Don’t change your body to fit your clothes—change your clothes to fit your body!

If you’ve ever struggled to make garments that truly fit your curves, this clinic is for you. Each quarter, we’ll gather to explore curvy sewing techniques and practice customizing patterns for your unique shape. You can work on any pattern from Jenny Rushmore’s books Sewing the Curve or Ahead of the Curve—we recommend starting with Sewing the Curve if this is your first time. With each project, you’ll gain confidence and fitting know-how you can carry into all your garment making.

This is a drop-in style clinic—you don’t need to attend every session to join in. Come when you can, choose the projects that excite you, and work at your own pace. Between sessions, you’ll be encouraged to keep sewing at home so you can stay in the groove and return ready to build on your progress.

In this supportive clinic, you’ll learn how to:

• Make a full bust adjustment (FBA)

• Adjust for rounded shoulders and backs

• Fit pants to flatter curves

• Grade between sizes for a custom fit

• “Read” a toile and identify necessary adjustments

At your first session, please wear a tank top and leggings under your clothes so we can take accurate measurements. We’ll also walk through the book together and discuss what you’ll need for your chosen garment pattern.

Suggested toolkit:

• Muslin

• Tracing paper

• Pins

All supplies purchased at Needles & Bolts are eligible for a 10% student discount.

Class Policies

When registering for classes at Needles & Bolts, you agree to the Class Policies in place. Read them here.

Additional Information

Parking:

• Free street parking is available on Germantown Avenue, Carpenter Lane, Meehan Street, and surrounding side streets. Please note that even if parking is free, there may be an enforced time limit. You may need to walk a bit to get to the shop, please plan accordingly.

Mass Transit:

• The SEPTA 23 bus from Market Street Station in Center City headed towards Chestnut Hill stops directly in front of Needles & Bolts.