Wedding Dress Patterns

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   where can i go to get wedding dress patterns?
   I am looking for a wedding dress pattern for an Amelie wedding dress, where can i go to get a pattern.

   • ANSWER:
     Any fabric store (and most Wal-Marts) will carry patterns for dresses. However, designers generally do not sell their patterns. If they did, they wouldn't sell any dresses

2. QUESTION:
   where can i find someone to draw wedding dress patterns?
   i'm going to have a friend sew my wedding dress, but she needs a pattern. the dress i want is not going to be typical in any way, and i was wondering where i could find someone to draw up a pattern with my measurements based on what i need. all help is appreciated!!

   • ANSWER:
     You need to locate a pattern maker. You can call dressmakers in your local community or try http://www.paccprofessionals.org. Look at there directory of sewing professionals to find the right dressmaker/ pattern maker.

3. QUESTION:
   Where can i find wedding dress patterns?
   Getting married in a year and I am considering having a dress made instead of buying. I have about a 500 budget for everything. and while I have found some nice dresses in stores I would like to see if any patterns strike me. Only I cant find any! No nice ones anyway. I have looked through McCall's and Simplicity, and nothing really there- any other places AI can look?

   • ANSWER:
     Why not buy a simple cheaper one on line and get it altered so it fits you perfectly and get a few bits added by them too. It'd probably be cheaper that way?

4. QUESTION:
   where can i find empire style wedding dress patterns?
   my step mom is going to make my wedding dress but i cant seem to find a pattern that i like where else might i find pattern besides mc calls and others that are sold at like hobby lobby and places like that

   • ANSWER:
     Honestly, if someone were good enough to make a wedding dress... they wouldn't need a pattern from somewhere else.

     If she can design, let her. Otherwise, you can purchase a nice dress for 0-200 used or new. Just takes some time to find one.

     Good luck.

     Edit: I see what you mean about the McCalls patterns. This one is nice though. Not empire, but it is simple and can be added to. You could also just make the waist shorter, and add length to the skirt...

     http://betsyvintage.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=130&products_id=5326&zenid=ef0d52666e334a854e696ab8188f4950

5. QUESTION:
   does anyone know where I can find wedding dress patterns?
   I want to make my own wedding dress and bridesmaids for my wedding and I can not find a pattern ANYWHERE online if anyone knows a place where I can find it please let me know.

   • ANSWER:
     they might have some on ebay. mostly you should check out stores like walmart and joannes or other fabric supply stores.
     they sell patterns from mccalls and other pattern makers.

     i have seen TONS of selections at joannes fabrics. i'd start there.

6. QUESTION:
   Anyone know of somewhere I can find wedding dress patterns?
   I want to make my own dress and I have decided that I want a colonial style dress. Everywhere that I try to find a pattern the only thing I'm finding is costumes. Should I try to work with that or look into trying to find another style of dress that I like?

   • ANSWER:
     I think if you just take one of those colonial patterns and use only white fabrics, that will make it look at lot more wedding and less "costumey." The important thing about those patterns is that they have the shape and details from the colonial period. I know all the major pattern houses have patterns for this. You might also check here: http://www.reddawn.net/costume/butterk.htm and here: http://www.sewingcentral.com/cgi-bin/Web_store/web_store.cgi?page=timef.html&cart_id=2837771_27153

     Even if you're an experienced seamstress, you should also pick up a good book on bridal sewing. I sew a lot, but the techniques that you use on a bridal gown vs. a regular dress are a lot different. I used commercial patterns, but followed the instructions for construction in these two books:
     http://www.amazon.com/Bridal-Couture-Techniques-Wedding-Evening/dp/0801987571/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1215775067&sr=8-1
     and http://www.amazon.com/Bridal-Gowns-Wedding-Dress-Dreams/dp/0935278516/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1215775067&sr=8-5

     Ignore the cheesy covers on the books, the information on the inside is priceless, and easy to follow. I found it helpful to have two books, because sometimes one didn't make sense to me- so it was kind of like having a second opinion! The second book also talks about combining patterns- which you may need to do if you can't find one pattern you truly love. I used their couture sewing techniques, my dress came out crisp and professional.

7. QUESTION:
   Wedding dress patterns?
   I want to make my own wedding dress, but all the pattern books like Vogue, Butterick, Simplicity etc have rather awful and outdated looking stuff. I have never liked pattern book stuff. Does anyone know where else you can get bridal patterns? (I just want simple elegance, A-line dress)

   • ANSWER:
     Good luck with making your wedding dress!
     It is a great challenge and a worthwhile job to do painstakingly.

     If you don't like the pattern book pattern for bridal wear, my suggestion is to go back to the books and find a pattern of a simple princess line dress that you do like.
     The bodice is the most important part. Try and get a neckline you like. The skirt is much easier to alter from the waist down
     Look at either evening or regular day wear; modern, retro, vintage, classic or history.

     Then make your own alterations to turn it into a wedding gown. It is surprisingly not that hard to do! The hard part is making the basic gown that is then decorated to look like a wedding gown.

     Some older patterns to look through;
     http://www.sovintagepatterns.com/vintagepatterns.html
     http://www.sovintagepatterns.com/gownpatterns.html
     http://www.alleycatscratch.com/lotr/makingem/Patterns/ShapeIndex.htm#Princess
     http://www.buzzle.com/articles/design-your-own-wedding-dress.html
     http://www.etelestia.com/
     http://www.fashiondesignonline.com/

     Other suggestion is to find something close to what you want and try and find a pattern-maker / drafter who can make the pattern or alterations for you.
     Experienced dressmakers should be able to make the pattern alterations as well,
     Otherwise, the only other person I can think of is a sewing/ dressmaking tutor either working privately or teaching in a technical college.
     There are also some companies that specialise in pattern making... if you can find them!

