Pattern Alteration a Valuable Skill

Why bother learning to alter patterns? While functionality should be the main purpose of clothing, unfortunately vanity sizing makes it next to impossible to find apparel that fits you just right. Even when you make your own clothes, finding a pattern that offers a perfect fit often yields disappointing results.

By learning to alter patterns, you can make several different variations of the same basic pattern, increasing variety and style. Why settle for one neckline or sleeve style when you can create nine or ten? You increase your skills, creativity and style when you learn how to alter patterns. You’ll save money, increase your wardrobe and develop well proportioned clothing with this valuable skill.

How do you learn the basic alteration skills you need?

First consider taking classes at your local fabric or sewing store where professional sewers are your qualified teachers.
Check out your local T.V. Stations for sewing programs.
Consult the Internet for educational information and videos as well as online tutorials.
Buy instructional books and DVDs online or at the bookstore.
Find a friend or family member who can be your sewing mentor. Nothing’s better than one-on-one instruction from and experienced sewer!
Consult online forums to garner valuable information from other sewers. The Internet provides a valuable service by connecting sewers, crafters and quilters worldwide, allowing them to cull valuable tips and techniques from each other and develop a sense of community and friendship.

From changing a regular pattern into a maternity pattern or learning how to alter necklines, waistlines and sleeve types, investing the time and money to learn the valuable skill of altering patterns increases your creativity as well as style and fit options. There won’t be anything you can’t do!

Figure Fattering Quiltwear teaches comprehensive pattern alteration techniques. Try our jacket fitting class and craft a perfectly fitted muslin jacket that can be used as a foundation base for another class or a jacket of your own design!