GCSE (9-1) Art and Design Delivery Guide (Teacher Resource) - 1A Methods and Techniques

Teacher Resource 1A - Methods and techniques for creating constructed Textiles.

Patterns and draping: Pattern Corset Top

Introduction and aims

This is a practical task that will allow learners to use a paper pattern to create a corset top.

Demonstrating or showing images as the piece is created will also be a great help to the learners as each panel piece is added.

The aims of this activity are:

To understand how to use a paper pattern
Customise an existing pattern to suit different needs
Apply knowledge and creativity in the adaptation and use of a pattern to create a creative outcome

Activity set up

To demonstrate the corset top, you could create your own exemplar piece to aid the activity. To save time half the garment could be made prior to the lesson and the other half during the lesson.

You will need to set up each learner with a paper pattern for the corset top. extra paper, scissors and sticky tape.

Learners will ideally need a mannequin or base to be able to view the top. A mannequin could be shared or learners could try on their pattern themselves to see if it fits the body.

This activity could be used as an outcome for a final piece or a base for experimentation and development. It will work well as an ongoing piece of work that learners can build upon.

Activity

Explain and show images to learners of the corset top that is being created.
Learners can work individually and try to link their design to their own creative ideas using a mannequin or working flat on a table.
Each learner can cut out the pattern pieces. Allow an appropriate amount of time for each learner to do this and then explain and/or demonstrate that the pattern can be customised for their project ideas.
Learners can then add shapes, length to the hem or neckline to form ideas about silhouettes and where garments can be worn. Each learner can cut out paper shapes and add them to the paper pattern or cut into the pattern. A common place to customise the pattern is at the neckline - a sweetheart neckline or V-neck can be created fromthe straight edge of the pattern.
Ask the learners to reflect on their choice. Reflective questioning - does the pattern that has been altered reflect/link to what you are trying to achieve in your own work? Does it link to an image, designer, photograph or drawing from the learner’s work? Why have you changed the shape to this, do you have a specific reason?
When learners have decided on a design they can then use the pattern to create a final piece or toile using fabric. Ask learners to pin and cut around the paper pattern.
Using the notches (triangle) points match up the pattern edges and pin.
Once all the pieces are pinned together learners can stitch the seams using a simple straight stitch.
Press the seams open to line flat against the body.
Hem raw edges of the top and choose a fastening for the back to complete the garment. Eyelets, hook and eyes or ballet type lace are all good way of fastening the back pieces together.

Textile Design: Individual differences

Extension

Learners could add samples onto the top of the corset and photograph the outcomes to provide ideas for design development.

Corset example images

Textile Design: Individual differences