     I had a dressmaking tutor who was working privately. She was fantastic; an ex Tech College Fashion Design teacher who had also done bridal work in a bridal salon. She guided me through the making of my gown and checked what alterations I was making. The decorations/ beading etc was left to me. My bridal consultant where I bought the fabric and lace, helped me with the lace placement on the skirt.

     I wanted a Victorian style wedding gown and was pretty certain I would end up making it. I found my pattern in the History section of Butterick books.
     My first choice of pattern was http://www.butterick.com/item/B3012.htm
     but it needed too many alterations to the bodice to get what I envisioned... high neckline and sleeves.
     My second pattern was http://www.butterick.com/item/B4212.htm?search=B4212&page=1
     and my gown was made from this one, with a few alterations to the pattern's skirt... opened up the skirt to take a semi cathedral length train. The jacket was great!

     It is amazing what the fabric and lace and beading can do to the pattern!
     I used heavy bridal champagne ivory satin, ivory organza at the bodice top, ivory lace motifs on bodice and jacket, wide ivory lace sewn onto pleated organza, same lace heavily beaded sewn onto the train; heavily beaded white narrow lace at the neckline and down the front side seams of the skirt, seed beads with silver lining, pearl 3mm beads and glass pearl beads 4mm, champagne sequins.
     The gown turned out beautifully.

     Best wishes for making the dress of your dreams!

8. QUESTION:
   anyone know any good sites where I can get wedding dress patterns?

   • ANSWER:
     http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M5321.htm?tab=evening_prom_bridal&page=1
     http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M4776.htm?tab=evening_prom_bridal&page=2
     http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V2979.htm?tab=evening_bridal_includes_designer&page=1
     http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V2883.htm?tab=evening_bridal_includes_designer&page=4
     http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V2842.htm?tab=evening_bridal_includes_designer&page=5
     http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V2803.htm?tab=evening_bridal_includes_designer&page=6

9. QUESTION:
   wedding dress patterns 3 tiered sweetheartneckline?
   im trying to find a dress pattern i can use to make my wedding dress if you could help that would be great thanks

   • ANSWER:
     you need more info, a picture perhaps? Send me an email or IM me on Yahoo Mess Shermia.trueheart@yahoo.com my sn on YIM is Shermia.trueheart

10. QUESTION:
    Do you know of any good wedding dress pattern sites?
    I'm looking to make my wedding dress on my own. Please don't just google "wedding dress patterns" and then paste the sites that come up. I've done that on my own If you really know of a good site or something then your help is appreciated and thanks so much!!!

    • ANSWER:
      Walmart, JoAnn Fabrics and Hancock Fabrics if you are looking for a store.

      Without knowing the styles you like? It's hard to try and get you to variety.

      Have you tried e-bay? They have some.

      Do you have a Dress pattern that you just love?
      Couldn't you just take sleeves from the one and add those to your favorite? Cut the bottom longer on the back piece so you have a train. etc?

      Lets say you love the Renaissance Period......gut a Renaissance Dress Pattern and the material all white. Beautiful!

      Watch all Walmarts - tables. I have really found material.......but we have 6 within 38 miles of here.

11. QUESTION:
    Custom wedding dress sewing patterns?
    My friend is making my wedding dress but she needs a pattern. We have searched at every fabric store in our area and every website we could find but no luck. Is there any place where I could get a custom made pattern?

    • ANSWER:
      Yes, though it's likely to be quite expensive. Pattern work in this area costs -100/hr; an elaborate gown might take a day or more's labor for patterning.

      Try http://www.paccprofessionals.org/mc/page.do?sitePageId=120639

      What is it that you're looking for?

12. QUESTION:
    Where can I find Wedding Dress Sewing Patterns online?
    I know a seamstress who can sew a wedding gown for me, but I have to find a good pattern. I have a type in mind, but I can't find anywhere online where I can browse through patterns. Does anyone know where I could look?

    • ANSWER:
      Try looking for sewing patterns on ebay. Also, try Simplicity or McCall's. They have beautiful patterns for gowns, coordinating bridesmaids' and flower girl dresses. You might also try looking in Walmart or a fabric store if you happen to be near there one day. They always have pattern books available in the sewing department.

13. QUESTION:
    Where do I find a hippie wedding dress? I am 40 and planning my April 2010 wedding.?
    I am a good sized woman. My fiance and I are looking to keep things simple for our wedding. I would like to find a suitable hippie wedding dress. This is proving to be a difficult task. I am also open to wedding dress patterns. I am a pretty good seamstress.

    • ANSWER:
      http://www.ubrides.com/home.php?cat=584&catexp=584

14. QUESTION:
    Where can I find a patterned wedding dress?
    I'm looking for a white wedding dress with a coloured pattern. Where can I find one?

    See Monica’s Beautiful Wedding Dress

    The gown is hers

    "The Boy Is Mine" singer Monica and L.A. Laker hubby Shannon Brown pulled out all the stops when they wed -- again -- in a blowout bash over the weekend in Los Angeles. (After falling in love on a video shoot last summer, Monica, 30, and Brown, 25, secretly wed in a tiny ceremony at their L.A. home in November of 2010).

