The desire to create my own patterns, to be able to reproduce a model seen in a magazine or on the street had been bothering me for a long time.
That’s how I signed up in 2019 for the IAM patterns training in flat pattern making. The two 10-day modules were scheduled for February for the basic skirt and March for the bodice. Unfortunately, a long break occurred between the two modules due to covid. So I have just finished the basic bodice module this lovely September.

The village of Noyers Sur Serein

Artists’ shop and tea bar

What a joy!

Once again, the magic happened.

First of all, thanks to Marie Emilienne who has undeniable pattern making skills but above all a teaching method adapted to adults like us.

Even if sometimes, we tear our hair out with the clips pivots, widenings, and geometry in space… it guides us and we always reach a safe harbor.

Then, what’s magical about this training is the immersion. Immersion in sewing and pattern making but also immersion in the small village of Noyers sur Serein, far from loved ones for sure, but freed from daily tasks and worries, finally immersion in a group of caring enthusiasts where mutual support flows freely.

It’s a real break, a pause in the hectic pace of life that could almost be compared to a monastic retreat in some ways.

Finally, the magic happened because I leave with quality learning, tips and tricks, and custom toiles that will allow me to make my first custom tops and dresses.

During the 10 days of the workshop, we covered the creation of a custom basic bodice. This base, shaped by the body, was made on a toile to be validated. Once this step was done, we were able to start creating a first sleeveless, collarless model.

My first sleeveless, collarless custom top from A to ZBeing a fashion designer-pattern maker is a waking dream.

basic bodice

What a joy to be able to make your first pattern from A to Z and to your own measurements.

Me and my 1.53 meter height, my short torso, and my small frame are truly grateful.

Then, we started a new pattern, this time with sleeves and a collar.
And since nothing scares me and we were there to learn, I took on the gigot sleeves... yes, the ones you see on medieval designs.

I really enjoyed making this pattern, sewing it, though it's admittedly hard to wear to work.
I'm going to rework it to make a dress base that's easier to wear in everyday life.

All the participants left with beautiful patterns adapted to their style and desires... and it's magical to see the joy and pride each of us feels wearing our creations.

It reinforces my belief in slow fashion: a few garments tailored to your own measurements, made from quality fabrics, with the desired design, is the guarantee of wearing them happily!

This is ultimately the concept I want to develop for my online made-to-measure clothing shop.

I'm leaving the training with so many ideas!

But the first challenge for everyone will be making my sleeveless, collarless top in its final version, and I'm sure it will add sparkle to my life... In any case, unicorns from Dashwood Studio available in the shop and stars from a Japanese fabric from my personal stock brought back from Tokyo.

I'll show you that very soon! 

fabric selected for the final version

We're making progress...