As I don't have a perfect figure, a toile, or test garment, is a must as there's always things on the pattern that need altering. Sometimes the changes can be straight forward like taking in the seams or more complicated like re-working a bodice.
Dressmaking books tell you to use either muslin or calico fabric to make your toile. I don't. I find calico too stiff to work with and muslin too expensive so I use sheeting instead. Not only is it extra wide but it's also cheap.
For these toiles I'm using sheeting that came from a king size duvet cover - Dunelm Mill had a sale on so I got it for £5....
What's the verdict on this toile? The side seams need to be let out a little; the back seam needs to be taken in (I have a very small back); the front needs lifting as it's sitting too low and the bust seams need to be made bigger (I've got big boobs....).
And the verdict on this one? The side seams and the seam across the bum needs to be let out; again, the back needs to be taken in; the front is too low (even for me and I don't mind showing a bit of cleavage !!!); the sleeves are too big and I'd like the length to be a little longer.
Other than that, they're perfect......
Have a great week.
Love,
Gertie xx
PS why not pop over to Handmade Monday to see what other fellow craft bloggers have been up to.
Thank you for sharing your works in progress, its interesting to see behind the dress making scenes as i have no idea about such things myself. I really look forward to seeing your finished garments, i know they will be gorgeous :)
ReplyDeletep.s. great bargain on the duvet cover! x
Thanks xx
DeleteI wish I could do dressmaking! I'm hopeless at proper sewing though. Look forward to seeing your lovely dresses all done.
ReplyDeleteThanks xx
DeleteGreat to see you work as you progress - all sounds like lots of hard work and can't wait to see the finished dress. Hope you have a good week.
ReplyDeleteI like to think the hard work is worth it in the end....xx
DeleteI understand the concept of these test garments but I am too impatient to make one which probably explains a lot about my failed dressmaking attempts! Yours looks like it's getting there in the end :)
ReplyDeleteI tend to look on the toile as a necessary evil.... xx
DeleteI'm far too impatient to make a 'test' item - but I can see how much it will help you with your final dresses, can't wait to see the finished pieces.
ReplyDeleteThanks xx
DeleteTest dresses are important for special dresses. Sheets and duvets are a great source of fabric, especially at such a great price.
ReplyDeleteJan x
I'm always on the look out for good bargains during the sales xx
DeleteI love the gathers in your top dress. I think you will be the belle of the boat. You are thorough, and have made me think I should do a test garment for my bridesmaid dress. Pattern is purchased, and I am now on the fabric hunt.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you've found a bridesmaid pattern. Can't wait to see what fabric you get xx
DeleteTest garments? Never occured to me. I would get lost doing so many alterations. You must have the patience of a saint! Looking forward to seeing the finished dresses! :)
ReplyDeleteI might start to loose my patience if things don't go well.... xx
DeleteBeautiful dresses would love to see the finished one's.
ReplyDeleteThanks xx
DeletePatience:) what a great idea to use sheeting:)
ReplyDeleteSince you left your comment about foxes on my blog, I am now curious about where you live. Because I thought you lived in Newcastle, but now after you say you live by the sea, I wonder if you live at Whitley Bay. I lived in the north east throughout my teenage years (in Heddon on the Wall), but went to school in central Newcastle, and remember many trips to the ice rink at Whitley Bay. Some of my first independent outings with friends. And also going to the hoppings. If you reply I won't publish it, as you may not want the whole bloggy world to know your exact location.
ReplyDeleteJust goes to show what a small world it is. I live in Sunderland xx
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