Simplicity Plus Size Sewing Patterns

From LoveToKnow Plussize

If you can't find what you want in full-figured fashions at your favorite shop, then pick up a few Simplicity plus size sewing patterns and sew your way to a new wardrobe. Don't think that sewing at home is passe. Many women today are taking up the craft that was so common in previous generations.

About Simplicity Patterns

Established in 1927, the Simplicity Pattern Company was created so home seamstresses could create fashionable clothing during the Great Depression, when money for most necessities was scarce. The patterns include step-by-step instructions for cutting and sewing the clothing. Each pattern is imprinted on tissue paper with numbers that correspond to the instructions. You will find several patterns packaged together in one envelope, giving consumers several options from which to choose.

Plus Size Patterns

Similar to the clothing industry, plus size sewing patterns were not always easy to find. It wasn't until the last few decades when designers -- including those who create the fashions for sewing patterns -- have offered plus size women more choices. Long gone are the patterns for house dresses, slacks and blouses. Today's full-figured seamstress has choices in what style of clothing they would like to create:

Baby doll tunics
Sundresses
Chic blouses
Pants suits
Work attire
Coats and jackets
Skirts
Elegant evening gowns
Weekend wear
Lounge wear and pajamas

Celebrity Endorsement

As part of the Simplicity Pattern Company's campaign for a new look, Khaliah Ali, daughter of famed boxing great Muhammad Ali, has put her name -- and body -- on a line of plus size sewing patterns. Ali, a plus-sized gal herself, has struggled with her weight for most her life until she underwent gastric band surgery in 2004. The Khaliah Ali Collection features beautiful plus size styles made from fun and exciting fabrics including:

Knit dresses
Woven tops
Twill or wool coats
Poplin or sateen gowns
Tweed or corduroy jackets

Find Simplicity Plus Size Sewing Patterns

If you shop a lot online, your best bet at finding a large selection of patterns would be at Simplicity.com. The website allows you to look at both sides of the pattern so you can see:

Available sizes
Notions needed
Suggested fabrics
Suggested body measurements

The website will also allow you to save what you view for 60 minutes in its "Must Sew List" and get a close look at exactly what the outfit looks like. Other places to find Simplicity plus size sewing patterns are:

Most in-person fabric stores that carry patterns such as Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores or Hancock Fabrics
eBay
Garage sales
Sewing Patterns
Denver Fabrics
Wal-mart

Discontinued and Vintage Sewing Patterns

Finding discontinued or vintage Simplicity patterns is very easy to do. A simple Google search will return thousands of places online where out-of-print sewing patterns could be found, including:

Tips for Selecting the Right Pattern

Choosing the right plus size clothing pattern can take some time, but here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Have your measurements taken and written down before you head to the store. If possible, have a friend or family member help measure you.
Read the entire pattern, both front and back covers. Pay special attention to the types of fabrics suggested as sometimes it can be more expensive to make an item of clothing than to buy it because of the expensive fabric that is used.
Don't sell yourself short on a size. If you are between sizes, go up, and if you aren't sure, go with the larger size. It is much easier to take in a garment that is too big than to try and fix it if it's too small.
If you aren't sure how a style will look on you when it's complete, take a stroll over to the plus size department of your favorite store and try on a similar-style clothing item.
Take your time when sewing your outfit and plan a season ahead.

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