Pattern Fitting With Confidence Paperback – July 21, 2008

These step by step instructions in pattern alteration were so very helpful. Thank you, Nancy Zieman.

This is well written, easy to understand and has illustrations to help understand.Covers so many fittings issues.

Great illustrations and descriptions.

This is a nice book and well written. I also watched the video on uTubes. I’m a male and make dresses, skirts, and coats for my wife. I normally buy patterns by the bust size and end making alterations to make things fit. In her book, she suggest starting with a simple pattern at first. But, me being a hardheaded male decided to try vintage Vogue pattern V1669. Using her measuring technique, the pattern size I needed was a 14 which measures out to a 36 bust. She a 42 so I needed to add 6 inches and with this pattern it required some work. But, I got it finished and it fits like a glove without any additional alterations. So, start off with something simple. Lol.

Good information, detailed with pictures.Enjoying this book.

I was able to use this book to help me with some pattern fitting issues this weekend. The book suggests starting with a simple pattern (no yokes or gathers, etc). I started with Simplicity 2054. My problem with patterns is that I am in between sizes. For example, I am a 12 or 14 on top and then a 16 or 18 on the bottom. It's not a big deal if those sizes are all in one package, but on this particular pattern - the size goes up to 14 in the smaller envelope. Size 16 starts the next envelope. Well, I don't want to buy two so I figured I would buy for my top half since hip sizing is "easier".Simplicity 2054 is a one piece dress with sleeves and a cowl neck. Until I read this book, I wasn't sure how to increase the size I needed and still keep the integrity of the pattern. This book showed me how to do that perfectly. It uses the pivot method which is so helpful.I also had to increase the size of the sleeve. Again, using the pivot method - I was able to create a wider sleeve to fit my arms. I guess I have big arms :/I also learned I could use simple tissue paper (as used in gift bags) to trace the pattern and such. This made the process so much easier and my pattern pieces are still intact.There is also a section for pants fitting, combination increase (waist) /decrease (hip), back fitting, etc. I'm just trying to give you a general idea. I did see adjustments for sway back, broad back, etc.I really liked how the book showed me how to compare pattern measurements to my body measurements. Once you do that - you can see what changes you need to focus on. It was great! I will be doing this for every pattern I have.The only thing I didn't see - was how to adjust for a separate mid front or mid back piece. I need to go over it again with a fine tooth comb and see if it's in there or if there's an "intuitive" way to figure that out. As I work more from this book, I will provide updates. As always, please feel free to email me and ask any questions.Overall, I'm very happy with this book and I recommend it for someone who is unsure about pattern sizing and fit. I have a new dress thanks to this book.

The only thing I did not like was that on the program she showed how to alter 8 piece princess seam blazers but it is not in the book.

I have been sewing for many years and still have trouble with the perfect fit ,Nancy's book has clear concise instruction's ,especially in choosing the right size on your pattern measurements and how to use the pivoting method of tracing your correct measurements,