DRAFT and SEW (2) - Side Dart BODICE PATTERN Block

Learn to Create a Side-Dart Bodice Block: A Beginner's Guide

This Side-Dart Bodice Block Course is the second step in our comprehensive Pattern Making and Sewing Course Series. Our courses are designed for beginners and are known for their straightforward, easy-to-follow instructions. We eliminate confusion with simple layouts and a stress-free learning experience. We break down complex concepts into manageable steps, empowering you to confidently create your own garments.

In this beginner sewing course, you will master:

1. Accurately Drafting a Side-Dart Bodice Block: Learn the fundamental techniques for creating a precise bodice block.
2. Cutting, Placing, and Cutting Fabric Patterns: Develop essential skills for preparing your fabric for cutting.
3. Sewing Machine Basics: Gain confidence in using a sewing machine for garment construction.
4. Sewing a Side-Dart Bodice Pattern Prototype: Construct a test garment to ensure accurate fit.

This pattern making course is ideal for those who prefer a systematic, orderly, and professional approach with simple formulas applicable to various body shapes and sizes. You'll also acquire basic sewing skills crucial for sewing your pattern prototype and checking for accurate fit.

By the end of this course, you will be able to create, cut, and sew a Side-Dart Bodice Pattern accurately and professionally, using muslin test fabric for fitting.

What is Pattern Making?

Pattern making, also known as pattern cutting or pattern drafting, is the process of designing garment patterns from fashion drawings. A pattern is a paper or cardboard template used to trace garment pieces onto fabric before cutting and assembling them. A custom-fitted basic pattern, often called a sloper (for home sewers) or a block (for industrial production), is a pre-made template used as a starting point.

The flat-pattern method begins with creating a sloper or block based on body measurements. This basic pattern block is typically made of lightweight cardboard or tagboard, without seam allowances or style details. The shape can be refined using toiles or muslins – inexpensive fabric mock-up garments.

The Role of a Pattern Maker

A pattern maker creates a prototype, similar to a garment design, for testing. They use muslin (or toile) – an inexpensive fabric – to create this prototype. The prototype garment can be adjusted by pinning fabric to the body or a dress form. The sewer then cuts the patterns on the muslin, following the same method as for the final garment. The muslin pieces are assembled and adjusted, providing a guideline for marking and cutting the fabric for the finished garment. This process ensures accurate fit and allows for necessary alterations before cutting into expensive fabric.

Key terms:

• Side-Dart Bodice Block
• Pattern Making
• Sewing Course
• Beginner Sewing
• Muslin
• Toile
• Pattern Drafting
• Pattern Cutting
• Sloper
• Block
• Pattern Prototype