how to sew darts / Aimee's Victorian Armoire

Leave a comment August 22, 2015 aimeevictorianarmoire

Now that we have learned the basic way to make a dart, here are two more advanced, yet very common types of darts: the body dart and the tuck dart.

The body dart is most often used for one piece dresses, as well as fitted jackets. Instead of have a triangle shape like the basic dart, the body dart has a diamond shape. I find that I use this dart the most with historical sewing.

The tuck dart, or inverted tuck, is a basic dart turned upside down. This creates more fullness at the top and is most often seen in vintage sewing (1930’s-1950’s) right below the bust line.

Here are the steps to create these two darts, starting with the body dart.

Here again are several examples of darts on historical clothing…

There are so many types of darts to learn, but these will definitely get you on the right path to a better fit!

Happy Weekend!

~Aimee

Next month: Introduction to Tucks

1 Comment August 8, 2015 aimeevictorianarmoire

Darts have to be my most favorite sewing technique hands down. It has saved many a bodice from being a disaster with it’s ability to curve and alter the design. Darts can be used to take in extra fullness at the waist, the shoulder, the elbow, and even over the hips.

Here are some examples:

This week, I have provided a visual tutorial for the basic dart. This is great for the tops of skirts, or bodices.

With a little practice, you will soon be darting everything in sight!