You said exactly what I feel! I have tried to make my kids clothes, and myself for decades with epic failures. I decided to try to got into sewing just a year before the lockdowns happened. The first year I could NOT get anything to fit me at all properly after sewing 7 different tops and dresses and was seriously going to sell my grandmothers sewing machine when I came across Nancy's video. I bought her 2 books in one and have now sewn a wardrobe including a pair of shorts and pants. My husband has 9 button down shirts with back yokes he has worn everyday for work and leisure each week. I don't hesitate to buy any pattern, I know it will fit after I use her pivot and slide method. She made it possible for me to finally have the confidence to plug in my sewing machine and make things I longed to for almost 40 years! I am a good example of why her books and videos should be something everyone who sews should have in their library!
When "Sewing With Nancy" showed this method on PBS I taped (on VHS!) the show. It was a Eureka moment. I went from giant necklines to great fit. I'm sure Nancy Zieman is smiling down from above... she was truly a lovely woman.
I’m glad there is another Nancy Zieman convert. I use her method for everything, even pants. She was a genius with fabric. Check our her other videos, there are quite a few. Congratulations.😊
I really want to try her method for pants too. She is such a pleasure to watch and listen to. I can’t believe I didn’t sew garments a lot back when she was still alive. But I can definitely learn from her now which is amazing.
Please be sure to watch the RUclips video of her life story, such an amazing woman!! Yesss!! Her methods are game changers! Thank you for sharing this with the sewing community. 😊
I remember discovering sewing with Nancy in the hospital after surgery. I didn’t have time to watch daytime TV-too busy working. She was a real natural. I learned how to program my 1980’s VCR to tape her shows. I met Nancy at a sewing function in the 90s, very gracious and inspirational. I still occasionally use the pivot and slide method. So much less complicated than many of the other options. Your top looks wonderful and fits so well. 🎉🎉🎉
I used this method when sewing for myself several years ago. I had so much success, it was amazing to me that few people knew about her fitting methods. I’m so glad she has new converts. She was a lovely woman and is greatly missed.
That’s exactly what I was telling myself when I finished this top - how is it that this method isn’t shown by more people?? It’s magic! 😂 I’m definitely a convert and cannot wait to try it on more styles.
So happy to see you talk about Nancy’s pivot and slide. I’ve commented on a few vlogs about how helpful her fitting/adjustment videos are but I think you are the first I’ve seen discuss it. Nancy Zieman was a brilliant “teacher” when it came to sewing. RUclips has a documentary about her life which I found so well done. So many could benefit from her instructions 🎉
I will definitely be watching that documentary. I'm really confused as to why this method isn't discussed more amongst RUclipsrs. I remember seeing her show on PBS, but I was a quilter at the time and didn't pay attention much to the garment-making stuff. I will be making more with her method and share as much as I can on here. Everyone needs to try it at least once!! LOL
Congrats!! So glad you got great results with Dear Nancy's method. I wish you could have come to Beaver Dam Wisconsin for her Sewing with Nancy Weekend event, to meet this lovely lady. Please take time to watch her life video. She suffered greatly from health issues from childhood till she passed, but you would never know it as she never complained. The last time I saw her she was in decline with bone cancer but she came to the Sewing With Nancy Weekend event and had her beautiful smile. She loved to tell Blonde jokes during her events, as she was a natural blonde. Keep giving encouragement with your sewing for what the industry calls "plus size" , you are a great teacher. Love all your videos.
I love that so many of you remember her or have met her in person. I feel like I'm getting to know her a little bit more with each new comment. This is amazing! Thank you so much for watching and for commenting!
Izzy, you have no idea how valuable this video is to those in the sewing community who struggle with pattern fitting! This is a method I have to try. Nancy was a genius with fabric, patterns and fitting. Why have I not tried this 🤷🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
Donna - I’ve been telling myself the same thing for weeks now!! 😂 And I just loved to watch and listen to her. She made it look so easy and so approachable. Definitely give it a try!!
As a new sewer with a 7 inch difference between upper bust and full bust….thank you!!! Please do a video showing your full process, when you do make the top. I had purchased so many big 4 patterns before learning about the B cup average and haven’t had the courage to even open one! The one garment I have made from an online company was filled with puckers and drag lines… I switched to quilts after that! I watched Nancy’s video and intuitively it makes sense but would so appreciate seeing another maker explain and demonstrate the process. Thanks in advance. I’m setting the notification bell in anticipation…😂!
Thank you so much for watching! I completely feel you on the cup sizes and the difficulties of getting tops to fit properly. I am definitely still learning, but I’ll be happy to “show my work” in future videos. 😊
Thank you So Much! Maybe next time you do this method, let us see how you did your adjustments. Nancy was a Wonderful person and we still miss her. Thank you again.🥰
Thank you!! And when I do this again, I’ll try and record the steps to create the new pattern pieces. I wasn’t feeling very confident when I was doing it this time around so didn’t film any of it. 😂
I use the same method, and it always works for me. Nancy was a great sewer. Her books are just amazing and all her techniques work. You top is fabulous, love the colours.
It's such a shame that here in the UK we didn't discover her until much later than the US and Canada. I've only just discovered you and I'm absolutely loving working my way through all your videos. @@dizzyquiltsandsews
I found Nancy on PBS at the same time I found Silhouette Patterns (with cup sizes). I did purchase Nancy’s pivot/slide video, but never tried it! I will definitely give it a try. Thank you for your experiment.
This method of Nancy's is the best one I've come across for me. I have used it for years since I saw her video on it. Bless her and I hope she is smiling down on us.
Great fit! Nancy Zieman was brilliant! I have used the pivot & slide method before with great success and use it every so often when I can. The fabric you did use looks good to wear around the house for sure. It is so important to measure yourself and then the pattern and figure out the ease needed. I am always surprised when people just go by the pattern measurement and then wonder why it does not fit. Getting the right fit is always a challenge and when I do have success I will make that pattern several times. Just change the fabric and it looks so different. Looking forward to seeing your travel wardrobe. Count down time! 😊
Thank you! I have to say, after doing this whole exercise, I now COMPLETELY understand why we need to spend time measuring everything and thinking about ease. Those are not steps we should skip… ever and then expect the finished garment to fit us perfectly. Marianne suggested I finish the top and wear it as a pyjama top which is a really good idea. I also could wear it around the house.
