You are expected to dedicate time to complete the beginner’s pattern making and sewing course assignments using the block patterns to create pattern work for the following • Bodices • Sleeves • Collars • Skirts. Lessons start as soon as you subscribe with online support. The online courses are made to industry standards by industry professionals who combine teaching in higher education on fashion courses at various levels.

Module 1: Introduction to Pattern Cutting

Learn pattern cutting to create 3D shapes from 2D patterns and basic sewing. You will learn how to use the essential tools of pattern cutting with digital block patterns to adapt bodices, sleeves, collars and skirts patterns. Drafting patterns in half scale and in full scale with regard to fit, proportion and balance.

Module 2: Slashing and Pivoting Techniques

Start your creative journey with two fundamental methods: slashing and pivoting to manipulate the bodice block. Interpret designs into workable patterns that can be used to construct a garment. We’ll cover everything from the techniques, tools, pattern cutting terms and everything that entails.

Module 3: Machine Control

This module is all about different types of sewing machines, machine control, machine parts, threading the machine, thread tension and physical properties of a seam. Develop the skills and knowledge required for the construction of garment parts and produce a range of sample components.

Module 4: Bodice Dart Positions

Now we dive into understanding the need for bust suppression by modifying and styling the bodice pattern. All dart manipulation must take place through the bust point. We’ll cover slashing and pivoting techniques to convert, move, divide, combine darts and adjust the fullness. 

Module 5: Openings, Buttonholes and Facings

In this module, you’ll learn how to create various working openings cut into garment sections, factors to consider when planning a button opening, key positions for marking buttonholes, button sizes, facings to finish off the edge of a pattern and types of interfacing to use. 

Module 6: Darts into Seams

In this module, you’ll learn how darts are used to shape the flat fabric to the contours of the figure, position bodice darts into a temporary area to convert darts into seams through the bust point, seam away from the bust point with a small dart which is connected to the bust point to provide the same fit as the block darts.

Module 7: Collars

In this module, you’ll learn how to create collar styles. Understand the principles of collar drafting for the various collar types in the basic categories, collar terminology, prepare the bodice draft, interfacing, attaching, finishing collars, points to remember when designing collars.

Module 8: Sleeves

In this module, you’ll learn how to adapt the sleeve block to develop an understanding of various sleeve styles. Sleeves are of two basic types, those which are cut separately and set into an armhole and those in which all or part of the sleeve is cut in one with the body of the garment.

Module 9: Skirts

In this module, you’ll learn how to adapt the skirt block to develop an understanding of the basic principles of skirt styling with the rectangle shape, A-line and inverted triangle that form the basis of all skirt silhouettes. Convert darts into seam lines, flare and fullness with pockets.

Equipment

When it comes to creating fashion patterns the very first thing you need is good quality tools and equipment even if you’re just starting out, I’ve listed the tools you’ll need to purchase to begin your pattern making and sewing course.
‌‌ Download Equipment List

Digital Block Patterns

The womenswear pattern cutting starts with an introduction to using digital bodice and skirt block patterns, uses of dart manipulation in fashion, tools and terminology, slash and pivot techniques, truing the pattern to create wearable patterns through guidance and instructions. Create pattern work for the following • Bodices • Sleeves • Collars • Skirts