- 1). Take down your measurements. Use the measuring tape to get the measurements of the width of your shoulders, bust, waist and hips, as well as the height from your hips to your feet.
- 2). Make a sewing pattern using the measurements. Draw the shape of the dress you want onto a piece of tissue paper made for creating sewing patterns. Draw a shape that fits the measurements you took. An empire shape that is tight under the bust and then flares out gently in an A-line to the floor is particularly flattering for plus sizes.
- 3). Fold 5 feet of fabric in half lengthwise so you have a double layer of fabric. The fabric can be any color you choose, and a poly-satin blend is a nice choice for prom gowns. Attach the pattern to the fabric using straight pins.
- 4). Cut out the shape of the dress from the fabric using the pattern as a guide. Leave an extra 1/8 inch around the lines of the pattern to allow for seams. Remove the pins and tissue. You should now have two identical dress panels.
- 5). Sew the two dress panels together on the sewing machine. Make sure to fold over the edges of the neck hole, arm holes and hemline and sew a seam to create clean lines. Cut a straight line down the back of the dress that is the same length as the zipper you are using. Sew the zipper into the slit on both sides.
- 6). Turn the dress inside out so the rough edges of the seams are now on the inside. Use a needle and thread to hand sew on trim and embellishments of your choosing, like lace, sequins and beads. Place the trim pieces in any pattern you wish.
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