Jun 24 2009
Maternity Clothes - How to Alter Patterns Post Partum
Do you have a box full of maternity clothes that could be cute for your post-partum body? Or a bunch of maternity patterns that you lovingly fitted that lie dormant?
I have a need for a swim cover up. And I need to make it from this nice grey cotton knit fabric that is in my stash. I purchased the fabric on sale and made several items for DD when she was an infant. Then I grew tired of it, folded it up; and it sat in the stash for at least two years.
This still came out rather large. But that’s okay. It’s called a cover up for a reason.
On my hunt for a pattern, I discovered that I have very few tops that are not maternity. I am undeterred.
- Sewing Tips: Maternity patterns are typically cut with seven inches of ease. Standard Misses patterns are typically cut with four inches of ease, but varies. Check your pattern. It may be stamped right on the pattern pieces.
- This example pattern is Simplicity 9188. I purchased it according to high bust measurement, in early pregnancy. (Purchasing according to bust measurement means too large of shoulders for many people, including me.)
- Redraw your pattern onto craft paper using watersoluble marker. Cut out pattern with craft scissors before cutting fabric.
How to Alter a Maternity Pattern to Wear NOT Pregnant:
- Choose a pattern that will still look in style. This example has an empire waist that is popular right now in general.
- Reduce the length of the torso. Maternity patterns compensate for the bump. Even if you have a problem area type tummy, it’s probably nothing compared to what you had while very pregnant.
- Change the length of the pattern piece throughout, not just at the bottom. For example, fold the skirt into pleats in the pattern paper in the middle of the pattern piece, then redraw the lines to maintain the silhouette of the pattern. If you’re short use the pattern markings on the bodice for Petite. If not, just adjust the piece that will go over the tummy.
- Adjust your pattern for less ease. Choose a safe amount.
- Cut out your redrawn pattern.
- Baste your garment together and try it on for fit. Adjust accordingly. Depending on the pattern and your body, you may need to take in fewer inches in the front than back or vice-versa. (My guesses fit my shoulders and bust. However the armscye was too large. And the tummy still ridiculously large. Apparently, I am not as fat as I imagine.)
- After making your adjustments, baste and try on again. If you’re happy, remark your pattern for future use. Make sure you use craft scissors and not your sewing shears if you redrew onto craft paper.
- Sew when you are completely satisfied with your fitting adjustments.
