I have the hardest time using patterns anymore. I have given up buying them.And I used patterns for 40 years.
I ran into a lady in Walmart about a year ago who told me about someone who made patterns just for larger women, You know I lost the name. The only thing I remember is the last name was something to do with sewing. LOL
I stick to my farmers dresses one size larger than the pattern says I take and pants I can find that have tie waists.
Good luck . Sewing for yourself can be fun.

There are a couple of plus sized pattern makers out there one is Connie maybe you can try patterns.com? I know there is a web site full of every pattern maker out there. Good luck

Simplicity has their phone number on the first page of inst for you to call for any questions. I ran into something I could not figure out. I called and left message and they returned my call within 10 mins.

do you have an old shirt that you like but is getting worn? Cut it up and use it for a pattern. Add or subtract what you need to make it fit.

I have not worn a dress for 40 years. I have made one and for almost done with a second one. I am loving them........ I also found a new long skirt at goodwill. Just need to find a top.. I am making the long so that I don't feel uncovered. Have fun making them. Beth in Co

I used to make my own clothes until I finally realized how horrible they looked. I had a hard time finding a pattern that fit (I was just average figure), hard time fitting a pattern to fit, picking the right material for the pattern, etc., etc., etc. So, now I make quilts... LOL... wish I could wear them because they are pretty... oh if we could only make slits for arms and necks and wear rectangles I would be in business.

The suggestion to start with inexpensive fabric and make a trial is good. I have used this for some of my garment sewing. Princess lines work good for us plus-sized women, drawing the eye up and down instead of across. You have a lot of good suggestions here, but the best is to find a mentor. If I were close, I would volunteer. It sometimes helps to see what needs to be done, and get on-the-spot help when you are working on something new.

Your question reminds me that I need to find a pattern for a blouse and get busy! :roll: :lol:

I'm also +sized and found that "Fashion Patterns by Coni" are really proportioned to fit better than ones you can buy in the store. You can google to find them on-line. (I'm not affilliated, just a pleased customer.)

You can also get patterns a lot cheaper on e-bay...takes a while to get through them all, but much, much cheaper.

once you find a pattern and want to cut your pieces i suggest you cut first out of cheap muslin and pin or sew together and try on for fit. this will save your dress fabric from any alterations you must make. good luck.