Patternmaking For Menswear
Patternmaking For Menswear
Patternmaking For Menswear
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951
978-1-6090-1944-0 (paperback)
978-1-6090-1971-6 (epdf)
This comprehensive men’s patternmaking text covers many different garment types and
design elements, including patternmaking techniques for both woven and knit fabrics.
The step-by-step format with accompanying detailed illustrations is appropriate for
beginning to advanced students, as well as the industry professionals looking to
sharpen their patternmaking skill. Photographs provide examples of completed
garments on the dress form and clear illustrations are highlighted with color to show
precisely what to do at each step of the patternmaking process. Noting the subtle
difference between patternmaking for men versus women, Kim and Kim provide readers
with a complete understanding of the male anatomy, how to take measurements and
fitting techniques. Patternmaking for Menswear has a unique modular organization,
moving from basic sloper development to detailing slim-fit versus classic-fit garments
with design details grouped together to allow readers to combine them to create
unlimited design variations. With many fashion-forward and on-trend patterns, this book
is an indispensible resource for creating modern and professional-looking menswear
designs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Front matter
Section I. Principles
8. Shirts 215–255
9. Pants 256–288
10. Casual Jackets 289–315
11. Suit Jackets 316–350
12. Coats 351–377
13. Vests 378–392
Section III. Design Variations for Knit Fabrics
We would like to dedicate this book as a tool to all of the students who will be the future
of the fashion design field.
Preface
Page Range: xߝxii
In recent years, men’s styling has changed significantly due to male consumers’ increased
desire for a new “modern style.” Menswear has traditionally been simple and
straightforward, and it was difficult for many patternmakers to adapt to changes in style.
We identified the need for a tool to facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of
menswear styling details comparable to the tools used so often in womenswear.
This book is a reference source for students and designers who wish to create their own
menswear designs. The information presented in this book was carefully gathered over
the past 10 years and incorporates extensive knowledge of both womenswear and
menswear design. We have reviewed many patternmaking references and discussed this
book in great detail with a wide variety of potential users in the field.
While teaching, we often required the students to bring along a women’s patternmaking
book in addition to their primary text. The womenswear material includes valuable details,
but it was not always easy for students to apply them to menswear. This text will explain
the principles of design details that are frequently discussed in womenswear
patternmaking references as they apply to menswear. We will focus not only on woven
fabric patternmaking but also on patternmaking for jersey knit, which is used often in
contemporary menswear.
Obviously, men have a different basic body shape from women, and thus, patterns for
men cannot be altered using women’s patternmaking methods—which dominate the
patternmaking reference market. Most noticeably, men’s main fashion concerns vary
greatly from those of women: womenswear largely aims to make wearers look and feel
petite and attractive, but menswear strives to display a masculine appearance, even in the
slim-fit category. Moreover, the male anatomy presents several issues such as the chest,
broad shoulders, thick waists, and the genitals, each requiring their own unique
patternmaking methods.
1. Measuring properly is often a challenge for students, but this book addresses this
problem by providing instructional pictures that illustrate key measurement locations.
The key locations shown in the pictures will allow students to measure properly on all
body types.
2. The slopers in this book cover both woven and jersey knits using an innovative
formulation and methodological approach (Chapter 2). Jersey knit designs require a
separate sloper that takes the natural properties of jersey knit fabrics into account.
Not only does this text cover how to construct a basic sloper for menswear, but it
considers the proportional methods for development as well. The text includes a
section on fit problems and solutions that can be referenced after making a muslin for
better fit. Instructions on how to add proper seam allowances to woven and knit
patterns are also included.
3. This book covers the principles of design details as they apply to menswear, including
items such as necklines, collars, sleeves, and plackets (Chapters 3 through 7). Because
menswear patternmaking is often taught after womenswear, students already have a
general knowledge about patternmaking. As a result, design details are not explained
again in relation to menswear. This book helps correct that problem. Future trends for
menswear will continue to be more fashion-oriented rather than simple like the
designs of the past. The discussion of design principles in this text will enable students
to apply their menswear skills to unlimited design concepts, as designers have
traditionally done in the womenswear arena.
4. This book utilizes flat sketches as a way to show the designs that will be patterned.
Flat sketches, unlike illustrations, provide better instruction by clearly showing details
and accurate proportions. Flat sketches serve as a communication tool between
design and patternmaking departments.
6. This text will encompass all relevant woven menswear items, such as shirts, pants,
jackets, coats, and vests (see Chapters 8 through 13). This book will also detail the
patternmaking techniques used for jersey knit design (see Chapters 14 and 15). Today,
as modern customers prefer to dress comfortably, jersey knit fabrics are used more
frequently than ever before. Consequently, there are many students who wish to
create jersey knit fabric designs, and the instructions provided take this into account.
7. Two-piece sleeves for formalwear are explained in this text in a similar manner to
womenswear patternmaking methods (see Chapter 5). We experimented with almost
40 jackets, because we have found that among students who study menswear
patternmaking in the university setting, many of them experience confusion regarding
two-piece sleeve methods as presented in menswear patternmaking books. The two-
piece men’s sleeve is usually studied after finishing a course on womenswear
patternmaking. As the students had just learned the techniques of women’s
patternmaking, the published menswear methods were somewhat new for them.
8. Alphabetic instruction codes were developed in order to foster ease of use upon the
text’s international release.
9. Finished pattern drafts appear in the text as reference points. Although when teaching
we emphasize to the students that they must not forget any pattern pieces in a
complete clothing design, they are still beginners and tend to leave something out. By
referring to finished pattern drafts, readers can more easily imagine the total picture
and thus include all relevant pieces.
