Raise your hand if you: struggle with altering patterns, don’t know how to get pants to fit right, have no idea what your crotch curve should look like, and so on! I have been sewing for less than five years, and pants are still a bit elusive to me. I can sew pants blindfolded with one arm tied behind my back. I’ve got my method perfected, but fitting pants is still a nightmare. I have officially completely solved my pant fit issues.
DUCT TAPE BODY FORM
In the sewing community, we’ve probably all seen the duct tape body form for the poor sewer who can’t afford an actual dress form. That’s at least why I don’t own one. They’re expensive. But the duct tape form doesn’t suffice either in my book, which is why I’ve never made one. But I had this brilliant idea the other day, make the duct tape body form and then cut it out to create…
…an instant sloper!
Here’s what you’ll need: 2 rolls of duct tape, saran wrap, and scissors. I created a bottom sloper and will eventually make a top sloper. I found my natural waistline and started there and went down to the top of my knees. You could choose different starting and stopping points; it’s entirely up to you. I didn’t include my calves this time, but maybe the next time I will. I don’t have problems fitting pants below my knees, so that’s why I didn’t duct tape down to my ankles. Start by covering yourself with saran wrap. This gives the duct tape something to stick to that isn’t you or your clothes. Once you have saran wrap placed, start taping. I’m not sure there’s a correct method for taping. I know too much human anatomy, so I was generally following large muscle groups. NERD!!
When you are done taping, find a way to mark the center point of your side seam along your hip and the center point of your inseam. Next, cut along the center back until you can wiggle out of the thing. Now you are ready to create your sloper.
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