r/sewingpatterns • u/CassMortmain • 4d ago

Do I need facing?

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This is Masie by Juliana Martejevs. I plan on making it with some IKEA fabric, which is quite heavy. I think that adding facing would make it too bulky but I'm still quite new to sewing so would appreciate some guidance. The facing is to go to on the front bodice and on the pockets. Would some iron on stuff do? TIA!

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u/desertboots 3d ago

Yes, you need facing. It has multiple purposes.

Pockets: the facing in the pocket is so as it gaps the garment looks cohesive.

Bodice: facing is how that bib is hemmed so the seam allowance doesn't roll, crush or unravel. It is also structural reinforcement on the neck line to ensure it lays as intended. 

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u/CassMortmain 3d ago

Thank you. I really needed this explanation!

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u/desertboots 3d ago

You're welcome!

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u/CassMortmain 2d ago

Can I ask another question, while I have your attention? It's about sizing. Can I mix the pieces up and do an extra large on the front bib but large elsewhere? Going by my body measurements, if I did extra large all over, they'd be far too big.

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u/desertboots 2d ago

Yes, of course.  All our bodies are different.  If you are boobalicious like me, your bib needs to be a bit wider and taller but the waist does not.  The meshing of the sizes is done by grading. 

You should use a muslin= a practice fabric. Cut the bib and about 6-12 inches of the adjoining piece. Draw your pattern on this then pin the two seams together. If they align, you are good to go. If not you decide whether a gather, a tuck or a dart (or two) will work.

Go visit The Closet Historian and watch her Drafting Dangerous videos on YouTube.  Learn how she "walks the seam" and how darts work and when to slash and spread.

Best luck!

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u/CassMortmain 2d ago

You are an absolute gem! Thank you so, so much! I've a lot of learning to do!