10. Quarter-scale size 40 woven shirt and pant slopers, as well as the jersey knit shirt
sloper, are included. This will be helpful to those students who are more focused on
practicing design details and technical packets and who do not wish to develop any
personalized sloper patterns.
11. At the end of the book, there is a glossary of terms to help the students understand
each element. The text definitions point out not only descriptions but also the details
that make each element important.
Section I: Principles
This section includes explanations of the basic elements of garments. The measurements
provided can be changed to allow students to apply their menswear skills to unlimited
design concepts. The shapes, angles, and size of the design elements examined in this
section can also be adjusted to allow for personal design aesthetic.
In Chapter 4 (Collars), five collar groups discussed, including the flat collar, the shirt collar,
the standing collar, the lapel collar, and the hood.
Chapter 5 (Sleeves and Cuffs) includes a no-pleat sleeve with placket, a one-pleat sleeve
with placket, a two-pleat sleeve with placket, a bishop sleeve, a two-piece sleeve for
formal wear, a two-piece sleeve for casual wear, raglan sleeves, and a dolman sleeve. Six
cuff variations are presented as well.
Chapter 6 (Plackets and Pockets) covers plackets and pockets, which enrich the design
elements for the upper body garment and pants design. The chapter provides various
examples in designs reflecting the current casual fashion trends.
Chapter 7 (Details) covers buttons and extensions, facings, pleats and tucks, style lines,
waistbands, and front fly closures.
Each chapter includes both of these style categories, accurately reflecting the
contemporary menswear market. In this text, patternmaking skill is developed in Chapters
8 through 15. These chapters illustrate how the details learned in Chapters 1 through 7
can be used interchangeably in correlation with the various types of slopers. These
chapters include 80 avatar illustrations created by CLO Virtual 3D, to test-fit the 40
designs.
Chapters 8 through 13 cover shirts, pants, casual jackets, suit jackets, coats, and vests.
Each design begins with the 3D avatar garments, design style points, and flat sketches.
Instructions for making the pattern for each variation start with the basic slopers and how
to apply them for the specific article of clothing. The last step of each design shows the
finished patterns. The finished pattern shows the grainline, pattern size, pattern name,
pattern pieces, and the cut amount needed. The designs covered provide knowledge
about garment details and how the same detail can be applied to different garments.
Suggested design variations for further development are also shown at the end of each
chapter.
Appendices
The appendices include a decimal conversion chart for users who use metric rather than
imperial measurements; reference size charts for men of short, regular, and tall height;
and a glossary of terms.
Quarter-scale size 40 woven shirt and pant slopers, as well as the jersey knit shirt sloper,
are included in the appendices as well. These quarter-scale slopers can be photocopied at
200 percent to obtain a half-scale pattern, which are helpful for practicing pattern
manipulations. In turn, the half-scale pattern can be enlarged 200 percent to obtain actual
size.
Instructor’s Guide
Also available is an instructor’s guide, which serves as an aid for those using
Patternmaking for Menswear Classic to Contemporary to teach a course. This guide
includes a planned syllabus, project descriptions, and a workbook that can be used as the
class structure.
Acknowledgments
We would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank the following people:
Ryan Seminara, Matt Breen, and Caitlin McColl in the fashion design program at the
University of Cincinnati, who were enthusiastic and diligent in testing our
presentations and instructions. Without their commitment to clarity and precision, this
text would not have been ready for publication.
Abby Nurre, who created technical flat sketches to show design features and details
accurately.
CLO Virtual 3D, which sponsored and supported our efforts to develop 100 avatars
for this publication.
Patternmakers Boknam Moon and Gwangho Shim, who shared their knowledge and
data of current industry patternmaking skills and trends to develop the most updated
men’s pattern book.
Tae Keun Jin, the president of Youth Hitech, which provides the YUKA Pattern CAD
program in Korea.
Colleagues from the University of Cincinnati: Aaron Rucker for his technical support
and management of InDesign; Jenifer Sult for her insightful suggestions for the final
revisions of the book; and Jeff Beyer, who proofread the first draft of this book.
Our devoted family members, friends, and colleagues who have offered support and
advice, accepted our need to focus on the manuscript, and in ways large and small
helped this text come to fruition.
Amanda Breccia, acquisitions editor at Fairchild Books, who has supported us in each
step in the process of getting Patternmaking for Menswear: Classic to Contemporary
to the point of publication.
Priscilla McGeehon, publisher, for believing in and supporting the original concept for
this book and its potential as an effective text in men’s patternmaking.
The team at Precision Graphics, who did an exceptional job of finalizing the editing
and layout of the book.
Technical reviewers Sherri Lange of The Art Institute–Pittsburgh and Susan Monte of
Woodbury University.
The numerous reviewers whose time and attention to details ensured the best possible
final manuscript in every way possible. They include: Denis Antoine, Savannah College of
Art and Design; Renee C. Harding, Massachusetts College of Art and Design; Kathy K.
Mullet, PhD, Oregon State University; George Bacon, University of Michigan; Mary
Wilson, Fashion Institute of Technology; Carla Summers, Utah Valley University; Dean
Brough, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia; William Hoover, FIDM;
Beverly Kemp-Gatterson, Art Institute–Houston; and Rhonda Gorman, Texas Woman’s
University.
Introduction to Patternmaking
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-001
Page Range: 1–16
The regular sizes that are based on the standard approximate size “medium” for most
clothing brands are shown in Table 1.1.
