Just thought I would add my two bits; although I didn't read the whole section of taping tales, I didn't see this in there. I noticed that a lot of people are having trouble with T-shirts bunching up and adding extra inches to their form (nobody wants to have extra inches added!). A simple way to get around this is to use a plastic bag instead of a T-shirt. A dry-cleaner's cover bag or garbage bag works fine. Just cut holes for the head and arms and off you go! If you want to "tailor" it a little before starting, just cut out a couple of sections and tape together (like darts). Wear the bag over a form fitting camisole/halter top or bra. These will run the risk of getting cut if the person doing the cutting isn't careful, so it is best to make sure they are not your favorite clothes, or make sure that you are extra careful.

One warning however! Since plastic doesn't breathe, and you will be adding layers of duct tape on top, you have to make sure that the process doesn't take too long and is not in an overly warm room where the unfortunate victim will perspire themselves 2 pounds lighter! (May sound good, but really isn't fun)

I had one of these made as a pattern base instead of a form, and went straight from the pattern to cutting out a garment that fit perfectly!

Hope this is helpful!
Lisa

Thanks Lisa for the idea.

Yes, I have also used the Duct Tape as a pattern drafting tool and hope to have instructions for this method available soon.

What do you think about using an old turtleneck instead of a T-shirt?  I've been reading the "tales" and many have commented on how a regular "T" bunches in the back--a turtle is more form fitting and would eliminate adding a sleeve to the neck of a "T".  Just an idea I thought I would throw out there---think I'm gonna try it.

This is a great idea. Hope it works for you.