Gain confidence in pattern fitting using Nancy's easy pivot and slide technique

Watch Nancy demonstrate how easy it is to fit patterns to fit your body. The pivot and slide technique allows you to change width and length very simply. Brought to you by Nancy's Notions. www.nancysnotions.com/

[@jessicawicher]

Nancy was clearly a genius at simplifying these techniques and explaining each step so clearly. I admire her so much.

[@KK7THK]

I have spent over 20 years sewing sizes “close to” my size and been consistently disappointed in the results. I just could NOT get over my fear of altering a pattern. I just couldn’t put two and two together to figure it out. Something made me want to try again tonight after yet another failed wrap dress. And in less than 9 minutes, Nancy taught me everything I needed to know, and I altered my entire pattern in under ten minutes. I’m SO grateful for having this lesson, and I’m saddened that I didn’t find it sooner to tell her THANK YOU. She just saved my sewing budget, and possibly my marriage (he banned me from the fabric store because I keep wasting fabric!). Thank you Nancy for your gifts you’ve given us in life- you were and still are a true blessing! 💕

[@buzoff4642]

@@ArtichokeHeart2 ?!? We don't know their money circumstances...

[@renejames8207]

I can't believe this Great Lady is gone. I won't forget her. I feel so bad for her family an all her fans.😭

[@palisaanne5096]

This book of Nancy’s has made my life infinitely easier. I am a supersize woman, and I must amend and fit all of my clothing. This process has made it all so simple. Thank you Nancy, and you are indeed sorely missed.

[@cathys949]

When adjusting sleeves or shoulder/armhole, make sure you mark your notches as they appear on the pattern. They are essential for fitting the sleeve into the body of the top, and help you get the correct sleeve in the correct armhole (left/right). Happy sewing!!

[@visswaayful]

“Slide for length changes and pivot for width changes”🧐 that’s a great way to remember, thank you 🙏💖

[@fathimarazick5787]

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[@fathimarazick5787]

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[@fathimarazick5787]

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[@dancetoday542]

How do I add length to make the shoulder to waist longer. I just can't do it

[@KittyF54]

I saw her do something like this, just a two or three minute segment once and I've used it so much. even made a size 12 pattern fit a size 24. it's been such a blessing to me and my friends.

[@jeannettegriffinwilson7388]

I have watched Nancy for as long as I can remember about 25 years at least. I have learned so much watching her shows. She is the first and lead the way for all the shows , websites, etc we have today !!

[@doubledscrochetandknits927]

I was able to find this on the Libby app. I'm so excited to learn how to sew, but it looks so intimidating. I'm so glad a resource like this exists!

[@nancyespinoza8974]

Excellent technique!!!!..Highly recommended!.......Years ago, I did follow her pivoting technique and I was so happy how my dress came out!.... Beautiful !....May God bless you, dear Nancy!.....

[@daraharper2003]

SO Dearly Missed!

[@bentlibya1663]

Dear Nancy, I do not know how to thank you for your generous and valuable lessons.

[@jostovall5491]

Great tutorial using your pivot and slide technique ~ thank you for sharing!

[@marysews1]

I've been using Pivot-and-Slide since the mid-'90s with great results!

[@lindabrown7374]

I have used Nancy's method here for several years. It is easy and works very well. Thanks, Nancy

[@nekolesingleton5601]

Now I want some cake with my sewing lol thank you so much for this video! I've gained more confidence and am now excited to make my first dress 💛💜💛💜

[@laceyunderall22]

Nancy is my hero!! I love you, Nancy! 😍😎

[@NancysNotions]

@padams4me The measurement for adding to the crotch length needs to be split in half because there two cutting edges - the front pattern piece and the back pattern piece. If you add the length to both the front and the back, you would actually be doubling the length that you want; crotch measurement is a continuous line from front to back. I hope this makes more sense.

[@dancetoday542]

Thank you. I couldn't understand why it was half. I understand when it is side seams, but she didn't explain this.

[@stitchnmouse]

I have used the pivot and slide technique a number of times and it is the best technique yet. I've tried others but this is the best. I've also used other sewing techniques from other Nancy's books. She has followed the sewing industry for years and always has the latest news for us and now also the quilting and embroidery and her guests have all been so instructive.

[@Abeline1960]

Nancy, you make things so easy!!!!! Thank you!

[@julieweaver9279]

This is just what I have been looking for. Thanks Nancy!