Parts of Body A B C D E F
Patternmaking Tools
1.1Patternmaking Tools
2. Hip curve ruler—for drawing side line, sleeve line, and flat-curve line
3. Hip curve wood ruler—for drawing side seam line, sleeve curves, and flat-curve line
4. Hip curve metal ruler—for drawing side seam line, sleeve curves, and flat-curve line
6. Straight metal rulers (in various lengths, such as 36″, 48″, and 60″)—for measuring the
length of pants, coats, jackets, and so on
1.2Additional Patternmaking Tools
7. 7–8. Various plastic French curves—for drawing various curved lines
8. Tape measure—for measuring both straight and curved lines, as well as body
measurements
9. Paper-cutting scissors
10. Tracing wheels—for transferring pattern shapes to another paper without cutting
Patternmaking Symbols
Ideally, a patternmaker would include complete sewing instructions for a garment’s
construction on the pattern, so that any patternmaker or tailor would know how to sew it.
Although this would be the best scenario, due to limited space and time, the symbols
shown in Table 1.2 and abbreviations shown in Table 1.3 are typically used for
convenience.
An arrow placed at the bottom or top of the grainline indicates the placement of the
pattern on a fabric with a nap, such as fur, velvet, or a textured fabric. Likewise,
arrows placed at both ends of the grainline indicate that the pattern may be laid in
either direction for plain fabrics.
Symbols for lengthening and ease (shortening) display the quantity to increase or
decrease. The amount by which the pattern should be lengthened or shortened is
marked between the two vertical lines.
H - Hip H.L. - Hip Line S.T.P. - Shoulder Tip Point = (L.P.S. - Low Point of
Shoulder)
A.H. - Arm Hol E.L. - Elbow
e Line
B. Lateral waist—in front view, the most slender place in the contours of the body.
C. Anterior waist—marked point of the height of lateral waist in center of the front.
D. Posterior waist—marked point of the height of the lateral waist in center of the back.
E. Buttock protrusion—the most projected point in the buttocks.
H. Anterior neck—the connection point between the base of the neck and front center
line.
I. Nape—seventh cervical vertebrae in the back of the neck, where the neck bone
protrudes from the back of the neck.
J. Crotch point—between the genitalia and buttocks.
1.4Chest Circumference
1.5Waist Circumference
NOTE: It is not easy to find the most slender part of the torso, although it is usually
slightly below the area around the elbow. Once it is located, the measurer should use
either elastic or a string tied around the subject’s waist to accurately keep and mark
the waistline.
5. Back interscye length—Measure across the upper area of the back, from the
uppermost point of the left posterior axillary fold to the uppermost point of the right
posterior axillary fold.
6. Back waist length—Measure the vertical distance from the nape of the neck down to
the waistline.
1.9Back Waist Length
NOTE: Keeping the waistline marked with the elastic or string tied around the
subject’s waist will help produce a more accurate back waist length measurement.
7. Shoulder to shoulder—Measure the length from the shoulder tip, passing through the
center back neck point, to the right shoulder tip. Half of this measurement is the
shoulder blade width.
1.10Shoulder to Shoulder
8. Shoulder length—With the tape measure, measure the length from the shoulder neck
point (High Point of Shoulder) to shoulder tip (Low Point of Shoulder).
1.11Shoulder Length
9. Neck circumference—Measure the circumference of the anterior neck, just under the
Adam’s apple, to the nape.
1.12Neck Circumference
10. Arm length—With the tape measure, measure the length from the shoulder tip,
passing through the back of the elbow, to the wrist. The arm should be slightly bent
when measuring, as depicted in Figure 1.13.
1.13Arm Length
11. Bicep circumference—With the subject’s arm extended to the side and bent up 90
degrees at the elbow, measure around the thickest part of the arm (between the
shoulder and the actual bicep muscle).
1.14Bicep Circumference
12. Wrist circumference—With the tape measure, measure the circumference of the wrist.
1.15Wrist Circumference
13. Height—Measure vertical length from the top of the head to the floor.
14. Pant-waist circumference—With the tape measure, measure the circumference of the
torso that crosses over the belly button, maintaining horizontality.
1.16Pant-waist Circumference
15. Crotch depth—With the tape measure, measure the vertical length from where the
pants will hit the waist line down to the crotch.
1.17Crotch Depth
16. Inseam length—With the tape measure, measure the vertical length from the crotch
down to the point midway between the ankle and the floor.
1.18Inseam Length
17. Outseam length—With the tape measure, measure the vertical length from the pant-
waist line down to the point midway between the ankle and the floor. This is equal to
the crotch depth plus the inseam length.
