What We Don't Teach

My purpose is to teach people the various methods for making patterns. Patterns are not, however an isolated part of fashion. Construction methods dictate what can be created. It is impossibe, for example, to teach pattern making without referencing how the garment is intended to be put together or considering the materials from which it is to be made.

I do not need to teach you how to draw a fashion illustration in order to be able to teach you how to make the pattern for that image. I do not need to teach you how to use an industrial sewing machine to tell you that a particular seam will require a certain amount of seam allowance. Knowledge of these skills will always be of benefit to the design process, of which pattern making is an integral part, but are not necessary to teach the skill of pattern making.

Learning how to sew is a great skill. As are drawing, measuring, fitting, cutting, pinning and all the other fashion related skills. Unless specifically required in order to explain something pertaining to making patterns, I'll keep my discussion of these skills to a minimum.

All that said, if you attend a course I'm teaching you can ask any questions you like related to the topic and I'll gladly explain in as much detail as you need. I'm happy to demonstrate exactly how to make something or do everything I can to help you find the answers to your search for information. If you have questions pertaining to this site and not a class I may keep my answers brief and to topic. It's much simpler to demonstrate in person!

My reading list page has links to books and online information covering fashion related topics. Some of these may be able to help you develop the other skills necessary to make a garment from start to finish.