I watched that video on RUclips again and again. I traced an existing princess seam blouse of mine that I had “outgrown” a little, then applied Nancy’s pivot method. When I made the muslin, it still needed tweaking, not the fault of the pivot method but my inaccurate blouse tracing, but the fit turned out great in the end. I certainly recommend it and it really isn’t that difficult to learn!😊
I love that so many of you have used this method. Makes me feel much better and confirms this wasn’t beginner’s luck 😂 Thank you so much for watching and subscribing.
WOW Izzy!!! That top turned out magnificently! I, like you, have to make a big bust adjustment and your video is giving me hope in a much simpler way to make the adjustments. Thank you for sharing!!! Kathy
I’m so glad it was helpful Kathy! Definitely give this a try - I couldn’t believe how well it worked. It’s a bit more work up front with calculating which pattern size to use and how much ease to add, but once that’s done, it’s super easy. And your pattern pieces don’t have huge slashes across them!!
Hi Izzy, you can order from the Big 4 when they have sales, they ship to Canada. My daughter and I order all the time, depending on the sale, shipping is free or if shipping is free only for the US, its usually under $20 flat rate, which is worth it as I usually get about 10-15 patterns deeply discounted at a time
Yes!! They were having a sale for $4 a pattern recently and I ordered a few. I didn't order enough to benefit from free shipping, but in the end, it came out to about $10 CAD per pattern which is similar to what I would pay for a PDF pattern without the need to print anything.
I have used the Nancy Zieman method, both the pivot for adding inches at the bust, and the "slide" for moving the dart down. It works great, I can now make any pattern I want and I know the fit will be perfect. In her book, she also demonstrates hip, back, shoulder and skirt and pants adjustments, raglan sleeves, princess seams. It's an amazing resource. Your particular make with the McCall's pattern turned out so perfect! I have that pattern and now I'm going to make it too. Thanks for this video!
Nancy Z is the bomb, you are right! I've used pivot and slide to adjust for a wider shoulder, lowering a bust dart, and sewing collars and collar bands all with great success. Your ideas have got me thinking more about better fitting through the bodice however, so thanks for this video!
What a fantastic fitting top!!! Funnily enough I was just looking at her books on Amazon last week and wondered if they would help. Than you so much for this video.
Nancy's method definitely works. I've gotten great fits with tops, button-down shirts & dresses using the slide/pivot method. However, I'm glad I found your video because I haven't tried the method with raglan sleeves & thank you for providing a good idea for raglan sleeves.
I have been using Nancy’s method for a couple of years now after coming across her on YT. It works so well and great that pattern piece stays intact. I would like to get her book to try it on trousers😊 your top looks a lovely fit. 😊 Debbie x x
YES! Prior to first trying her method I watched the videos and printed out the mini pattern pieces for practicing. It clicked with me as an alteration method that made sense. And I too like that I don't have to cut up the original pattern pieces, She certainly was a master in her craft ❤ Can't wait to see your tee in your chosen fabric
Yes, my brain kept telling me it totally made sense, but even then, I couldn't believe something so simple would work. I can't wait to be able to make the tee in a really nice fabric.
I am so happy you discovered this! It really is the best method too. 😊 I can hear the late Nancy saying, “ Just a little math”. Your smile says it all in the end. Happy sewing!❤
Yes "just a little math" and pretty simple math. And that is something my brain can handle. The whole slash and spread method just messes with my mind to be honest. LOL
Thank you for doing this video and proving the method works for big adjustments. I found the same episode you did but have not tried this yet. Now there is no doubt it works.
So glad you tried this! I've use this for a few decades now (yes, I'm old) and the main thing I love about it is that we can use patterns that fit our necklines and shoulder width, and expand below that area as we need. I've got narrow shoulders to begin with, and going with a size 22 pattern is just ridiculous with how HUGE the shoulders are and how the neckline wants to gape. Don't get me started on the wrinkle-y lines that radiate from the underarm to the bust when using a too-big pattern.
I tried that pattern, and it was a total disaster. I threw it away. It happens. Nancy was awesome! I have used this method and it’s great!Well done in adapting it for you!
Oh no - I'm so sorry this pattern didn't work out for you. I do need to make further tweaks to it before I'm 100% happy with it (such as shortening the shoulder darts).
Hi Izzy, your blouse looks great! I've tried pivot and slide for a full bicep adjustment and I like it so much better than the traditional method. I have quite a few big four patterns. I can never get them to fit. You inspired me to try the whole method. Thanks
Thank you! Definitely worth a try, but you’ll have to keep saying to yourself “trust the process” because I really and truly didn’t think it would work out well for me. 😂
I wish I could add a picture because this method is amazing. I used it in 199x to make my wedding dress. It was extra complicated by the fact it was off the shoulder so that pivot point was missing and it was princess seams (yay, more math). I used a size 14 due to my across the chest measurement so I added a LOT of extra. It was a perfect fit. That was the last thing I sewed until this year and I just got the book back from my mother so I will be giving it another try.
Your top looks great! I have not used the pivot and slide method. And when I saw the changes you made/added to your pattern, I thought for sure it was going to be too big because it appeared it was adding to the measurement from underarm to underarm. But your finished product looks just right! Congratulations! Fitting can be so hard sometimes, and you did a great job.
I had the exact same thought at first! Also, I had zero confidence the sleeves would fit 😂 But everything fit! Fitting is definitely the hardest part of the whole process for me. The actual sewing is so easy compared to making sure a piece a fabric fits around your 3D body and all its curves!!
I love Nancy's method and have used it often. This put a smile on my face. I have the pattern you demonstrated so I'll have to give it a try. One tiny suggestion on this pattern on you - try pinching out the excess at the bust into the raglan seam. Unless it looks overfitted,you might like it. Thank you for the video. Kay in Dallas, Texas
I first used her method in the sixties starting with the narrow and sloped shoulder adjustments. It was fabulous, and I’m still doing it today. Your shirt looks really nice on. Hope you have a nice vacation.
