What is Drafting and Why is it Necessary in Sewing?
What is Drafting?
Drafting in sewing refers to the process of creating your own sewing patterns from scratch. It involves measuring the garment and using those measurements to construct a precise drawing of the pattern pieces on paper.
Why is Drafting Necessary?
While ready-made patterns are readily available, drafting your own patterns offers several advantages:
- Perfect Fit: Drafting allows you to create a pattern that fits your body perfectly, taking into account your unique measurements and shape. This ensures a garment that is comfortable, flattering, and tailored to your individual needs.
- Customization: You have complete control over the design and style of the garment. You can adjust the length, width, and details to create exactly what you envision.
- Cost-Effectiveness: In the long run, drafting can be more cost-effective than constantly buying new patterns, especially if you frequently sew custom garments.
- Enhanced Skills: Drafting improves your understanding of garment construction and patternmaking. It helps you understand the relationship between measurements, shape, and design, making you a more confident and versatile sewer.
When to Consider Drafting
Drafting can be a great skill to develop, but it's not always necessary. Consider drafting your own patterns when:
- You need a unique garment that cannot be found in ready-made patterns.
- You have difficulty finding patterns that fit your body well.
- You want to experiment with different designs and styles without relying on pre-made options.
Getting Started with Drafting
If you're interested in learning to draft your own patterns, there are several resources available:
- Books and Online Tutorials: Many books and websites provide comprehensive guides to drafting various types of garments.
- Classes and Workshops: Consider taking a class or workshop to learn the basics of drafting from an experienced instructor.
- Practice and Experimentation: As with any skill, practice is key. Start with simple garments and gradually work your way up to more complex designs.
Drafting your own patterns can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. With dedication and practice, you can create garments that are truly unique and perfectly suited to your body and style.