Clarification details
November 2015.
Pattern Drafting
Pattern drafting requires a pattern block and/or working drawing to be established by using key measurements and using these to develop a pattern which interprets a garment’s design including its special features. Line accuracy is a key quality of pattern drafting. Patterns are tested using toiles and mock-ups to check the fit of the garment, to ensure that pattern pieces correctly interpret a design and its special features, and to make any adjustments.
The pattern drafting process…block > pattern
A possible process a student could follow when drafting a pattern could be:
- Produce a block – no seam allowances
- Draw design lines on the block
- Trace off design
- Add seam allowances
- Trialling/toile
- Adjustments to block
- Trace of final pattern
- Label with pattern markings and notches
A pattern block does not have seam allowances; a pattern has seam allowances.
Special features
In this standard students are expected to create a pattern which includes special features. These may include: panel or princess seams, an empire line, disposal of fullness, pleats, gores, yokes or button wraps, and dart manipulation.
Student evidence
Student evidence could include:
- knowing how to draft a pattern block from measurements and how to calculate these
- knowing how to interpret pattern adaptation instructions such as those found in a pattern making text
- creating a pattern guide sheet
- being able to label the pattern with the correct symbols, notches, seam allowances and information to enable the construction of the garment.