    VIDEO: Worst celeb wedding gowns ever?

    For her walk down the aisle, the R & B star wore a haute couture gown by Stephane Rolland. As illustrated in a sketch (at left), the stunning creation is a...

    Continue...

    • ANSWER:
      How about David's Bridal?
      http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_Strapless-satin-A-line-gown-with-beaded-lace-and-scalloped-sweet
      http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_Satin-A-Line-with-Split-Front-and-Color-Inset-YP3066

      Or you could always hire a talented seamstress to make one for you.

      Or other websites?
      http://gothicweddingdresses.webs.com/apps/webstore/products/show/1319280
      http://www.weddingdressfantasy.com/Black_Wedding_Dress_p/BWD15.htm
      http://www.amazon.com/Lebon-Bridal-Couture-Matching-Wedding/dp/B0007UZ48Q

15. QUESTION:
    where can i find a lace wedding dress pattern?
    It is for a beach wedding so am looking for something contempory and casual

    • ANSWER:
      how about beebuyer.com, i have bought wedding dress before. It is really beautiful as it looks.
      http://www.beebuyer.com/product/116106-Ball-Gown-Sweetheart-Strapless-Tea-length-Beading-Satin-Evening-Dress-Prom-Dress-promdresses0149-

16. QUESTION:
    Wedding Dress Pattern?
    I am looking for a dress pattern for this dress. I (well, my friends mom) is planning on sewing it for my wedding. Any idea where I could find this? Thanks!
    http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk293/Siwak2010/dress.jpg

    • ANSWER:
      Go to a fabric store, like JoAnn's, and look through all the pattern books.

17. QUESTION:
    Help I need a wedding dress pattern for the yellow dress Belle danced in( the beauty and the beast)?
    ive looked all over the internet and i have come up empty evert time. My wedding is six month away and im running out of time. Please Help!

    • ANSWER:
      I dont know were the pattern is, but if you are looking for a dress of that design, check out alfred angelo's disney collection. There is a Belle inspired dress there, but it is in white.

18. QUESTION:
    Where can I find a good wedding dress pattern or one that I can piece together?
    Simplicity, Vogue, ect. don't seem to have what I am looking for.

    • ANSWER:
      That's tough:

      http://www.fjoelner.dk/varegrp.asp?la=uk&uart=167

      http://www.sewingpatterns.com/subpage.php?brand=Neue%20Mode

      I'm not sure what you're looking for. But if you can draw it and find an experienced seamstress that can sew without a pattern you might be able to get the gown of your dreams.

      Don't forget to look at patterns for regular dresses. You might be able to find specific pieces of different patterns that you can piece together into the dress you want. Don't get stuck in the bridal gown pattern section. If you're wanting "big" then check historical costumes as well.

19. QUESTION:
    Can someone please help with my wedding dress?
    I found the perfect wedding dress. The problem is I don't want to spend out that much money on it for just a few hours of wear and the tag name. I was woundering if anyone knows of a good web site or something that has good wedding dress patterns? We are doing a medievel/Celtic wedding the men will be wearing kilts. Thanks for the help.

    • ANSWER:
      Just contact http://www.littlecoral.com
      They provids custom made service. It's available to custom made the dress from the pic you provid with the reasonable price!

      Good Luck!

20. QUESTION:
    Anyeone know of websites with patterns to hand embroider a wedding dress?
    Was considering buying a plain dress and embroidering it myself

    • ANSWER:
      You can use any pattern of flowers, or a picture of an embroidered wedding dress.

      But if will be a lot of work and you will not be able to draw on the material as all lines will be seen.

      And on top of that, if the dress is ready made it will be harder to embroider in some places because they are covered on the back by lining, or other materials to strengthen the fabric and shape the dress.

      You can of course work on the skirt, but is that what you want?

21. QUESTION:
    Is there anywhere online that you can design your own wedding dress pattern?

    • ANSWER:

22. QUESTION:
    How much (ballpark or range) does it cost to have a seamstress make a wedding dress from a pattern?
    Anyone had their wedding dress made? Not by a designer, but by a seamstress provided with a pattern? Would love to get an idea of the typical price.

    • ANSWER:
      provided with a pattern doesn't help. you still have to make the muslin mock-up, adjust the pattern, drape again, make adjustments, then make the official pattern. Tha't the hard part. The dress construction is easy from there.

      edited to add: the last dress i did it took all day saturday and most of sunday afternoon just to get the pattern made. 8 hours plus 6 hours. 14 hours at 25 an hour. 0 just for the pattern fitted. I did this as a courtesy to a friend.

      edited to add: grow nervous if the seamstress doesn't make a mock-up first.

      i charge 25 an hour. i refuse to sew slippery fabrics. back the slippery fabrics with muslin lining for support and strength and so they will go through the machine. honestly, most dresses are handsewn anyway, except for the long seams.

23. QUESTION:
    Does anyone know where I can find a t-shirt wedding dress pattern for free?
    They used to have this dress on Uncommon Threads website. Now I can't find it.
    http://www.generation-t.com/media/uncommon-threads/
    Can anyone help me find it? Does anyone have a link to the old website that had the dress?
    I would buy the book on the website above but I only need that one pattern. Please help !

    • ANSWER:
      EDIT: I decided to take a look at my local library to see if they had the book and I took it out.

