Dress Form FAQ & Buying Guide
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our professional dress forms, covers, sizes, materials and shipping.
If you need help choosing the right model, feel free to contact us — we’ll be happy to assist.
Choosing the Right Dress Form
How do I choose the right dress form?
We recommend selecting a dress form based on your target body measurements — not your personal measurements.
If the bust and hips fall into different size categories, consider choosing an intermediate size (if available).
All measurements may vary slightly (±1 cm / 0.4 in).
What is the difference between Diana Classic and Diana Anatomic?
Diana Anatomic features fuller hips and enhanced anatomical shaping compared to Diana Classic.
Bust and waist measurements are similar, but the hip measurements are larger in the Anatomic version.
Diana Anatomic also includes an updated construction line layout for more precise fitting.
Which model is best for lingerie sewing?
For lingerie sewing, we recommend:
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Meira – features a bra-shaped bust and extended crotch area
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Diana Anatomic – ideal for underwear and fitted garments
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Dita – specifically designed for corsetry and structured bodices
Which model is best for corset making?
The Dita model is specifically designed for corsetry.
It features a reduced waist (approximately 6 cm / 2.36 inches smaller than standard measurements) to simulate corset shaping.
What is the difference between cotton cover and knit cover?
Cotton cover:
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Includes professional construction lines
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Ideal for pattern drafting and precision tailoring
Knit cover:
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Smooth surface without construction lines
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Highlights garment contours
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Often preferred for lingerie and fitted garments
Cover options depend on the specific model.
Product Construction & Materials
Are your dress forms fully pinnable?
Yes. All our dress forms are made of high-quality polyurethane foam.
Pins can be inserted at any angle and depth, and the material holds them securely.
Can I steam or iron garments on the dress form?
Yes. The foam core is heat-resistant and suitable for steaming and ironing.
This allows you to shape and set garments directly on the mannequin.
Are the shoulders flexible?
Yes. The shoulders can be gently compressed to help fit tight garments.
They return to their original shape after use.
Is the cover removable?
This depends on the model.
Some models feature fixed covers, while others may offer removable knit covers.
Please check the individual product page for details.
Special Models
What is a half-scale dress form?
A half-scale dress form is a reduced-size mannequin used for draping, pattern development and fashion design practice.
It allows designers and students to:
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Save fabric
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Save space
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Develop ideas faster
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Create test garments before full-size production
What is the difference between Dance and Sport kids models?
Dance model:
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Designed for performance costumes
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Features a high bust line and tapered waist typical of dance posture
Sport model:
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Designed for athletic garments
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Features sport-specific posture and lumbar curvature
Do you offer male dress forms?
Yes. We offer:
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A male dress form with construction lines (Alex model)
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A smooth anatomical male dress form
Both are fully pinnable and suitable for professional menswear tailoring.
Shipping & Production
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, we ship worldwide.
Delivery times vary depending on location and stock availability.
How long does production take?
If the dress form is in stock, it can be shipped quickly.
If production is required, the manufacturing time will be indicated on the product page.
Are customs duties included?
In most cases, parcels are delivered without customs duties.
However, in some countries (such as the UK), import charges may apply and are paid by the recipient.
Pressing Tools
What are tailor’s pressing hams used for?
Pressing hams are used to shape curved garment areas such as:
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Bust cups
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Sleeve caps
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Corsets
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Bodices
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Princess seams
They help maintain garment structure while steaming or ironing.
Why use foam pressing tools instead of wooden ones?
Polyurethane foam pressing tools are:
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Lightweight
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Moisture-resistant
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Pin-friendly
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Durable and resistant to deformation
The elastic surface provides better contour support compared to rigid wooden boards.