You love my freebook collection for larger sizes? Unfortunately, fit can sometimes be an issue. So I went on a search for sewing books with patterns for larger sizes for you—and found them!
In addition to my collection of the best sewing books, I have compiled my personal recommendations for sewing books for larger sizes here!
The most wonderful fabrics in knitwear, jersey, summer sweatwear & co. — and no patterns for larger sizes?
I know just the thing!
You probably already know our popular freebook collection for plus size. However—and this is just to be honest—the freebooks are not always as perfectly fitted as you would want for a flattering wardrobe.
Of course, you can just go ahead and buy patterns. But then you only have ONE pattern. The books I want to introduce to you contain entire wardrobes in some cases—and up to size 3XL.
In addition, I found a great series of English-language books that deal with the optimal fit for "real people". Body shapes are different. And I believe that the fashion we love should take that into account.
One more note on the English-language sewing books:
In my opinion, these books are also interesting for sewing fans whose English is not necessarily perfect. The books are so well illustrated with sketches and drawings that you can still quickly understand the technique of adapting them!
First, a word on transferring patterns:
If you don't have much experience sewing clothes yet, I recommend reading my blog post on copying patterns. There you will learn everything you need to know!
Overview: The best sewing books with patterns for larger sizes
Everything Jersey*
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"Everything Jersey" by blogger Leni Pepunkt taps into the desire to wear—and sew—comfortable, practical clothing! The book offers 15 patterns for women. Included are cozy sweaters, a shirt, yoga pants, and a skirt, plus around 600 combination possibilities with a kind of modular system. The pattern sheet contains the 15 models in sizes S to XXXL.
My verdict: The sizes are generous, in some cases VERY generous, so it is definitely worth measuring carefully to see which size you actually need. The cuts fall more into the "comfortable and not skin-tight" category. If you like that, the book is definitely suitable for you.
For sewing beginners who haven't yet ventured into sewing stretchy fabrics, there is basic knowledge and sewing tips. Of course, also on handling the sewing machine, sewing thread, etc.
The book costs just under 17 euros | You can order it HERE*
Sew Your Own Dress*
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This book by blogger Rosa P. is, in my opinion, more for crafters, modular design lovers, and experienced sewing fans. There is a basic pattern that can be varied. Basically, it is always a three-piece dress that can be combined with different skirt pieces, tops, or sleeves.
You should already have a little knowledge of pattern construction and the basics of sewing with elastic fabrics. Although there are cutting plans, because the patterns (available in original size) are only printed in black in all sizes and not in multiple colors, putting together the intended dress can be a challenge.
All models are available in sizes S to XXL.
The book costs around 17 euros | You can order it HERE*
From Tiny to Large - XXS to 3XL*
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The main focus is also on sewing with jersey! What I particularly like about the book is the division into themes: There are models on the theme of "Marine", featuring pretty and simple nautical designs. The theme of Colour-Blocking awaits with raglan shirts, hoodies, coats, and skirts, while Black & White is all about playing with strong contrasts. In the pattern mix chapter, more feminine patterns come into play, which can be found in a wrap vest, different shirts, and skirts. The patterns are available from XS to XXL in original size.
One of the few sewing books that offers truly practical everyday clothing. By the way, the book is highly praised in the Facebook sewing groups!
Price: 22 euros | You can order it here*
Creamy Cut: Stylish Cuts to Sew Yourself* for sizes 46–56 – All patterns also on CD in the book.
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Creamy Cut offers a complete wardrobe. Over 20 garments can be sewn from 8 basic patterns: cardigan, 2 blouses, skirt, pants, tunic, dress, and coat.
All models are available in sizes 46 to 56 and are actually designed for the needs of curvy girls. And because these needs are quite different, there are tips and instructions for modifying the basic patterns so that the finished piece can fit its wearer like a glove.
It is described in detail how to take measurements, how to determine the right size, and also how pattern pieces can be lengthened or shortened.
There is also a nicely illustrated basic section that can make it easier for sewing beginners and novices to get started with sewing clothes.
The book costs around 25 euros | You can order it HERE*
Books/DVDs on the topic: Fit for real people
Here I have a real insider tip for you! No books, but really well-made DVDs on the topic of "fit"! The books are absolute cult classics in the USA—and for good reason. Here you learn step by step and visually how to adapt clothes so that they actually fit!
