I really enjoy patternmaking and I think it's mostly because I like putting a puzzle together with my measurements and seeing if it really does work out. I also like math and pretty much that's all patternmaking is. If you went to school and thought, when am I ever going use fractions again? Well, here they are and you really have to welcome them back with open arms because, in this situation, fractions are our friends. If you have trouble with fractions, you can break them down to decimal form and it's a little easier to then do math on a calculator. Here's a cheat sheet for you. 1/8=.125, 1/4=.25, 3/8=.375, 1/2=.5, 5/8=.625, 3/4 =.75, 7/8=.875 Please make note that in patternmaking, measurements are king and it's so important to be accurate. You can't be sloppy and just round things up or down to the nearest inch. I usually do it to the nearest 1/8" but if it's easier you can do to the closest 1/4". If your lines aren't lining up the way they're supposed to, double check your measurements.
This tutorial is part of a series for creating a full bodice block or sloper so you can create a bodice pattern. This pattern can be used to be paired with a skirt to create a dress or we can use the block to create different styles and even make tops from it. Please realize this pattern is meant for woven fabrics only. If you want to use knit fabric, check out our basic tank top or tshirt bodice tutorial.
Because this patternmaking is a little more involved and uses quite a few measurements, we decided to break up this block into separate tutorials. This particular one covers front body measurements and drafting the front bodice only. I definitely recommend doing the front bodice first. Following this one, you can then tackle the back bodice.
What kind of issues are you having? We do have a tutorial on our site for working with velvet type fabric. https://www.professorpincushion.com/professorpincushion/working-with-velvet-and-velveteen/
Help me sir I want to make something out of my velvet polyester fabric but the fur on it is discouraging can I be able to over come it
You can definitely alter the neckline. The easiest way is to make your muslin and while it’s on (easier if it’s on a dressform) use a pencil to redraw your desired neckline directly on the fabric. Cut along this line and then transfer it to your pattern. I would suggest doing it to a copy of your bodice pattern and not the block. You should always keep a copy of the basic block and make changes to copies. Also, don’t forget that you’ll still need to add seam allowance to your new neckline. good luck!
Elizabeth — Did you get an answer on necklines? I would like to know the same. thank you
Thanks! Such a clear and precise tutorial! How would I alter the neckline? If I wanted a squared/sweetheart/lower neckline? Do you have a tutorial for this procedure or any plans to do one?
Hi..need me patterns for slim fit man shirt in all greatness.. thanks..
Can you show us how to add a bust dart?
can you show us how to draft a peplum shirt with this bodice pattern that would be great thank you in advance
if your android phone has flash on it, the video will play. If not, then it relies on html5 video. I am working on our premium videos being compatible with html5 video, but its not ready yet. I don’t have a time frame when this feature will be implemented, sorry
Can you set up the videos so they will play on an Android phone? My laptop is out of commission right now..