Save the Date for the FTWG 2026 Conference

April 16 - 19, 2026

Custom Fit and Fabulous: Create a Pattern Custom Fit for You

Skill Level

All Levels Welcome

Required Skills:

Helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of sewing clothing

Class Schedule

Class Length:

Two and a Half Days

Class Times:

Description

No more one-size-fits-all, or clothes from rectangles! Choose between a time-tested classic jacket pattern, with a band or shawl collar, short, long, or swing. Or choose a vest pattern, short or long, with collar and armhole options, or a tunic pattern. Participants will learn to custom fit for their individual figures. Some simple flat pattern and drafting skills will be taught in this workshop. Expect to leave with at least one finished pattern and directions to make a fabulous garment from your hand-woven, felts or other fabulous fabric. We will also spend some time understanding commercial patterns, how they don't fit, and what to do about it! The photos included here are some of the silhouettes students may choose from.  Students will be fitting and tracing patterns, NOT actually making a garment.  

Students to Bring

  • Tape measure
  • Small 6" seam gauge
  • Scissors
  • 2 or 3 good quality colored pencils (i.e., Sanford Prismacolor)
  • Hand held pencil sharpener
  • Notebook and pen (a highlighter is also helpful)
  • A cardboard cutting board with printed grid or foam core or a large piece of cardboard at least 24 x 36"
  • Push pins for holding pattern to cardboard cutting board
  • See-thru straight edge roller at least 18" long
  • Straight pins for pin fitting pattern together

Instructor Bio

Daryl Lancaster, a hand-weaver and fiber artist known for her award-winning hand-woven fabric and garments, has been constructing garments for more than half a century. She gives lectures and workshops to guilds, conferences, and craft centers all over the United States. The former Features Editor for Handwoven Magazine, she has written more than 100 articles and digital content, frequently contributes to various weaving and sewing publications and including Threads Magazine. She now has a YouTube channel, The Weaver Sews where she shares her extensive experience sewing handwoven garments. Daryl maintains a blog at www.weaversew.com/wordblog Find her at www.Daryllancaster.com

Gallery

These photos were provided by the instructor to demonstrate the experience of taking this class.