We all know about the problem of wearing uncomfortable or badly-fitting garments, or worse still, to be out somewhere and see someone wearing the same thing. When you create your own outfit this will no longer be a problem!
Whether you are a gifted dressmaker or a beginner, a dressmaker’s dummy is crucial. While creating clothes might appear to be effortless if you use a pattern, we all have different shapes, and the only way you can know that the outfit will fit properly is by using a tailor’s dummy. It enables you to make a custom-fitted garment for someone, thinking about particular measurements. Everyone’s body is different, and a perfect fit can only be achieved if you take advantage of a dressmaker’s dummy.
Making alterations is also not a big deal. It’s very hard to alter a garment using a flat piece of pattern paper – it takes way too long to get the measurements and then change the outline of the outfit. With a tailor’s mannequin, you are able to simply use pins to attach the garment in the appropriate place, and then switch things up think it’s necessary. Also, the fact that you can see the finished outfit on the mannequin enables you to add extra distinctive touches that you might not have thought of otherwise.
A dressmaker’s dummy is especially helpful when you want to observe just how the material will fall. This can change due to the weight of the fabric, and you will only know this if you use a 3-D. You will be able to to drape the fabric until you reach the shape that you are looking for. This relates to both a heavy fabric such as velvet or something floaty like gauze. A swing skirt, sheer blouse or long column dress can only be constructed correctly using a dummy.
If you are creating a one-of-a-kind piece for someone, it’s not a good idea to have them come in for constant fittings. Take the initial measurements, then use the dummy to find the correct fit until you have a garment that they are able try on. No-one likes getting pins stuck in them!
There are a few different types of dummies, varying in cost. They are made out of wire, foam or plastic. An adjustable form has dials around the hips, waist and bust, enabling you to create a custom fit according to your client. A foam form is particularly useful because you can attach the material right on to the form, and even iron the material when it is in place. It will have a waistline that can not only be expanded, but also lengthened, and will also take into account a person’s height. This is suitable for a person who has a large bust compared to small hips and vice versa. This kind of dressmaker dummy will cost you approximately 70 – 150. A non-adjustable form is usually available in a standard size (for example 8,10,12 and upwards). This is perfect if you have what is considered a normal shape for your size. The really costly type of tailor’s dummy is a professional form. This isn’t completely suitable for home or a small business as it only conforms to what is considered the ‘industry standard’. (This is why designer clothing doesn’t tend to correspond with normal size! Expect to pay about 250-500.
Whatever type of dressmaker’s dummy you you need, no matter what your skill level, producing superb outfits will be so easy. Release your inner dress designer!
Nicole A Ashton has worked within the dressmaking market for many years giving tips and suggestions relating to precisely what makes a very good dressmakers dummy for men at dressmakers-dummy.com