Oh wow - I didn’t realize her method had been around that long. That’s amazing! I have narrow shoulders so will definitely investigate that adjustment.
Yes! Your shirt has come out wonderfully! I kinda jumped when you held up that pattern, as I just had my hands on that very same pattern yesterday! 😆 I must have gotten it near 2016 or 17 because I wanted to recreate one of my favorite Old Navy shirts, which had a rayon panel for the front piece, and knit for the rest of the shirt... great for remnants. You should try that! 😉 Thanks for walking us through your steps 😁
Oh my goodness, I was just thinking about that. Back in the early 2000s, I had a beautiful work blouse with a woven front and sleeves and a knit back. I LOVED that blouse and always wondered how I could re-create it. I think I’m going to have to try it with this pattern.
@@dizzyquiltsandsews haha Mine is over 10 years old, probably.... the knit part is a light an all cotton knit, so fairly stable. But doesn't it make such a comfortable top to wear!? I've got two rayon remnants, both prints, and the reason I've held onto that pattern.
Thank you for this video. I remember watching her show and in particular her video on pivot and slide. I did remember trying it thought it worked but it was a long time ago. I think the top fit you awesome. I will rewatch Nancy's video and will try it again. I have subscribed!
Oh, wow - I'd be excited, too, with such fantastic results!!! It must feel like you've found a key to unlock a door to more possibilities and better results than previously seemed achievable. I have her book but haven't tried this method yet - all the figuring things out and math involved is often the thing that makes me go with something like one more knit cardigan instead of something that seems like it will be work 😉. It's often said, what do you have to lose by trying something? Well, time, effort and some money, for one thing (or three). Not necessarily laziness, as much as not wanting to be disappointed and feeling like I can't figure something out, but being able to watch videos like yours and the Nancy Zieman one online is such a terrific help to us timid sewists. Congratulations on "trusting the process!"
Thank you so much! I think many of us do that too (just going with the “safe” pattern) instead of trying something that looks a little bit more complicated. I’ve done that many, many times. I would literally avoid patterns that had certain features, such as an invisible zipper or any “difficult” technique. It’s not laziness at all. Like you said, our sewing time and resources are limited and it’s deflating when something doesn’t work out. We just have to get into the “learning” mindset and be ok with not having a finished garment at the end of it. Easier said than done…
Thank you for this video! I was not familiar with this fitting technique and might have to look into it more. I hope you will do more videos using the pivot and slide!
I have kind of thick upper arms and used Nancy’s pivot & slide to adjust my sleeves. My husband is progressing in his Dad Bod growth (😂) and I plan to use this method to make a shirt for him!
I have watched her videos & purchased a couple of her books secondhand from America ( I live in Australia) it is such an amazing process! I have only used it a couple of times but my measurements are very similar to yours & I haven’t tried it to the full degree. After watching your video & seeing how well your top turned out I will not be put off using the big 4 patterns now. Your fit on your top looks amazing!
Nice job, Izzy!! I am a big fan of the pivot and slide method and have used it successfully several times. One “cheat” I use on patterns for woven fabric where the fit is a little “iffy” is to use a stretch woven or a knit fabric with little stretch.
I watched her show all the time and she taught me a lot about sewing. I have the book and use that method all the time. I like you doubted it the first time I did it, and was surprised how well it worked. Glad it worked so well for you. Thanks for sharing have a good week. 😊 what is so strange is our bust measurements high/low are the exact same. 😂
I'm so surprised I hadn't heard of this method until a few weeks ago... how has this stayed so quiet amongst RUclipsrs?! LOL We are twin twinsies!? LOL
I have never tried the pivot and slide method, but it looks like it worked great for you. That is a really pretty pattern. You would look great in a turquoise and white top like that.
I tried the Nancy Zieman method a week ago to adjust a tank and dress, and I am somewhat a beginner, and I love the results. I am excited to do more. I like how you added the paper to the pattern to end up with one peice must do that the next time, so I won't end up with two pattern pieces. I love how your t-shirt came out. I also have her book and watch the videos. Thanks for sharing.
Isn't it cool how it just works?! A subscriber of mine told me I didn't need to trace the whole pattern piece, just add to it and it worked really well. I'm excited about trying different styles and different garment types with this method.
That top looks great on you Izzy! You probably got a discount but I noticed the list price of the McCalls package said $19.95. That's a surprise. Will definitely be sticking with my independent designers plus I now have soooo many patterns from a Love Notions sale, Sew Frugal free patterns, Friday Pattern Company which I LOVE Chelsea's video tutorials and of course, our Cashmerette club plus Seamwork that I belong to and will try one of their Aberdeen patterns this weekend. Very impressed by all your content. This was a fun learning experience and I may watch Nancy's video. Thank you for all you bring to our sewing community. Love your teal cotton gauze top too. xx Karen
Thank you Karen! Yes, the Big 4 patterns are expensive in Canada. From time to time, they do go on sale for like $4 but we never, ever get the $1.99 sales here. I will continue to sew with Indie patterns (I own so many of them now!), but it's nice to know I don't have to avoid the Big 4 patterns now. I also want to try her fitting method with indie patterns at some point. I'm pretty sure it's going to work.
I just found your channel and thank you so much for sharing this, I have given up on sewing because I cannot master the FBA, I'm so excited to try this method
I have used this method on a classic t-shirt pattern and I had very good results. I liked that you used different fabrics for your toile. It made it very easy to see the seam lines. I hope you post a final version using this method.
I will! I might not get around to it until October, but I definitely will share it here. I'm also planning to use this method on more garment-types so I'll share those as well.
A few years ago I bought her book Pattern Fitting with confidence both as e-book (easier to search) and as hard copy. She also has 2 other books "with Confidence" : Sewing Knits and Serging.
