BOOK CLUB: Perfect Fitting - Sarah Veblen

The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting: Sarah Veblen

One of the most frequently shared challenges by members of my community is the issue of achieving a good fit.... and for many it seems to be a huge minefield.

It is tiring to be constantly making clothes that don't quite fit right.  It is ok to dream of garments that flatter your figure and make you feel confident. But it is like running an emotional gauntlet and it is so hard to know even where to begin. "The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting" by Sarah Veblen might be the key to learning how to fit, and it's a book I go back to over and over again if things become a bit tricky.

First things first - this book is aimed at serious sewists who want to take their garment construction to the next level so if you are TOTAL beginner, there are probably some more basic fundamentals you need to embed first.  Having said that, even as a beginner it is a good read and something to have on the shelf for when the day comes that you'll need it.

It is not for a quick fix though and Veblen emphasises the importance of fitting a muslin or toile (a test garment made from inexpensive fabric) to identify and fix fitting issues before tackling your final project. I talk about this a lot, but you may find that to get the right fit you have to make more than 1 toile to be able to get closer to the elusive alteration which results in the most well fitting garment you have ever made.  It is an iterative process, and it takes time.  This time is worth taking!

My absolute favourite thing about this book is that the methods begin with the garment on the body, and the photographs explain what you're looking for.  It takes the basic idea of 'Where do I need more fabric?' and 'Where do I need less?' which is a fundamental of my approach to fitting, and shows you what to look for and how to translate this onto a pattern, without the sometimes overly complicated 'adjustments' that you are often advised to do by bloggers et al.

It is really instinctive, and in my view, takes some of the overwhelm out of a basic approach to fitting your makes.

Things I like about this book:

• Visual Learning: The book's title says it all - photos are central to the learning process. Veblen uses clear images to illustrate fitting problems and their solutions.
• Focus on fit, not size: The book acknowledges that commercial sized clothing rarely fits perfectly. Veblen's method encourages working from your own measurements to achieve a garment that drapes beautifully on your body.
• Photographic guide: The extensive use of photos makes it easier to identify fitting issues and visualize the solutions.
• Detailed Explanations: Veblen doesn't just show you what to do, she explains the why behind it. This helps you understand the fitting process and troubleshoot problems on your own.
• Wide Range of Issues: The book covers a comprehensive range of fitting issues, from common problems like drag lines and excess fabric to more unusual fitting challenges.
• Wide range of adjustments: The book covers a variety of body types and fitting problems, from gaping armholes to a sway back.
• Basic pattern-making: Veblen includes some basic pattern-making techniques to equip you with the skills to adapt patterns for a perfect fit.
• Pattern Adjustments: Veblen guides you through the process of transferring fitting adjustments from your muslin to your sewing pattern, ensuring a perfect fit in your final garment.

Things to consider:

• Learning Curve: This is not a beginner's guide. It assumes some basic knowledge of sewing terminology and pattern adjustments.
• Time Commitment: Achieving a perfect fit takes time and practice. This book is a valuable resource, but mastering fitting is a journey.

Overall, "The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting" is a well-regarded resource for serious sewists who want to achieve a custom fit in their garments. The detailed explanations, clear photos, and wide range of fitting issues covered make it a valuable addition to any sewing enthusiast's library.

BIGGEST TAKEAWAY: Be prepared to invest the time and effort to reap the rewards of perfectly fitting clothes!