Plus Size Skater Dress: Free Sewing Patterns & How-To Guide

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Plus Size Skater Dress: Free Sewing Patterns & How-To Guide

Hey, sewing enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for the perfect plus size skater dress sewing pattern? You've come to the right place! A skater dress is a fantastic addition to any wardrobe. It’s fun, flirty, and incredibly versatile. Whether you're hitting the dance floor, going on a casual date, or just want something comfortable yet stylish for everyday wear, a skater dress is your go-to. But finding the right pattern in a plus size can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Fear not! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including where to find free sewing patterns, how to adjust patterns for a perfect fit, and essential tips for sewing your dream skater dress. So, grab your sewing machine, and let’s dive in!

Why a Skater Dress?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of sewing, let's talk about why skater dresses are so awesome. The beauty of a skater dress lies in its universally flattering shape. It features a fitted bodice that cinches at the waist and a circular skirt that flares out. This design accentuates your smallest point, creating a lovely hourglass silhouette. The flared skirt is not only stylish but also super comfortable and allows for easy movement. Seriously, what's not to love? For those of us who are plus size, the skater dress is especially great because it balances proportions and highlights our best features. It's a confidence booster that you can customize to your heart's content.

Versatility is Key

One of the biggest advantages of a skater dress is its versatility. Dress it up with heels and statement jewelry for a night out, or dress it down with sneakers and a denim jacket for a casual daytime look. You can wear it in any season by simply changing the fabric and adding layers. In the summer, opt for lightweight cotton or linen. As the weather cools down, switch to cozy knits or even velvet for a touch of elegance. The possibilities are endless!

Confidence Booster

Let's be real, finding clothes that make you feel good can sometimes be a challenge. But a well-fitted skater dress can work wonders for your confidence. The flattering silhouette, combined with the freedom to choose your favorite fabrics and embellishments, means you can create a dress that truly reflects your personal style. When you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows!

Finding Free Plus Size Skater Dress Sewing Patterns

Okay, let’s get down to business. Finding free plus size skater dress sewing patterns can be a bit of a treasure hunt, but there are definitely some gems out there. Here are some great places to start your search:

Online Sewing Communities

Online sewing communities and forums are goldmines for free patterns and helpful advice. Websites like Burdastyle, AllFreeSewing, and So Sew Easy often feature free patterns contributed by talented sewists. These communities are also great for getting feedback and troubleshooting any issues you might encounter while sewing.

  • Burdastyle: Known for its extensive collection of patterns, including many plus-size options. Keep an eye out for free pattern promotions.
  • AllFreeSewing: A great resource for all sorts of sewing projects, with a dedicated section for free dress patterns.
  • So Sew Easy: Offers a variety of free patterns and tutorials, including some skater dress variations.

Independent Designer Websites

Many independent pattern designers offer free patterns as a way to attract new customers. Check out websites like Mood Fabrics (known for their free patterns using their gorgeous fabrics), Peppermint Magazine (which collaborates with designers for free patterns), and various sewing blogs.

  • Mood Fabrics: Their free pattern section is a treasure trove of stylish designs. Just be aware that you'll need to navigate their fabric selection to find the perfect match.
  • Peppermint Magazine: Collaborates with independent designers to offer free, stylish patterns. Their skater dress pattern is a popular choice.
  • Sewing Blogs: Many sewing bloggers offer free patterns in exchange for signing up for their newsletter. It's a great way to discover new designers and get access to exclusive content.

PDF Pattern Search Engines

Websites like PatternReview and FreePatterns.com allow you to search for patterns based on garment type, size, and price. These search engines can help you quickly find free plus-size skater dress patterns that meet your specific needs.

  • PatternReview: A great place to read reviews of patterns before you start sewing. This can help you avoid patterns with known fitting issues.
  • FreePatterns.com: Offers a wide variety of free patterns, including many dress options. Just be sure to check the size ranges before you download.

Check for Printable Options

When you find a pattern, make sure it's available as a printable PDF. This makes it easy to print the pattern at home and piece it together. Look for patterns that include a size chart and clear instructions.

Adjusting Patterns for the Perfect Plus Size Fit

Okay, you've found a pattern you love, but it's not quite the right size? No problem! Adjusting patterns is a key skill for any sewist, especially when working with plus sizes. Here are some essential adjustments to ensure your skater dress fits like a dream:

Bust Adjustment (Full Bust Adjustment - FBA)

For many plus-size sewists, a full bust adjustment (FBA) is essential. This adjustment adds extra fabric to the bust area, ensuring the dress fits comfortably and flatters your shape. There are tons of great tutorials online that walk you through the FBA process step-by-step.

