The Art of Patternmaking: Copy Your Own Clothing

Learn to create a sewing pattern directly from an existing garment without taking it apart. Using a woven shirt you own, you'll master fundamental techniques for copying a wide range of clothing items, including pants and knitwear. We'll cover essential elements like replicating shoulder fit, necklines, collars, and darts. You’ll leave with a complete pattern for your shirt. This hands-on approach to patternmaking empowers you to recreate your favorite garments with confidence.

Level: Beginner

Instructor: Mary Sigler and Sam Green (Read Mary and Sam's bio)

Members: $200

Non members: $ 240

Materials fee: $4 if student does not bring their own base to pin garment to (collected at time of workshop)

Materials provided by instructor: cardboard base to pin garment into

Materials students should bring: Student’s woven shirt and classic T-shirt (washed), Large sheets or an 18" wide (or wider) roll of paper (white or brown), Scissors for paper, Pens and Pencils (in a few different colors), Paper for note taking, Ruler (grided, clear is best), French curve or Dressmaker's curve, Measuring tape, Straight pins (not too fine), Needle wheel (optional), Pattern Weights (optional) and Scotch tape. If time permitts bring muslin, basic sewing supplies and a sewing machine to test your pattern.

Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies