How to Draft a Pattern from a Garment
Drafting a pattern from a garment is a fundamental skill in fashion design and pattern making. It involves creating a pattern that can be used to produce a garment with the same silhouette and style. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced designer, understanding how to draft a pattern from a garment is essential for creating custom designs and making alterations to existing garments. In this article, we will guide you through the process of drafting a pattern from a garment, step by step.
Step 1: Choose the Garment
The first step in drafting a pattern from a garment is to select the garment you want to use as a reference. Choose a garment that has the desired style, silhouette, and fit. Ensure that the garment is clean, pressed, and free of any alterations or repairs. This will help you create an accurate pattern.
Step 2: Measure the Garment
Take detailed measurements of the garment using a measuring tape. Measure the garment’s length, width, and depth at various points, including the bust, waist, hip, and hem. Write down these measurements as they will be used to draft the pattern.
Step 3: Trace the Garment
Lay the garment on a flat surface and trace its outline onto a large piece of paper or pattern paper. Use a fabric pen or a tracing wheel to trace the garment’s shape, including any darts, seams, and notches. Be sure to trace the entire garment, including the back and front pieces.
Step 4: Mark the Center Lines
Identify the center front and center back lines on the traced garment. Draw these lines through the traced outline to create the center front and center back seams. These lines will be used to align the pattern pieces during construction.
Step 5: Add Ease and Allowances
Ease and allowances are added to the traced outline to account for the fabric’s stretch, seam allowances, and any additional shaping needed. Add ease by drawing a slightly larger outline around the traced shape, leaving enough space for the fabric to move and drape. Seam allowances are typically 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) on all sides, but this can vary depending on the fabric and desired fit.
Step 6: Draft the Pattern Pieces
Using the traced outline and the added ease and allowances, draft the pattern pieces. Divide the traced shape into individual pieces, such as the front, back, sleeves, and collar. Ensure that the pattern pieces are aligned with the center lines and that the grainline is marked on each piece.
Step 7: Finalize the Pattern
Review the drafted pattern pieces for accuracy and make any necessary adjustments. Check for proper grainline alignment, dart placement, and seam allowances. Once you are satisfied with the pattern, transfer it to a more durable material, such as cardstock, for future use.
Conclusion
Drafting a pattern from a garment is a valuable skill that can help you create custom designs and make alterations to existing garments. By following these steps, you can create accurate and versatile patterns that can be used to produce a wide range of garments. Practice drafting patterns from various garments to improve your skills and expand your design possibilities.
