How to Alter Bust on a Dress Pattern

Altering a dress pattern to fit your bust size perfectly is a crucial step in creating a garment that flatters your figure. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, understanding how to adjust the bust measurement on a dress pattern can make a significant difference in the final fit. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of altering bust on a dress pattern, ensuring that your dress fits comfortably and looks stunning.

Step 1: Measure Your Bust

Before you start altering the dress pattern, it’s essential to measure your bust accurately. Use a soft measuring tape and measure around the fullest part of your bust, just under your arms. This measurement will help you determine how much you need to add or subtract from the pattern.

Step 2: Analyze the Pattern

Examine the dress pattern and identify the bust point, which is the highest point on the bodice. This point is crucial for determining where you need to make adjustments. If the bust point is too low or too high, it will affect the overall fit of the dress.

Step 3: Add or Subtract Width

To add width to the bust, you’ll need to adjust the side seam of the bodice. Draw a new side seam line from the bust point to the hem, ensuring that the new line is parallel to the original side seam. If you need to subtract width, draw a new side seam line that is closer to the center front.

Step 4: Adjust the Armhole

Next, adjust the armhole depth and width. If you’re adding width to the bust, you may need to deepen the armhole to accommodate the additional fabric. Conversely, if you’re subtracting width, you may need to narrow the armhole.

Step 5: Redraw the Armhole and Side Seam

Using a ruler and a pen, redraw the armhole and side seam lines on the pattern, following the new measurements you’ve determined. Make sure to maintain the original shape of the armhole and side seam to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 6: Cut and Sew

Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments to the dress pattern, cut out the fabric according to the new measurements. Follow the original sewing instructions, making sure to align the side seams and armholes properly.

Step 7: Test Fit

Before you finish sewing the dress, try it on to ensure that the alterations have improved the fit. Make any final adjustments as needed, and then proceed with the sewing process.

Conclusion

Altering the bust on a dress pattern is a skill that can elevate your sewing abilities and help you create custom garments that fit your body perfectly. By following these steps, you’ll be able to adjust your dress pattern to fit your bust size, resulting in a beautiful and flattering dress that you’ll love wearing.