Altering Commercial Patterns for a Custom Designed Look
Nicki LaFoille
Class Preview
1:58
- In-depth Instruction; over 164 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Introduction
15:26
In this session, you’ll learn what topics are covered in this class, plus the tools and supplies you’ll need. Nicki will go over the pattern alterations you’ll learn to complete and show the finished shirt and skirt.
Shirt Alterations
36:04
In this session, you’ll learn how to alter a shirt pattern to achieve different styles. Nicki demonstrates how to change a button-down shirt closure to a center back zipper, change the collar shape, add a contrasting placket, and how to create color-blocking panels.
Sleeve Alterations
24:34
This session is all about sleeves. Sleeve alterations can be done independently of any other alteration to the fit of the garment, and the options are endless. Learn how to use a plain shirtsleeve pattern to create the overlapping short petal sleeve and the voluminous long bishop sleeve.
Skirt Alterations
32:30
Learn how to alter a skirt silhouette, how to add in-seam pockets to any pattern, plus get step-by-step instructions on how to create a scalloped hem.
Stitch Shirt Alterations
37:04
The contrasting placket and neckline facing require modified sewing instructions. Learn how to stitch these variations, as well as the petal and bishop sleeves.
Stitch the Skirt Alterations
18:04
Nicki demonstrates how to stitch in-seam pockets into a skirt, plus how to attach the scallop facing for a smooth scallop hem.
Description
In this class, Nicki LaFoille teaches you how to alter commercial patterns to achieve different design styles. Learn how to alter a skirt pattern to change the silhouette, plus add pockets and design details. Nicki also demonstrates alterations to a women’s button down shirt pattern, to achieve different styles by manipulating the collar, button closure, and sleeves.
You’ll also learn how to stitch the altered pattern pieces, so you can achieve any number of different garment styles from just one commercial pattern.
Nicki LaFoille
Nicki LaFoille has been sewing for over 20 years. After her grandmother taught her to hand sew at the tender age of 11, Nicki fell in love with the craft and went on to receive a degree in Apparel Design from Central Michigan University. She worked as Associate Editor, then freelance contributor for Sew News, Sew It All and Creative Machine Embroidery magazines and appeared as a guest on Sew It All TV. She lives in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with her husband, daughter and red worm colony. In addition to seamstress, she is an author of several novels and enjoys gardening and canning the bounty.
Bonus materials available after purchase