The Art of Bodice Design - Advancing Beyond the Block

Date: Thursday, April 30, May 7 & 14 Time: 6pm–9pm Duration: 9hrs Format: In-person, hands-on workshop Location: 92 Leveson St, North Melbourne Skill level: Intermediate to Advanced. Some experience with patternmaking or bodice construction is recommended. Best suited to This workshop is designed for intermediate to advanced sewists and fashion students wanting to move beyond the standard bodice block and develop skills in experimental drape and high-fashion silhouette construction. It is ideal for: Intermediate to advanced sewists wanting to expand their bodice design and patternmaking skills Fashion students looking to develop a professional design vocabulary and drafting intuition Designers working on a label or portfolio who want to create innovative, fashion-forward garments Anyone ready to move beyond commercial patterns and start engineering their own silhouettes Participants should have some experience with patternmaking or bodice construction before attending. Overview In this hands-on intensive participants will move beyond the standard bodice block into the world of experimental drape and high-fashion design, working through three distinct and increasingly complex bodice styles under the guidance of experienced industry practitioners. Over three sessions participants will draft an asymmetrical draped cowl, a draped wrap bodice, and an editorial shirt featuring sculptural gathered sleeves, a dropped shoulder, and a stand collar. By the end of the course participants will have developed the skills and understanding to draft any bodice style they can conceive. What you will learn Participants will develop practical skills across several key areas of advanced bodice design and patternmaking. Patternmaking Foundations & Terminology Advanced industry patternmaking terminology and how to apply it Using the bodice block as a foundation for experimental design The Asymmetrical Draped Cowl Working with drape and flare to create fluid, asymmetrical silhouettes Techniques for achieving a professional draped finish The Draped Wrap Bodice Engineering custom wrap bodices with sophisticated tie variations Understanding the relationship between drape, comfort, and style The Editorial Shirt Constructing a fashion-forward shirt from the ground up Button plackets, structured yokes, gathered sleeves, dropped shoulders, and precision cuffs Construction & Finishing Knowledge Choosing the right interfacing for each application Professional finishing techniques that give a garment its quality and structure A reference glossary of advanced industry terms to support independent work Each session builds on the last. Session 1 (30th April) covers terminology and the draped cowl bodice. Session 2 (7th May) focuses on the wrap bodice with flutter sleeve. Session 3 (14th May) moves into advanced shirting design with an emphasis on adapting design principles to your own creative direction. What is provided Industry-level card pattern blocks for practical exercises Handouts outlining advanced patternmaking techniques A glossary of terms for quick reference Patternmaking paper and long rulers for class use What to bring Pens, pencils, and eraser Masking tape Paper scissors Small ruler and set square (if available) Spots are limited — Book now! Inclusivity Statement The Pattern Making Class welcomes participants of all backgrounds, identities, and skill levels, including trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.