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In sewing
and fashion design a sewing pattern is a piece of paper, cardboard, or
some type of template, that is used to make a garment. It is pinned
onto the fabric or traced onto the fabric. Then cut out, and sewn
together. In most cases seam allowances are added into the pattern.
Why make your own patterns
for sewing and fashion design?
Unfortunately, not all
figures match commercial pattern measurements. Adjustments and
pattern alterations need to made to the pattern before pinning and cutting
out the fabric.
Another approach would be to
design very basic patterns to fit your figure. Example; a straight
skirt pattern to fit your measurements. Once you have a master basic
pattern, you will want to make several duplicates for creating
different styles. From that point you would use your basic pattern and
make changes accordingly. An example would be if you wanted to use
your straight skirt pattern and make it flared, or add darts, or a facing
with a zipper, or pleats.
There are many details to
remember when making or drafting pattern pieces. Any time you make a
change, and on all new pattern pieces you have made, you need to add a
grain line and see how it will be affected. You also need to
make sure that the changed piece and/or new pieces you've made, will match
up to each other.
The best way to start is to
look for designs in fashion magazines, and adapt your basic pattern from
that. In time you may even want to create your own designs! A
lot of this is trial and error. Take your time and practice your
pattern making. Make your garment out of muslin first. Once
you have acquired commercial patterns and altering commercial patterns,
try making your own patterns. These are excellent and exciting
skills to have! |
