Plus Sized Patterns

Does anyone know of a particular resource for finding plus sized patterns.  From what I've seen at Joanns, it's pretty hit or miss.  I have found a few, but they tend to be a bit.....frumpy.  I'm not one to have all my bits hanging out, but I'd also not like to dress like my grandmother. 

It's a bit of a double whammy as my pattern size tends to be about 4-5 sizes bigger than my "normal" size.

Thanks!






Rachel
http://www.rachelsrandomness.blogspot.com

Are you a new or experienced sewer?  If you have some experience, I would recommend trying the Lutterloh System.  It's a German pattern drafting system that uses miniature patterns that you enlarge using a special ruler based on your bust and hip measurements.  (It's not as hard as it sounds.)  All of the patterns can be made up to 55" bust or hip.  And, they have an XXL version that can be used for 44"-68" bust or hip.  There's a basic system book, and they publish four supplements per year with current styles.

The great thing is you can use the bodice from one pattern, the sleeve from another, etc.  I've been using this system for a few years now, and I love it.

If you have a Hancock Fabrics near you, they occasionally hold how-to classes under the name "Design to Fit."

Let me know if you'd like more information.  There are a couple of sources in the US where you can order.

I have used several patterns from the Khaliah Ali Collection by Simplicity for a client. She was very happy with them.
 http://simplicity.com/index.cfm?crit=1065&id=1123&StartRow=1

I did find the Khaliah Ali collection and bought a pattern from it.  I haven't tried yet though.


For the Lutterloh System, do you know where to purchase it?  I went to the website and the prices are in pounds.  We don't have a Hancock Fabrics anywhere near here as far as I know. 


Thanks for the tips!

I sent you some ideas by email. Let me know if you have any questions!

I haven't tried them, but a lot of sewers on Pattern Review and in Threads magazine speak highly of Kathleen Cheetham's Petite Plus Patterns ( http://www.petitepluspatterns.com/ ). Apparently, the patterns are relatively easy to adjust for taller women.

I've used a few of the Khaliah Ali patterns; the skirts and pants seem OK to me, but the tops really swim on me....

I can't recommend Hot Patterns (www.hotpatterns.com) highly enough.  All of their patterns go up to size 26 and they are very well written.  And they have great customer service.  the patterns are printed on nice heavy paper, so no flimsy tissue ripping.

Here's an example of one of their new patterns:

I was first introduced to Connie at the Houston Quilt Show several years ago.  These patterns are wonderful and have a great fit!  She designed these herself.  I see that she has now teamed up with Butterick patterns and is doing patterns for them.   Hope this helps.   www.fashionpatterns.com