Copyright © 1997-
Dress Shop
Pattern drafting software
I love to sew. I have been sewing clothing and even wedding dresses long before I
figured out how to use a computer. Over time, my little girls grew up and it became
much easier to try on ready made clothing than figure out how to fit each girl in
traditional pattern sizes. I can still remember the day I made an Easter dress using
the guidelines on the back of a pattern and my daughter refused to wear the tent-
When I heard about pattern drafting software, I was curious and eager to try this new way of creating patterns. My younger daughter was planning to attend her Senior Ball in a few months, so I decided to give Dress Shop by livingsoft a try.
Dress Shop was quite easy to install on my Windows XP system, and I took a few minutes to look around in the help file before calling Sarah in to take the measurements the program requires. We spent quite a bit of time taking the almost 60 measurements that the program uses to create the perfect fitting pattern. After taking the measurements, I was instructed to print out a "Sloper" pattern. This is a test garment that should fit like a glove if I took the measurements right.
Sarah's first sloper did not fit quite right, mostly because she did not have a good supportive bra on when I took her measurements, and partly because I was using an improper reference for the middle line of her side. I corrected my measurements and the second one fit like a dream.
Now, on to the dress. The program did not have exactly what Sarah wanted, but I was experienced enough to make the necessary changes to the pattern. All I needed was for the pattern to fit her shape. I chose a princess design and added fullness to the skirt portion while cutting back on the shoulder line.
The result was a stunning red dress that fit Sarah perfectly with just enough ease for her to sit and move around during her ball. Dress Shop not only passed my test, but it exceeded my expectations. Now all I need to do is have someone take my 58 measurements.
I also have used Dress Shop to create a beautiful custom wedding dress for my friend, Paula, shown here on the right.
Elizabeth
