Class Schedule
Eastern time (EST)
- Session 1: Thursday Nov 19, 6:30-8:30 PM
- Session 2: Thursday Nov 26, 6:30-8:30 PM
- Session 3: Thursday Dec 3, 6:30-8:30 PM
What You’ll Learn
Using a workbook containing half-scale pattern blocks, we will work through a range of fitting exercises, learning each concept and applying it to the block.
You will leave with a completed set of exercises that becomes your own personal reference book of pattern alterations, ready to return to whenever a new pattern needs adjusting.
Here is a list of the alterations we will cover:
Fitting Foundations
- Taking measurements and choosing the correct pattern size
- Understanding wearing ease versus design ease
- Garment alteration concepts and how to prepare a pattern for alterations
- Grading between sizes and beyond the pattern envelope
- Understanding what good fit looks like and how to detect fit issues
- Using wrinkles as a diagnostic tool
- The sequence of fit adjustments and why order matters
- How to true a dart
Back
- High round back and low round back adjustments
- Full and partial broad and narrow back adjustments
- Back gaping armhole
- Adding a back shoulder dart
- Erect and sway back adjustments
Shoulders and Neckline
- Gaping neckline adjustment
- Shoulder height adjustment
- Wide and narrow shoulder adjustments
- Forward shoulder and sleeve adjustment
Bust
- Understanding dart components
- Shortening a dart
- Raising and lowering a dart based on a repositioned bust point
- Full and small bust adjustments, including Y-line for larger adjustments
Sleeve
- Increasing and decreasing bicep circumference
- Lengthening and shortening a sleeve with an elbow dart
- Adjusting the sleeve to match changes made to the bodice
Included in Class
- Three live sessions on Zoom.
- A PDF workbook written by Kristiann, containing half-scale pattern blocks and the fitting exercises.
- A three-page printable fitting record (size and ease worksheet, muslin checklist and adjustment log) to use when you fit your own patterns.
- Recordings of each session, available for 30 days following the final workshop date.
Class Supplies
- Your class workbook printed out, single-sided
- 2" binder for workbook
- paper scissors
- Pencil, pen and eraser
- Ruler (preferably gridded drafting ruler)
- Awl or push pin
- Measuring tape
- Several sheets of paper or tracing paper for making adjustments
- Scotch tape (matte, not glossy, so it can be written on)
- Optional (pointed tracing wheel)
Who This Class Is For
Intermediate
This class is best suited to sewers who are comfortable following a garment pattern and have sewn clothing before. If you are past the beginner stage and ready to take on the challenge of fit, this class is the right next step.
This class is great if you:
- Have sewn garments before and are comfortable following a sewing pattern
- Are frustrated with how your handmade clothes fit and are not sure how to fix it
- Have been making do with ill-fitting garments rather than knowing how to fix it
- Want to stop guessing and develop a reliable, systematic approach to fit
- Are ready to invest in a skill that will improve every garment you make from this point forward
Course-Specific Notes:
This class covers the bodice and sleeve only. We will not be making a muslin in class
Virtual Class Details:
This is a live, online workshop taught by me, Kristiann, streaming directly from my home sewing studio. Class sizes are kept small so I can give each participant individualized guidance and real-time feedback throughout each session.
What you’ll need:
- A laptop or tablet with a reliable internet connection and a basic webcam. A larger screen is strongly recommended for the best visibility.
- Classes are held on Zoom, and if you don’t already have it, you can download Zoom here.
Zoom details:
- Your Zoom link and password will be emailed the day before the first session to the address provided at checkout. Please double-check your email address when registering.
My Camera Setup:
- An overhead close-up view of my work surface for demonstrations
- A face-to-face camera for lecture and conversation
If you fall behind:
Each session is recorded. If you fall behind during class or need to miss a session, recordings are available the following day for review, and will be available for 30 days following the final workshop date.
Class Policies & Cancellations
Please review our class policies before registering, including cancellation and refund terms.