattern 22. I have a the exact measurements but often the ease make the items a little large. Vintage patterns on the other hand are often too small with the same measurements. I have a bra cup FFF. Size 20.5 patterns from the 1960’s fit me really well. I always trace my patterns off, size it and make adjustment on the traced pattern. I have gotten expert as bust adjustment as well as sway back. I am also short waisted...another adjustment. I have a pattern making program with basic choices but those patterns nearly always fit me because I can input all my measurements and it makes the adjustments for me. I have had the program for years, purchased on sale and download free updates when they come out. It’s the women’s wardrobe version but I make outerwear for my adult sons with it as well. 🌈🌈🦋🦋

[@stephanimiller8786]

Oooo which pattern making program are you using? I have to make similar adjustments to every pattern.

[@lindabloom6666]

Very helpful!!

[@amikrenzel5788]

I do fit into the pattern sizes but......I am very tall, small bust wide shoulders and small waist. I always have to make tweaks for height as well as moving darts etc. Making mock ups is my go to if I want a great fit. I clicked on your video because I have a ton of vintage patterns that came in one size only and they are smaller than my size. You had a lot of great information. Thanks

[@michellecornum5856]

Proportions! Yep, if one makes it bigger evenly, the shoulders end up Gigantic just to accommodate a wider waist. Measure measure measure. Fit fit fit. It's a lot of work even if you fall within the measurements they give on the back of the envelope. Also: DO NOT ATTEMPT IF YOU ARE TIRED, SICK, or DISTRACTED! Thank you!

[@amylesley3967]

This video is brilliant. Thank you, as some one with a 50 inch over bust and 36 inch under bust I'm constantly struggling with pattern grading so this is super helpful. Thank you.

[@amylesley3967]

I've been re watching, coz I'm really struggling with my regency dress (trying to recreate the red Lizzie dress from 1995 p & p). On the verge of giving up. Will go back and redraw with all your tips and start again

[@JordannMHall]

Thank you for this video, Rebecca ❤️❤️❤️

[@meme-sw1pc]

Your make-up looks so nice as always, hope you are well and safe.

[@alaskacosplay]

This is really helpful for beginner costumers who want to start with a commercial pattern. We dont have any commercial patterns where I live so I tend to just drape or create a base pattern or copy a base pattern from my pattern hoard then alter it to fit me properly as well as people who are much bigger or smaller than I am.

[@shellylrobinson6999]

Seeing this video come up in my subscription notifications made me squee. This pattern is on my list too. Thanks for doing this video.

[@ConstanceCravingnz]

Top tip for weird curves etc, move the pattern so that the edge of it is now where the new line is, and trace it off, then move the pattern piece back. No need to reinvent the wheel!

[@madonnahall5237]

Thank you for doing this pattern because I bought it and havent altered it yet and was wondering how to go about it because it is out of my comfort zone

[@cemitchell6496]

Thanks so much for this vid. When I was sewing years ago, I was the perfect size 14. So easy to sew. Then I didn't get rid of my pregnancy weight and I stopped sewing. Still working on losing the weight but I am back sewing because of vids like yours. It's even helping with the depression. Keep up the great vids, whenever you can. Best wishes with the theater!

[@LinniuesLinens]

Thank you, thank you! I am not plus size, but my body is not a shape that patterns fit, to the extent that I've all but given up on using patterns. I need to put in the time to figure out my typical adjustments, and videos like this are wonderfully helpful.

[@renata_of_the_craft]

Thank you so much for this video. You have explained the sizing up and altering a pattern so very well, it was a joy to watch. I myself are a larger size than commercial patters cover, so I always need to alter them, but I have never before attempted dresses from this period, as I feared that they would make me look silly. Your videos have cured me of this fear, and I have ordered the exact same pattern, though I will also need now to find the right fabric to go with this project. Thank you again for your inspiring work! 💖

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Aww, thank you! I'm so glad it was helpful. Good luck on your project -- you can do it, and you will look awesome! :)

[@roxiepoe9586]

Here the movement begins. Every day, sewists. Every day. Send an e-mail to the pattern company. Better yet, send an actual letter. (Letters require more company energy to process. Therefore, they get more attention.) Tell the company/s that large size women want large size patterns! March!

[@caelamoffatt8818]

Yay! I've been waiting for this video! I'm so glad you're doing this. Thanks so much

[@sarahmwalsh]

Great video showing the whole process - and it sure made me wish I had influence with the pattern companies!

