How to Make a Female Shirt Pattern
Creating a custom female shirt pattern can be a rewarding and empowering experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced seamstress, understanding the process of drafting a shirt pattern from scratch can help you tailor your garments to fit your body perfectly. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to make a female shirt pattern that you can use for various shirt styles and sizes.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before you start drafting your pattern, gather all the necessary materials. You will need:
– A ruler or measuring tape
– Pattern paper or tracing paper
– A pencil
– A straight edge
– A patternmaking book or online resources for reference
2. Take Measurements
Accurate measurements are crucial for creating a well-fitting shirt pattern. Measure the following key points on your body:
– Bust circumference
– Waist circumference
– Hip circumference
– Shoulder width
– Armhole depth
– Sleeve length
Record these measurements and keep them handy for reference during the drafting process.
3. Draft the Basic Block
The basic block is the foundation of your shirt pattern. It serves as a template for various shirt styles. To draft the basic block, follow these steps:
– Draw a vertical line on your pattern paper, representing the center back line.
– From the center back line, measure and mark the shoulder width and armhole depth.
– Draw a horizontal line at the shoulder width mark, representing the shoulder seam.
– From the shoulder seam, measure and mark the bust circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference.
– Connect the marked points to form the basic block shape.
4. Adjust the Basic Block
Now that you have your basic block, it’s time to adjust it to fit your body. Make the following adjustments:
– Add ease to the bust area by curving the side seam towards the bust point.
– Narrow the shoulder seam to accommodate your shoulder width.
– Adjust the armhole depth and sleeve length to fit your arm measurements.
5. Add the Collar and Sleeves
Once your basic block is adjusted, you can add the collar and sleeves to create a shirt pattern. Follow these steps:
– Draw a collar shape on your pattern paper, ensuring it aligns with the shoulder seam.
– Add the sleeve pattern by drawing a curved line from the armhole to the desired sleeve length.
– Connect the collar and sleeve patterns to the basic block.
6. Finalize the Pattern
Review your pattern for any errors or adjustments. Make sure the seams align correctly and the pattern is symmetrical. You can now use this pattern as a guide to cut and sew your custom female shirt.
Conclusion
Creating a female shirt pattern from scratch can be a fun and fulfilling project. By following these steps, you can create a pattern that fits your body perfectly and serves as a template for various shirt styles. With practice, you will become more confident in your patternmaking skills and enjoy the process of crafting your own unique garments.
