Pocket placement

I've decided that since my apron dress is supposed to be a practical garment, it's important for it to have pockets, and decent sized ones at that to fit all the garden paraphernalia you need to carry around with you.

Fiona suggested that I cut out some different shapes and pin them on to my garment so I can visualise the correct height to place them, so they are comfortable and practical to use, and also what they might look like aesthetically. The pocket above would be hidden and sewn into the side seams of the dress. It is deep so things will not fall out when you are working.

The design above is a large patch pocket that would be on either side of the dress. I would need to take it into consideration when finalising the placement of my print and embroidery on the dress.

In the end I have decided to go for one hidden pocket that runs under the front of the dress like a muff or hand warmer. It is joined to the side seams on each side and is accessible from either opening so you don't have to remember which side you put your plant labels of string in! The pocket will be hidden under the pleating in the front of the dress.

Pattern cutting part deux

More Pattern cutting today with Claudette!

This was last weeks effort, manipulating darts, moving a bust dart into the armhole.

After that I managed to cut out a winged seam with a princess line, and then we ran out of time.

So today we made up half a bodice with the pieces I cut out last week. Next up was the collars...

This was my Peter pan collar, so sweet! We had to overstitch on the underside of the collar to create a crisp edge, which was a bit tricky when you come to the rounded lapel bits, but I really pleased with my first attempt.

Last up was a cute little stand collar, like you might use on a cheongsam style dress. I have to say that I didn't think I'd enjoy pattern cutting as much as I did. I really love the neatness of it all and how with the use of a block you can change a design, but it magically fits the mannequin when you are done.

One thing I really wanted to make before I started this course, was this collar (from the film Bright Star). I don't think it would quite 'fit' in this project, but it is an idea I would like to use in the future. After finding this image on the internet I have also noticed just how amazing the cardigan looks. Is it tiny crocheted squares stitched corner to corner? Just beautiful! In fact, this whole film is just visual perfection, if you haven't seen it, you must.

Intro into pattern cutting

Yesterday we had an introduction into pattern cutting with Claudette.

It was the first time I had used a block before, or done any proper pattern cutting (I've only drawn round other clothes to make simple patterns). We used the block to move, close and open new darts around a front and back block several times and then we chose a front and back to cut out and machine together.

I never new pattern cutting was so mathematical with all the angles!

I forgot to bring my camera, so will have to remember it for next thursday when we will be having part two.