1.19Outseam Length
1.20Body Measurement Overview
Self-
Parts \ Size 34R 36R 38R 40R 42R 44R 46R 48R size
<For Torso>
1. Chest Circumference 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
2. Waist Circumference 28 30 32 34 36 39 42 44 Self-
Parts \ Size 34R 36R 38R 40R 42R 44R 46R 48R size
3. Hip Circumference 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
<For Torso>
4. Front Interscye 14 14½ 15 15½ 16 16½ 17 17½
7. Shoulder to Shoulder 16¼ 16¾ 17¼ 17¾ 18¼ 18¾ 19¼ 19¾
8. Shoulder Length 6 6⅛ 6¼ 6⅜ 6½ 6⅝ 6¾ 6⅞
10. Arm Length 24⅝ 24¾ 24⅞ 25 25⅛ 25¼ 25⅜ 25½
13. Height
<For Pants>
17. Outseam Length 41¾ 41⅞ 42 42⅛ 42¼ 42⅜ 42½ 42⅝
<For Torso>
1. Chest Circumference 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46
2. Waist Circumference 26 28 30 32 34 36 39 42
3. Hip Circumference 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46
7. Shoulder to Shoulder 15¾ 16¼ 16¾ 17¼ 17¾ 18¼ 18¾ 19¼
8. Shoulder Length 5⅞ 6 6⅛ 6¼ 6⅜ 6½ 6⅝ 6¾
10. Arm Length 23 23⅛ 23¼ 23⅜ 23½ 23⅝ 23¾ 23⅞
13. Height
<For Pants>
<For Torso>
17. Outseam Length 39⅛ 39¼ 39⅜ 39½ 39⅝ 39¾ 39⅞ 40
Self-
Parts Size 36T 38T 40T 42T 44T 46T 48T 50T size
<For Torso>
1. Chest Circumference 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50
2. Waist Circumference 30 32 34 36 39 42 44 46
3. Hip Circumference 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50
7. Shoulder to Shoulder 16¾ 17¼ 17¾ 18¼ 18¾ 19¼ 19¾ 20¼
8. Shoulder Length 6⅛ 6¼ 6⅜ 6½ 6⅝ 6¾ 6⅞ 7
10. Arm Length 26¼ 26⅜ 26½ 26⅝ 26¾ 26⅞ 27 27⅛
13. Height
Self-
Parts Size 36T 38T 40T 42T 44T 46T 48T 50T size
<For Torso>
<For Pants>
15. Crotch Depth 10⅜ 10½ 10⅝ 10¾ 10⅞ 11 11⅛ 11¼
17. Outseam Length 44⅜ 44½ 44⅝ 44¾ 44⅞ 45 45⅛ 45¼
Basic Slopers for Wovens Slim-Fit Style versus
Classic-Fit Style
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-002
Page Range: 17–62
Flat Patterns
Patternmaking is the process that gives shape to design. The flat pattern can be
accurately and quickly created on paper.
The flat pattern is an expression of clothing on paper as a method for creating an outline.
This outline is most commonly used by clothing manufacturers to produce garments. Flat-
pattern techniques were developed rapidly after the Industrial Revolution because of the
advent of mass production of clothes and the development of the sewing machine.
Traditionally, patternmaking as a skill had been passed down from one patternmaker to
another. In the modern age, the availability of education has led to wider access to
patternmaking skills, not only in the fashion industry, but also among the general public in
the hobby and craft fields.
Slopers
A pattern that is used in clothing development requires a sloper, a master pattern that
allows a patternmaker to save time developing multiple clothing items such as shirts,
jackets, casual jackets, and coats.
The term sloper refers to a pattern that provides only the basic shape and fit for a
particular garment type, such as shirt, pants, and jackets. If clothing is made to the exact
dimensions of the body, it is difficult for the wearer to move in them. Thus, the best sloper
is intentionally simple and allows wearing ease to be drafted into the pattern. Once
default-size measurements have been drafted in the sloper, it can be transformed into
several garments with various designs.
The types of slopers used vary depending on age, sex, and article of clothing. For
example, there are slopers for menswear, womenswear, and childrenswear. Within these
categories, there are body slopers, sleeve slopers, pants slopers, skirt slopers, and so on.
A menswear sloper, unlike a womenswear sloper, is not intended to fit the contour of the
body. Due to the nature of the male body, there are few garments that are fitted to the
body and that are as varied in silhouette as in women’s fashions. Therefore, the menswear
sloper has been utilized differently than the womenswear sloper. For menswear, there are
different types of slopers such as shirt, jacket, and coat, which are based on the regular
body sloper but have the additional specific wearing ease required to facilitate the
transformation into garments.
Although the menswear sloper is typically referred to as a block, for the purpose of this
book, the basic pattern for menswear will be called a sloper. Future trends in the industry
will require more detailed and varied designs in menswear as more male consumers want
to express themselves through fashion in the way that women traditionally have done. The
manipulation of the sloper will be similar to womenswear, where it is transformed into a
variety of designs. Referring to this basic pattern as a sloper is a testament to the various
possibilities in menswear.
When testing the fit of patterns, it is common practice to use for the sloper a basic
material such as muslin—a non-stretch, woven fabric. Muslin is a good representative
material for woven fabric, and it is useful for testing various designs before selecting a
specific fabric.
Additionally, in contemporary patternmaking, the use of knit fabrics has increased. The
pattern for knit material is much different than the patterns for woven material because
knit fabric (depending on the stretchability of the knit fabric type) has wearing ease,
which, as previously mentioned, is necessary for body movement. For the sloper for an
article made of knit fabric, the pattern for jersey knit fabric is the default, because the
stretchability of knit fabric varies to a great degree. In Chapter 14, there will be a more
detailed explanation on the sloper for knit fabrics.
In conclusion, the sloper for woven fabric is based on non-stretch woven fabric, and the
sloper for knits on jersey knit fabric. Non-stretch woven fabrics differ from jersey knit
fabrics in the way in which the wearing ease is added. The sewing methods change
according to the characteristics of the material. There are limitations for a designer who
wants to create proper clothing for jersey knit fabric using the pattern for non-stretch
woven fabric. Knit fabric needs a sloper that takes the nature of the knit fabric into
consideration.
Specifically in this chapter, there will be an explanation for three kinds of menswear
slopers for wovens: the slim-fit-style torso sloper, the slim-fit-style pants sloper, and the
classic-fit torso sloper. The classic-fit-style pants will be created by manipulating the slim-
fit-style pants sloper.
Slim-fit means a slim silhouette, because slim means thin and slender. As defined by
recent trends, a slim-fit style emphasizes the slim waistline of the body, and is snug and
form fitting. Every type of garment contains a different amount of ease. For example, a
slim-fit jacket has more ease than a slim-fit shirt because the jacket will be worn over the
shirt. In this book, the slim-fit suit contains less ease at the chest, waist, and upper arms
than the classic-fit suit, and it is more constrictive of movement. The ease for the slim-fit
style according to garment is shown in Table 2.1.
