Dressmaking 101

You can use your originality and creativity when making dresses. You can make dresses for yourself and other people. There are different types of fabrics, colors and styles to choose from. Once you understand your sewing machine and what it has to offer you will be able to make all types of dresses and various other projects.

Tools

Know and understand your sewing machine and all the tools and features that it has. Learn the different parts of the sewing machine by reading the manual carefully. The manual will give the specifics of the different parts of the machine, settings, the type of needles needed and many other features of the sewing machine. When making dresses you will also need tools such as scissors, a firm work space, a cutting board to lay fabric on and lighting. Using these tools will make your dress project much easier.

Measuring

Make sure to get the correct measurements and pattern sizes so that it will fit properly. Wear the proper undergarments when measured so that the fit is correct. Measurements should be taken from the widest part of the bust at the navel for the waist and the widest part of the hips. Additional measurements may need to be taken throughout the process of making the dress such as from the arm to the waist, from the base of the neck to the back waist and the hemline.

Patterns

There is a lot of information included in the pattern such as images that are on the front of the pattern, the various styles the pattern makes and the back of the pattern shows the back view of the pattern. A sizing chart is located on the pattern in order to choose the size closest to the measurements. Make sure to select a pattern based on your sewing ability. Start with easier patterns and the move gradually to other pattern levels.

Fabrics

Select fabrics that are easy to work with and avoid materials that are harder to manage. Use the fabric that is suggested on the pattern. Using plaids, stripes and a lot of patterns may be too difficult as a beginner so try using solid fabrics. Make sure to mark if there are darts, seams or lengths before you start to cut the fabric.