Pattern Alteration: A Guide for Leaders in Clothing Programs

1965

National Agricultural Library

Home Economics Research Report Number 32

Every woman who sews for herself or her family wants to make attractive, durable, well-fitting clothes. Garments that do not fit are a waste of time and materials because they are uncomfortable, do not withstand hard wear, and give no sense of pride or well-being. The first step toward excellent fit in clothes is a pattern that fits properly. If a style and size best suited to a woman's figure are chosen, the pattern may not need alteration. Most women, however, have some figure irregularity that requires change — either in the pattern or the garment.

The three forms shown in figure 1, for instance, all measure 34 inches in the bust; yet each requires a different alteration to take care of individual problems. The tall figure needs extra length in the blouse, skirt, and sleeves. The length is right for the center figure, but the skirt needs to be enlarged through the hips. For the third figure, a half-size pattern — one proportioned for shorter women — may be the best choice.

This publication shows how today's patterns can be adjusted to take care of figure irregularities and thus assure trim fit.

BUY THE RIGHT SIZE PATTERN

Before buying a pattern, take bust, waist, and hip measurements, as well as back length from neck to waist. Then consult the size charts in counter pattern books to see which figure type corresponds most closely to these measurements. All pattern companies make patterns for different figure types, including (1) the short-waisted figure that is small through the waist and across the back (teens), (2) the figure with a high bust (junior or junior miss), and (3) the short, mature figure (half-size).