How to Make a Toile

I love to sew and I often use a pre made pattern for the one reason I am not very good or enjoy pattern cutting (the traditional sort). Do I decided to try different type used in fashion houses. This technique is best if you have used paper patterns and are a confident sewer but can't pattern this is a great way to make your own designs.

1. Create a design, probably something simple at first. (This is my first time too)

2. Use flat elastic or string to map out the basic shape then add 1cm seam allowance. Only one half for a toile. This includes any pleats you may want in a skirt or top.

3. Next use either calico or like me an old bed sheet. Then cut a piece a bit bigger than your first part of the garment. Then fold in to the seams allowance then pin into the material and mannequin. Repeat for all parts of the garment.

4.Hand tack things like darts and pleat anything Lilly to fall once removed from the form. Then as your tack the rest of the pin out use them to keep the seam allowance in place. Once all off machine them all together right sides together.

5. Lastly cut any threads lose and pin back into the mannequin. To see end result. It was my first time too and I was really please of the result considering it was the first time.

6. Make any adjustment that you want for example I want my skirt more flared so I will make the appropriate changes. Then you can transfer the peices to paper for your final garment.

I hope you like and understand. If I haven't explained a part enough please tell me and I will expand on it or if it doesn't make sense! Enjoy and happy sewing.