What is pattern making?
Pattern making is the process of creating a one-of-a-kind paper pattern that will be used to sew a perfectly fitting garment. This is different from made-to-measure tailoring, which uses a standard size pattern that is adjusted to fit your measurements.
Here's a general overview of the custom pattern making process:
Taking Measurements: A comprehensive set of your measurements are taken, typically around 20-30.These measurements will include things like your chest circumference, waist circumference, neck circumference,arm length, and shoulder width.
Drafting the Pattern: The tailor will use your measurements to draft the pattern on paper. This is a complex process that requires a high level of skill and experience. The tailor will take into account your posture, body shape,and any specific design requests you have.
Muslin Mockup: Once the pattern is drafted, the tailor will create a mockup of the suit out of muslin, which is a cheap, loosely woven fabric. This mockup is used to check the fit of the pattern and make any necessary adjustments.
Refining the Pattern: The tailor will make adjustments to the pattern based on the feedback from the muslin mockup fitting. This process may be repeated several times until the fit is perfect.
Cutting the Fabric: Once the final pattern is complete, the tailor will use it to cut the fabric.
Pattern making is a time-consuming and expensive process, it is art not science. Multiple fittings are required and clothiers today have to fight the ready-to-wear mindset clients come to appointments with. Yes, a $20 TJ Max pant may fit you but the experience and goal is a tailored garment for your individual body.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about custom suit pattern making:
It is a good option for people who have difficulty finding suits that fit well off the rack.
It can be a good way to get a suit with unique design features.
It is important to find a tailor with experience in custom pattern making.
Just because it is more expensive does not guarantee it will fit better.
If you are considering having a custom suit made, be sure to do your research and find a reputable tailor. You should also be prepared to invest some time and money in the process.