[@vuyiswamasombuka583]

Wow this is so helpful, why didn't I come across this video long time ago🙄thanks Nancy

[@naughtybynature6213]

The best video for increasing or decreasing a garment excellent

[@tommyewoods2194]

Thank you. Your video was a great help to me

[@valeriecutler3671]

Really good. Thank you for sharing.

[@NancysNotions]

Visit our website - listed above in the description - and you can search by the program title, or search for item number BD2201. You'll also find current pricing there.

[@GayleHallAZ]

I've been a garment sewer for over 35 years and watching Sewing with Nancy for as long as she's been on the air. I'd love to see more videos related to garment sewing in support of the recent return to garment sewing by our younger folks, Nancy! About this book and dvd...Nancy's pivot and slide method WORKS! Achieving proper fit is one of the biggest deterrents to garment sewing. If you take accurate measurements and use the techniques in Nancy's book and dvd, you will be successful.

[@ladyhamilton5179]

Thank you for this video.

[@alisonmaschmeier8850]

This video is AMAZING to say the least! My only frustration is that I am trying to alter a corset pattern and I need to DECREASE and I didn't see you show that here. :-( I am quite happy with your video though. You explain everything so nice and clear and have a very pleasant voice. Thanks again!

[@ravesroses]

omg why couldnt i find this sooner getting the book n dvd this will make my like so much better

[@jacquelinerobinson9158]

Now lowering the bust dart will be easier. Thank you for this video.

[@zatazhamaat8098]

I just watched a 30 minute video on this and you do it in seconds. Hah! Thanks.

[@SNVILLE]

so much easier than the cut and spread method. i think i'm gonna try this

[@NancysNotions]

In this situation, it would be best to follow the directions in the book for enlarging the bust.

[@tomato33]

Wow! Very cool technique :)

[@lizvanderelst]

When I alter my pattern (for bigger) in the bust, do I need to adjust the dart to a bigger size, or leave it alone like it was on the original pattern? I find this tutorial a blessing, it makes sewing more fun.

[@jollysferdinand]

Now I love this video but what do we do to downsize patterns?

[@gwendolynflowers6213]

Thank you.

[@lothrop53]

We miss you Nancy

[@cynthiagilliam8142]

Yes Nancy, you are truly missed from the sewing world

[@Cee1505]

I have loved your PBS show and your personal story for years and am finally learning to sew using patterns. I need to adjust the bust and waist for a dolman sleeve dress. Any tips while I what for your book to arrive?

[@katalinmcewan]

Do I need to re-attach the yoke and split it at the shoulder seam if I want to make the chest bigger? I do have the book and DVD, but wish it covered more complex patterns also to make it easier for beginners.

[@PitterPatter100]

I'm in Australia and was just going through my (old) fabric box (haven't sewn in years) and found notes about Pivot and Slide from a day course I did in the 80's! Googled Pivot and Slide and presto! immediate results showing this clip. You buy the pattern for your upper chest measurement (eg 14" = size 14) and then alter the pattern. Hope this is correct still?

[@glynishigham1893]

I'm using a size 18 pattern but it's coming out way too big. there is too much were at the bust and is gaping and also making it wrinkle right across the top above my bust. I was trying to reduce some of the ease on the bust. when I tried to reduce the ease it made the armhole very big. think I've explained it right for you to understand what I'm try to do

[@bevmcmullen8758]

Brilliant thank you Nancy. Would pivot and slide work for making parts of a pattern smaller as well? By the time my pattern fits across my bust, the shoulder is too big and looks like a slightly dropped shoulder, even tho it’s supposed to be a fitted sleeve. If it does work, I’m totally buying your book and dvd. Thank you again xx

[@katalinmcewan]

How do I use the pivot and slide method on tops with a yoke?

[@BernieOReilly-ty3qu]

Good info

[@yomama8873]

Watching again 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@monolitomontoya1440]

What would you do to increase the waist in a princess seamed pattern? Divide by 4 and just adjust the sides? Or divide by ...12? Adding width across all the pieces? Or would that ruin the lines?

[@AnuOgunneye]

Hi how can i get the dvd

[@zinareyna7881]

She was very good . Love see video.

[@LovingHandsDesign]

Will this method work on children and teen patterns?

[@Sally-ih6ls]

Does this work for downsizing in waist, hips, bust?