      Ingredients:
      7 white t-shirts
      ruler
      tailor's chalk
      scissors
      straight pins
      needle and thread

      the top:
      1. Lay a white t-shirt flat and cut off the hem (save it to use in step 12 of the skirt). Cut off only the ends of the sleeves (just above the hem). Cut an additional 2" loop of the bottom of the shirt and set it aside.
      2. Measure 10" down the front of the shirt starting at the neck band, mark it with a pin, and cut a slit from the neck band down to the pin.
      3. Mark a straight line from the bottom of the slit to the bottom of the shirt. Measure that line (x) then cut a strip from the loop cut in step 1 that measures (x) long by 2" wide. (Save the remaining fabric for step 7.) Center and pin the strip over the chalk line, with both sides right side up. Baste along the center of the strip through both layers. Remove pins.
      4. Pull the thread and push against the fabric to gather the front of the shirt into a slight ruffle. (This will shorten the length from 14" to about 8".) Sewing along the same line, backstitch it in place.
      5. Tuck the corners of the neck band inside the shirt to create a deep V-neck. Cut through the sleeve ends (from step 1) to make two 1"-wide strips. Cut off the hem stitching from their edges and tie them in bows around the front of the shoulders, bunching the sleeves.
      6. Turn shirt over, mark the center back from the neck band to the hem edge. Cut along that line *only* through the back.
      7. Cut the remainder of the 2" strip in half lengthwise (stitch it so you have two 1"-wide by 34"-long strips). Thread one strip through each armhole, wrap each end once around the sleeve (gathering it in the back), and tie the ends in a bow across the back of the shirt.
      8.Twist the two cut edges to the inside and tie the corners together in a knot at the waist.
      9. For a better fitting bodice, poke two small holes 1" in from the two twisted edges on the back and about 5" below the strip you tied in step 7. Thread the remaining 1" strip through the holes, wrap each end once around the twist, send it through the hole again, and tie it in the back.
      10. Untie the bottom knot in the back, put the top on, retie the knot, and adjust the gathered cap sleeves around your shoulders as desired.

      the skirt
      1. Lay your six t-shirts flat and, one at a time, cut (through both layers) across the torsos just below the sleeves (creating tubes about 18" high).
      2. Cut through one side of four of the resulting tubes to make four triangles (each about 18" by 45")
      3. Place two of those rectangles together (wrong sides in), lining up the hemmed edges, and pin along one 18" edge. Sew 1/4" in along the pinned edge using a backstitch, stopping at the hem stitching. (This creates a decorative external seam.) Repeat with the other two rectangles and remove all pins.
      4. Take one of the two newly sewn rectangles and, with wrong sides together, pin one of the 18" edges to an 18" folded edge of one of the uncut tubes (from step 1). Pin the other edge of the rectangle to the other side of the tube, creating a much larger tube. Sew along both pinned edges 1/4" from the edge using a backstitch and stopping at the hem. (The double-thickness tube becomes the front panel of the skirt.) Remove pins.
      5. Repeat step 4 with the remaining rectangle and tube.
      6. Insert one large tube inside the other, wrong sides together. Line up the double-layer panels and the hemmed edges. Pin the rough edges together and sew 1/4" from the edge using a backstitch.
      7. From the tops of the six t-shirts, cut rectangles about 8" by 20" through both layers of fabric (cutting just inside the sleeves and just below the neckline).
      8. Pin all the rectangles together along the 8" edges, wrong sides together, and sew 1/4" from the edges using a backstitch, creating a wide loop.
      9. Measure 1" down from the top edge of the loop and baste around the circumference of the entire loop.
      10. Pull the thread and push the fabric to gather the ruffle so that each 20"-long panel is reduced to about 7" or 8" long.
      11. With the right sides facing up, pin the gathered ruffle around the bottom of the tube from step 6, placing the basting stitch line over the hem stitching. Adjust the gathers to fit the circumference of the skirt and sew over the basting stitch with a backstitch. Remove pins.
      12. Cut off the bottom hem of a seventh t-shirt just below the hem stitching. Thread it through the drawstring casing of the two back panels at the top of the skirt. Pull the drawstring tight, gathering the back of the waistband into a small keyhole, and tie a bow.

      Optional: Add small rosebuds or other decorations sprinkled around the skirt.

      Hopefully you can make the dress become a reality!
      The instructions were copied word-for-word.
      Hope they aren't too difficult to follow without the pictures!

24. QUESTION:
    Where can I find the pattern of the wedding dress that Christine wore in "Phantom of the Opera" movie?
    A good friend of mine is getting married and she wants her dress to look the wedding dress that Christine wore in the Phantom movie. I have looked online and at place's like Joan Farbrics, but I haven't been able to find a pattern that is similar. I was wondering if anyone had any idea where I might actually find the pattern to this dress.

    • ANSWER:
      ask on weddings, they may know

25. QUESTION:
    Where can i find a plus size wedding dress pattern?
    The dress i was going to wear wont work and now i need to find a new one fast!
    It really needs to be a pattern not a dress. i cant afford a new dress but my friend offered to sew one

    • ANSWER:
      Both Simplicity and McCalls have many wedding dress patterns that are plus sized. You can also select from the costume book and use modern, wedding fabrics.

      My suggestion is to make the dress first out of cheap muslin. Get the fit right. Make sure you are wearing the undergarments you will wear with the dress. Then, cut the expensive fabric.

26. QUESTION:
    I would like to buy a renaissance wedding dress pattern so where can I buy them at?

    • ANSWER:
      If you are a person that likes sewing (or know someone who does), Simplicity has pattern books at any fabric shop. If the book doesn't have a pattern you like.....try the costume section.