@dizzyquiltsandsews Hi, I have a Babylock serger with air threading, called Imagine. Now I think it is Victory. Very easy to work with, and threading it is no problem. There are good videos on RUclips on how to serge . Also have a look at the instructional videos for different makes and models, they teach you serging as well. Gail Yellen has videos on more sophisticated applications. However, her sergers are usually very high-end with more options than a more basic serger, but they are nice for inspiration.
I now use it too - it works for me. I tried other FBA methods but none looked any good on me. I came across Nancy's video on RUclips by chance and then bought her book. Use it all the time now!
When this method worked so well, I thought maybe I had beginner’s luck, but so many people are commenting saying it also works for them! I’m so happy to have discovered it and cannot wait to dive deeper.
@@dizzyquiltsandsewsyes, usually. I look at the finished measurements too. If I go by the high bust and then do a bust adjustment using the pivot and slide the garment usually fits good.
Hi. Never heard of this method before. Although, I have always adjusted my patterns this way in the past, just without the proper know how. Glad I watched your video because your top fitted you beautifully. It seemed relatively easy to adjust to fit your body. Well done.
This is so helpful, many thanks. Also, after your recent video where you made your Remy Raglan top, I bought the pattern and made it up. It's fabulous and I see many more in my future! 😍
![Megan Thee Stallion - Bigger In Texas [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QxTkZTLWdo4/mqdefault.jpg)
Nancy Zeiman is great. The sewing community lost a real treasure when she passed.
Agreed!
She was a master seamstress!
You said exactly what I feel! I have tried to make my kids clothes, and myself for decades with epic failures. I decided to try to got into sewing just a year before the lockdowns happened. The first year I could NOT get anything to fit me at all properly after sewing 7 different tops and dresses and was seriously going to sell my grandmothers sewing machine when I came across Nancy's video. I bought her 2 books in one and have now sewn a wardrobe including a pair of shorts and pants. My husband has 9 button down shirts with back yokes he has worn everyday for work and leisure each week. I don't hesitate to buy any pattern, I know it will fit after I use her pivot and slide method. She made it possible for me to finally have the confidence to plug in my sewing machine and make things I longed to for almost 40 years! I am a good example of why her books and videos should be something everyone who sews should have in their library!
@@lumindina699 your comment put a huge smile on my face!!
Absolutely agree, I'm so thankful for you tube. ❤
When "Sewing With Nancy" showed this method on PBS I taped (on VHS!) the show. It was a Eureka moment. I went from giant necklines to great fit. I'm sure Nancy Zieman is smiling down from above... she was truly a lovely woman.
Yes, my mind was literally blown when I put this top on and it fit me so well. She must be so pleased with the legacy she created!
I’m glad there is another Nancy Zieman convert. I use her method for everything, even pants. She was a genius with fabric. Check our her other videos, there are quite a few. Congratulations.😊
I really want to try her method for pants too. She is such a pleasure to watch and listen to. I can’t believe I didn’t sew garments a lot back when she was still alive. But I can definitely learn from her now which is amazing.
Your tip about using different fabric for front and back to see if side seams are straight is great.
I think so too! I discovered how useful it is by accident when I made a pair of shorts and didn’t have enough of one fabric to make the muslin.
Please be sure to watch the RUclips video of her life story, such an amazing woman!!
Yesss!! Her methods are game changers!
Thank you for sharing this with the sewing community. 😊
I'll check it out - she fascinates me! I now want to make all the things using her method 😂
It's a great documentary. She had a tough life but made the most of it. An amazing lady on many levels.
I remember discovering sewing with Nancy in the hospital after surgery. I didn’t have time to watch daytime TV-too busy working.
She was a real natural. I learned how to program my 1980’s VCR to tape her shows.
I met Nancy at a sewing function in the 90s, very gracious and inspirational. I still occasionally use the pivot and slide method. So much less complicated than many of the other options. Your top looks wonderful and fits so well. 🎉🎉🎉
Thank you so much! I love that we don’t have to cut into our pattern pieces because I’m definitely not on board with having to trace patterns 😂
I’m probably your age and am very impressed that you programmed your 1980s VCR! I did it once to record an episode of “Oprah.” So complicated!
@@sewingintrifocals-alisonde7778 Right?? I was very impressed with myself. 🤣
I used this method when sewing for myself several years ago. I had so much success, it was amazing to me that few people knew about her fitting methods. I’m so glad she has new converts. She was a lovely woman and is greatly missed.
That’s exactly what I was telling myself when I finished this top - how is it that this method isn’t shown by more people?? It’s magic! 😂 I’m definitely a convert and cannot wait to try it on more styles.
So happy to see you talk about Nancy’s pivot and slide. I’ve commented on a few vlogs about how helpful her fitting/adjustment videos are but I think you are the first I’ve seen discuss it. Nancy Zieman was a brilliant “teacher” when it came to sewing. RUclips has a documentary about her life which I found so well done. So many could benefit from her instructions 🎉
I will definitely be watching that documentary. I'm really confused as to why this method isn't discussed more amongst RUclipsrs. I remember seeing her show on PBS, but I was a quilter at the time and didn't pay attention much to the garment-making stuff. I will be making more with her method and share as much as I can on here. Everyone needs to try it at least once!! LOL
The fit is perfect! I was lucky enough to attend a talk Nancy gave in Clearwater, Fl. I think it was in the "90's .She was a very special person ❤️
Ah that’s amazing - must be such a cool memory!!
@@dizzyquiltsandsews it definitely is!
Congrats!! So glad you got great results with Dear Nancy's method. I wish you could have come to Beaver Dam Wisconsin for her Sewing with Nancy Weekend event, to meet this lovely lady. Please take time to watch her life video. She suffered greatly from health issues from childhood till she passed, but you would never know it as she never complained. The last time I saw her she was in decline with bone cancer but she came to the Sewing With Nancy Weekend event and had her beautiful smile. She loved to tell Blonde jokes during her events, as she was a natural blonde. Keep giving encouragement with your sewing for what the industry calls "plus size" , you are a great teacher. Love all your videos.
I love that so many of you remember her or have met her in person. I feel like I'm getting to know her a little bit more with each new comment. This is amazing! Thank you so much for watching and for commenting!
