Easy sewing patterns?

Question

I am a complete novice at sewing and want to start by making a top. Can anyone recommend a really easy, yet stylish, +size top pattern that I can make as my 1st project? Name of pattern maker, pattern number and where I can get it would also be great! Thank you! :)

Answer 1

My favorite patterns are McCalls. Their instructions are very clear and their easy patterns really are easy. They have a nice selection of plus size patterns too. Sometimes jo-ann fabric stores will let you buy 5 patterns at .99 each. NEVER pay full price for a pattern.

Answer 2

I believe it is Simpitlcity that has a few patterns out called Sewing for Dummies (like the books)

It takes you step by step. These listed below are not garments, but a good first project.

The web site also has a sewing 101 link and a sewing help link

Answer 3

Do you have some cross-stitch thing where you can make your own charts?? If you have try and make your own charts and see what you can come up with!

Answer 4

I'd try Kwik Sew patterns and I would look online for help. Lots of it out there. ConnyL

Answer 5

I'd suggest Connie Crawford, who has both her own line and one for Butterick.  She also has a new DVD teaching basic sewing skills -- the young lady in the video had never sewn before they started filming, and winds up with a nice camp shirt.

http://www.butterick.com/list/connie_cra...

http://www.butterick.com/list/connie_cra...

Here's the DVD: http://www.butterick.com/item/CC770.htm?...

The shirt is B5047

Connie's plus size patterns are a little different -- she developed them by working on real 3x women, then grading them up and down from 1x to 6x -- rather than the usual grading up from a size 10.  As a result, the necklines aren't gapping, the shoulder seams are correctly placed, and the sleeves move with the wearer.  

The DVD is based on her methods teaching beginning fashion design students who had to -- surprise! -- learn to sew -- she taught sewing, patternmaking and draping classes at FIDM for many years.  I met her just after she "retired" and started developing her own home sewing pattern line.  I was in her first patternmaking class for home sewing, and the "tricks" she taught me made sewing processes more efficient and much easier than home sewing methods.  Wish I'd learned to sew that way from the start -- would have saved me a couple of years of sewing time along the way.

Anyhow, her patterns are carefully proofed and just sew together nicely with no fuss and bother.

Answer 6

Why not start with you're own designs, and practice with dolls and teddy bears etc... It's a good way to learn about pattern making etc... also use the web to source information

Answer 7

simplicity do a great range of plus sized patterns, the kahlia ali collection are easy and very stylish......l've made myself a skirt and top with her patterns.

try ebay as they can be a bit pricey in shops to buy!

have fun x