Sew the Perfect Fit
Lynda Maynard
Class Preview
0:43
- In-depth Instruction; over 242 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Introduction
5:47
Meet sewing teacher and author Lynda Maynard and learn about the Craftsy experience. You'll also get a preview of the included dress pattern, Vogue 8766.
Getting Started
19:58
Take measurements on the included worksheet and prepare your pattern. Lynda demonstrates everything on Betsy, Dolly and Rhoda, very different women with unique figure issues.
Muslin Test Garment
9:22
Your muslin test garment is the foundation of your perfect fit. Learn how to use thread to mark pattern features and stay-stitch for stability, then stitch the muslin together.
Fitting Standards
8:44
What is a perfect fit and how does it apply to real women? Lynda defines fitting standards, explains the role of grain lines, and shows how she assesses fit.
Neck & Shoulders
31:18
Dresses hang from the shoulders, so getting them right makes a big difference in fit. Learn to adapt a design to different shapes and sizes of shoulders and back curvatures.
Upper Body
50:04
Expertly adjust bust proportions and make length alterations so your dress fits beautifully through the bust and waist. Lynda transfers alterations from the muslin to the paper pattern.
Lower Body
56:26
Place the waist and side seams accurately, evaluate the drape of the skirt, and address any body type's lower curves from angular to ample.
Sleeves
21:07
Construct comfortable sleeves that fit without distorting the lines of the bodice. Lynda guides you through adjusting the sleeves for upper arm sizes and narrow shoulders.
Armholes
14:33
The other side of great-fitting sleeves that sew up beautifully are properly sized and placed armholes and armscyes. Lynda demonstrates on the muslin and paper pattern.
Truing the Pattern
23:58
True up the pattern so you can use it again and again. Then make a fresh muslin to double-check all elements of fit. Be sure to post photos of your finished dress!
Learn how to alter sewing patterns to create garments that fit and flatter your form with teacher and author Lynda Maynard. You’ll never look at a paper pattern the same way again after watching this info-packed class. Lynda’s techniques come to life on dress muslins fitted to three women, each with unique fitting challenges, including sloped shoulders, ample busts and flat backsides. Start by learning to “read” the fit muslin as it points you to the right places to adjust the garment. You’ll learn the importance of grain lines and well-placed darts. Watch how adding or subtracting fabric from one area of the dress magically improves the fit somewhere else. Then learn how to transfer your changes from the muslin back to a dress pattern. The end result: a custom-fit garment tailored perfectly for you!
Important Pattern Information: The sewing pattern on which this class is based — Vogue 8766 — is not included with your purchase and may be out of print — check with online retailers. This class is rich in essential sewing techniques, so if the pattern is out of print, we encourage you to look for an alternative pattern with similar style details. You might also be able to find the original pattern through a private reseller.
Lynda Maynard
Lynda Maynard is an expert instructor in couture sewing, fitting and pattern drafting, as well as the author of Demystifying Fit and The Dressmaker's Handbook of Couture Sewing Techniques. For 25 years, Lynda has been a successful business owner focused on design and fabrication of high-end apparel. Over the past 20 years, Lynda has brought her passion for fashion to countless classrooms, sharing her craft at a number of colleges, leading workshops for fabric stores and teaching on Craftsy!
Bonus materials available after purchase