When it comes to making dresses for others, or indeed for personal use, a quality dress form is a must-have. There is no other product that helps to make measurements as accurate, or that displays the finished piece so proudly. This is only going to be the case with a reputable product that ticks all the right boxes, and although important, there should be more to a dress form than adjustability.
This is why we have created the following buyer’s guide. It details everything there is to know about these useful products.
Adjustable Dials
We will start with this because it is one of the most important features for most people. These dials ensure the dress form can be used to make intricate adjustments, opening up the ways it can be used, and who for. The basic models are only adjustable in height, but anything with 12 or 13 dials is going to be more useful unless it is only to be used for display. That way, the dress form can be used to make garments for various people of different shapes and sizes.
Pinnable Torso
A torso that is foam backed is going to hold a pin, making it easier to make adjustments on the garment. This should cover the entire torso and won’t ruin the appearance of the dress form even after multiple uses.
Size
Because asking a dress form to cover all shapes and sizes is too much, they are available in different sizes. Some may be made for multiple sizes (e.g 6 – 10), whilst others may cover just one dress size. Before purchasing, make sure the product covers the preferable range for your use. This is the best way to ensure the user can make accurate cuts and adjustments for each client.
Sturdiness
This all comes down to the stand and it is an area where a lot of dress forms fail to impress. The better products will have 4 legs for added stability although it is still possible to et a quality model with 3. Some will have adjustable legs so the unit can be packed away. As long as this doesn’t compromise the security of the product then it should be fine.
However, don’t expect the product to stay upright if it is moved with force, but the stability should extend to when it is being used.
Adjustable Height
Another way of making the ideal dress for different clients is to be able to set the dress form to their height. Almost every product will offer height adjustments, but not all of them will be marked on the pole, making it easier to find the ideal height.
Quality
This is easier said than done, but customer reviews can tell a lot about the quality of a dress form. Some people will find it easier to use than others but when it comes to stability and ease of set-up, negative reviews in this area can be an indication of the quality.
When making any garment, having a true to size model allows you to make adjustments whilst sewing. Tailor-made clothes are rising in popularity and a customized dress should fit perfectly. Ever body is different which is why having adjustable dials is so useful. Being able to replicate the bust, waist, hips, height, and more is going to make life a lot easier than having to fit it around a stand-in model or guess.
Alternatively, a dress form can be used for draping. This makes each piece look great whether it be in a shop window, at home, or ready to show a client their dress from all angles.
Most reputable products are easy to clean. To ensure they look their best (always important around clients), remove the cover, and if it is washable, put it on a gentle cycle. Otherwise, a spot clean should suffice. These covers tend to attract dust so it is important to stay on top of this as well.
A lot of experienced users keep a pin cushion handy. This will prevent the pins from staying in one place for an extended time. This is a sure way of making it look old faster.
This depends on the intended use. Anyone who only needs to display their clothes can do so on a mannequin, especially a decorative metal product. However, having adjustable dials can be useful for draping as well as making adjustments to the dress. Because each piece will be made in different sizes, being able to move the dials to a more flattering shape to accommodate multiple sizes is useful.
In terms of price, a mannequin will be more affordable, but for any dressmaker, only a dress form will be sufficient.
The good news is that they are available in a variety of prices, although the quality does fluctuate. A dress for draping can be found for around $75. However, any serious dressmaker should consider investing $150 – $400 on a quality product. This will provide adjustable dials, height, and quality materials for reliable pinning, not to mention stability.
Yes, most products in the range will come with adjustable dials. These are usually found around the bust, waist, hips, and some even offer an adjustable neck. This makes any intricate amendments easier.
After reviewing multiple products, we found the best to be the Dritz Sew You Adjustable Dress Form. Available in two sizes, each one covers multiple dress sizes. There are plenty of adjustable dials and the center pole is placed in the ideal spot to make dresses, t-shirts, blouses, tops, and more.
The materials have a quality feel and the stability is up there with the best. Considering the price, it holds its own against other more expensive dress forms.