27. QUESTION:
    Where can i get a pattern for the wedding dress Christine wears in the broadway play the phantom of the opera?
    im having a sixteenth birthday party soon and i loved the wedding dress from the play more than the movie but I need a pattern to make it for my party. I really can do with out more patterns from the movie, but if anyone has really good pictures for the play of the wedding dress i would be most grateful.
    I really like that dress so please help me out here.
    remember not the movie
    the play
    thanks,
    Sevi

    • ANSWER:
      The dress is an original costume design by Maria Björnson. You won't be able to find a pattern--you'll have to adapt one.

      This book has photographs:
      http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Phantom-Opera-Owl-Books/dp/0805017224/ref=sid_dp_dp/102-3173779-8046529
      It was quite popular when Phantom was still playing, so you might be able to find it in a library.

      This is an image of a statuette wearing the dress:
      http://www.bartonscollectibles.com/images/san_francisco_music/phantom_of_opera/M218%20Phantom%20of%20the%20Opera%20-%20Phantom%20and%20Christine%20Wedding%20Figurine.jpg

      This is the website of a girl who semi-successfully recreated it. Perhaps you'll be able to benefit from her advice:
      http://costumes.glittersweet.com/phantom/weddingdress.htm

      That was the best I could do with images. I hope it helps!

28. QUESTION:
    Where can i find a knitting pattern for a wedding dress?
    I am not looking for something elaborate. Just a simple pattern that i can knit in white for the day. I like feminine things, and have a soft spot for lace. I have not yet decided if I want a long or short dress, so all suggestions welcome.

    I would be happy with links to patterns, free or not, as long as there are pictures. I would also be happy with book suggestions, particularly if there is somewhere online where i can see pictures of the patterns in the book. Bonus points if you have knit the pattern yourself, and double bonus points for pictures of how it turned out.

    • ANSWER:
      I seriously recommend that you attempt to get your hands on Maggie Righetti's "Sweater Design in Plain English". If you want the dress to *fit*, her methods will be a blessing. Some libraries have this.

      Five Great Ideas For Wedding Layouts

      On a visit to a recently married friend I was struck by how similar wedding albums, and wedding scrapbooks can be. This may be because the centerpiece of every wedding is the lovely bride in her (usually) white dress, something which gives the pictures a distinct similarity. On reflection I think it is more likely to be because most scrapbooks, like wedding photo albums, are organized chronologically, showing the events as they happened, one after another. This means that individual layouts don't really have a theme of their own, but pick up the general 'wedding theme', and if this means...

      Continue...

      Then you can knit-to-fit modifying a knit pattern or to match measurements of a garment which you know to be fitting.

      Before you begin knitting, gather your intended undergarments to keep their lines in mind for placement of lacework.

      If you wish to wear the garment on later occasions, you may want to consider multiple pieces, perhaps a skirt and shell and a shawl. The border from the shawl can be used on the hem of the skirt. The shell can be brief and totally plain, or can cover more of you with lacework at the throat and upper back. The shawl will *always* fit. It can be as simple or as elaborate and time and patience may dictate.

29. QUESTION:
    Where can I browse gown/dress patterns for sewing?
    I am having a friend create my wedding gown/dress, and I need a pattern. Where is a good place to look for patterns, or any good websites.

    • ANSWER:
      How good is your friend? These are not the usual patterns, but quite fashionable.... you need to be able to sew without directions to use them well.
      http://www.voguepatterns.com/list/marfy_patterns/page-1
      http://www.marfy.it/eng/activenews.asp

      They are available in the US through Vogue Patterns

30. QUESTION:
    Looking for a wedding dress pattern for Shantung silk material?
    I have some beautiful Shantung silk I would like to use for my wedding dress, but I need a pattern (free or for sale). I am broad shouldered with a long torso (not unusually long) and somewhat of an hourglass shape. I'm 5'6, size 12, with a little bit of a tummy as I have recently had a baby.

    Ideally, I would like a simple, informal dress. I was thinking of a halter style dress with an empire waist and A-line skirt, but I am open to other ideas. I would also like a jacket (can be with the dress pattern or separate).

    I have already looked at many websites and at my local fabric store, but I have yet to find anything that really jumps out at me. Does anyone else have any ideas? Any patterns you might recommend?

    Thanks so much!
    Those are really nice.

    I especially like the third dress. I didn't consider that style, but it might be really nice. I could get some pretty ribbon instead of string.

    I haven't seen anything exactly what I like, but your idea to hire someone who can modify a design might work.

    What do you think of these two dresses:

    http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v1074-products-9194.php?page_id=858

    http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v1175-products-11083.php?page_id=858

    • ANSWER:
      Here are some patterns you might consider:
      http://www.voguefabricsstore.com/store/catalog/Patterns-Folkwear-258-Town-Country-Dress-p-1694.html
      (this one is gorgeous on... and if the skirt is too full for your liking, change it)
      http://www.folkwear.com/239.html
      http://www.sewingpatterns.com/sub_item.php?item_num=7512bur
      http://www.sewingpatterns.com/sub_item.php?item_num=8045bur
      http://www.sewingpatterns.com/sub_item.php?item_num=7573bur

      Do you sew? If you don't, you might want to start thinking about who's going to make this dress. Many of us who sew can combine or modify patterns, or draft or drape from scratch.

