Bards Clothing

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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.