First Prototype: The skirt block and how to fit it perfectly

Welcome to a new pattern making class, in today’s class we are going to make the first prototype – The Skirt block

A prototype (also known as a toile or mock-up) is the first sample we make with a cheaper fabric to check that the pattern is perfect.

In this case, when we want the pattern to be perfect we have to focus on making the skirt pattern fit the body like a glove.

In addition to this pattern being perfect, we also have to take into account your comfort when wearing the skirt block.

That is why in this class we are going to practice different ease since the ease amount can change on different factors.

Younger women tend to prefer less ease than older women.

Today’s class begins by walking the patterns, this is a technique to check that there are no errors in our patterns before cutting them into fabric.

Then we will industrialize the patterns to be able to make this skirt.

This means that I will teach you how to add ease and how to add seam allowance.

In industrial pattern making, the seam allowance is always placed on the patterns, never on the fabric.

Once this is done we will cut the pattern into the fabric. Remember that before cutting it you have to pre-shrink the fabric in the way I taught you in previous classes.

Class

Class notes

Once we have the patterns cut, we will start sewing this skirt together, where I will teach you how to sew the darts and sew the seams.

In the tailoring section, you have a class on how to sew darts like a pro and how to sew seams.

When we make prototypes, we don’t usually sew zips or hems because what matters to us is seeing how the pattern looks.

After sewing it, it’s time to test this prototype, I’m going to test it on the mannequin and here we have to see if we have to modify anything.

Since all bodies are not the same, in the second video you will find how to modify this pattern to adjust it to your body or your client’s body.

Once we have the perfect pattern we will start playing with different types of ease so that this skirt is comfortable to wear.

Acabaremos la clase de hoy pasando el patrón final a cartulina para poder usarlo muchas veces.

Remember that if you have any questions about today’s class, you can always send me an email through your student account, in the support section.

Send your exercises

In the previous class, I asked you to send me the skirt block pattern, today I am going to ask you to sew this prototype.

You can sew the pattern block with industrial measurements at full size or half scale.

You can also make the pattern block and prototype on your size or the size of a mannequin and send me the photos of the prototype.

Remember to tell me what you are sending me in the “Do you want to say anything to me?” and what ease you decided to use in the end.