First up is a Threads magazine online article from way back (2008). This article is golden. It gives a simple example of how patterns “grow” at different locations within a pattern. It explained grading using a cut and spread diagram, but the info is also useful to both the “slide” and X &Y methods. This growth in different location as shown on the chart (available in the article linked to) are known as “grade rules”. The chart shows a simple formula for arriving at the grade rules. This formula is not set in stone but it is a very good starting point.
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Monday, 17 June 2019
PATTERN GRADING FOR FASHION DESIGN- learn how to grade Part 3
First up is a Threads magazine online article from way back (2008). This article is golden. It gives a simple example of how patterns “grow” at different locations within a pattern. It explained grading using a cut and spread diagram, but the info is also useful to both the “slide” and X &Y methods. This growth in different location as shown on the chart (available in the article linked to) are known as “grade rules”. The chart shows a simple formula for arriving at the grade rules. This formula is not set in stone but it is a very good starting point.
Thursday, 23 May 2019
PATTERN GRADING FOR FASHION DESIGN: How to learn to grade sewing patterns Part 2
The previous post defined what grading is and why you may need to grade. Today's post highlights different pattern grading method
Different sources may categorize
in different ways but it all boils down to the same thing. Below is my
classification:
A. Manual grading
B. Machine grading
C. Computer grading
Friday, 17 May 2019
PATTERN GRADING FOR FASHION DESIGN: How to learn to grade sewing patterns Part 1
What is Pattern grading?
Pattern grading is the process or
technique of making a sewing pattern available in other additional sizes
without redrafting each size from scratch; Grading
is the method by which the pattern grader creates patterns for a whole range of
sizes from the agreed base size. It is the task of grading to proportion those
increments among the different parts or panels of the garment according to
detailed, logical rules
Monday, 25 March 2019
Darted Versus Dartless Bodice Block
Is the bust fitting and back shoulder fitting darts (as shown on Diagram A)
always necessary?
A number of
pattern drafting methods have you draft the bodice block with a bust fitting
dart in front and sometimes a short shoulder fitting dart at the back. The bust
fitting dart may be positioned during drafting at the corner of the shoulder
(Natalie Bray); At the corner of the Neck (Aldrich) or at the waist
(Armstrong).
It is not all the time that a garment require a bust fitting
dart. Instead of transferring the dart elsewhere where it would create unwanted
fullness, why not start with a block that has eliminated that step (of transferring
fullness) yet remains fitted?
Wednesday, 29 August 2018
It's been a while dear readers
Hello. It has been a really long time since I posted on here. Over a year! Not easy blogging.I really hope to get this blog going.
So a few months back Serena Williams wore this chic asymmetric pink dress to the Royal wedding and I really liked the dress so I decided to try a draft of the dress. I have not had the chance to sew up a sample.
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WPA Pool/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images |
One of the most popular posts on this blog, is this Celeribity Hack post, so I will like to continue with that series like I said in the post. I posted this on Instagram, and it turned out to be my most popular Instagram post ever with lots of saves.
Watch out for the next post that that details my analysis of the style, drafting steps and sewing tips for the Serena Dress (as I like to call it).
Enjoy!
Thursday, 6 July 2017
New Sewing Pattern Alert- The Bailey Bolero Jacket
Hello.
So I said in a post last week, that this month of July will see a number of new pattern releases for your sewing pleasure. I also previewed one of the new patterns.
Yes the Bailey Bolero Jacket is here.
Bailey is a bolero jacket with high roll shawl collar that is convertible to a revers jacket if lined with shell fabric.
This classic jacket will instantly up-level any outfit you throw it on. This jacket, you may have guessed, is inspired by the Ralph Lauren outfit Melania Trump wore at the presidential inauguration. Most notable difference is that I opted for set in sleeves instead of raglan.
Monday, 3 July 2017
Aria Sewing Pattern Release
Yay! the Aria top is the SewExplicit Patterns latest sewing pattern. The Aria top features an underarm cowl and a basic round neck finished with a neckband.
This laid back style can be worn casually on a pair of jeans or lengthened to make a sassy short party dress. The Aria pattern is an easy make, quick sewing and it is suitable for beginners.
Aria is designed for knit fabric with enough vertical and horizontal stretch to wear without the need of fastening.
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