Preparation, research and drafting blocks for my model

The first few weeks in to my final year have involved library and online research time, to help shape my ideas. This has included collating articles in journals, such as Collezioni, Selvage and Vogue, to look at what is current and future predictions and trends; by looking at books about recycled fashion, such as ‘ReFashioned: Cutting-Edge Clothing from Upcycled Materials’ by Sass Brown and Natalie Chanin and ‘Junky Styling: Wardrobe Surgery’ by Annika Sanders and Kerry Seager; and researching in to planning and designing a fashion collection with books, such as ‘Developing a Collection’ by Elinor Refrew and Colin Refrew and ‘Basics Fashion Design 01: Research and Design’ by Simon Seivewright.

I’ve also spent time over the summer collecting recycled clothing (as this will be the basis of my final collection). This will be ongoing throughout the year, because the more I have to choose from the better!

I’ve also spent the time taking measurements and drafting a number of basic blocks for my model, Louise, who be wearing all of my final garments.

The blocks are drafted from Winifred Aldrich’s ‘Metric Pattern Cutting for Women’s Wear’. The blocks include:

• Close fitting bodice block with one-piece sleeve.
• Tailored jacket block with two-piece sleeve.
• Tailored skirt block.
• Trouser block.

Masters in Creative Pattern Cutting – Final Project

The purpose of my blog is to document my path through my final master’s project in Creative Pattern Cutting, at Doncaster College, University Centre.

My module 4 project from the last academic year (featured in this photo) was a two-piece skirt and top made from a recycled Next winter coat.

I’m passionate about recycling and reducing waste, and also love vintage fashion and garments that really make a person stand out in a crowd. It is for this reason that I’m continuing my love of recycling and working with older garments in to my final master’s project, which will be designed and produced using all (or mainly) recycled garments.

My final collection will consist of bespoke and unique garments. The designs will be influenced by the garments that I find or that are donated to me, and will help to shape and inspire my ideas.