Expert: Vinette de Phillipe - 1/13/2009

Question
Hi.  I'm a beginner sewer.  I just had a question about altering a pattern to fit me.  

The pattern I'm talking about is Simplicity # 2884.  It's a Marylin Monroe type dress.  The measurements on the back for the size 18 are almost right.  Their messurements are
B:40
W:32
H:42

My Measurements are

B: 43 (which I don't really have a bust... but 40 will do... LOL)
W: 37
H: 42

So the pattern is 5 inches short at the weist.  How do I fix this before I start cutting my cloth?

Thanks

Answer
HI Shawn,
What I suggest is that on the pattern pieces, measure the waist and see just how many inches are on the pattern.  Usually there is some ease allowed.

When you find just how much more you need, using paper, tape it to the waist area and then draw a new line for the size you need.  But remember to divide the total amount needed between all the seams.  

Say there are four seams, add only 1/4 of the total to each seam.

vinette