Fantastic Fit for Everybody: How to Alter Patterns to Flatter Your Figure

I used this book to finally make a pattern that fits, as I am unable to buy retail clothing, even though I am of petite size. This book is full of wonderful inspiration and practical wisdom. I noted that one of the customer reviews complained that the book left off before the solution was offered. I couldn't agree more. There is so much in the book that fitting a pattern (and Thank you, Monster Paper!) is done with book in hand and not for the faint hearted, but worth the effort. Only through the princess seaming was I able to get the fit correct. Thank you, Gale grigg Hazen?

OK, I'll try not to get too touchy-feely here...but what I am going to remember about this book is how it has helped me accept my body the way it is! (protruding outer thighs, and small bust and "handles" on the back out of my thighs...in case you were curious! ; ) ) It has almost been a spiritual experience!Ms. Hazen is a "round" woman with sparkle and a big heart. And almost every page there is a quote about how to accept yourself, don't be too critical, etc. etc. Truly, after realizing how NORMAL it is to not be the "norm", and after realizing how hard I've been on myself because I don't have slender lower hips...I have now accepted my body. I am truly grateful to Ms. Hazen for this one gift.The croquis exercise was excellent...made the book worthwhile. You really do learn how your body is shaped in a 3-demensional way...wonderful! It is a great experience you should do as a sewer to understand your shape.The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because after she explains the need to fit, and the philosophy of fitting...I was left wondering how MUCH to fit and some exact details. I'll get these other details from other books. And the only other criticism is that all of these women used as fitting examples were plus sized. It's great to fit ALL sizes, and I am so glad women of that size can create clothes they feel good in, but it made it harder for me to relate because I am not in that size range. Also, it's harder to see fitting problems in the bigger sizes. Even with these small criticisms I still think this is a very worthwhile book and I have only the utmost love and respect for Ms. Hazen. She is a very special woman. Thank you Gail!!! By the way, you look great in the clothes you make!

I'm just a so-so sewer, and this book was tremendously helpful to me. First, it gave me hope that I might actually be able to sew something that would fit. Second, it gave me focused instructions on how to make particular changes. Third, they worked.If you are looking for the a-z of pattern fitting, this isn't it. But for a refreshing point of view and great ideas, I haven't found anything else in its league. (It's fun, too.)