The central idea behind the book is to provide just three basic patterns a bodice, a skirt and a sleeve which you can adapt, mix and match to make over 70 different garments.
A stumbling block with many beginners to dressmaking is getting the fit right, so one of the first things the reader will do is take their own measurements and make up a sample bodice, adjusting it to get the perfect fit. After that will be four different variations on bodice (each with a different neckline), four variations on the skirt (circle, gathered, box pleats and straight), and four types of sleeve (long, short/cap, frilled or sleeveless). The three patterns can be put together to create 64 different dress styles; adapted to make four different skirts or four tops; or the pattern for the straight skirt can be joined to any of the bodice patterns to make a straight dress.
About Helen Rhiannon
As a fully qualified teacher and lecturer, Helen Rhiannon set up the All Sewn Up sewing workshops in October 2010, designed to help people learn and develop new skills, and to be creative. She runs sewing workshops regularly, teaching people how to make items such as bags, cushions, toys and garments. Her expert tuition has attracted students from as far afield as Spain and Saudi Arabia. For more information on Helen’s work, visit www.allsewnupwales.co.uk where you can also find a wide range of tutorials and Helen’s YouTube channel.
Helen is also an award-winning fashion designer specializing in bespoke wedding dresses. She creates beautiful, timeless, handmade gowns from her home in Swansea, Wales. Helen has gained a solid reputation for her superlative dressmaking skills and her bespoke bridal wear website can be viewed here: www.helenrhiannon.com.