      Personally, I wouldn't do an A line skirt for you... the fabric hangs in folds on the sides, but not in CF and CB, and will tend to accentuate the tummy more than a gored, princess, semicircular or skirts with more fullness.

      Don't forget the independent pattern companies, too... there's a fairly complete list of companies at http://www.patternreview.com

31. QUESTION:
    Is it ok to buy a wedding dress pattern before the engagement?
    I was shopping at a local craft store and saw there was a .99 sale on dress patterns. As I was looking through, I found a pattern for my dream wedding dress, and my aunt is a seamstress, so I thought it is a feasable option. I have been with my boyfriend for some time now, and we have discussed getting married, but since we are both headed to grad school, we decided to not rush getting married until after the degrees. Therefore, we are not officially (with a ring) engaged. I have seen several questions and answers here about purchasing a dress before the engagement, and question as to whether that is a "bad luck" move or not. The biggest issue I found is that people are concerned about fitting the dress in a few years' time. This is not a concern for me because I have a multi-sized pattern, so if my weight fluctuates, so be it. Would it be bad luck to have purchased a pattern? I haven't bought any fabric or anything. Just the .99 pattern. I couldn't pass up the sale price, and this is a timeless dress, so fashion will not be a factor. Thanks! Input is appreciated!

    • ANSWER:
      At worst, you wasted

      At best, you found your dream dress.

      Bad luck? Not at all. I see it as good luck that you found your dream dress pattern and have an aunt who can make it come to life when you are ready to marry.

32. QUESTION:
    Does anyone have a pattern for Lazaro wedding dress style LZ31813 or similar?
    I'm looking for a pattern (or similar wedding dress pattern) for this dress: http://www.jlmcouture.com/Lazaro/Bridal/Additional/Style-3851

    Thanks!!

    • ANSWER:
      I don't know wheter it is totally the same, but it is similar to the one you memtioned.

      http://www.comeonsale.com/2009-style-mermaid-v-neck-court-train-satin-organza-lace-beading-dress-for-bride_p1894.html

      And these ones seem in the same collection:

      http://www.comeonsale.com/2009-style-mermaid-strapless-court-train-satin-organza-lace-beading-dress-for-bride-_p1899.html

      http://www.comeonsale.com/2009-style-mermaid-spaghetti-court-train-satin-lace-beading-dress-for-bride-_p1890.html

      http://www.comeonsale.com/2009-style-aline-strapless-chapel-train-satin-lace-beading-dress-for-bride-_p1898.html

33. QUESTION:
    Finding a Wedding Dress Pattern?
    I have found a wedding dress that I like online, and I'm wondering if I can somehow get a pattern for it? Is that even possible? I want my mother to make the dress, but she obviously needs a pattern. And I'm wondering if I have to go find a different dress with a pattern done up for it, or if I can find a pattern for this dress I found on the internet. It's just a picture of off GOOGLE.

    • ANSWER:
      I made my own wedding dress. What I decided to do, as I couldn't find any store bought patterns that matched the design, was take the picture of the dress to a pattern-maker. Do a search online for a pattern-maker, or ask around at your local fabric store, they should have some names.

      It made the process so much easier than fiddling with a few different store patterns to get the look I wanted.

      It's definately worth making the dress, I was so happy with the result of mine.

34. QUESTION:
    Wedding dress pattern?
    I am looking for a dress pattern for this dress. I (well, my friends mom) is planning on sewing it for my wedding. Any idea where I could find this? Thanks!
    http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk293/Siwak2010/dress.jpg

    • ANSWER:
      have you tried taking a picture to hobby lobby? they found my friend a pattern for a dress she wanted for prom no one else had it, they ordered it from another store and got it for her. good luck.

35. QUESTION:
    Trying to find a wedding dress pattern?
    Trying to find a wedding dress pattern?
    that I can create a dress as close to this one as possible the size was not right because i am only 5' 1" tall. yea I know I am short...I also want it in a diffrent color so it is just easier for my matrin of honor and i to do it ourself.
    It is a medieval/gothic/pagan style dress PLEASE HELP ME

    http://s111.photobucket.com/albums/n127/AmandaB1980/WEDDING%20DRESS/

    • ANSWER:
      Your dress is beautiful.

      You might be able to alter a renaissance style pattern from Simplicity: http://www.simplicity.com/index.cfm?cat=4&type=19&sec=43&startrow=1
      (I liked 4488 for this)

      or this: http://www.simplicity.com/design.cfm?designId=10719&design=9891

      This page has several possibilities: http://www.all-about-renaissance-faires.com/costumes/costume_patterns.htm

      Here's one on eBay: http://cgi.ebay.com/Medieval-Renaissance-Princess-Gown-Dress-Pattern-6-12_W0QQitemZ200068704758QQcmdZViewItem

      Try a web search for "renaissance dress patttern" to find more options.

36. QUESTION:
    wedding dress pattern ideas?
    i am designing my own wedding dress for my upcoming wedding ( its a 2 year anniversary of our wedding and we never had a proper wedding)

    i want an east design that looks similar to a 12th Century Bliaut, something simply but wanting to add a corset to it, wondering if anyone has a design pattern, or knows of a type of dress similar to this one i am trying to describe..
    thank you

    • ANSWER:

37. QUESTION:
    How can I find a sewing pattern to a wedding dress that I only have a picture of?
    I was sent a pic joke with a wedding dress on it that I would like to wear in my wedding. It had the diydespair.com address at the bottom of the pic but when I went to the site, I could not find any info on the dress itself, just the pic. I need help! I want to have it sewn up and have not much time left to do so. Thank you in advance for any helpful info.

