In this week’s session, I demonstrated how to create a pattern from an existing t-shirt or top. I showed the process step-by-step, focusing on accurately capturing the shape and fit of a well-loved garment. This technique allows you to recreate favorite pieces in different fabrics or colors.
Demonstration Steps:
- Pressed and laid out the t-shirt flat on paper
- Pinned the t-shirt to the paper, ensuring it’s straight and unstretched
- Traced the outline of the t-shirt front, including neckline, armhole, and side seams
- Repeated the process for the back of the t-shirt
- Demonstrated how to trace the sleeve pattern
- Explained how to true the pattern pieces and adjust for symmetry
- Discussed considerations for different fabric types, especially jerseys
Questions & Answers:
- Q: How can I add bust support to the dress top?
- A: For easy summer dresses, adding a cup to the bust area is simplest. More complex support like corsets requires additional construction and takes away from the effortless look.
- Q: Can you address making a waistband on a knit skirt?
- A: The waistband should follow the curve of the skirt waist, not be straight. Use the same fabric as the skirt and ensure it stretches to match the skirt for pull-on styles.
- Q: What if the back of the sleeve is different from the front?
- A: For most t-shirts, especially relaxed fit ones, the front and back sleeve are usually the same. For fitted styles, you may need to create separate front and back sleeve patterns.
