Get A Great Fit For Your Sewing Projects With A Dressmakers Dummy
Whether you are a dressmaker, a seamstress, or just enjoy sewing and altering clothes at home, a dressmakers dummy can be a helpful addition to your sewing equipment. The three dimensional view of your project in progress can be helpful when fitting garments, checking fabric drapes correctly and measuring accurate alterations. eBay have a range of models at a number of price points.
What are the useful qualities of a dressmakers dummy?A dressmakers dummy, sometimes called a sewing or dress form, a tailors dummy, or a mannequin, is a life-size dummy for clothes while you construct them or make alterations. Dummies usually have a padded covering which allows you to pin your sewing to the form, holding the fabric in place. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be adjustable to reflect the size of the person. They are available in male or female body shapes. The more basic have fewer adjustable parts, but at the higher end of the market they become more precise and flexible, with more adjustable parts. With a dressmakers dummy that most accurately reflects your own size and shape, optimal results can be achieved in the fit of the clothing.
What size dressmakers dummy should you buy?When looking at available dressmakers dummies, a variety of sizing options are available to choose from, just as when purchasing a dress pattern. Knowing your true body measurements is a good starting place when looking for a dress form. A dummy can be padded to add extra shape but cannot be reduced. Look for the perfect match for your body shape and size. Perhaps ask a friend to help you take your correct measurements and take into account body length, height, bust, waist, centre back, hip, crotch, shoulder, and neck sizes.
How will you use your dressmakers dummy?Something else to consider when buying a dressmakers dummy is what projects you will be using it for. Variants include:
- Leg forms: If you often make trousers, consider a dummy that comes with leg forms to help with these projects.
- Hem makers: An add-on that helps to get the length and consistency of a hem correct.
- Portability: Some dressmakers dummies come with wheels which make them easy to move around.
- Budget: Consider buying second hand as people's body shapes change - a used model is an ideal way to try out a sewing form.