Sewing for Plus Size Women

Sewing Basics

The first step in sewing a new plus size wardrobe is actually knowing how to sew. If you took a sewing class in high school, then you will be amazed at how much you may actually remember. A refresher course at your local high school, community college or fabric store will do you wonders. If you are unable to attend a class, enlist the help of a friend or family member who knows how to sew. A successful sewing teacher or seamstress will help you learn many of the sewing basics, including:

• Fabric, sewing and notions terminology
• Shopping for and operating a sewing machine including threading, stitching and using the right size needle
• Buying fabric
• Picking out a pattern
• Reading and understanding pattern instructions
• Cutting and laying out pattern and fabric
• Pressing your fabric and seams
• Making buttonholes and installing zippers
• Finishing hems

Once you have mastered these skills, you are ready to branch out on your own. Your will need to choose a suitable pattern and purchase some fabric. At this point, you may also want to shop around different plus size stores to get an idea of what style of clothing you may want to create. Take your time and try on as many different designs as possible. Bring along a friend to help you decide which items fit and look the best.

Patterns: How to Choose a Flattering Style

Today's plus size women have many choices in sewing patterns. You will not be limited to a specific pattern or clothing design. Companies or stores that make plus size sewing patterns are:

• Simplicity
• Butterick
• Vogue
• McCalls
• Dana Marie Design
• Pavelka Design
• In the Studio with Lois Erickson
• Sewgrand Patterns

Once you have chosen the style you want to sew, take your time and pick out a comparable pattern. Many fabric stores have pattern books available where you can sit and pick out what you want. You can also peruse many patterns online. Look for items you would normally wear, not something that probably isn't appropriate or flattering for a full-figured woman. Because body types differ amongst women, try and find patterns that have plus size-only size ranges. You are more than likely to get an item that fits better. A complete pattern should include:

• Step-by-step instructions
• Each pattern piece clearly marked and labeled
• Pattern pieces for each item of clothing shown on the cover
• List of notions required including needle size
• Measurements needed and sizes available
• Types and amount of fabrics suitable

Fabrics: Find a Style to Suit Your Needs

Besides fit, the fabric chosen for the plus size outfit you are sewing can make or break the piece. If you are an experienced seamstress, you know that some fabrics are harder to handle than others. If this is your first big sewing project, stay away from stretchy or delicate fabrics, including rayon, linen and silk. Your best bet would be to stick with a cotton or twill fabric as it is the most durable and easy to sew.

Choosing a style of fabric may be trickier. For beginning sewers, choose a solid color or one with a simple print that is easier to match up at the seams. Simple prints also flatter a plus-size body as well. You will want to avoid:

• Paisleys
• Heavily flowered prints
• Vertical stripes and limit the amount of horizontal stripes
• Solid colors that do not complement your skin tone or hair color

You will want to make sure you purchase enough fabric. Don't purchase less than the amount needed, especially if it is a print, since it will be harder to match later on. Make sure you launder your fabric according to the manufacturer's instructions before sewing, and give it a good press with a warm iron as well. When in doubt, inquire at the cutting desk at the fabric store.

Successful Sewing for Plus Size Women

You can be successful at sewing for plus size women. Remember to start small, with a simple skirt or top. Start looking for patterns and fabrics one season out so you will have plenty of time to gather your materials and work on your item. However, if you have no desire to learn how to sew, you can always hire a seamstress to complete the work for you, but at that point, you probably won't be saving that much money.