Sew the Perfect Fit – Review, Part 1

28 Feb Sew the Perfect Fit – Review, Part 1

At last I’m now sewing along with Linda Maynard in her online class –

Sew The Perfect Fit!

The Craftsy course title and description completely captured my attention leading me to contact Craftsy.

“Learn how to alter your patterns to achieve a flattering fit for your body. Fit specialist Lynda Maynard teaches fitting techniques you can use to customize any pattern to your shape.”

Since I am receiving the class for free in exchange for a review, I plan to write at least two thorough posts.  I also want to let you know that Craftsy is offering a 40% discount on this class to my readers. I believe Craftsy is running a special on several sewing classes (not linked to me) as well.

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Lynda Maynard, widely known in the industry as a fit specialist illustrates how to fit the included Vogue dress pattern on three models of varying shapes and sizes. Many fitting issues and pattern alterations are explained.

 I’m a long way from the lovely finished garment I prefer to show in my posts  –

no glamour shots today!

 Out of the ten lessons, I’ve completed seven, taking me through the construction and fitting of the muslin. I chose view D (blue dress), since I enjoy wearing straight fitted dresses and because I always seem to have trouble with the dart placement.

Just as in my last class blogged here, the beginning of the class places great emphasis on establishing proper lengthwise and crosswise grainline markings on the pattern pieces as well as proper placement on the muslin fabric.

I was quickly reminded that I am still lacking in basics even after all of my sewing over the last 18 months. For starters, I never knew I needed to true a muslin, an easy three-minute process.

After adding an additional 3/8” to the seam allowance, the crosswise and lengthwise grainlines are marked on each pattern piece. I admit I’m now obsessed about grainline issues, and marked more than Lynda’s recommended  minimum of one on each pattern piece.

Thankfully it was a wise decision on my part because all of my adjustments were guided by the grainlines. Lynda prefers to fit from the shoulders down, so
the muslin is constructed  and fitted in three separate parts – the bodice, skirt and sleeves.

Here I am in the bodice sewn without alterations.

The darts are too high and the waistline, (marked by a blue W on the muslin and elastic tied across my waist), is at least an inch too high.

Saved by the grain!

Slashing the crosswise grainline marking below the armhole, pulling the waist into place and inserting a strip of fabric in the gap took care of everything.

Lynda shows how to transfer these markings to the paper pattern pieces which is a must see.

As for the skirt, my fit was good in the waist and hips but slightly tight across the abs. Surprisingly, none of the models have this particular issue. I believe I worked out the alteration but am waiting on an answer from the instructor before proceeding.

 As with all Craftsy classes, I love the ability to take notes and interact with the instructors, as well as having access to the lessons forever. In reference to the Sew the Perfect Fit class, I was   t h r i l l e d   to learn how simple it was to address my particular fitting issue, and how easily Lynda demonstrated the solution.

The next part of my review will cover the assembly of the muslin and construction of the garment. Maybe those glamour shots will be a reality  🙂

Until soon!