Classic means long-lasting, basic garments that are free from the influence of fashion
trends. A classic-fit style refers to a traditional-style garment with a waistline that is not
highlighted, and with an emphasis on function rather than fashion. The classic-fit style has
more ease than the slim-fit style, resulting in a garment with a straighter and looser waist
that is less constrictive of movement. For convenience, in this book, a classic-fit-style
pattern is one size (average 2″ on the circumference) larger than that of the slim-fit style.
It is important to note, however, that not all garments abide by these two fit styles. Even
after perfecting an accurate fit of the slopers, achieving the fit of an item of clothing
depends on the design of the garment and what the designer deems appropriate. For
example, a pattern for a tight-fitting design can utilize the dart intake to make it more
body hugging, and a pattern for an oversized design can be modified as well. The two fit
styles explained here by no means represent the number of variations possible when
using these patternmaking principles.
Torso Sloper
Terms that are specific to the torso sloper are shown in Figure 2.1.
Table 2.2 shows a chart of measurements and formulas necessary to create the torso
sloper for woven fabrics. Record your own measurements in the space provided. Refer to
Chapter 1, “Taking Measurements” (Standard Points for Measurement–Taking
Measurements). You may also refer to Tables 1.4, 1.5, and 1.6 for reference sizes (Chapter
1, Taking Measurements–Reference Size Charts for Men).
A–E = (Chest circumference/4) ± (0–¾″). Adjust using the formulas in the following
chart:
E–G, F–H = Draw perpendicular lines from points E and F to center front line, and
label as G and H.
F–B = Height/8.
M–N–O = Side seam line, square down from point M to line B–C. (N is an
intersection with F–H; O is an intersection with B–C.)
Back Draft (Figure 2.3)
Start with a straight line from A to the one-third increment of A–A′, then draw a
gradual curved line to B′, completing the back neckline.
D′–E′ = Draw a horizontal line that is perpendicular to the center back (A–B).
NOTE: The length of line D′–E′ and line D′–A are similar to each other. Depending on
the patternmaker, line D′–E′ or line D′–A can be referred to as a shoulder blade width.
There will not be much difference between line D′–E′ and the actual shoulder blade
width (refer to Chapter 1, “Taking Measurements,” Taking Measurements).
G′ = Draw a horizontal line three quarters of the way down the armhole depth
toward I–J, then extend an extra ¼″–⅜″.
I–H′ = Half of (I–M); draw straight line at a angle of 45 degrees from I that is half
the length of I–M.
Complete a back armhole line by connecting D′, F′, G′, H′, and M with a gradual
curved line, ending square to point M.
D–I′ = Front neck depth; use the length of the back neck width + ¼″.
I′–J′ = Front neck width; square out at I′ the length of the back neck width + ⅛″.
L′ = Midpoint of K′–I′.
Complete a front neckline by connecting K′, M′, I′ with a gradual curved line.
Complete the front armhole line by connecting O′, P′, Q′, and M with a gradual
curved line.
C–R′ = Front drop length, extend the center front ⅝″–¾″ at C. Draw a smooth
curved line from R′ to O.
NOTE: A front dropped length is the amount extended at the front bottom line to make
the bottom level even, especially when there is no bust dart. The extension amount varies
according to individual somatotypes.
Sleeve Sloper
Terms for Sleeves
To develop the sleeve sloper, measure the armholes of the front and back torso sloper
patterns accurately. The sleeve sloper is drafted from these calculations, and the shape
should look like a tube to wrap around the arm. The basic terms for sleeves on a sleeve
sloper, such as sleeve curve, cap height, and bicep line, are shown in Figures 2.5 and 2.6.
If the cap height is higher (A–B), the bicep circumference will be smaller (C–D), so
that the shape of the sleeve is better, but it is difficult for the wearer to move
because of reduced wearing ease around the biceps.
On the other hand, if the cap height is lower (A′–B), the bicep circumference will be
larger (C′–D′). The shape of sleeve is not as good due to the excess wearing ease
around the biceps.
Table 2.3 shows the general cap-height formulas for garments according to the article of
clothing.
Arm length 24 ⅞″
NOTE: Actual bicep circumference is not used for sleeve patternmaking, but the
patternmaker should refer to it to control the wearing ease. The bicep circumference
should have more ease (ex: 2″–3″) than the actual measurement for a woven sleeve sloper.
Drafting the Sleeve Sloper
Sleeve draft (Figure 2.8)
A–B = Sleeve length; arm length + 1″. Square out on either side of B.
E–G, F–H = Square down from E and F to wrist line at B. The intersecting points
are G and H.
J, I = Square out on either side of D to lines F–H and E–G; the intersecting points
are J and I, respectively.
Complete the front sleeve cap by drawing a curved line connecting A, N, L′, O, and
E.
Complete the back sleeve cap by drawing a curved line connecting A, S, T, U, V,
and F.
Ease
NOTE: The amount of ease should be distributed appropriately for best sewing, and the
distribution is different according to the total ease amount. Also, if there is top stitching
on the armhole line, it is preferable that there is little to no ease on the sleeve cap
(especially on a shirt).
Adjusting Sleeve Cap Ease
Measure the front and back of your sleeve cap and your armhole from your sloper
patterns. Record the measurements in Table 2.6 and calculate the amount of ease by
subtracting the measurements. Using Table 2.5 as a reference, determine if the amount of
ease is appropriate or if the sleeve cap length should be adjusted. Adjusting the sleeve
cap is discussed on Notches.
After calculating the ease, check that the ease is equal to the appropriate ease in
Table 2.5. If the difference is ⅛″–½″, adjust the sleeve pattern by reducing or
increasing the biceps line appropriately, as shown in Figure 2.13.
If the difference is over ½″, it is better to redraw the sleeve cap curve.