*Fit for Real People* is a book that introduces a simple system for adapting sewing patterns to the needs of the individual wearer. It is not about measuring techniques or anything similar - the system is based on the revised rules of the sewing pattern industry and is a real innovation! The technique can be used not only on the sewing pattern but also on the actual garment while sewing. And because the system works so well, the series has been expanded to include several very detailed books and DVDs:
Jackets for Real People*
What applies to jeans & co also applies to jackets, of course. We all know ill-fitting jackets that we pull out of the closet for important occasions - and in which we feel like we are wearing a costume. Jackets for Real People will help you feel good and comfortable in jackets too. In around 700 photos, the book shows an astonishing wealth of possibilities for finding the perfect fit for every style.
*Knits for Real People* Knitwear is only for larger sizes? Nonsense! If it fits properly, knitwear is a perfect choice for us curvy women! Just like the books introduced above, this one is also about the perfect fit. And the authors really take their task seriously: Richly illustrated, the book shows the details of cutting, pattern adjustment, decorative stitching, working with overlock machines, tips, basic knowledge, and tricks that you couldn't have imagined in your wildest dreams.
Pants for Real People* 
*Jeans for Real People* is a DVD (or 2 DVDs) and continues the theme, but goes even more intensively into the construction and adjustment of jeans patterns. The focus here is on the step-by-step instructions from the freshly purchased denim to the finished, custom-tailored jeans.
*Full busted* may not be part of the "Real People" series, but I would like to mention it here anyway. The fact that clothes do not fit often has less to do with the wrong size than with poorly fitting darts. If you have a little more volume, you often also have a little more bust. And the DVD takes this into account. Here you will learn everything about darts & co. A must-have, in my opinion.
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*Pants for any Body* Clothes are made off the rack - body shapes are individually different. What is closer than sewing your own wardrobe? Especially pants often do not have the fit that is expected of them. Pants for any Body* is an informative little reference book that wants to help you overcome your fear of sewing pants and sew perfectly fitting pants for every body type. In addition to basic knowledge, it also contains essential tips for sewing pants - these are wonderfully explained with sketches and drawings. The fact that the sketches look a bit outdated is because the book is already over 30 years old - a real sewing classic. However, it is in English!
Sewing for Plus Size*
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This book is actually and exclusively aimed at curvy women who want to sew a flattering wardrobe themselves. Often, cuts are simply "slightly" adjusted to also be suitable for larger sizes. Here it is exclusively about Big Beauties. You can also see this from the models presenting the finished pieces.
In fact, the patterns only start from size 44 and go up to 58. There are 12 patterns for shirts, dresses, skirts, and pants.
In addition to the patterns, there are some basics in the well-organized sewing book: basics, fabric knowledge, and techniques for individual sewing steps are explained in detail. For complete sewing beginners, the book is only conditionally recommended, as not every work step is explained in every detail - a little sewing knowledge is assumed. Nevertheless, a great plus-size sewing book with very beautiful patterns - and a lot of styling tips!
The book costs around 20 euros| You can order it here*
Refined and Simple*
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The book with the included CD contains 15 patterns for styles that are based on the layered look. Many styles are sewn from linen, some tops also from knitwear or jersey. Five of the patterns go up to size 56: Two tunics, a vest, a dress, and a kimono jacket.
The patterns are designed to be rather generous and figure-flattering. Nevertheless, a careful check of the measurements is worth it.
From an aesthetic point of view, the presented wardrobe forms a nice whole, but I don't necessarily think the book is suitable for beginners. It is better if you have already gained a little sewing experience.
The book costs around 20 euros | You can order it HERE*
Sewing Joy Instead of Shopping Frustration*
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First of all: This is not a sewing book in the true sense! Blogger Frau Crafteln (alias Meike Rensch-Bergner) wants to make you excited about sewing your own clothes. If you have had enough of frustrating clothes shopping, this book is highly recommended.
However, Frau Crafteln does not show the technical details of sewing but devotes herself entirely to the task of paving the way for hesitant people to get into sewing clothes. And she does so with a lot of feeling and passion.
The book costs around 15 euros | You can order it HERE*
Magazine with patterns up to size 52
Ottobre Design*
Ottobre is a must for clothing sewers! The patterns are both casual and classic - a good mix, in my opinion. However, the pattern sheet is occasionally a challenge. It cost me quite a bit of time to figure it out.
The issue contains patterns for shirts, dress, blouse, cardigan, pants - but also for an unusual evening dress. All patterns go from 34 - 52.
Once you have managed it and sewn one of the pieces, you will find: The patterns are mature and fit really well.
The whole thing is not for the faint-hearted because of the pattern sheet - but because of the well-fitting patterns, it is definitely worth a try!
The magazine costs around 13 euros | You can order it here*
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Happy simple sewing,
your Sabine
P. S.: Also read everything about the coolest sewing secrets – and the worst sewing mistakes! ?
P. P. S.: Do you already know the most popular sewing accessories? Read everything here about the Top 10 of the essential sewing helpers!
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