[@kirabowie]

Thank you! This was very helpful!! when I actually sit down to work on a sewing project that's been kicking around my head, I'll have to make sure to rewatch this! :D

[@Bexahlia5933]

thanks for this video, your content makes me really excited to get started with my regency wardrobe

[@vixster181]

Really useful video!! So interesting to see the methods you use. Though I think this is why we don't see many larger sizes in patterns. If there were more plus sized patterns they would have to be in different body styles as weight distribution can vary far greater than in straight sizes. TBF different body shapes for all patterns would be so useful but that's probably a large expense for the companies. I remember the dismay of my friend who was getting into sewing and bought a vintage 40s dress pattern and didn't check the measurements! Never simple with patters, should come with a disclaimer that they will rarely ever work as expected first time!

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Even those of us with measurements that individually fall within the average range, don't always fit into off the rack clothing. I have a short thick waist, narrow hips and a lot of muscle in my back so nothing ever really fits me well except men's clothing!!

[@Liz-ww3cm]

Lol so true. When I sew a new pattern for friends I always warn them that the first attempt will be housecleaning clothes that are ugly and fit weird. The second try will be ok to do yardwork in... And the 3rd one will be the "real" one. This video might really improve my system!

[@ericadavis9039]

This is so helpful! I am also tall and plus sized so I thank you for sharing how you adjust for both.

[@hannahgreen681]

This was helpful in other ways as well other than the multisized patterns. I have an older pattern that is too small for me and it is one that is only the one size. I did not see it when I bought it. But it was exactly what I was looking for to make. So your video did show some tricks to measure and lengthen or alter single lines. I will give this a try when I feel brave enough to attempt it.

[@ncalgal4699]

Very good instructions, and a natural progression in fitting the adjusted bodice. Thanks!

[@ingerteodora5413]

This was super helpful. I just bought a historical reproduction pattern that only comes in a few sizes, and I've been dreading the scaling up process. And I would say your project evolved, not devolved. Sizing up isn't straight forward, and I'm happy you showed us that, rather than just show the technically "correct" way of scaling patterns.

[@Liz-ww3cm]

Omg yes. The second part was essential--without that, the whole project was only half done! I've done the first part before, and never understood why it was a total failure even tho "accurate." I just had no idea what I was missing! This really filled in the gap so helpfully.

[@Mandy_Savage]

You made this video just in time for me. I just purchased a pattern that definitely won't fit me at its current size and I've never sized up a pattern before. You're my hero!

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Aww, thank you! Good luck on your project!

[@LauriesPlace999]

VERY HELPFULL! Thanks Rebecca

[@CM-xn6xc]

This is very helpful. Thank you.

[@calicolyon]

Such a great job! I just shared it with a friend who wants to make scrubs for the men he works with.

[@chandica]

Thank you so much for this video! I'm plus-sized (modern 20-22) and tall (5'10"). Finding clothes that fit right, to begin with, isn't easy and thanks to the pandemic, we've lost our local plus-sized store. I've been shopping ThredUp, which I love, but is very chancy and, living in Canada, pricey. I've thought about just making my own clothing and costuming, but I haven't made anything for myself since my first garment way back in 4-H 35 years ago. Since then it's been clothes and costumes for young ballet students and my daughter who are definitely not anywhere near going off the sizing charts. Your video provided great inspiration, increased confidence, and the very necessary visuals needed to understand the process. Now, to just find the time.

[@lorettoponton7218]

I love that you explain the process behind the sizing a pattern, like all the adjustments it needs as a mock up because that is a part of the process is not usually shown and for me, a complete noob in this territory, it's like gold of what to expect and how to try and solve my "mistakes", thank you for that.

[@IceWeirdo]

Hey, so I am a size 14-16 in dress sizes (14 for the top and 16 for the bottom). I usually take the size 20 in most patterns, but if I am making tight fitting pants or skirts, I need to size up to the 22. So I would say that the 22 is a size 16, maybe between a 16 and an 18. Great video! I have some patterns in the smaller sizes and I was thinking of sizing them up so they fit me!

[@AlaysiaMarea]

This is completely different than mine! I’m a size 6 but have to follow size 20/22 patterns for things to fit, I’m so confused😱

[@IceWeirdo]

@@AlaysiaMarea Wait what? Like american or Canadian size 6 ? Because those number sizes are different from country to country. When I was a teenager and I wore a size 10-12 (american/canadian), my pattern was always a size 16 and I actually was a perfect fit for that, I had the exact measurements.

[@AlaysiaMarea]

@@IceWeirdo American, but I also just started seeing, and I didn’t realize that the pattern I was using was a misses pattern so it’s a lot smaller

[@drhelenloney1426]

I recently tried to size up a shirt pattern for my husband. I did much like you did, and I actually found that you have to fiddle around a bit more, just like you did, to get it to fit properly. It was nice to see my way confirmed, I needed to size up the sleeves, but forgot to, and had to add a strip down either side. Fortunately, it was a t-shirt (a henley shirt), so it worked, but it was a reminder that shoulders and bicep girth are really important, as well as chest size.