Notches
The size of a menswear pattern is larger than that of womenswear; therefore, notches are
used more frequently. After adjusting the ease amount in the previous step, the next step
is marking the notches. Notches are used for dispersing the ease in the sleeve pattern.
Without notches, it is difficult to attach the sleeves to the body section correctly. The
position of notches on the sleeve pattern depends on the sleeve cap ease. For menswear,
there are two notches on both the front armhole and back armhole. The second notch on
the back armhole is a double notch.
The positions for notches in an upper-body pattern are usually the same, but those
on a sleeve cap are usually adjusted according to the ease of the sleeve cap
length.
To distribute the ease appropriately, slightly more ease is added to the back (55%)
than the front (50%). About half of the ease is located in the upper cap (50 and 55
percent, respectively), about 30 percent in the lower cap, and 15–20 percent in the
middle cap.
A′–B′ = Measure down 3″ + 50 percent of the front ease from the shoulder tip.
C′–D′ = Measure up 3″ + 30 percent of the front ease from the side line.
E′–F′ = Measure down 3″ + 55 percent of the back ease from the shoulder tip.
A, B = Measure ¼″ in from the side at the new waist line on the front and back.
Redraw the side line from the armpit to A/B and to the hem line.
C = Measure over ½″ and down 2″ from the midpoint of the front chest line (from
side-chest point to the center front).
A = Measure in horizontally ⅛″ from the H.P.S. Redraw the neckline with a similar
curve.
C = Drop the side chest point ¼″ and extend it ½″ from its original position as
shown.
B–C = Draw a curved line that is similar to the sloper armhole line. Apply notches.
D = Extend the side hip line out ½″.
G = Drop the side chest point ¼″ and extend it ½″ from the original position.
F–G = Draw a curved line that is similar to the sloper armhole line. Apply notches.
A–E = (Chest circumference/4) ± (0–1″). Adjust using the formulas in the following
chart:
For the sleeve draft of a classic-fit style, follow the sleeve instructions shown in
Figures 2.5 through 2.15 (pages 26–32).
Pants Sloper
Table 2.7 shows a chart of measurements and formulas necessary to create the pants
sloper for woven fabrics. Record your own measurements. Refer to Chapter 1, “Taking
Measurements” (Standard Points for Measurement–Taking Measurements). Also refer to
Tables 1.4, 1.5, and 1.6 for reference sizes (Chapter 1, Taking Measurements–Reference
Size Charts for Men).
Unlike the torso slopers, only one pant sloper is developed. It will be used for creating
many different pants styles such as slim fit, classic fit, and loose fit. When the pants sloper
is used for slim-fit styles, the pattern size does not change. When developing a classic-fit
or loose-fit style, more ease is added through the use of one or two front pleats, two back
darts, greater hip ease, lower crotch depths, and longer crotch lengths. To alter the fit of
pants, three basic measurements can be adjusted: the amount of ease at the hip
circumference, the crotch depth, and the crotch length.
L = Knee line; measure up 3″ from the midpoint of J–K. Square out on either side.
K–M, K–N = Half of front hem circumference (ex: 4½″–5″).
P = Measure in ¼″–⅜″ from the intersection at the knee level from line O–M.
L–Q = Half of the front knee width; square out the same width as L–P.
I–Q = Draw a straight line. Then, one third of the way down, make a guide mark
⅛″–¼″ in. Connect the points with a smooth curved line.
O–P = Draw a straight line, make a guide mark ⅛″ in from line O–P and halfway
down. Then draw a smooth curved line.
Draw a curved line connecting S, E, and O to complete the side seam line.
R–T = Draw a smooth curved line, completing the front waist line.
R–F = Draw a straight line.
Draw a curved line connecting I, V, and F to complete the front crotch seam line.
Draw a fly zipper stitch line, 1½″ away from and parallel to F–R.
(I)–A = Measure down ⅝″ vertically from the front crotch edge (I) and draw a
horizontal line.
A–B = Crotch width; (hip circumference/16) + (⅛″–⅜″), extend from A. This line is
parallel to the previous crotch line in the front.
C and D = ½″ to the outside, draw lines parallel to front inseam and outseam line
to the hem line.
B–C = Draw a straight line, then complete the back inseam line by drawing a line
that curves inside ⅜″–½″ near the midpoint of B–C. It should transition smoothly to
the lower portion of the seam line.
NOTE: The width of the back hip is bigger than that of the front.
Draw a curved line by connecting B and E, staying on line B–A for about 1″ before
curving upward, as shown.
D–K = Extend from F the same length as the front outseam line (⊚).
K–L = First, extend a guideline up from line J–E. Then, from K, draw a line that is
perpendicular to the guideline. Mark the intersection as point L. L–K ∟ L–E (∟ =
perpendicular direction).
L–M = Measure down ¼″.
O–Q, O–R = Measure out on either side of O half of the dart intake.
Complete the outseam line by drawing a curved line from N′ to D, curving inward
⅜″ to ½″ at the midpoint betwen the crotch and knee line.
True the waist line by drawing a curved line after folding the dart legs.
Complete the rectangle A–B–C–D; A–D = center front line (C.F.), B–C = center
back line (C.B.).
Reflect the rectangle (A–B–C–D) across line B–C to create the other half of the
waistband.
A′–X, D′–Y = Extend 1½″–2¼″ (the front extension for the front fly zipper).
Complete the rectangle.
Fitting Adjustments
When testing the fit of new sloper patterns, make sure that the sloper and the sleeves are
sewn together. The sloper will gap in certain areas, and the fit will feel different,
depending on whether the sloper has sleeves or not. Most garments have sleeves on
them, so try the fit with sleeves. After fitting the sloper, you can fix any fitting problems.