Izzy, you have no idea how valuable this video is to those in the sewing community who struggle with pattern fitting! This is a method I have to try. Nancy was a genius with fabric, patterns and fitting. Why have I not tried this 🤷🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️
Donna - I’ve been telling myself the same thing for weeks now!! 😂 And I just loved to watch and listen to her. She made it look so easy and so approachable. Definitely give it a try!!
As a new sewer with a 7 inch difference between upper bust and full bust….thank you!!!
Please do a video showing your full process, when you do make the top.
I had purchased so many big 4 patterns before learning about the B cup average and haven’t had the courage to even open one! The one garment I have made from an online company was filled with puckers and drag lines… I switched to quilts after that!
I watched Nancy’s video and intuitively it makes sense but would so appreciate seeing another maker explain and demonstrate the process. Thanks in advance. I’m setting the notification bell in anticipation…😂!
Thank you so much for watching! I completely feel you on the cup sizes and the difficulties of getting tops to fit properly. I am definitely still learning, but I’ll be happy to “show my work” in future videos. 😊
Modisma Sews has a Short and a full video on the p&s method
Thank you So Much! Maybe next time you do this method, let us see how you did your adjustments. Nancy was a Wonderful person and we still miss her. Thank you again.🥰
Thank you!! And when I do this again, I’ll try and record the steps to create the new pattern pieces. I wasn’t feeling very confident when I was doing it this time around so didn’t film any of it. 😂
I use the same method, and it always works for me. Nancy was a great sewer. Her books are just amazing and all her techniques work. You top is fabulous, love the colours.
Thank you! She was an amazing woman and I just love how she teaches. It makes me happy to know her method are still used.
It's such a shame that here in the UK we didn't discover her until much later than the US and Canada. I've only just discovered you and I'm absolutely loving working my way through all your videos. @@dizzyquiltsandsews
@@lindasutton937 awww thank you so much 😊
Wow this is seriously impressive! I expected an “easy” fitting method to have a less impressive result honestly
Same!! I couldn’t believe how well it worked.
I found Nancy on PBS at the same time I found Silhouette Patterns (with cup sizes). I did purchase Nancy’s pivot/slide video, but never tried it! I will definitely give it a try. Thank you for your experiment.
You're welcome! I've never heard of Silhouette Patterns. I'm going to have to check them out.
This method of Nancy's is the best one I've come across for me. I have used it for years since I saw her video on it. Bless her and I hope she is smiling down on us.
Thank you so much for watching! I can’t wait to dig into her method more and learn how to adjust a bunch of different garment types.
What a fantastic result!! Your joy was delightful to see. 😊. Lynne
Thank you Lynne! I think I was just blown away - I really didn't believe this would work at all. LOL
You have a new Nancy Zieman believer; and a new sub. Sending best wishes from Down Under 💐🇦🇺🥰
Oh yay! Thank you so much for visiting!
I have Nancy’s book that talks about this method. I haven’t tried it yet. I definitely will now! Thanks for demonstrating it! 🥰
You’re welcome! You’ll have to let me know how it goes!
What a great fit! Miss that Nancy and glad she left her great instructions for us.
I feel the same way... it's so cool to think about the amazing legacy she left behind.
Great fit! Nancy Zieman was brilliant! I have used the pivot & slide method before with great success and use it every so often when I can. The fabric you did use looks good to wear around the house for sure. It is so important to measure yourself and then the pattern and figure out the ease needed. I am always surprised when people just go by the pattern measurement and then wonder why it does not fit. Getting the right fit is always a challenge and when I do have success I will make that pattern several times. Just change the fabric and it looks so different. Looking forward to seeing your travel wardrobe. Count down time! 😊
Thank you! I have to say, after doing this whole exercise, I now COMPLETELY understand why we need to spend time measuring everything and thinking about ease. Those are not steps we should skip… ever and then expect the finished garment to fit us perfectly. Marianne suggested I finish the top and wear it as a pyjama top which is a really good idea. I also could wear it around the house.
Brilliant Daughter! Yes it’s really cute and fits so well, you must finish it. Happy Sewing!
I watched that video on RUclips again and again. I traced an existing princess seam blouse of mine that I had “outgrown” a little, then applied Nancy’s pivot method. When I made the muslin, it still needed tweaking, not the fault of the pivot method but my inaccurate blouse tracing, but the fit turned out great in the end. I certainly recommend it and it really isn’t that difficult to learn!😊
So I'm curious - with princess seams, do you add a little bit to every seam or stick to adding to just the side seams?
@@dizzyquiltsandsewsProfessor Pincushion has a video on princess p&s, it's not difficult. ❤
I've been using this method for years, and it works. Yes, there's math but not complicated math. Love your top. New subscriber.
I love that so many of you have used this method. Makes me feel much better and confirms this wasn’t beginner’s luck 😂 Thank you so much for watching and subscribing.
WOW Izzy!!! That top turned out magnificently! I, like you, have to make a big bust adjustment and your video is giving me hope in a much simpler way to make the adjustments. Thank you for sharing!!! Kathy
I’m so glad it was helpful Kathy! Definitely give this a try - I couldn’t believe how well it worked. It’s a bit more work up front with calculating which pattern size to use and how much ease to add, but once that’s done, it’s super easy. And your pattern pieces don’t have huge slashes across them!!
Hi Izzy, you can order from the Big 4 when they have sales, they ship to Canada. My daughter and I order all the time, depending on the sale, shipping is free or if shipping is free only for the US, its usually under $20 flat rate, which is worth it as I usually get about 10-15 patterns deeply discounted at a time
Yes!! They were having a sale for $4 a pattern recently and I ordered a few. I didn't order enough to benefit from free shipping, but in the end, it came out to about $10 CAD per pattern which is similar to what I would pay for a PDF pattern without the need to print anything.
Thanks for referring to Nancy’s technique, I watched the whole thing and it was quite informative.
You are most welcome!!
