VJ


Seamsters

The blog explores professional seam finishing techniques for unlined garments, responding to makers who want their handmade dresses to look as beautiful on the inside as they do on the outside. While most bespoke studio garments are lined, there are occasions—such as Grecian, bias-cut designs—where lining would disrupt drape and movement. In these cases, thoughtful seam finishes become essential to durability, comfort, and aesthetics.

This VJ Seamsters blog post aims to remove the mystery and anxiety around darts, replacing it with practical knowledge and reassurance. By approaching darts step by step, sewists can move past fear and into confidence—transforming a once-daunting technique into a reliable, skill-building staple. With a little practice, darts become less about intimidation and more about fit, craftsmanship, and the satisfaction of creating garments that truly work for the body they’re made for

When it comes to clothing—especially handmade clothing—fit matters more than trends. One of the most helpful tools for understanding fit is knowing your general body shape. This is particularly important when choosing your style of wedding dress/outfit. Body shapes are typically categorised by the proportions of your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips, and while no two bodies are identical, these categories can act as starting point for pattern choice/dress style choice.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and share techniques for practising on toiles. Whether you’re sewing your own dress or 'just asking for a friend', you’ll gain confidence and skills to master this essential sewing technique.