The armholes on the front and back bodice and the sleeve always correspond to one
another. The pants sloper should be sewn together front and back; the front and back of
the pants pattern will also correspond to each other.
1. If the armhole length is changed, sleeve cap length should be changed as well.
2. If the armhole depth is heightened or lowered, sleeve cap height should be
heightened or lowered.
4. If there is a vertical wrinkle, it is caused by too much ease, so reduce the pattern.
(Tip: Pin the vertical wrinkles to get rid of them, then reduce by two-thirds of that
amount; if the whole amount is taken, the pattern will be a little bit tight later.)
5. If there is horizontal pull line, it is caused from the sloper being too tight, so increase
the pattern.
6. If the circumference is too loose or tight (ex: 1″), divide the total amount by 4, since
these patterns are one-fourth of total (ex: ¼″), and reduce on the pattern.
Measure the width of the too-wide or too-narrow shoulder tip (ex: ½″), and take in
or extend out to the point, if necessary.
To adjust the sleeve cap, measure up or down one-third of the amount that the
shoulder line was extended in or out.
If the shoulder line is too high or low but the underarm fits properly, only the
shoulder angle must be adjusted.
Measure up or down the amount of change needed at the low point of shoulder
(L.P.S.) to make the armhole comfortable, and mark the new L.P.S.
The sleeve cap must also be raised or lowered in correlation to the new shoulder
line.
Measure up or down at the center line of the sleeve the amount of change that
was used at the L.P.S.
Reshape the sleeve cap as shown.
Measure the new sleeve cap length, including ease, and compare to the new
armhole length.
If the length of the sleeve cap is still too short or too long, adjust by extending or
taking in the underarm curve on the bicep line.
If the underarm is too loose or too tight at the chest line then the chest line needs
to be raised or lowered.
The chest line of the bodice and the bicep line of the sleeve must move in relation
to each other.
As the chest line moves up or down move the bicep line up or down the same
amount.
Redraw the armhole length and the under sleeve curve until they correspond.
The length of the armhole stays the same so the sleeve cap remains the same,
however the under sleeve length should be adjusted accordingly.
A.
B.
Fold the pattern on the bicep line and shorten by the amount that the underarm
was lowered.
The chest circumference at the chest line may need to be adjusted because it is
too loose or too tight.
The chest circumference and the bicep circumference are related; therefore, it is
necessary to check the sleeve fit as well.
Front and back bodice
Extend or bring in on the chest line and reshape the underarm curve.
Measure the new underarm curve.
NOTE: If the waist and hip circumferences need to be changed as well, they can be
adjusted in or out independently (ex: Chest + 1″, Waist + ½″, Hip – 1″).
Sleeve
Confirm that the sleeve cap length on the sleeve and the armhole length on the
bodice pattern are correct, including the desired sleeve cap ease. (Refer to
Table 2.5, .)
B. If the bicep circumference does not need to be changed because it fits properly:
Raise or lower the bicep line until the under-sleeve curve length matches the
underarm curve of the bodice.
Confirm that the sleeve cap length on the sleeve and the armhole length on the
bodice pattern are correct, including the desired sleeve cap ease. (Refer to
Table 2.5, Drafting the Sleeve Sloper.)
If the sleeve cap is too low, pull lines will form toward the top of the sleeve. Lower
the bicep line to lengthen sleeve cap.
If the sleeve cap is too high, the sleeve cap area will be too tight and
uncomfortable. Raise the bicep line to shorten the sleeve cap.
Measure the new sleeve cap length, including ease, and compare to the armhole
length on the bodice pattern.
If the waist circumference is too loose or tight, determine the total amount to be
taken in or let out. (Ex: 1″)
Because each pattern piece is one-fourth of the total garment, the total amount of
change should be divided by 4.
The amount of change is distributed differently for the front and back. The front
amount is divided into thirds, and the back amount is divided into fourths.
Reference Figure 2.37, as shown.
Front
Measure in or out from the center front one-third of the amount of change, and
from the sideline two-thirds of the amount of change.
Reshape the center front line and sideline. If the line is too curved, true the line,
especially the side seam line if it was reduced.
Back
Measure in or out from the back dart one-fourth of the amount of change, and
from the side line one-half of the amount of change. Reshape the dart line and
sideline. If the line is too curved, true the lines, especially the side seam line if it
was reduced.
If the pants are too loose because the crotch length is too long, there will be
excess fabric.
With the garment on the body, pin out the excess fabric horizontally across the
center back and center front until the pants fit properly, and measure the amount
to be taken in.
On the pattern, fold both the front and back hip lines (H.L.) the same amount to be
taken in.
Reshape the center front, center back, and side seams as shown in Figure 2.38.
B. Short Crotch Length
If the pants are too tight because the crotch length is too short, horizontal pull
lines will appear across the front and back.
With the pants on the body, slash the pants horizontally on the hip line and spread
open.
On the pattern, slash the front and back hip lines and spread the desired amount
evenly.
Reshape the center front, center back, and side seams as shown in Figure 2.38.
If the crotch curve width is too loose or tight, there will be vertical wrinkles or
horizontal pull lines.
If the pants are too large or loose, pin the wrinkles until the pants fit properly, and
then measure the amount to be taken in.
If the pants are too tight, cut and spread while the garment is on the body and,
with safety pins, slowly open it until the pants fit properly.
Increase or decrease the crotch curve width at the inseam on both the front and
back pattern pieces as shown.
A.
Divide the amount by 3, then use one-third on the front and one-third on the back
crotch.
Too Long or Short Center Back Due Too Full or Flat Buttocks (Figure 2.40)
If the pants are too tight at the buttock because of a full hip curve, the center
back length is too short, and there will be horizontal pulling at the center back.