[@k_golly_g]

Thank you so much! This opens the gate for so many people!

[@historiansrevolt4333]

So helpful! I'm just starting in sewing and was very confused why I was size 20 or 22 on patterns. But as a tall person with a bigger bust this will help a lot. But I am so glad my first top patterning endeavor will be with a pattern in my size! Thank you Truly Victorian for realizing that people come in lots of sizes!

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Definitely easier with patterns like Truly Victorian that are more size inclusive! But yeah, those pattern numbers really need to change. (It's the same reason people think Marilyn Monroe was plus size, but a pattern/1950s size 14 is not a modern 14!) Good luck on your project!

[@TriBunny]

Thank you so much!

[@MorganJ]

Love the "I don't speak metric." I feel that feeling so much. You found a good way to phrase that feeling.

[@daisyfox2452]

It was more than just how size up a pattern, but honestly that is great! Custom fitting a pattern is something I have been very interested in as well. Also since there are lots of different ways to be plus size it is very helpful

[@lfuentes4098]

This video shows a really easy and logical way of sizing up your pattern. And I think it’s a given our bodies are all unique and therefore not always an exact measurement. You showed us exactly what’s require anytime you make a pattern for the first time. And how you went about fixing fit issues and what you got in the end. Great tutorial. For pattern novices: It’s a good idea to purchase a French curve ruler or a fashion ruler that’s has an integrated French curve and hip curve. Also love the 2x18” clear C-Thru or Wescott ruler. If you really want to get into grading patterns there’s a grading ruler and grading notebook by Fairchild that gets into the nitty gritty. I think most of the time they assume your working on your basic block and not your fashion pattern.

[@melissamybubbles6139]

This is helpful even though I'm not plus size and not tall. My bust, waist and hip measurements may be a couple of sizes off from what patterns or clothing store size charts say. My waist measurement is 2-3 sizes larger than the bust. My waist and hip measurements are pretty similar, as I am pear-shaped. I'm short-waisted, seemingly longer through the back than the front, and have longer limbs than petite sizes allow for, which makes sizing inexact. So, sizing patterns is going to involve the same multiple consideration process in reverse. Thank you.

[@bridgetthewench]

The full process was extremely helpful!

[@gigglepantsiii9350]

Thanks for going through the whole process with the mock up and everything! Even when sized up most patterns don't fit most people's shape in every way so it's nice to see visually how to adjust things for better fit in the long run

[@WhimsyCourier]

I am so excited for this video! Ok, time to watch

[@Princess_karen]

A 22 is a 10 - 12 - 14, I wear a clothes size 10 / 12 and I have to buy the size 22 patterns. Very frustrating because I have such a hard time buying patterns and making clothes. I have lost weight and was at the point that none of the patterns fit me and now I still have to make so many adjustments. I am not good at adjusting patterns.

[@MissGroves]

Inwas going to buy that pattern today! Good to know the bust won't fit, being a d. I trace two sizes onto plastic and then shift the top p!astic to trace the new lines of the bigger size. You can also use the grading points and draw a straight line through all the different size lines and follow those up to your new size

[@teresaellis7062]

Yay! I am glad that it isn't just me! I thought I bought patterns in my size, went to go make a button up shirt and thought I made a mistake somewhere. I didn't realize that clothing sizes and pattern sizes diverged at some point. Ugh. Well, I wanted to improve my sewing skills from crafts and making children's clothing to making my own clothing. Now I get to learn something new. I am glad I found your video!

[@TMIvey-gk4mw]

Thank you for posting this!

[@shannonpierce5901]

Can I even so on a button? No. Will I watch this whole tutorial? Heck ya.

[@HoneyBear36]

I appreciate the mock up walk through honestly. Watching the fitting processes helps me a lot. I’ve yet to get the courage to make something that requires fitting yet but once I’ve finished school in a couple months I’m going to start the deep dive of making things that have more fitting 👏 thank you as always for the lovely content

[@charity.cunningham8313]

This is an Excellent Video, and it is extremely helpful to see all of the changes, and the comparisons at the end. I feel so much better seeing this as I am relatively new to sewing, and an absolute novice at alterations! Your detail is greatly appreciated, Thank you so much!☺️💖

[@jenniferstair9166]

It was really helpful to me to see the ways the shapes changed and especially that changing the measurements only gets you halfway there. I'm average height but have similar adjustments needed to bust (large and often needs that vertical increase) and back (about on par with the original pattern), so this was very informative. Thanks!

[@kfulweiler]

This was so helpful! I've attempted to scale up patterns before and it has not gone well lol. I can't wait to try again!

