A question for the other sewing-types reading this.

[cupcake_goth]

Who here has worked with Simplicity pattern # 4484? (That clicky link goes to a page of patterns, but it shows the one I'm asking about.) For reference, it's the Stevie Nicks -esque gothy pattern they've made for ages. The reason I'm asking about it is because I want to try my hand at making a fitted bodice-y vest type-thing, and that seems like it would be a good pattern to start from.

If it's not, do any of you have suggestions for a better pattern? My sewing skills are fair-ish. I can make skirts, I can tailor just about anything I buy from a thrift store, but I am slightly intimidated by making tops and bodices.

Comments

[semy-of-pearls.livejournal.com]

I've never tried THAT pattern, but I've tried other Simplicity patterns before. They're okay.

Best thing to do (and this is for any pattern) if you want it to fit you as if it was tailored (and who doesn't?) is to make a muslin first and fit it.

Measure yourself.
Go with the largest size on the pattern (as in if your bust is a 14 but your waist is a 12, go with the 14 size pattern.)
Cut your pattern pieces on the muslin (or cheap cotton/poly, doesn't matter.)
Mark which pieces are which.
Baste the pieces together except where you will have your openening.
on the opening, mark where the seam allowance should go.
Get someone with a little bit of sewing experience to pin you in at the center front.
Said person then should take in all the seams so that it fits comfortably.
(Note: wear something comfortable and close fitting, like a sleeveless shirt, and whatever undergarment you plan to wear underneath, if any. If it is supposed to support you, bear that in mind while fitting.)
Once your friend has finished tailoring, MARK ALL THE SEAMS BEFORE LETTING YOU OUT.
Unpin the center front (or center back) only and slip out.
Trim as necessary (remember seam allowance!) and you will have your working pattern!

[cupcake-goth.livejournal.com]

You know, you just gave me the BEST explanation for fitting a muslin that I've ever read. I've been waaaaay intimidated by the notion of trying to work with a muslin for years and years. But your instructions make sense. Thank you!

[semy-of-pearls.livejournal.com]

*chuckle* Well, I have been doing this for a while. :)

Depending on what you want to do, you might want to try Laughing Moon's corset pattern:

http://www.lafnmoon.com/victunder.htm

With a good muslin, you can make things like this:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gun-gun/208495774/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/gun-gun/191197881/

[alexiarnps.livejournal.com]

Do you remember the linen blend vest we traded for something I don't remember?

I made that from a Vogue pattern, that I'm sure could find again (I may even still have). The square neckline, princess-seamed, with the pleats in the back to go over bustles with a dozen buttons down the front?

[cupcake-goth.livejournal.com]

I was just trying to find that vest the other day! I think the storage room ate it again or something.

A Vogue pattern, you say? hmmm. If you do still have it, may I borrow it. :)

[scarletfaewind.livejournal.com]

I second everything that Semy said. While I too have never used that pattern either *though it is in my vast collection of patterns* I do find Simplicity easier to work with when starting out. In fact, they ARE the ones I learned on decades ago in HS.

The only difference I would give, and this is an option if you don't have a friend to help you, is to sew the mock up together using the longest stitch on your machine (for me that is a 4 but I don't know how your machine is numbered). From there wear it around a little bit, around the house of course. Just 15 -20 minutes should do. This will tell you if, say, the arm holes are a hair too big or too small or if the waist will need extra reinforcement to not get that waist wrinkle. It might not have been caught until you made the top with your fashion fabric and actually wore it. I have always found this to be most valuable on fitted bodices.

[robespierrette.livejournal.com]

I third the "make a muslin" recommendations. I've done one for almost every costume I've made.

If you need help with fitting, you can always ask me. I have a sewing room. And no job, which leaves my schedule pretty free. ;)