Patterns for Plus Sizes, with Gabby Brown and Leila Kelleher | Episode 100

In celebration of the 100th episode of 'Sewing with Threads,' host Carol Frazier welcomes authors Gabby Brown and Leila Kelleher to discuss their groundbreaking book, *Plus Size Pattern Making for Women's Wear*. The conversation unpacks the systemic gaps in plus-size pattern making within both the fashion industry and home sewing communities, challenging the myth that plus-size bodies are inherently more difficult to fit. Brown and Kelleher emphasize that the perceived complexity stems from unfamiliarity and lack of exposure, not technical difficulty. They advocate for a proportional, freehand drafting method that prioritizes fitting over rigid templates, and stress the importance of building inclusive education into fashion design curricula. The book’s approach—centered on creating fittable blocks tailored to individual measurements—aims to empower both students and home sewists to create well-fitting garments without constant adjustments. The hosts also address the financial and cultural barriers that deter brands from expanding size ranges, highlighting the need for authentic representation in marketing and the strong loyalty among plus-size consumers. Finally, they explore the practicalities of using the book’s methods in digital pattern-making software, urging learners to start with hand drafting to build foundational understanding.