Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Custom Sewing Techniques and Patternmaking

I just came across a new site for sewing enthusiasts who want to learn how to sew, make their own patterns, and even learn how to make a dress form and custom bras. I found this site by accident when I was searching for a way to make my own dress form. The reason I want to learn how to do this is not only due to cost, but making the clothes fit better – more than anything else.

The site belongs to Don McCunn owner of Design Enterprises of San Francisco and the links are here:
Don's main web site link: http://deofsf.com
Youtube link
Sewing Pattern link
Custom bra link
Fashion doll pattern link

Don makes several videos and even has published a book, which you can order at his sewing pattern link Sewing Pattern link. I ordered mine, and should receive it by tomorrow. I don’t know about you, but I think I’ve been waiting a long time to come across a site like Don’s. You can tell he is not out to just make money – he is interested in teaching others. His prices are very reasonable. There are various classes that are offered and you can join 3 different Yahoo groups to keep in touch with the members, and what is going on. Also, not only do you learn how to sew and make patterns for yourself or others, but Don teaches you how to make patterns for fashion dolls as well.

Below is one of his dress form videos on youtube:



I plan to add more to my sewing site soon. I know I haven’t posted anything lately, but that isn’t because I haven’t been sewing. I’ve been sewing clothes for me, but they just don’t fit right. Even after I alter the pattern. They end up too tight, or the bodice doesn’t fit mine properly. So I look forward to reading Don’s book and taking some of his courses soon.

Wish me luck.

Also, I did find other sites and youtube videos for making dress forms, but I’m going to give Don’s method a try first. If you are like me, where your body has taken on a will of it’s own – no matter what you eat or how much you exercise – then I encourage you to try this, too.

Good luck and best wishes.

2 comments:

  1. I really like the description about your body taking on a mind of it's own. Wait till you are 50. I will give his site a look as I have trouble with fit also. The clothes you buy don't consider that a person's arms are not slim or that you might want to cover up not only your middle but your behind too. And I'm tired of living in men's tshirts.

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  2. Thanks for the add, Jeanne. I know what you mean. We pay a lot for clothes, and then to not have them fit properly is frustrating. I bought his book, but haven't had a chance (I keep thinking I'm going to lose a few pounds first) before I make my body double. Right now, I've been knitting socks and baby booties. But, I joined some of his groups and there are nice looking outfits that people have custom made using his techniques. Wish you luck with your endeavors.

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