Semester of Graduation
May 2024
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Textiles, Apparel Design, and Merchandising
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
The limited research on home sewers has focused mainly on the motivations for sewing and little on creating clothing for fit. Although, researchers indicate a primary reason for sewing clothes is to achieve a better fit, which requires knowledge in patternmaking. Thus. the purpose of this research was to investigate what fit issues female home sewers encounter with various types of sewing patterns and what pattern alterations or techniques the home sewers utilized to address those issues. Furthermore, this research investigated the perceived success and satisfaction among home sewers with their patter alterations for fit. A secondary aim was to measure the apparel spatial visualization ability among home sewers and determine if there was a relationship between apparel spatial visualization and the outcomes (either successful or not) of pattern alterations for fit.
This study used a Qualtrics survey to collect data from home sewers, administered through Facebook groups, and collected 162 usable responses. Data collection lasted 13 days in January 2024. The qualitative data were collected through open-ended questions and analyzed using thematic analysis. identifying fit issues and results the respondents encountered.
The quantitative data collected during the study were used to determine the relation between the self-reported success of pattern alterations for fit and scores on the Digital Apparel Spatial Visualization Test (DASVT). A t test was used to determine if there was a significant difference between the DASVT scores and the perceived success of pattern alterations for fit.
The findings suggest home sewers are not confident in their pattern alterations for fit, although they have high apparel spatial visualization skills and are experienced. Also, insights into what common pattern alterations for fit women are making, the resources referenced, and their willingness to pay for customized patters. These findings were limited to women living in the US and their perceived success of pattern alterations. Future research should investigate further into the success of fit alterations using professionals to examine the final garment and determine if the perception of pattern alterations is correct. Also, a broader sample should be used including non-US citizens, men, non-binary, and ethically diverse individuals.
Date
4-5-2024
Recommended Citation
Lansdell, Lauren, "Analysis of Fit Issues with Home Sewing Patterns and the Perceived Success of Pattern Alterations" (2024). LSU Master's Theses. 5944.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/5944
Committee Chair
Stannard, Casey R.