Develop fundamental skills in pattern design and manipulation with this comprehensive introduction to flat pattern techniques. You will work with basic sloper blocks for bodices, skirts, and sleeves, learning to grade patterns and address common fit issues. The course guides you through creating a perfectly fitted sloper customized to your body or a dress form, then teaches you pattern manipulation techniques to construct garments in the shapes and styles you desire. By the end of the course, you will have the confidence and knowledge to create original patterns independently.
The course begins with tracing and fitting your sloper set to establish a proper foundation. Over the six-week program, you will draft one or two new garment styles each week, sewing them in muslin and fitting them to your body or a dress form to validate construction. You will explore pattern drafting for tops, skirts, and sleeves. Upon completion, you will have a collection of original patterns and corresponding muslin samples representing the styles you have designed.
Supply List
- 10 yards of muslin
- 4 invisible zippers that are 24 inches or longer
After completing this six-week series, you can advance directly to dressmaking. Alternatively, to deepen your pattern drafting expertise and refine your technical skills, you can take Pattern Drafting 2 followed by Advanced Pattern Drafting.
Class sizes are limited and frequently reach capacity. Each participant has a dedicated sewing machine station reserved, so refunds are not available. If you miss a class, video tutorials will be provided so you can work through the material on your own time. If you know in advance that you will miss a class, please contact us to arrange attendance at a nearby session that works for your schedule.