  • Why it's important: An FBA prevents the fabric from pulling across the bust, which can cause the dress to ride up in the front and feel uncomfortable.
  • How to do it: There are several methods for doing an FBA, but the most common involves slashing the pattern and spreading it to add extra width in the bust area. Be sure to true the seams after making the adjustment.

Waist Adjustment

If the waist of the dress is too tight or too loose, you'll need to adjust it. This is a relatively simple adjustment that involves adding or removing width from the side seams.

  • Why it's important: A well-fitted waistline is crucial for achieving a flattering silhouette. If the waist is too tight, it can be uncomfortable and create unflattering bulges. If it's too loose, the dress will look shapeless.
  • How to do it: To make the waist larger, add width to the side seams. To make it smaller, remove width from the side seams. Be sure to blend the adjustment smoothly into the hips and bust.

Hip Adjustment

Similar to the waist adjustment, you may need to adjust the hip area for a comfortable and flattering fit. This is especially important for skater dresses, as the skirt flares out from the hips.

  • Why it's important: A hip adjustment ensures that the skirt drapes smoothly and doesn't pull or cling in an unflattering way.
  • How to do it: To make the hips larger, add width to the side seams below the waist. To make them smaller, remove width from the side seams. Again, be sure to blend the adjustment smoothly into the waist and thighs.

Length Adjustment

Don't forget to adjust the length of the dress to suit your height and personal preference. This is a simple adjustment that can make a big difference in the overall look of the dress.

  • Why it's important: A dress that's too short can look disproportionate, while a dress that's too long can be impractical and unflattering.
  • How to do it: To lengthen the dress, add length to the hemline. To shorten it, remove length from the hemline. Be sure to maintain the original shape of the hemline when making this adjustment.

Muslin Mock-Up

Before cutting into your precious fabric, it's always a good idea to make a muslin mock-up of the dress. This allows you to test the fit and make any necessary adjustments before sewing the final garment. Trust me, it's worth the extra effort!

Essential Tips for Sewing Your Skater Dress

Alright, you've got your pattern and you've made your adjustments. Now it's time to sew! Here are some essential tips to help you create a beautiful and well-fitting skater dress:

Fabric Selection

Choosing the right fabric is crucial for a successful skater dress. Look for fabrics that have a good drape and are easy to work with. Some popular choices include:

  • Cotton: A versatile and affordable option that's perfect for beginners. Look for lightweight cotton with a good drape.
  • Linen: A breathable and comfortable fabric that's great for summer dresses. Linen can be a bit prone to wrinkling, so consider a linen blend.
  • Knit Fabrics: Knit fabrics like jersey or double knit are great for skater dresses because they have a nice stretch and drape. They're also very comfortable to wear.
  • Rayon: Rayon fabrics like challis or voile have a beautiful drape and are perfect for more formal skater dresses.

Seam Finishes

To prevent your seams from fraying, be sure to finish them properly. Some popular seam finishes include:

  • Serging: A serger is a specialized sewing machine that trims and finishes seams in one step. It's a great option for knit fabrics and other fabrics that are prone to fraying.
  • Zigzag Stitch: If you don't have a serger, you can use a zigzag stitch on your regular sewing machine to finish the seams.
  • Bias Tape: Bias tape is a strip of fabric that's folded and pressed to create a clean finish. It's a great option for delicate fabrics.

Pressing is Key

Pressing your seams as you sew is essential for achieving a professional-looking finish. Press each seam after you sew it, and use a pressing cloth to protect delicate fabrics.

Staystitching

Staystitching is a line of stitching that's sewn just inside the seam line to prevent the fabric from stretching out of shape. It's especially important for curved seams like the neckline and armholes.

Hemming

There are several different ways to hem a skater dress. Some popular options include:

  • Rolled Hem: A rolled hem is a narrow hem that's rolled and stitched in place. It's a great option for lightweight fabrics.
  • Double-Fold Hem: A double-fold hem is a wider hem that's folded twice to create a clean finish. It's a good option for heavier fabrics.
  • Blind Hem: A blind hem is a nearly invisible hem that's sewn with a special blind hem foot on your sewing machine.

Final Thoughts

Sewing a plus size skater dress is a rewarding project that allows you to create a custom-fit garment that perfectly reflects your personal style. With the right pattern, a few essential adjustments, and some basic sewing skills, you can create a beautiful and flattering dress that you'll love to wear. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sewing machine and get started on your dream skater dress today!