Transforming a Vintage Wardrobe- Crafting a Dress Pattern from an Old Favorite
How to Make a Dress Pattern from an Old Dress
Creating a dress pattern from an old dress is a fantastic way to recycle and upcycle your wardrobe. Not only does it allow you to extend the life of your favorite garments, but it also gives you the opportunity to customize your clothing to fit your unique style. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a dress pattern from an old dress, ensuring that you end up with a beautiful, personalized piece of clothing.
Step 1: Choose the Right Old Dress
The first step in creating a dress pattern from an old dress is to select the perfect garment. Look for a dress that has a silhouette and style you love, and that fits you well. It’s important to choose a dress that is made from a fabric that is suitable for your new dress, as the pattern will be cut from this fabric.
Step 2: Prepare Your Old Dress
Once you have chosen your old dress, it’s time to prepare it for pattern making. Begin by removing any embellishments, such as buttons, zippers, or decorative stitching, that you won’t be using in your new dress. Next, lay the dress flat on a large, clean surface, such as a table or floor, and smooth out any wrinkles or folds.
Step 3: Measure Your Old Dress
To create an accurate dress pattern, you’ll need to measure your old dress. Use a measuring tape to measure the following dimensions:
– Bust circumference
– Waist circumference
– Hip circumference
– Length from shoulder to hem
– Armhole depth
– Hem width
Record these measurements, as they will be used to create the pattern pieces.
Step 4: Transfer the Measurements to Paper
Lay a large piece of paper, such as a roll of butcher paper or a large drawing paper, on top of your old dress. Using a fabric pencil or chalk, trace the outline of the dress, including the bust, waist, hip, and hem. Make sure to mark the center front, center back, and side seams.
Step 5: Adjust the Pattern for Fit
Once you have traced the outline of your old dress, it’s time to adjust the pattern for fit. Use the measurements you took earlier to make any necessary changes. For example, if your old dress is too tight in the bust, you can add width to the pattern at the bust area. If the dress is too long, you can shorten the length from the shoulder to the hem.
Step 6: Create Pattern Pieces
Now that your pattern is adjusted for fit, it’s time to create the individual pattern pieces. Cut out the traced outline, then divide it into separate pieces, such as the front, back, sleeves, and collar. Make sure to add seam allowances to each piece before cutting them out.
Step 7: Cut Your Fabric and Sew Your New Dress
With your pattern pieces ready, it’s time to cut your fabric and sew your new dress. Lay out your fabric, aligning the selvages and grainlines, and pin your pattern pieces in place. Cut out the fabric, then follow a sewing pattern or your own design to construct the dress.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a dress pattern from an old dress and transform it into a new, stylish piece of clothing. Happy sewing!