I have used the Nancy Zieman method, both the pivot for adding inches at the bust, and the "slide" for moving the dart down. It works great, I can now make any pattern I want and I know the fit will be perfect. In her book, she also demonstrates hip, back, shoulder and skirt and pants adjustments, raglan sleeves, princess seams. It's an amazing resource. Your particular make with the McCall's pattern turned out so perfect! I have that pattern and now I'm going to make it too. Thanks for this video!
Thank you so much for watching! I cannot wait to have time to explore her book more in-depth and try a bunch of different garment types.
Nancy Z is the bomb, you are right! I've used pivot and slide to adjust for a wider shoulder, lowering a bust dart, and sewing collars and collar bands all with great success. Your ideas have got me thinking more about better fitting through the bodice however, so thanks for this video!
What a fantastic fitting top!!! Funnily enough I was just looking at her books on Amazon last week and wondered if they would help. Than you so much for this video.
Thank you so much for watching! I'm so glad it was helpful.
Nancy's method definitely works. I've gotten great fits with tops, button-down shirts & dresses using the slide/pivot method. However, I'm glad I found your video because I haven't tried the method with raglan sleeves & thank you for providing a good idea for raglan sleeves.
I’m so glad you found this video helpful! I'm working on another pattern now using her method and so far, it's a resounding success!
Amazing. Nancy Denman was brillient. I will buy the book again. Thank you.
She really was brilliant. And so much fun to watch and learn from.
I have been using Nancy’s method for a couple of years now after coming across her on YT. It works so well and great that pattern piece stays intact. I would like to get her book to try it on trousers😊 your top looks a lovely fit. 😊 Debbie x x
Thank you so much Debbie! I also want to try making trousers using her method.
YES! Prior to first trying her method I watched the videos and printed out the mini pattern pieces for practicing. It clicked with me as an alteration method that made sense. And I too like that I don't have to cut up the original pattern pieces, She certainly was a master in her craft ❤ Can't wait to see your tee in your chosen fabric
Yes, my brain kept telling me it totally made sense, but even then, I couldn't believe something so simple would work. I can't wait to be able to make the tee in a really nice fabric.
Yes I’ve used her pivot method for years and all my garments fit me perfectly!
Amazing! I can't believe I just learned about this. LOL
I am so happy you discovered this! It really is the best method too. 😊 I can hear the late Nancy saying, “ Just a little math”. Your smile says it all in the end. Happy sewing!❤
Yes "just a little math" and pretty simple math. And that is something my brain can handle. The whole slash and spread method just messes with my mind to be honest. LOL
This method is well worth the math! Use it all the time. The book helps
Yes! I can’t wait to really dive into the book and try a bunch of different things.
Thank you so much for sharing this method. You got a phenomenal fit! Very inspiring.
You are so welcome!
I have never done this method, but I love your results! Certainly going to watch Nancy’s video . Thank you for sharing!!!!
You are so welcome!
Ok….I watched the video and I am amazed as to how easy this method is.
Thank you for doing this video and proving the method works for big adjustments. I found the same episode you did but have not tried this yet. Now there is no doubt it works.
I do want to keep trying different styles and really test the method. But I really am impressed with how well it worked for this top!
Your toile looks like it fits so well! I will make toiles from. now on. Beautiful work! I am glad you popped up on my computer.
Thank you! 😊
I’ve seen the video your talking about never tried it but I will. Thank you 💕
You’re welcome! Let me know how it goes for you.
So glad you tried this! I've use this for a few decades now (yes, I'm old) and the main thing I love about it is that we can use patterns that fit our necklines and shoulder width, and expand below that area as we need. I've got narrow shoulders to begin with, and going with a size 22 pattern is just ridiculous with how HUGE the shoulders are and how the neckline wants to gape. Don't get me started on the wrinkle-y lines that radiate from the underarm to the bust when using a too-big pattern.
I tried that pattern, and it was a total disaster. I threw it away. It happens. Nancy was awesome! I have used this method and it’s great!Well done in adapting it for you!
Oh no - I'm so sorry this pattern didn't work out for you. I do need to make further tweaks to it before I'm 100% happy with it (such as shortening the shoulder darts).
I use NZ pivot & slide and it works well for me. Glad it worked for you! 😊-Deborah
Thank you Deborah!
Thank you for sharing. I love Nancy’s work.
You are so welcome!
Hi Izzy, your blouse looks great! I've tried pivot and slide for a full bicep adjustment and I like it so much better than the traditional method. I have quite a few big four patterns. I can never get them to fit. You inspired me to try the whole method. Thanks
Thank you! Definitely worth a try, but you’ll have to keep saying to yourself “trust the process” because I really and truly didn’t think it would work out well for me. 😂
I’ve been using Nancy’s pivot and slide technique for a long, long time and everything I make fits me perfectly. I really like her technique.
I use her method so often!! It is so easy
It really is so much simpler than the whole slash and spread method!
I wish I could add a picture because this method is amazing. I used it in 199x to make my wedding dress. It was extra complicated by the fact it was off the shoulder so that pivot point was missing and it was princess seams (yay, more math). I used a size 14 due to my across the chest measurement so I added a LOT of extra. It was a perfect fit. That was the last thing I sewed until this year and I just got the book back from my mother so I will be giving it another try.
Oh wow - I am impressed! And I’m also glad to hear this method can work for a bunch of different garments and adjustments.
That looks great on you. I love Nancy Zieman's Pivot & Slide method. It is very easy to use. My first FBA, I used P&S. ❤
Thank you Zelda! I’ll definitely use this again.
I like Nancy’s technique and have used it on jackets. You want to adjust the dart on the sleeve so it is not pointy. Great job.
Thank you! Yeah, I definitely need to fix that shoulder. I think the dart is just too long so should be an easy fix.
I have that pattern, I’m going to try this…..I’ll keep you posted 😊
Please do!
Your top looks great! I have not used the pivot and slide method. And when I saw the changes you made/added to your pattern, I thought for sure it was going to be too big because it appeared it was adding to the measurement from underarm to underarm. But your finished product looks just right! Congratulations! Fitting can be so hard sometimes, and you did a great job.
