Mastering Pattern Cutting

The skills of the pattern cutter remain very relevant today, and there are many unfilled jobs in this sector, around the world. If you are looking to move into the world of pattern cutting, to develop your own designs or to work in the industry, then this is the ideal course for you.

The course will take you from the very beginning of understanding what a pattern is through to developing your own patterns from a design. Over the 10 months (36 Saturdays) you will build up your knowledge of flat pattern cutting and also draping, and with practice at home, by the end of the course you should be able to create a pattern of your choice using a block (template). The course covers pattern cutting from a basic block for all garment types, except outerwear, and the methods used are those used in the industry. It is expected that whilst attending this course you can devote a further 3 hours a week to practicing the craft.

The course culminates in a personal project where you develop a pattern from a brief, with the support of the tutors, which is typical of what would be required in the industry.

Week Content 1-2

Course overview, introduction to pattern cutting, blocks, sizing, fabric/grains, customer profile, slash, spread and pivoting methods

3-4Dart manipulation:- Single, combination, shaped, asymmetrical, temporary darts, darts into seam/style lines, darts through seam/style lines, back darts 5-6Bodices: Style analysis; changing the block silhouette. Sleeveless bodice and low necklines 7-8Facings, button stand, interlinings, linings, sample pattern with seam allowances 9-10Collars: applied & grown-on 11-12Cowl neckline - draping. Various cowls – flat pattern cutting and draping 13Sleeve introduction – set-in sleeve adoptions 14Grown on sleeves
15-16Professional practice 16-17Skirts - ‘A’ line, panel , tiered skirt, pleated, bias cut, waistbands, vents, godet 18-19Dress – development, introduction of ½ scale for style developments. 20-22Trouser – prep trouser blocks, classic pants with integral pocket, variety of silhouettes 23-24Student led, personal development of bodice, skirt, trouser or dress pattern 25-26Creative pattern cutting techniques, exploration of less conventional cutting techniques 28-30Draping and transferring draped shapes to paper 31-36Student led, development of patterns for an outfit, this should incorporate techniques learnt throughout the course. The pattern will be complete, toiles made, proposed fabrics sourced, lay plans and costings supplied. These activities supported by tutors.

Level:

Beginners. You should have an interest in the subject area and a desire to learn but no previous experience is required.

Dates: (Saturdays, delivered in three parts)

Part 1: September 23rd – December 9th (12 weeks) ·
Part 2: January 6th – March 24th (12 weeks) ·
Part 3: April 14th – June 30th (12 weeks)

Please note:

Due to the length of this course International Students who hold a passport from a country that is outside the EEA or Switzerland must already have immigration permission to stay in the UK which covers the full length of the course and has no restrictions on studying.

Booking:

Your course place is confirmed once you have booked online or via the phone using a credit or debit card. There is no deadline for booking. Places are offered on a first come, first served basis, and all courses have a maximum number of students. We suggest you book early to avoid disappointment.