This course is designed for intermediate to experienced garment makers, or students who have completed the ‘Made to Measure’ course, who want to move beyond following patterns and begin designing their own garments with confidence and technical understanding.
Building on a strong foundation of block knowledge, you will explore creative and technical pattern manipulation methods to develop original garment designs. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on practice, you will learn how to transform basic blocks into a wide range of styles, silhouettes, and functional designs. Throughout the course, you won’t just practice techniques—you will design your own garment and transform it into a toile, testing and refining your pattern as you go.
What you’ll learn
• Introduction to blocks and pattern manipulation principles
• Dart manipulation using the bodice block
• Style line design and the role of ease in garment structure and silhouette
• Neckline and collar design, including shape development and balance
• Sleeve design and proportion
• Skirt design and silhouette variation
• Creating pleats, gathers, and tucks from block manipulation
• Combining blocks to create full garment designs
• Pocket design and placement
• Fastenings, facings, and essential pattern markings
• Toile construction and fitting for design development
• Pattern drafting techniques for stretch and knit fabric
By the end of the course, students will:
• Understand professional block-based pattern design systems
• Confidently manipulate blocks into original designs
• Apply design ease and structural balance correctly
• Translate creative ideas into technical patterns
• Design complete garments from scratch
• Use toiles as a design and refinement tool
What you’ll need to bring
• Bodice | Sleeve | Skirt Blocks (standard blocks are available where necessary)
• Tape measure
• French curve ruler (also known as a pattern master)
• Mechanical pencil
• Coloured pencils or ballpoint pens
• Fabric marker or pen
• Sewing machine (for some sessions – to be directed by the tutor)
• Coloured thread
• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter (cutting mats provided)
• Paper scissors
• Pins and safety pins
All calico, tracing paper, cardboard, cutting mats, and irons will be provided. A private dressing room will be available on site.
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