[@AmyiReport]

Hello Nancy, in your book, do you teach how to draw patterns from scratch? Thank you.

[@cherrylpen1]

hi nancy, i'm from the philippines, how can i order that book and dvd? and how much?thx

[@NancysNotions]

Yes, your questions are answered in Nancy's Pattern Fitting with Confidence Book and DVD - item # BD2201. You can follow Right Size Measurement Fitting Chart on page 9; then, go to the Broad shoulder section on pages 32 and 34, then adding Back Fullness on page 38.

[@buzoff4642]

Total wicked bummer trying to find this. Directed by PBS to some odd intermediary.

[@marylambrechts9894]

Fantastic video ❤ where can l purchase the book and the video..I live in South Africa ❤❤❤

[@jennybetancourt5568]

Where do I get this!?

[@lulu24carat]

Nancy, I have watched your shows on and off for many years. With your help, I 've learned to sew very well.. I bought all the books, from years back. I;ve misplaced the one on Sewing pants that fit. I'm interested in your book on Pivot and slide, where do I order if from?.

[@lynnettebraye1319]

Great!

[@marylambrechts9894]

Where can I buy the book and DVD ???

[@Harphoney]

Where do I go to purchase the book and dvd?

[@tigerb1976]

I have Nancy's older pivot and slide book. This method works wonderfully if you find it hard to fit a muslin on your body! You change your pattern up front before you ever cut your fabric.

[@buzoff4642]

Tracy, do you have the name of that older book?

[@tigerb1976]

@@buzoff4642 It is named "Fitting Finesse." I think it might be the same book retitled, but I'm not sure.

[@ceceliacarlson2117]

I'm having a lot of trouble downloading the small patterns for the video fitting the puzzle piece

[@jo3milam]

great!

[@Nonoooposns]

Where can I order this book ? Im in sputh africa

[@NancysNotions]

We have a book and DVD available at nancysnotions website. Search for items BD2201 and SN2201D.

[@gwendolynflowers6213]

Great

[@poipoiparty8427]

This is genius!

[@kateiluyomade5568]

Hi Nancy，I bought your book recently and I have been reading how to do adjustment 。I am a little bit confused on how to adjust pattern with princess seam 。I would appreciate if you could explain or share the video of how to adjust princess seam。thank you！

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Kate, Thank you for your comment. Please consider contacting our sewing and product advisors at the link below. You call, email or chat with them for an in-depth explaination on this technique. www.nancysnotions.com/jump.do?itemID=5&itemType=LANDING&page=sewing_prod_advisor

[@hjkennaugh]

Will the pivot and slide method take the place of the slash and add method for a full bust adjustment or will I need to still do that method for my full bust please. Thank you.

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Hazel, Please reach out to our Sewing and Product Advisors for additional information on the technique: www.nancysnotions.com/jump.do?itemID=5&itemType=LANDING&page=sewing_prod_advisor

[@glynishigham1893]

would this technique work with a curved inset on the front of a dress, abit hard to explain but im trying to alter a pattern i bought butterick 5998 (the whole section from waist up to way too big but waist down is perfect, could i combine the two) ps just ordered your book too

[@NancysNotions]

This technique will work with all pattern adjustments. :) What you're really adjusting here is a basic sheath with princess seams (there just happens to be a decorative inset). Here's how we might go about something like this: Draw a horizontal line across all the bodice pattern pieces at the same "latitude;" just above the part where it fits you perfectly. Use this line to pivot the pieces above your mark (bust, top of waist, etc--any part that needs to expand a little). Treat the inset panel and outer side front as if they were one piece--do not alter along that one common seam. As for figuring out the precise amount to expand for each pattern piece, again, treat the inset panel and the outer side bodice piece as one (therefore, do not add any extra along that one particular seam--this way, you are treating the dress as a sheath with princess seams--which is truly all it is, in its basic form). For more info on altering a dress with princess seams using this method, we recommend this book: www.nancysnotions.com/product/nancy+ziemans+confident+sewing+collection+book.do?extid=ythtv&code=NNOADV-1320

[@anafaria10]

Hello. I'm following the "Pattern Fitting with Confidence" book to make alterations on a Burda pattern and I'm finding it very easy to follow and comprehensive. However, I find myself stuck in something and I'm hoping you can help me. In my front bodice piece I have to increase the bust line and hip line and make alterations for sloping shoulders. The book very clearly says the order in which I have to do those, but I also have to increase and lower the dart size and I don't know when I should do those. Can you point me in the right direction? Thank you in advance.