I had the exact same thought at first! Also, I had zero confidence the sleeves would fit 😂 But everything fit! Fitting is definitely the hardest part of the whole process for me. The actual sewing is so easy compared to making sure a piece a fabric fits around your 3D body and all its curves!!
I love Nancy's method and have used it often. This put a smile on my face. I have the pattern you demonstrated so I'll have to give it a try. One tiny suggestion on this pattern on you - try pinching out the excess at the bust into the raglan seam. Unless it looks overfitted,you might like it. Thank you for the video. Kay in Dallas, Texas
Thank you for the tip Kay! 😊
I first used her method in the sixties starting with the narrow and sloped shoulder adjustments. It was fabulous, and I’m still doing it today. Your shirt looks really nice on. Hope you have a nice vacation.
Oh wow - I didn’t realize her method had been around that long. That’s amazing! I have narrow shoulders so will definitely investigate that adjustment.
Yes! Your shirt has come out wonderfully! I kinda jumped when you held up that pattern, as I just had my hands on that very same pattern yesterday! 😆 I must have gotten it near 2016 or 17 because I wanted to recreate one of my favorite Old Navy shirts, which had a rayon panel for the front piece, and knit for the rest of the shirt... great for remnants. You should try that! 😉 Thanks for walking us through your steps 😁
Oh my goodness, I was just thinking about that. Back in the early 2000s, I had a beautiful work blouse with a woven front and sleeves and a knit back. I LOVED that blouse and always wondered how I could re-create it. I think I’m going to have to try it with this pattern.
@@dizzyquiltsandsews haha Mine is over 10 years old, probably.... the knit part is a light an all cotton knit, so fairly stable. But doesn't it make such a comfortable top to wear!? I've got two rayon remnants, both prints, and the reason I've held onto that pattern.
This is so awesome. I really want to try it on pants. I cannot get pants to fit properly ever. Thanks for the inspiration.
Same!! After I learn a bit more about the method, I will definitely use it to make pants for myself.
Thank you for this video. I remember watching her show and in particular her video on pivot and slide. I did remember trying it thought it worked but it was a long time ago. I think the top fit you awesome. I will rewatch Nancy's video and will try it again. I have subscribed!
Welcome and thank you so much!
Oh, wow - I'd be excited, too, with such fantastic results!!! It must feel like you've found a key to unlock a door to more possibilities and better results than previously seemed achievable. I have her book but haven't tried this method yet - all the figuring things out and math involved is often the thing that makes me go with something like one more knit cardigan instead of something that seems like it will be work 😉. It's often said, what do you have to lose by trying something? Well, time, effort and some money, for one thing (or three). Not necessarily laziness, as much as not wanting to be disappointed and feeling like I can't figure something out, but being able to watch videos like yours and the Nancy Zieman one online is such a terrific help to us timid sewists. Congratulations on "trusting the process!"
Thank you so much! I think many of us do that too (just going with the “safe” pattern) instead of trying something that looks a little bit more complicated. I’ve done that many, many times. I would literally avoid patterns that had certain features, such as an invisible zipper or any “difficult” technique. It’s not laziness at all. Like you said, our sewing time and resources are limited and it’s deflating when something doesn’t work out. We just have to get into the “learning” mindset and be ok with not having a finished garment at the end of it. Easier said than done…
Thank you for this video! I was not familiar with this fitting technique and might have to look into it more. I hope you will do more videos using the pivot and slide!
I will definitely make more of these videos! Thank you so much for watching.
The top is cute! Finish it!
Thank you! I will.
I have kind of thick upper arms and used Nancy’s pivot & slide to adjust my sleeves. My husband is progressing in his Dad Bod growth (😂) and I plan to use this method to make a shirt for him!
😂 Love it!!
I don't need a full bust adjustment but I'm making a top for a friend who does, i need to try this!
Definitely give it a try!
I have watched her videos & purchased a couple of her books secondhand from America ( I live in Australia) it is such an amazing process! I have only used it a couple of times but my measurements are very similar to yours & I haven’t tried it to the full degree. After watching your video & seeing how well your top turned out I will not be put off using the big 4 patterns now. Your fit on your top looks amazing!
Thank you so much! Definitely give the whole method a try with scraps or fabric you don’t mind “wasting”. I couldn’t believe how well it worked. 😂
Great example!
I have her book, I guess I need to try it 😁
Thank you!
Cathy
Definitely give it a try!
It looks fantastic! I haven't used that method so headed to watch her show now
Thank you! Definitely give it a watch.
Great idea about using different fabrics for the muslin fitting. Love it.
Thank you! 😊
I too am a fan of Nancy and have had a lot of success with her methods. Cute tee, Izzy!
Thank you so much!
Nice job, Izzy!! I am a big fan of the pivot and slide method and have used it successfully several times. One “cheat” I use on patterns for woven fabric where the fit is a little “iffy” is to use a stretch woven or a knit fabric with little stretch.
Thank you! I was thinking about that actually - could I use this same pattern with knits and end up with a super fun “baseball-style” tee?
@@dizzyquiltsandsews, I think you could, as long as the knit is pretty stable, not too much stretch…
I watched her show all the time and she taught me a lot about sewing. I have the book and use that method all the time. I like you doubted it the first time I did it, and was surprised how well it worked. Glad it worked so well for you. Thanks for sharing have a good week. 😊 what is so strange is our bust measurements high/low are the exact same. 😂
I'm so surprised I hadn't heard of this method until a few weeks ago... how has this stayed so quiet amongst RUclipsrs?! LOL We are twin twinsies!? LOL
I have never tried the pivot and slide method, but it looks like it worked great for you. That is a really pretty pattern. You would look great in a turquoise and white top like that.
Thanks so much Cynthia! I really want to re-create the top in those same colours because they really are beautiful.
I’m impressed that your “pivot and slide” sizing fits so well.
Thank you!
The shirt actually suits you very well well. It is a very nice shirt. Finish it and wear it!!❤
Thank you! My daughter suggested I finish it and use it as a PJ top. I just might do that!