[@cemitchell6496]

So glad you did this vid. I am plus size and shorter but it helped me realize there is a method to my madness! Keep on teaching!

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

Thanks for this video. I will be saving this so I can go back to it for reference. It’s been a while since I’ve altered patterns so I’m out of practice. Also I’m Canadian so I can talk both. Though I am old so I learnt imperial first. So it’s just as easy to carry on in imperial.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Also Canadian, when the fractions get too stupid I switch to mm!

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

@@bunhelsingslegacy3549 yes I’ve done that too! I’m also on the look out for a nice quilting ruler in metric. I should remember to put it on my birthday list as the kids love online shopping!

[@melissat7307]

This was useful! I'm a new sewer and get sizing up proportionately in a theoretical sense. But when I've done it, and then adjusted the results, I've had a few panicked moments about how different in shape they are from the original. A bit irrational (if that's what it takes to fit correctly, who cares?), but this was comforting to see, nonetheless. Thanks!

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

I've definitely had those moments too! But yeah, if it fits, then who cares what your final pattern shape is! (and comparing the two can be really amusing)

[@GiraffeLoverJen]

Just what I need! Thanks!

[@csifan52]

Thank you for showing a realistic take on sizing up! 🙂🙂🙂

[@New_Wave_Nancy]

It was very useful to be taken through your process of both mock-up and pattern enlargement. Knowing how to alter patterns to fit your body is useful for all of us. (My bust is on the standard sizes but not my waist or hips. I'm decidedly pear-shaped.)

[@Shannonishere]

Thanks for making this, this is very helpful. 🤩🤩🤩

[@Lulualamode]

Such a great video! So easy to understand. 😁 It's so frustrating that Patterns from the big 4 only come to a b cup. I got tired of always up sizing and doing full bust adjustments, that I invested in my own pattern blocks and make my own costume patterns. But not everyone wants to do that so this video will be so helpfel for them. Keep up the awesome work.!

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

That's really smart, and it's kind of what I've done with my go-to Victorian pattern. I just haven't figured it out for non-Victorian things like this! And thank you!

[@Liz-ww3cm]

Would having a custom bodyform be one solution to this type of problem? I've never had one but I've always felt it would make fitting SO much easier!

[@Mommamacnz]

This was super helpful. I am only just figuring out how to alter patterns to fit me and you showing more than just sizing up will be useful as I continue working out what and where I need to alter patterns to fit my body shape properly.

[@sturmykins]

This was SO helpful. As my friend says, bodies are body shaped, so it totally makes sense that adjusting a pattern to fit isn't going to necessarily just be adding a certain dimension anywhere you differ from the pattern size.

[@katwhit761]

This is so helpful, thank you. I'm actually crying - have a pattern I've been longing for for SO long and now I feel brave enough to try and tackle it.

[@TheEvie202]

Great explanation. Simple and straightforward. Thanks 🙏 I will say that notches are VERY IMPORTANT, especially if you get into tailoring with woven textiles. (Not as important with easy knit patterns.)

[@bellemeri8155]

You also need to be aware that Simplicity/New Look/Burda are sized for a B-cup; McCalls/Vogue/Butterick/KwikSew also size their patterns for a B-cup, but do put out "custom cup size" patterns for C, D, DD cup sizes. So when sizing up patterns, you need to keep the idea that you will need a Full Bust Adjustment in mind.

[@redblaquegolden]

PRAISE THE GODS. THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO. I am nonbinary (AMAB) and I'm a Simplicity 22... kinda... for now. This is wildly helpful for queer people looking to make gender affirming clothing. ♡♡♡ thank you!

[@madelynl.5351]

I don’t know when this video was made, but as a plus-sized woman who has sewed my own clothes since I was 12 (and I’m 74 now) I am a bit puzzled by your comments. Granted there are more patterns in the standard model sizes, but now there are many patterns that go up as far as size 32. MimiG (McCall’s, I think) specifically does this. There are also “Plus sized” patterns that start at 24 and go up from there. And finally, for many years patterns are being drawn in different cup sizes as well. So these patterns do exist. However they are not industry standard, meaning not all patterns provide this service so a larger person is still excluded. That leads me to your video, because even with all these plus patterns around, there are styles I want to make and I need your expertise to upsize the pattern. So thanks for this info! Now I will not be limited if the pattern does not go up to the size I need. Here’s a quote I love: “I sew my own clothes; my size is whatever I say it is!” Happy sewing!

[@debbiehaynes8295]

Wow, this is an old video but my first experience on your channel. I've never altered a pattern in my life, but you are so clear and thorough I feel like I really could alter a pattern! Also, you are beautiful!!

[@LadyRebeccaFashions]

Thank you! I'm glad it was helpful!