In this week’s session, I continued our work on developing the torso block we started last week. I focused on tracing the block to create separate bodice and dress patterns, demonstrating how to shape the waist and darts. The session covered technical details of pattern manipulation while explaining how these base patterns can be used to create various styles.
Demonstration Steps:
- Traced the torso block onto new paper to create separate bodice and dress patterns
- Demonstrated waist shaping techniques for both patterns
- Explained how to shape darts for better fit, especially around the bust area
- Showed how to extend the bodice pattern into a dress pattern
- Discussed how to blend and smooth lines for a professional finish
Questions & Answers:
- Q: How do we handle a sway back when drafting patterns?
- A: For a sway back, you may need to add a dart from the center back to the waist, or create a separate waist seam in the back. We’ll cover fit adjustments like this in more detail in future sessions.
- Q: Can this dress block be used as a master block to develop other styles?
- A: Yes, absolutely! This dress block serves as a foundation to create various styles. We’ll explore how to manipulate it for different designs in upcoming sessions.
- Q: Should I persevere with fitting my skirt pattern or use my draped skirt block?
- A: It’s not cheating to use your draped block if it works well for you. Just ensure you have the correct number of darts, especially in the back.
Next week, we’ll focus on developing different dart placements for the bodice, so you can choose the best options for your body type and desired styles. We’ll also start planning some creative draping projects, including work with corsets.