[@NancysNotions]

Hey, we all get stuck at some point. That's a tricky pattern area. Your best bet is to get on the phone with one of our Sewing Advisors and talk it through. It's so much easier that way. Contact a Sewing Advisor directly at [phone].

[@lillianpalko]

I will be trying this technique today for the first time. I purchased the DVD and book and would like you to help me understand the sequence of using this method. Am I correct that if I need to lengthen or shorten a pattern I do that first, then apply horizontal changes by pivot and slide.

[@NancysNotions]

Fantastic! Let us know what you think, Lillian! :)

[@kim94503]

So frustrated. I bought both books with pattern fitting. All of her illustrations only show 2 pattern pieces. My pattern has a yoke, neck line, 3 back pieces, a front piece, a flange, and a neck band.......

[@wendyb7993]

Can anyone tell me if this book and dvd is still available to buy I’m in the uk ?

[@buzoff4642]

I too am having a hard time locating it. But she does have a couple of videos, one here, www.nancyzieman.com/blog/sewing-general/solving-the-pattern-fitting-puzzle-part-one/ and one here pbswisconsin.org/watch/sewing-nancy/sewing-nancy-solving-pattern-fitting-puzzle-part-two/ I still want the book/video, for the really tough job of fitting pants correctly.

[@MsCjmaxi]

what if I need to decrease the shoulder length and increase the bust and waist?

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Chris, Please reach out to our Sewing and Product Advisors by clicking on the link below. They will be able to provide you with the in-depth answer to your question that you need. www.nancysnotions.com/jump.do?itemID=5&itemType=LANDING&page=sewing_prod_advisor

[@jackieblakemore56]

I know that Nancy is no longer with us but I’m hoping that someone from the company replies I would like to know how to do a FBA on princess seams I purchased Nancy’s book but it doesn’t mention princess seams

[@buzoff4642]

Same principles, the plus or minus adjustment, except divided by 8, across each (cut) edge. Odd, she put it online, but not in her book.

[@jason19420]

Do the neck and arm holes and strap count as cut sides?

[@NancysNotions]

+jason gordon Hi Jason, Could you please let us know to which point in the video you're referring (minutes/seconds)? I'd like to make sure I understand what you're asking. :) If you are altering the width or length of the bodice piece itself to fit the torso better, the neck and arm holes themselves should not be altered. If you're altering the neck to accommodate a larger or smaller neck, then you would only be changing the neck hole. The same applies to sleeves--if you're altering a sleeve so that it fits more comfortably around the bicep, you will ONLY be altering the sleeve piece (see 4:40 in the video), and leaving the armhole pattern piece as-is. In short, the neck/armholes do not count in side measurements, as the side seams of a garment only measure from armpits to the hem of the shirt or dress. Does that make sense? Let me know if this wasn't what you were asking. Hopefully we can get this cleared up for you. Thanks!

[@maureenrobinson2111]

I bought the book but never got the DVD.

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Maureen, This book is available alone, or with the DVD: www.nancysnotions.com/product/pattern+fitting+with+confidence+book.do Please give our customer service line a call to get this straightened out. You can contact them via email or phone: www.nancysnotions.com/category/customer+service/contact+us.do?intcmp=FFCONT Hope that helps! :)

[@glynishigham1893]

Hi thankyou for your reply. the pattern in using is butterick 6163. I'm sure I'm doing something wrong but can't work out what

[@NancysNotions]

Okay, we can fix this but we'll just need a little more info. :) After reading below, it sounds like you want to increase the bust of the pattern to accommodate your 40" bust--what size pattern are you using? The measurement taken from p. 9 will help you to choose the right size pattern--it is not used once you start altering the pattern to increase bust size--make sense? Remember, if you're trying to expand the bust measurement, the armhole shouldn't be changing at all (see Illustration #2 on p. 20--see how the pattern piece pivots at the outer shoulder so that the bustline expands, but the armhole remains the same?). I'm hoping we can get this sorted out for you!

[@del5241]

Nancy's Notions *

[@Barigoddess]

What do you do if patterns are always too small in the shoulders and across the back, so you have to go up 2 or 3 sizes and you always have to take things in? Is this is the book and DVD?

