The Flat Pattern Method teaches you to customize your clothes with new pattern shapes, style lines, and details with step-by-step instructions!

Fashion designers are presented with a range of methods and concepts for pattern cutting are presented, the main body of these methods, both traditional and contemporary, is predominately based on a theoretical approximation of the body that is derived from horizontal and vertical measurements of the body in an upright position: the tailoring matrix. As a consequence, there is a lack of interactive and dynamic qualities in methods connected to this paradigm of garment construction, from both expressional and functional perspectives. This work proposes and explores an alternative paradigm for pattern cutting that includes a new theoretical approximation of the body as well as a more kinetic method for garment construction that, unlike the prevalent theory and its related methods, takes as its point of origin the interaction between the anisotropic fabric and the biomechanical structure of the body. As such, the research conducted here is basic research, aiming to identify fundamental principles for garment construction. Based on some key principles found in the works of Geneviève Sevin-Doering and in pre-tailoring methods for constructing garments, the proposed theory for – and method of – garment construction was developed through concrete experiments by cutting and draping fabrics on live models. Instead of a static matrix of a non-moving body, the result is a kinetic construction theory of the body that is comprised of balance directions and key biomechanical points, along with an alternative draping method for dressmaking. This methodology challenges the fundamental relationship between dress, garment construction, and the body, working from the body outward, as opposed to the methods that are based on the prevalent paradigm of the tailoring matrix, which work from the outside toward the body. This alternative theory for understanding the body and the proposed method of working allows for diverse expressions and enhanced functional possibilities in dress.

"Brief, nontechnical instructions describe and illustrate each network upon which repeat patterns can be arranged, while a rich array of 280 illustrations depict historical and contemporary examples of pattern, many adapted from such diverse sources as a ancient Peruvian stone amulet, 12th-century mosaics, 13th-century damask, Japanese stencil designs, and much more. Decorative samples appear in macrame and embroidery, mosaics, painting, collage, sculpture, on wrapping paper and in other decorative art forms. A brief Vocabulary includes basic terms used to describe patterns and a concluding chaper explores the visual range of one particular motif - the Romanesque arch form."--BOOK COVER.

Connie Crawford would like to introduce you to this new up-to-date edition of Patternmaking Made Easy.The strength of Patternmaking Made Easy is the visually apparent instructional layout. Continuity between frames is clear. Each concept is laid out seamlessly on one page or facing pages. Yet each pattern process is complete and hasn¿t sacrificed detail at the expense of instruction. Each subject is approached thoroughly with simple directness so that the average student may enjoy this logical journey into the world of fashion.Connie¿s drafting techniques are the same REQUIRED methods in the fashion industry. She demonstrates pants for smaller and mature figures, princess seams, plackets, bustiers, knit designs, lingerie and tailoring -- just to name a few. All the techniques needed to draft flat patterns for bodices, skirts, pants, jackets, and sleeves are in this mammoth 459 page, spiral bound hardback. It will provide patternmakers with the means to execute all of their creative ideas in a nearly infinite variety of clothing styles.