Week 3
This week, we focused on drafting the sleeve block. This task added to my growing understanding of pattern-making.
In class, Ms. Melina introduced us to two versions of the sleeve block: the basic version and the Bunka method. While the basic version followed straightforward steps, Ms. Melina explained that the Bunka method, inspired by Japanese techniques, is actually easier and more precise.
For homework, Ms. Melina assigned sewing exercises to help us improve our skills with the machine. These included stitching straight lines, twirls and curves. Practicing on sewing machine was both challenging and rewarding I found that staying consistent with straight lines was particularly tricky.
Week 4
This week, we focused on drafting women’s and men’s pants blocks and explored dart manipulation techniques. Starting with the women’s pants block, we took precise measurements for the waist, hips, and crotch depth, ensuring smooth curves and darts, the men’s pants block followed.
We then practiced dart manipulation, learning how to shift darts to create unique design lines, like moving waist darts to the neckline or side seams. Although drafting crotch curves was tricky. This week expanded my technical skills.