The Self-Employed Fashion Design Course – Western Wear (Part-1) is designed to provide aspiring fashion designers with a comprehensive understanding of pattern making, garment construction, and creative design techniques specifically focused on Western wear. This course aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to develop their own fashion designs, create patterns, and construct garments. Throughout the course, students will learn various techniques, from taking body measurements to understanding grain lines and balance lines, as well as exploring different design options for bodices, skirts, and dresses.
Course Outlines:
- Introduction to Pattern Making:
In this section, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of pattern-making. They will learn about the essential tools and equipment used in pattern-making and gain an understanding of the importance of accurate body measurements. Additionally, they will explore the concepts of grain lines and balance lines, which are crucial for creating well-fitting garments.
- Adult Bodice Block:
Students will learn how to create a basic sleeve block with and without darts. They will then delve into dart manipulation techniques, such as slash and spread and pivotal transfer methods. This section will also cover the development of different tops, where students can apply their knowledge to create five unique designs.
- Skirt Block:
In this section, students will focus on skirt designs. They will learn how to create different skirt blocks, including high waist, low waist, cascade, gore, panelled, and yoke skirts. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to showcase their creativity by designing and constructing three unique skirt designs.
- Basic Torso:
The basic torso section will cover the creation of a torso block, as well as the shift block, sheath block, and empire waist dresses. Students will also explore style lines and learn how to manipulate them to create different design variations. They will specifically work on a shirt dress with style line manipulations and develop three unique one-piece dress designs.
- Origami:
Origami techniques will be introduced to students as a creative element in fashion design. They will learn how to incorporate origami-inspired elements into bodices and dresses, creating unique and visually striking garments.
- Garment Construction Technology/Stitching:
This section will provide students with an introduction to both basic hand and machine stitches. They will learn the construction and draping techniques for an adult bodice block, as well as the construction of darted sleeves, designer tops, skirts, dresses, and origami designs. Special attention will be given to key garment components such as zippers, attachments, collars, sleeves, and shoulder pads.
- Attractions:
Students will have the opportunity to explore marker making, which involves laying out pattern pieces on the fabric to maximize material usage. They will also learn about the process of costing garments in relation to bulk production, boutique production, and export patterns’ quality. The course will cover calculating markups, which is essential for pricing the finished garments accurately.
By the end of this course, students will have acquired a strong foundation in pattern making, garment construction, and design techniques specific to Western wear. They will have developed the skills to create patterns, construct garments, and apply creative elements such as style lines and origami-inspired designs. Students will be able to design and produce their own Western wear garments, understanding the importance of accurate measurements, proper grain lines, and balance lines. They will also have a grasp of costing and markup calculations, essential for business aspects of fashion design. Overall, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a self-employed fashion designer specializing in Western wear.
