Where to add the extra inches?

[Margaret]

OK - my lack of background in sewing and alterations is biting me in the bottom.

I tore apart a doublet that was too small for me to use as a pattern.  Here's the issue:  I have about a 3" gap at center front from just about the bust line down.  The shoulders are fine and the doublet closes from the bust line up.

Is is easier to keep the under arm seams the same and add the inches to the center front or leave the center front alone and add the inches to the under arm seams?

Does any of that make sense?  I just don't want to set the entire pattern off and make it go all wonky.

[Kate XXXXXX]

Add all round...  Divide the extra needed by the number of seams and add an equal amount to each.  Remember to halve the amount needed at each seam, adding half to the back and half to the front.

ONLY IF ALL THE EXTRA INCHES HAVE GONE ON YOUR TUMMY will you add all the extra needed to the pattern to the front.  Remember to taper the additions and add a little extra length to the center front to help accommodate the extra curvature of the extra inches in girth...

Once you have added the extra girth at all the seamds, pin the pattern pieces together and add the extra length needed at CF.  You'll then need to true up the bottom edges of the front sections, if this is a princess seamed bodice.

[Margaret]

Yeah - it goes all the way around.  Stinkin' usual way for a woman to gain weight. 

Thanks Kate.