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Member since 12/29/06
Posts: 83
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Posted on: 2/16/07 5:12 PM ET
I havn't made any clothing for myself yet but hope to after I finish some things for my girls. I have noticed a lot of people have extremely different RTW sizes compared to pattern sizes. I will make a muslin when I do venture on doing this but it is usually such a big difference ie - an 8-10 in RTW being a 14-16? I am on the borderline of plus size in RTW. I can sometimes wear a 16 but will need a FBA in the top.
Thanks
-Jessica
  
Member since 6/23/06
Posts: 3135
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Posted on: 2/16/07 5:18 PM ET
In reply to 3cutegrlz
I'm between a 14 and 16 in RTW. When I cut a pattern I usually have to use different cutting lines, from 18 on the top to 20 on the hip area. The best way to know is to take a full set of your measurements, and I mean everywhere - across the shoulders, upper arm circumference, back neck to waist, high hip, low hip, etc. etc. etc. Then measure the actual pattern piece (don't go by the body measurements on the pattern envelope) so you have a rough idea of where to start.

Good luck! And remember, size is just a number not a judgement...
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Sewing is my therapy!
  
Member since 9/14/05
Posts: 2037
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Posted on: 2/16/07 10:59 PM ET
RTW sizes have nothing similar to pattern sizes. A good starting point is to go by the body measurements on the envelope (bust or high bust for top/dress, hip for pant/skirt). You'll still want to double check with a muslin and flat pattern measure just to make sure.

Remember that you don't have to put the size label on the clothes. It's more important to have clothes that fit well, than use a smaller pattern size.

Just as a comparison I use size 8ish pattern size, but I'm a size 2-4ish RTW (not that anything fits me quite right anyway).
  
Member since 12/29/06
Posts: 83
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Posted on: 2/17/07 2:00 AM ET
Thank you, that helps a lot. i wasn't asking because I was worried about having to make a larger size, I just want to be prepared when I do decide to make something for myself because I can see myself making my regular size and being extremely dissapointed when I finished and it didn't fit.. Iv'e come to terms with what size I am after having 4 kids.
  
Member since 7/8/06
Posts: 947
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Posted on: 2/17/07 4:06 AM ET
Whatever size you decide on for yourself, PLEASE, before cutting into your material tissue fit the pattern on yourself. May need help from DH or a DF.

It took me years to learn this lesson after I changed from being a typical size 12 that didn't need any alterations.
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Life is too short to stuff mushrooms
  
Member since 11/30/04
Posts: 6459
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Posted on: 2/17/07 7:47 AM ET
A *very* loose rule of thumb is the four-size difference between RTW and pattern sizing.

I"m mostly a 4, sometimes a 6 RTW pant size with a RTW 8 jacket size, and use a size 12 pattern for both top and bottom.

It really depends more on your frame size than going by a true measurement IMO.
-- Edited on 2/17/07 7:48 AM --
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Big 4 Pattern size 12, RTW bottom: 6, RTW jacket 8, RTW top (no size fits me well!)
Measurements: 34 HB/36 FB (34C bra)/27.5/36 (and working hard to keep it that way.)
Machines: Sewing: Elna 760, vintage Kenmore Model 33 (1967), Janome Gem Gold 3, Singer Model 99, Singer 221/Featherweight, Bernina 1630. Sergers: Babylock Enlighten and Babylock Ovation. Embroidery Only: Janome 300E. Embroidery/Sewing Combo: Brother Dream machine. Straight Stitch: Janome 1600P.
Certified Palmer/Pletsch Pants Fitting Instructor
Blog: 21stcenturydiy.blogspot.com
  
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