    • ANSWER:
      Take your picture to a qualified seamstress. Be sure to ask for and follow through with telephone calls of the seamstresses references. Ask for references of custom wedding gowns she has designed in the past two years.

      An experienced seamstress will be able to make you anything. I once made one dress from styles found in 5 pictures. This front, that back, this hemline, those sleeves and that skirt. Just be sure you have a written and signed contract and provide a detailed written description along with a copy of the picture. Keep copies for yourself, too.

      Word of mouth is a great place to find what you want. Ask everyone you know if they know a seamstress. Or, place a small add in the classified section of your newspaper. Most importantly is to get references and know that your seamstress understands what you want. She can help you get the correct fabric for your project. Do not insist on a fabric if she states it is not compatible with your design as that is a guarantee for failure.

      Get started today because these things take time. good luck to you.

      What site can I go to that has a large gallery of wedding hair and makeup pictures?

      I've been to the more popular sites and I've found some things I like but I'm looking for more options.Usually when I google "wedding hairstyles" or "wedding makeup" I can cheesy websites with styles that look dated or for older women.Help is appreciatedThe Wedding Channel has a ton of ideas:http://weddings.weddingchannel.com/wedding-planning-ideas/wedding-hairstyles.aspxI found another website that has a lot of ideas too. I'll admit some are uber cheesy, but they've got some nice ones too:http://www.stylesdowntheaisle.com/Gallery_bridal_hairstyles.htmlCongrats and good luck Hope you find the perfect do...

      Continue...

38. QUESTION:
    where can i find native american dress patterns?
    I want to wear an authentic native american dress for my wedding. I can't seem to find a pattern for one though.

    • ANSWER:
      Ask the Elders of your Nation what style dress your ancestors wore.

      If you are not Native-maybe you should consider wearing YOUR OWN CULTURES traditonal wedding clothes instead.

39. QUESTION:
    Does anyone know where I can get a custom wedding dress pattern made?
    I've been looking and looking for a wedding dress pattern that includes these features; dropped waist and/or fit-n-flare and/or mermaid, sweetheart neckline with ruching, and strapless... Of course there is no such dress pattern, le sigh, and I have SEARCHED from here to kingdom come! So my question is if anyone knows where I can get a custom pattern made for me with all the features I want.

    Semi-idea for the dress:
    http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v325/sping_filly/1a.jpg

    • ANSWER:
      here is the base of the dress (Make a fuller train) , then they just draped swags of fabric like a mummy on top.
      http://www.simplicity.com/p-5002-misses-special-occasion-dresses.aspx

      they started at the hip and went up. attach it at the zipper. first the hip piece, butt cheek and hip, then the other side, going up the waist, then bosom piece. i'm sure that "swags" are all attached by hand.

      this is pretty http://www.simplicity.com/p-2043-missmiss-petite-special-occasion-dresses.aspx

      edit: me again

      i have been studying the dress. they attached the first swag at the corset opening, went round the right butt cheek and hip, round the waist, and attached it at the corset opening on the other side.

      then they did the left side. attached the swag at the corset opening, wrapped it around the left butt cheek and hip, and attached it at the corset opening on the other side.

      the bosom part i can't get a good view of. it's definitely narrower than the other two. attached at the waistline of the corset opening, wrapped around, and then i get lost because i can't see where they went with it. i suspect it ends right over the left bosom. hand tacked down.

      after that, i would line the garment with cotton duck for sturdiness and to put a little boning. and the friction of cotton duck would keep that sucker from slipping down while you wear it. i would build a wide placket of white satin in the back as part of the lining , which would be laced up on top of it. hidden plastic o-rings from the curtain department for the lacings.

      definitely would need a long line boned bustier with that dress and masking tape pattern on top for a custom fit.

40. QUESTION:
    Need Sewing Pattern for Vintage Wedding Dress!?
    The era I'm looking for is late 1800's early 1900's.
    There is a gorgeous dress with a bustle in the window of a shop in Disneyland in Anaheim, CA that I would like to either find the pattern for or make one myself. Any good sites on making vintage dress patterns from scratch? - any help would be appreciated

    • ANSWER:
      i have a couple links that might be of use. First link has a few free patterns from the eighteen hundreds. http://www.tudorlinks.com/treasury/freepatterns/index.html

      Next, these guys make reconstruction clothing and they have good on line lessons on making a basic bodice block for pattern drafting. http://design.seamlyne.com/bodice/bodices.asp

      Making a pattern from scratch is difficult for someone without pattern drafting experience. Try one of the first site's patterns in scrap cloth and alter to fit. These dresses were drafted for the corseted figure, so you will need to make the waist larger. There are many commercial pattern available in historic dresses in almost all eras, from Ancient egypt to the 1950's and everything in between. They are a bit pricey, but the come with instructions, suggestions and they are drafted to fit the modern body. I highly reccomend following a pattern for something this ambitious.

41. QUESTION:
    I am knitting my wedding dress The pattern is lacey Any ideas for yarn/fiber?
    Knit Wedding Dress

    • ANSWER:
      summer? winter? long? short?

      Linen is always a good choice. Euroflax makes a number of products that might do it for you.

      Cotton - but it should be a hard twist and mercerized, not soft and fluffy -- so the Butterfly stuff.

