This article shows how to grade your bodice pattern when your bust and waist measurements span 2 or more sizes.
This can also be a good technique to use if you just want more room in the bust area but not at the waist or vice versa. I am using the same hip ruler that I used to grade the skirt pattern.
I like to use the hip ruler because it has a bit of curve so that the grading line isn't just a straight line but has a bit of shape to it.
This time I am using the Maria Dress bodice pattern. The grading is being done from size L bust up to size XL waist. I have placed the ruler so that the straight edge is at the waistline.
The highlighted line shows the grading line.
This time I am grading down from M bust size to size S waist size.
The inside highlighted line shows the grading from size M to size S.
This particuar pattern has a lot of difference between sizes in the length of the bodice so you will need to determine what length you want your bodice to be before grading.
Don't forget to grade the back bodice as well!
Feel free to ask questions or leave a comment below!
FREE Dress Pattern
Where should we send the pattern?
Get on the waitlist
Cutting out a pattern from fabric is the first, most important step of the sewing project. It’s so important because it’s where everything starts and determines the end result. Before cutting out a sewing project you first need to prepare your pattern and fabric, then lay out the pattern to ensure the pieces fit and
Read MoreMorning routines are such a great way to get the day started. But what if it just doesn’t feel like the routine you have is working? It worked when you started but for some reason it’s not working now. It doesn’t bring satisfaction, it doesn’t accomplish what it used to, and it just feels like
Read MoreHow can I save time when sewing? How can I get sewing done but not take so much time with it? To save time in sewing begin by pre-washing fabric, collecting all supplies together ahead of time, and removing distractions. This prepares you for the best sewing experience, besides other successful strategies for sewing efficiently.
Read MoreWhen it comes to sewing your own clothes, some of the benefits seem like a no-brainer while other benefits require some digging to find them. I had to dig a bit to find some of the benefits because I have been sewing my own dresses and other things for most of my life. Sewing your
Read MoreSewing a dress is so much easier with the right tools. And the right tools aren’t necessarily so fancy or complicated. The most used sewing tools in sewing dresses are basically, but not limited to, a pair of scissors, stick pins, and a tape measure. These tools ensure an efficient sewing experience as well as
Read MoreIt’s an hour before mealtime and you don’t know what you are going to cook. A half hour goes by and your mind is still a blank. Now panic starts to set it. WHAT to cook? Make a plan. It’s that simple. Truly. A menu plan for the week. The simplest way to create a
Read MoreSewing Your Dress
6 important steps to get started
Where should we send your FREE checklist?