Alternate Route

I'm trying to chalk up the time wasted trying to draft my body measurements as a learning experience. OMG I spent 1 1/2 weeks drafting and re-drafting, but I kept having this feeling that something was off. Well, after my visit with Korto and what I had considered doing anyway was to just purchase a Vogue Fit Pattern Shell. I had started drafting the details on my own pattern draft, but I thought how messed up it would've been if things didn't turn out because of my own drafted basic bodice. Soooo, I made a trip to Hancock's Fabrics and purchased Vogue's version of the basic draft. I am soooo glad I did so b/c their directions helped me figure out the mistakes I was making on my own draft. Plus, I learned how to combine the bodice and skirt. So simple! Well, I'll proceed drafting the details from my sketch onto my purchased shell.

I'm giving myself until next Friday to construct b/c I've got to start preparing for this upcoming school year and finish some odd and end projects around my home. My next step regarding the construction will be to ensure that I'll comprehend the drafting design instructions and proceed. This includes understanding contouring. Since my design will have a cut out neck, I'll need to ensure there will not be any gapping. There's a technique to ensure proper contouring of the bodice that I'm trying to grasp. I never knew so much went into one garment. I can't wait until this will come as "second nature" when constructing.

Talk about Tedious...

Tools used to draft my basic measurement blocks: pattern drafting paper, paper french curve, pattern making textbook, vary from curve rule, pink pearl eraser, metal ruler, custom measurements, mechanical pencil

from l-r sewing scissors, flex curve ruler, plastic french curve

Basic Custom Block Draft (l-r sleeve, skirt front, skirt back, type 2 skirt back, front bodice, back bodice)

I'm convinced drafting the basic block pattern was the most tedious thing I've ever done. These basic block pieces are to serve as the foundation for anything I make. Having to draft and mark my precise body measurement to the nearest 1/8th of an inch was mind boggling. I hope I'm not going about this the long way, but something tells me knowing how to do this will be beneficial. I gotta admit that I'm quite fond of all the odd shaped sewing tools and supplies used to draft and measure the patterns. I'm still figuring out the sleeve fit and adjustment chapter here in this textbook and ready to call it a night (so sleepy)! I'll read just a bit further and will head to bed.

It dawned on me that I report to work in 1 month and still have so many other loose ends that I will need to tie up. I've given myself 2 weeks to try and complete my dress which would be great b/c Little Rock Fashion Week will falls on that 2nd week. I would love to wear it when I support my sweet friend Sheila who will be showcasing her line!! Check her out at http://www.ncholeferoce.com/

! I'm really excited for her too! We'll see how much progress I make here in the upcoming weeks because I've gotta keep things moving and prepare for this upcoming school year PLUS a state classroom observation as well. I'm so grateful to be home for summer break.