This course introduces students to industry-standard pattern drafting through both flat and draped techniques. Each student will develop personalized pattern blocks and learn how to transform them into original designs. Along the way, we’ll tackle common challenges in patternmaking and build the technical skills needed to bring creative concepts to life with precision.
By the end of this course, students will have a strong foundation in both flat and draped patternmaking techniques. Through hands-on practice, they’ll learn to draft, refine, and manipulate patterns with precision, culminating in the creation of a custom garment that reflects their individual design vision.
Use professional terminology and core drafting techniques with confidence
Draft and fit basic blocks, including bodices, skirts, sleeves, and dress variations
Properly label and prepare patterns with seam allowances
Apply blending, truing, and equalizing techniques for clean, accurate pattern lines
Ensure patterns are balanced and production-ready
Troubleshoot common patternmaking challenges with practical solutions
Create and modify patterns using both flat drafting and draping methods
Combine blocks to develop original designs
Design and produce a custom garment using self-drafted pattern blocks
Jennifer Risk is a costume designer and maker with a background in opera, having worked at Opera Santa Barbara and Portland Opera. She holds a PhD in Geography and loves knitting, quilting, and fashion history.
Cutting tools
Upcoming classes for 2025:
July 15
September 14
Join our evening design workshops and gain hands-on experience in high-demand creative fields—without leaving your day job. Perfect for professionals, upskillers, and career changers.