      Wool with a bit of nylon - like a sock yarn but I don't know if you can get white (always supposing you were looking for white or ecru)

      You're going to have to take into consideration the season. Even a lace knit wool will be warm, maybe too warm for summer, depending on where you live. Cotton will sag under its own weight so a very long or large dress may not hold its shape very well. Even linen will bag and pure linen wrinkles quickly.

42. QUESTION:
    my wedding dress is plain white and i want some beading on it! Where would I find pre made patterns to sew on?
    I work full time and am a horrible seamstress and am looking for beading pre made to just be able to attach to the dress in the stomache area and bottom of the dress

    • ANSWER:
      How about trying artbeads.com and using their hot fix flatback swarovski crystals. You have to buy a tool which is about . but it's worth it in the end. I did this to my daughters Communion dress which was full length, it took some time but it was worth it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! No dress will look like your dress. Have fun with it.

43. QUESTION:
    I am going to be 1 of the bridesmaids for my cousin bro's wedding.Any websites for dress/gown patterns?
    The theme is tomato red and white.
    It's on Jan 5th 2008 and he wants ideas...

    • ANSWER:
      You could go at this site: ( http://dress-my-wedding.bridalsnet.com ) its all about clothes for wedding.. Hope you Like it..

44. QUESTION:
    How can I turn my wedding dress into a creative keepsake?
    I'm looking to create a beautiful keepsake out of my wedding dress. Does anyone have any good ideas, or patterns? I've thought about maybe a pillow, but that seems a little common.
    Please help.

    • ANSWER:
      I've seen photos of wedding dress quilts, and they're lovely. Unfortunately, they aren't washable. Do a web search to see some samples.

45. QUESTION:
    where do i find great dress patterns on the web?
    i have a brilliant idea for my bridesmaid dresses but i have no drawing talent whatsoever so i can't draw it, and i can't seem to explain it well to anyone and i can't find similar pics on the web. what sites should i go on to get ideas or patterns? i've tried googleing it by searching for 'bridal dress' wedding gowns' etc. help!!

    • ANSWER:
      www.calibex.com
      www.hollyproducts.co.uk/dress_patterns.htm

46. QUESTION:
    Where can I find a Pattern to make the wedding dress from Pirates of the Carribean 2?
    I loved the dress in POC2, and want to make one for Halloween, Can anyone tell me where to find a picture or a pattern?

    • ANSWER:
      http://www.costumersguide.com/potc2_wedding.shtml

      http://www.costumersguide.com/potc2/wedding5.jpg

      http://store.sewingtoday.com/cgi-bin/butterick/shop.cgi?s.item.B3640=x&TI=10013&page=7

      http://www.simplicity.com/index.cfm?cat=4&type=19

      http://www.simplicity.com/index.cfm?cat=4&type=19&sec=40&startrow=1

      The number for the last one is 5401, if you are good enough, you can alter them. I do not know the number for the third to last one, and clicking on the picture of it just brings up a different pattern. You could find those patterns at walmart or Joanns, if you have one near you.

47. QUESTION:
    Where is the best place to get vintage inspired swing dress patterns?
    I'm getting married in October and would like to make my own dress. We are having a 50's theme wedding and I am looking for 50's swing dress patterns, new patterns that is. Where online can I look?

    • ANSWER:
      Butterick carries a line of retro patterns, available on their website or at any fabric store. Also try McCall's, Simplicity, Vogue, etc. If you're near a Wal-Mart or fabric store, check the pattern books, usually in the costume index.

48. QUESTION:
    Where I can find the pattern for the Mamma Mia wedding dress Sophie wore in the movie?
    I am getting married in a few months and I am making my own dress, but I can't seem to find the pattern of Sophie's dress from the movie. It seems pretty simple, and I could really use some help!

    THANKS!

    • ANSWER:
      http://www.celebrityfashiontips.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/2008_mammamia.jpg

      The dress is actually a pretty simple pattern. This picture is close-up enough that you should be able to make a pattern from it. Perhaps posting in crafts will get you to a better solution though. Maybe even a more concrete pattern, although I don't think you need to do much measuring for this dress if you use the techniques from the Infinity dress below.

      You can see in the picture that it is a multilayered a-line skirt, with stiff chiffon underneath. The top is constructed like the Infinity Dress, with an extra fabric piece added on under the bra top part to cover that area in the back and a little in the front. Easy modification. Of course, instead of the long strips of fabric it looks like triangle pieces attached in the back instead of tied. I would also add a zipper in the back since you won't be using stretchy fabric. They also added a double row of ribbon at the waist area.
      http://rowena.typepad.com/rostitchery/infinity-dress.html

49. QUESTION:
    Where can I learn everything about the wedding dress industry?
    Anywhere from creating, designing, thoughts, patterns, sales, marketing, ideas, etc. I want to know everything about the wedding dress industry.

    • ANSWER:
      I would like suggest you go to some blogs about Lolita fashion, you will get much information about the wedding dress

50. QUESTION:
    I am making my own wedding dress and I'm wondering if anyone would have any tips to share?
    I bought a pattern to make my own wedding dress. I'm excited, but I have never undertaken such an extensive sewing project before. Does anyone have any tips or advice before I do this?

    • ANSWER:
      First, use an old sheet to make sure that you're going to get the bodice and sleeves the right size. If there's anything you're not sure how to do, do it first on scrap material so that, when you do the real thing, you know what you're doing. It will take about twice as long, but it's worth it in the end. You'll need someone to help you with pinning the hem and sizing things properly - hope you have someone in your family who also sews. Good luck!