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Learn the basics to make your own clothes
Facilitator: Jamilla Ives
Are you ready to take your clothes-making to the next level? In this Introduction to Pattern Cutting for beginners course you will learn the basics of pattern cutting. This is an opportunity to learn key skills make your own clothes; a skill that will help you make more sustainable clothing choices.
Day one will introduce you to the basic pattern cutting principles and allow you to use scaled down samples to really get to grips with all the core skills you need to know. On day two we will start with a classic dress block and you will learn how to turn it into the dress (or top/skirt) of your dreams. From moving darts to altering necklines you will pick up the skills you need to make your own patterns in the future.
Please Register your Interest if you would like to be notified of a place becoming available and/or future Pattern Cutting courses.
Event time: Fri 29th Sep 2023 at 4:00pm - Sun 1st Oct 2023 at 4:00pm
- A full introduction to pattern cutting skills
- How to use a dress block
- How to take your designs from an idea to a ready-to-sew paper pattern
- How to use pattern-cutting tools
- A practical course in beautiful surroundings with nourishing food
Participants Will Gain
- Understanding of how to pivot darts
- How to alter the neckline of a commercial pattern
- How to create panels and seam lines in patterns
- Insight into basic skirt and top variations
- How to use the slash and spread techniques to add volume to patterns
‘Craft skills and knowledge should be at the heart of the debate about our relationship to the planet,’ – sustainability champion Katie Treggiden
In this course you will learn how pattern cutting principles work by using a scaled down dress block. There will be the opportunity to get to grips with principles such as grain lines, pivoting darts, altering necklines, creating panels and seam lines as well as using the slash and spread technique to add volume.
Once you have the basic principles and using a standard size block, you will learn about the key manipulations that you can do to dress patterns. This course will build on your pattern knowledge so you will be able to adapt and create your own custom dress, skirt or top pattern. Creating beautiful and responsibly sourced clothes that are bespoke to you.
Hawkwood
Hawkwood is a stunning Grade II listed 19th Century country house, surrounded by 42 acres of sustainably managed woodland, farmland, and gardens. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – it is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a diverse selection of nearly 150 courses, there’s plenty to choose from, including courses in transformative leadership, future thinking, inner life, music and the arts. Our programme of courses is led by experienced tutors and leaders in their fields.
What Is Included
Both residential and non-residential rates are available. Residential options are fully inclusive with all meals provided. Non-residential options include suppers, lunches and all refreshments and exclude B&B.
Additional Activities
- Mindful walking through our woodland trails
- Meditate in our Woodland Sanctuary
- Go on a hike and explore the Cotswolds AONB
- Discover surrounding charming market towns
Price Options
£290 Non-Residential
£350 Residential Shared
£390 Residential Single
Please use the form below to register your interest in the course or event
Practical Information
Materials and sewing machines provided. However please let us know if you wish to bring your own kit.
Registration for the course is at 4pm on Friday 23rd June and the course finishes with afternoon tea at 4pm on Sunday 25th June.
Jamilla Ives
Fashion Praxis is a creative enterprise run by Jamilla Ives. She is a experienced fashion and textiles educator and maker and works across design, fashion production, events and hospitality. She has worked with a range of independent brands across the South West in both pattern cutting and garment production. She is Curriculum Coordinator for Textiles at The Prince’s Foundation and previously delivered onto the Fashion Design BA at the University of Gloucestershire.
Jamilla seeks to empower others in their making journeys; valuing both people and plant, whilst promoting the value of labour and respect the craftsmanship that is involved in the making process.
Upcoming Courses & Events
Hawkwood is an educational charity providing courses, facilitating training and offering venue hire, set in a stunning location in the Cotswolds.
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