Foundation pattern drafting refers to the initial stage in creating garment patterns, where a basic, fitted pattern is developed from specific measurements. This foundational pattern then serves as the essential base for designing various styles of clothing.
Understanding the Foundation Pattern
At its core, foundation pattern drafting is a pattern used as the basis for the design. It is the fundamental template from which all other garment patterns for a specific body size or form are derived. Think of it as a blueprint for the basic shape that closely fits the body, allowing for comfort and movement but without incorporating specific style elements like gathers, pleats, or flares.
The process involves creating a pattern directly from measurements taken from:
- A person
- A dress form
- A model
This ensures the resulting foundation pattern is tailored to the specific dimensions being used.
The Process of Foundation Pattern Drafting
Based on the provided information, the key steps involved in creating a foundation pattern through drafting are:
- Measurement: This is the crucial first step. Accurate measurements are taken from the person, form, or model. These measurements provide the data needed to draw the pattern to scale, reflecting the specific dimensions of the intended wearer or form.
- Pattern Drawing: Using the collected measurements, the pattern is drawn out onto paper. This drawing represents the flat template of the garment pieces that will eventually be cut from fabric. It requires precision and an understanding of how flat shapes translate into three-dimensional forms on the body.
Why Use a Foundation Pattern?
Creating a foundation pattern offers several significant advantages in garment design and production:
- Consistency: It provides a consistent starting point for any design for a particular size or form.
- Efficiency: Once a well-fitting foundation pattern is created, designers save time by not having to draft a new basic pattern for every new style.
- Accuracy: Based on direct measurements, it helps ensure a good fit before styling is added.
- Design Flexibility: It allows designers to easily manipulate the basic shape to create countless different styles—adding volume, darts, seams, or other design features while maintaining the core fit.
Foundation patterns are typically created for basic garment types like a bodice (top half of the body), skirt (lower half), or sleeve. These basic blocks can then be combined and altered to develop patterns for dresses, blouses, trousers, jackets, and more.
Understanding and mastering foundation pattern drafting is a fundamental skill in fashion design and pattern making, laying the groundwork for creative expression and well-fitting garments.