Wow, so worth the extra work. It fits you beautifully. I do like the turquoise and white combo, so attractive on you.
Thank you so much! I also love that colour combo. I think I’m going to have to try to find nice rayons in those colours and try the top again.
Looks great on you! Thanks for sharing your experience. I had not heard of this method.
Thank you so much! Up until recently, I had never heard of this method either. I couldn't believe it.
Looks great!
Thanks!
I tried the Nancy Zieman method a week ago to adjust a tank and dress, and I am somewhat a beginner, and I love the results. I am excited to do more. I like how you added the paper to the pattern to end up with one peice must do that the next time, so I won't end up with two pattern pieces. I love how your t-shirt came out. I also have her book and watch the videos. Thanks for sharing.
Isn't it cool how it just works?! A subscriber of mine told me I didn't need to trace the whole pattern piece, just add to it and it worked really well. I'm excited about trying different styles and different garment types with this method.
Love your t shirt, great fit, so exciting really,and yes I use Nancy's way frequently and it works😊
Thank you so much! I’m blown away by the number of people in the comments who have used her method for years. How did I not know about this?? 😂
Wow Good job!!! I've never heard of it before. I will have to check into it!
Thank you so much! I’ve you have to consistently make width adjustments to pattern, definitely check it out.
That top looks great on you Izzy! You probably got a discount but I noticed the list price of the McCalls package said $19.95. That's a surprise. Will definitely be sticking with my independent designers plus I now have soooo many patterns from a Love Notions sale, Sew Frugal free patterns, Friday Pattern Company which I LOVE Chelsea's video tutorials and of course, our Cashmerette club plus Seamwork that I belong to and will try one of their Aberdeen patterns this weekend. Very impressed by all your content. This was a fun learning experience and I may watch Nancy's video. Thank you for all you bring to our sewing community. Love your teal cotton gauze top too. xx Karen
Thank you Karen! Yes, the Big 4 patterns are expensive in Canada. From time to time, they do go on sale for like $4 but we never, ever get the $1.99 sales here. I will continue to sew with Indie patterns (I own so many of them now!), but it's nice to know I don't have to avoid the Big 4 patterns now. I also want to try her fitting method with indie patterns at some point. I'm pretty sure it's going to work.
@@dizzyquiltsandsews so cool that you are willing to experiment and share what you learn with us
You really got a perfect fit Izzy. Well done
Thank you so much Bernadette!
the fit looks really good. I'll have to try this method out. Thanks Izzy!
You’re welcome! It was really fun to learn something new too. Xx
Amazing fit!!! I'm going to try it. Thanks for the video.
Thank you! Let me know how it goes.
Thank you for this! I found Nancy's pivot and slice technique a few weeks ago and am going to try it. I'm happy to hear it works!
It definitely worked. But keep in mind, this was my first try. Might not be as successful every time. LOL
I just found your channel and thank you so much for sharing this, I have given up on sewing because I cannot master the FBA, I'm so excited to try this method
You can do it!! Please let me know how it goes.
I absolutely agree I have just started doing this with Nancy I'm amazed the tshirt looks great thanks for sharing 😊😊😊
Thanks so much 😊
I have used this method on a classic t-shirt pattern and I had very good results. I liked that you used different fabrics for your toile. It made it very easy to see the seam lines. I hope you post a final version using this method.
I will! I might not get around to it until October, but I definitely will share it here. I'm also planning to use this method on more garment-types so I'll share those as well.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
My pleasure! Thank you for watching!
A few years ago I bought her book Pattern Fitting with confidence both as e-book (easier to search) and as hard copy. She also has 2 other books "with Confidence" : Sewing Knits and Serging.
Yes, that’s the book I bought. I saw the other two on Amazon as well and might buy the serger one because my serger still scares me a little bit. 😂
@dizzyquiltsandsews Hi, I have a Babylock serger with air threading, called Imagine. Now I think it is Victory. Very easy to work with, and threading it is no problem. There are good videos on RUclips on how to serge . Also have a look at the instructional videos for different makes and models, they teach you serging as well. Gail Yellen has videos on more sophisticated applications. However, her sergers are usually very high-end with more options than a more basic serger, but they are nice for inspiration.
I now use it too - it works for me. I tried other FBA methods but none looked any good on me. I came across Nancy's video on RUclips by chance and then bought her book. Use it all the time now!
I, too, am FBA challenged. I will be trying this method moving forward. I have poor results with the slash/ spread dart method.
When this method worked so well, I thought maybe I had beginner’s luck, but so many people are commenting saying it also works for them! I’m so happy to have discovered it and cannot wait to dive deeper.
I have not tried the pivot and slide method. I going to have try this as your results are fabulous.
Definitely worth trying out. Always good to have options!
I’m inspired! I’ve had this pattern a few years and not made it bc of the need for a FBA. Thanks. I’m looking forward to the finished product.
I'll share it as soon as I get around to it... probably in early October at this point though.
I would totally wear that shirt out!!
Very useful, thank you. I love the top you are wearing.
Thank you! 😊
I use her technique for all my pattern adjustments. I mostly use big 4 but I use it on independent patterns too.
Oh I'm so glad you said you used her method with Indie patterns. Do you simply use your high bust measurement to decide on the starting size?
@@dizzyquiltsandsewsyes, usually. I look at the finished measurements too. If I go by the high bust and then do a bust adjustment using the pivot and slide the garment usually fits good.
Wow! That is encouraging!
Yes, it really is. I’m so excited about trying it out again on a different pattern.
Hi. Never heard of this method before. Although, I have always adjusted my patterns this way in the past, just without the proper know how. Glad I watched your video because your top fitted you beautifully. It seemed relatively easy to adjust to fit your body. Well done.
Thank you! Sometimes, we just instinctively know what to do don’t we?
It looks fantastic!👏👏👏
Thank you! 😊
This is so helpful, many thanks. Also, after your recent video where you made your Remy Raglan top, I bought the pattern and made it up. It's fabulous and I see many more in my future! 😍
Oh I’m so glad!! I was thinking I need to make another Remy soon because I have two so far and love them both so much.