[@buzoff4642]

Yes, it means you're using the wrong size pattern. She recommends you use the size that fits your shoulders, and adjust that for the bust and waist. Far, far easier than trying to adjust shoulder and neck lines. She explains here: www.nancyzieman.com/blog/sewing-general/solving-the-pattern-fitting-puzzle-part-one/

[@glynishigham1893]

hi nancy, ive just recieved your book "pattern fitting", heres my dilemma, im trying to make a muslin, ive cut and pinned the pieces together and placed on "doris". ive measured across my chest from where the skin meets my body (as you illustrate on page 9), my measurement is 14" and the pattern measures 18 3/4 "", my full bust measures 40". ive tried to pivot from the seam line on the outer edge of shoulder, but the armhole is now massive, please help, im at a total loss here. thanks. ps, love the book

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Glynis, Are you using a commercial pattern, like McCall's or Simplicity? It would be helpful to visualize what you're doing--if you could, would you mind sharing the pattern you're working on? Thanks! :)

[@jenniferlee-melton478]

Your tissue paper pattern seems so sturdy & pliable. Have you attached something to the back of them?

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Jennifer! We use Pattern Tracing Paper--you can find it here: www.nancysnotions.com/product/1+roll+pattern+tracing+paper.do?extid=ythtv&code=NNOADV-1320 Enjoy! :)

[@kim94503]

I've been learning about Nancy's techniques. I bought her book also pattern fitting with confidence. I'm confused. I have simplicity pattern #8097. I'm trying to make the adjustments for tunic B. In both her video and the book it only shows 2 pieces that she alters.i have 3. In her book it shows altering 3 pieces but it's a side piece and not the same as mine. Can you help me? Thank you,

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Kim, If you look at the construction of Tunic B, you'll notice that the bust is cut with princess lines, and the waist on down is not. Therefore, you would alter the two bust pieces as if they were princess lines, and the lower part of the tunic as if it were only one piece. Does that make sense? :)

[@kim94503]

+NancysNotions can you email me so I can send you a picture of these pieces? I've looked online and these don't look like normal princess seams, so I'm confused as to where to make the alterations.

[@NancysNotions]

Can you post the pics to our Facebook? It's Facebook.com/sewnancysnotions Let's take a look. :)

[@thepea27pod]

I hope that all is well with you now. xxoo

[@NancysNotions]

Thank you! :)

[@jason19420]

I know I'm going to sound dumb asking this but I'm very new to sewing and I'm not sure what exactly what qualifies as a cut edge on the pattern.

[@TheMinot60]

the cutting line on a pattern is where you cut your fabric out and includes some kind of seam allowance (5/8" or 1/2, etc) between where you CUT the fabric, and where you will SEW the fabric. Lots of times the seam line is illustrated as dashed lines and the cutting line is a solid. Some patterns don't have the seam allowance added, so you have to decide what you want and add it. The envelope should tell you.

[@barbarawoodsjean1741]

jason gordon m

[@KevKevAllen]

Just think what a piece of chocolate cake could do!!!

[@glynishigham1893]

I think I've realised what I've done wrong.....I didn't divide the amount to take in by 4. I divided by 2......

[@NancysNotions]

Oops! Yup, that'll do it. :) Let me know how it goes!

[@glynishigham1893]

Hi Nancy, i made my sleevless dress after measuring and altering pattern correctly, unfortunately the armholes are still gaping, i think its because i have odd shoulder, i slopes alot more than the other, is there anyway i can rectify this please

[@NancysNotions]

Hi Glynis, I think this may need a little more attention than can be addressed in the comments section. ;) Could you please email our sewing advisors? They are trained to get right to the bottom of all your sewing questions: [e-mail] If you'd rather, they can be reached at 1-800-595-6878, M-F 8am-5pm CST. I'll send them a heads-up so they can review. :)

[@glynishigham1893]

+NancysNotions thankyou for that. It's very kind of you. I'll email them as I love in the UK and would be costly to call lol😟

[@NancysNotions]

You betcha! Hope we can get this squared away for you! :) All the best to you in the UK.

[@fathimarazick5787]

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[@fathimarazick5787]

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[@tomekaridley6371]

What's wrong with her mouth? It's all sideways.

[@buzoff4642]

She had Bells Palsy as a baby. That's something that affects the nerves and muscle in your face, typically 1 side. She wrote a book that contains some information on that, Seams Unlikely, I believe is the name of it. Nancy died two years ago from cancer.