4 Ways that I’ve Used MyBodyModel to Plan My Sewing Projects, by Megan

When Erica asked me to be a tester for MyBodyModel, I was thrilled for more than one reason! Firstly, I couldn’t wait to see some patterns on a plus-size body. As a plus-size sewer it is often hard to see myself in the same clothes as the tall, willowy models on the covers of pattern envelopes. I just have to sew the item up and see how it works on my body. Even when plus-size models are used, visualizing a pattern on your 5 foot 3 inch tall body can still be a challenge. Ashley Graham, I am not!

 

Secondly, I could imagine how I might use MyBodyModel to test out some of my pattern modifications in sketches before I even cut into my fabric! How fantastic is that? I don’t know about you, but I cannot seem to follow pattern instructions to save my life. Often times I am altering before I even know it’s happening! Usually I am adding sleeves and pockets. (Sleeveless is great, it’s just not my style.) Also, pockets in EVERYTHING!

 

Of all of the templates in the MyBodyModel packet I found myself gravitating towards the 3 body layout. I like the way you can immediately compare your alterations side-by-side. Personally, I like to draw the original pattern on the left model and modify as I move across the page.

 

Here are four different ways that I’ve used the 3-models per page layout to plan my sewing projects:

 

1) Comparing different pattern views

Here I used my 3-models-per-page template from MyBodyModel to compare three different views of M7596 by The McCall Pattern Company

 

2) Sketching self-drafted project ideas

Here I used my 3-models-per-page template from MyBodyModel to try out three different versions of a self-drafted square top

 

3) Exploring pattern modifications and hacks

From adding sleeves to color-blocking, the possibilities are endless!

Here I used the 3-models layout to sketch three different versions of the Seamwork Catarina dress pattern

 

Here I used the 3-models layout to explore fabric direction, pattern placement, and color blocking ideas for the Seamwork Georgia dress pattern

 

4) Designing a refashioned garment

I decided to test out my refashioning skills with a RTW Modcloth dress that I bought many moons ago. It has never been worn or out of my closet. It fits for the most part, but I just don’t like the way it lays. I think it has survived several closet purges because it is really bright and unlike anything else I own.

 

 

See? Not great looking. I sketched out a couple of options, first as a flowy tank top and then as a skirt. The neck pleats were really my least favorite part of the dress so I went with the skirt.

 

 

First I measured the length of the skirt I wanted. The ideal length was 25″ on the red and off-white outer skirt and 24″ on the off-white under skirt. Since I was using 1.5″ waistband elastic I went ahead and added 2″ to that. Measuring from the bottom of the outer skirt I cut 27″ off. Measuring from the bottom of the underskirt I cut 26″ off.

 

 

I’m lazy so I kept the hem in the skirts and just folded over the edge that I had cut at the top to create the elastic waistband casing. It was done in no time!

 

 

 

Voila! I think it is much more my style and will actually get worn. I only have a little bit of fabric left from the shoulders and neck that will go into my scrap bin. I’m so glad I had a way to visualize how I could refashion this dress and I can’t wait to try more!