Learner Resource 1B - Methods and techniques for creating constructed Textiles.

Patterns and draping: Draping on the stand

Introduction

In this activity you will create a dress by working with fabric directly on to the mannequin. It will be created inside out and fitted to the mannequin. Using your project theme this method of dressmaking can quickly help develop ideas for different fashion designs.

Activity

Using the draped technique to create a garment creates a bespoke piece that is tailored to the body. It can create a garment quickly that is made on the mannequin with its seams on the outside ready to be stitched and turned out the right way.

1.Mark the centre front of your mannequin using tape. Add lines that go around the bust and waist. This will help you to gauge where the lines of the body sit and correctly fit the garment accordingly.

2.Add a square piece of fabric for your front panel and pin it along the centre front.

3.Smooth the fabric across the body towards the side front. Pin the fabric in place and trim away the excess material.

4.Using another piece of fabric pin it on to the side front panel.

5.Smooth the fabric towards the front side seam and pin it together. This will create your first seam that can later be stitched together.

6.Using a third piece of fabric pin it to the side back and smooth to the front side panel and pin together. Create another seam under the arm.

7.Fold over fabric and pin along the centre back to create the final back panel. Smooth this fabric to meet the side back seam and pin together to secure.

8.Draw with tailors chalk or pencil the shape of the garment that is needed add in extra allowance for turnings if needed. Trim the excess fabric to show the shape created.

9.Make sure the lines of the centre front, centre back, bust and waistline can be seen, mark if needed.

10.Using a large piece of fabric fold and pin along the centre front to make a dress.

11.Curve the fabric around the waistline or bust line depending on the design you are trying to create. Pin in place at the side seam.

12.Cut another piece of fabric that can be used for the back. Fold the fabric and pin along the centre back line.

Version 11© OCR 2017

Textile Design: Individual differences

  1. Pin the side seams of the skirt together, using extra fabric if fullness is needed or smoothing the fabric tightly to create a fitted look.
  2. Cut a strip of fabric and place it onto the waistline.

Using this technique a garment can be build and then stitch inside out to create a creative couture piece. Repeat the process to create the other side of the garment or keep and photograph for design developments and samples.

The draping technique can be used to create lots of different designs and styles. Creating this base as a starting point for your own intentions and creative ideas.

Extension

Create the whole garment not just half in the session.

Use this construction method to create a final piece, aid the development of the project or to re-create styles from inspired by other designers.

Version 11© OCR 2017

Textile Design: Individual differences