New Afternoon Pattern cutting course – starts Sept 2022

Are you frustrated that your ‘me-made’ garments don’t end up fitting very well or disappointed with the results of your dressmaking efforts? A pattern cutting class is for those who want to understand, and work on, creating patterns that will perfectly fit their own shape. But a class is often not enough to fully understand how to use your block and adapt it to make a garment from it.

This pattern cutting course has been put together so that you can draft and create your own garment designs. Perfect for someone who already has some experience of using and following commercial patterns.

You will start by constructing a block for either trousers or skirt (recommended for beginners), or a fitted bodice and sleeve for the more experienced. You will use your own measurements to plot out your block and then use this to make a calico toile. By making a toile you can bring the block to life, get a 3D fit and make any necessary alterations to ensure a you get a fit that works with your own curves.

With your toile and block tested  you’ll then move on to working with a set of ‘mini-me’ blocks on which you will practice some pattern cutting techniques to develop the design of your garment including creating the silhouette, adding waistbands, facings, pleats, gathers or pockets.

Once the design is finished you will then create a sewing pattern of your own simple design and make a ‘mini-me’ toile to test the construction techniques and order of make.

By the end of your course you will leave with a sewing pattern of your design, the knowledge of how to construct it, plus the confidence to turn future designs and ideas into patterns.