With the garment on the body, slash fabric horizontally on the hip line across
the center back, tapering toward the side seam until the pants fit properly, and
measure the amount to be added.
On the pattern, cut on the hip line at center back to, but not through, the side
seam line.
Spread the hip line at the center back by the same amount to be added,
tapering to the side seam. Side seam is not lengthened.
Reshape the center back, waistline, dart legs, and side seams as shown in
Figure 2.40.
B. Long Center Back (Flat Buttocks)
If the pants are too loose at the buttock because of a flat hip curve, the center
back length is too long, and there will be excess fabric at the center back.
With the garment on the body, pin out the excess fabric horizontally on the hip
line across the center back, tapering toward the side seam until the pants fit
properly, and measure the amount to be taken in.
On the pattern, cut on the hip line at center back to, but not through, the side
seam line.
Overlap the hip line at the center back by the same amount to be taken in,
tapering to the side seam. Side seam is not shortened.
Reshape the center back, waistline, dart legs, and side seams as shown in
Figure 2.40.
Seam Allowances
Seam allowance is the extra space added at the edge of patterns. This extra space allows
for pieces to be sewn together without any dimension change. Within the fashion
industry, certain seam allowances are recommended for specific seam and garment types.
The amount of seam allowance depends on the thickness of the fabric, whether the seam
is curved or straight, if the garment is lined or unlined, and the sewing methods of the
manufacturer.
Knit and woven garments differ in the amount of seam allowance they require. In general,
woven garments have larger seam allowances than knit garments. This is due to
differences in garment construction. Woven garments often use interfacing, which can
cause shrinkage. In order to accommodate the shrinkage, sometimes ¾″ seam allowances
are used. Additionally, the center back and side seams of woven garments often include
extra seam allowance to make alterations possible and easier. On woven garments,
straight seams usually have ⅛″ more seam allowance than curved seams. If too-wide seam
allowances are used on curved seams, it may be difficult to press and shape the garment.
Knit garments require less seam allowance mainly because of special construction
methods. Often, sergers (overlock) and cover stitch machines are used to construct knit
garments, and they do not sew far in from the edge of the fabric. Generally, knit garments
require a seam allowance of ¼″ to ⅜″. Unlike woven garments, all the seam allowances on
a knit garment are the same. The amount does not change according to whether the
seam is straight or curved.
Table 2.8 shows seam allowances according to the part of the garment where they are
added, for both woven and knit fabrics. Figures 2.42 through 2.44 shows examples of
seam allowances on woven fabrics, and Figure 2.45 shows allowances for knit fabrics.
Hem line (with top stitch) Shirt, jacket, jumper, (Width of top Width of
pants stitch + ⅛″) × 2 top stitch
Seam allowances can be added at intersecting angles using three different methods.
The first method involves following the angle of the seam lines and continuing until the
lines meet. This method sometimes creates seam allowances with sharp points. The
second method involves ending seam allowances with right angles. Sometimes this
method makes construction easier. The third method involves folding along the seam
line and mirroring the edges of the pattern. This is done so that after pressing fabric
open, the edges of the seam allowance will match up with the edges of the garment.
For more detailed examples refer to Figure 2.42 through Figure 2.44 (examples of
seam allowances in detailed patterns).
Type B has the typical knit seam allowances of ¼″–⅜″ also added to the neckline and
hems to allow for added rib finish.
A neckline is the topmost edge of the garment around the neck. Every upper-body
garment has a neckline whether or not a collar is attached. If the garment has a collar, the
neckline may or may not be visible under the collar. On the other hand, without a collar,
the neckline is the most prominent style line that ultimately shapes the upper edge of a
garment, especially the front portion.
Necklines can fall high, low, wide, or close to the neck. The design of a given neckline will
dictate various aspects of its construction, including its width, depth, and angles. Neckline
styling is commonly manipulated to enhance the appearance of the garment—through
modifications as subtle as varying the shape, to more dramatic changes such as adding a
collar.
This chapter focuses on necklines without a collar. Any kind of neckline can be created,
and although the design variations are virtually limitless, there are three basic neckline
types: round, square, and V-shaped.
Because this chapter focuses on necklines without collars, those necklines need to be
finished—whether with a facing fabric, a bias binding, or by other means. When the
neckline is designed without a collar, it should be considered as a functional as well as a
stylistic element of the garment. For shirts that contain no closures at the neckline, the
circumference of the neckline should at least be 1″–2″ larger than the head circumference.
If a tighter neckline is preferred, the front or back sloper draft should include an extension
for a closure.
Round Neckline
Round Neckline (Figure 3.1)
C = Measure in from the front H.P.S. the same amount as on the back.
C–D = Draw a curved line similar to the sloper neckline. Complete the front
neckline by drawing a curved line connecting C and D.
Check the total length of the neckline, and edit the draft to allow for a closure, if
necessary.
Square Neckline
Square Neckline (Figure 3.2)
C = Measure in from the front H.P.S. the same amount as on the back.
D–E = From D, square a guideline toward the armhole. Draw a perpendicular line
from this guideline that intersects C. Label E as shown in Figure 3.2.
Check the total length of the neckline, and edit the draft to allow for a closure, if
necessary.
V-Neckline
A–C, D–E = Draw the desired curved line to make a boat shape.
Check the total length of the neckline, and edit the draft to allow for a closure, if
necessary.
The edge of the cowl neckline becomes its own facing by folding on itself.
Therefore, extra fabric should be added to the cowl to provide for the facing.
D = Measure in from the front H.P.S. the same amount as on the back.
Check the (temporary) neckline length. Cowl necklines contain no closures and
should be bigger than your own head circumference by 1″–2″ for ease.
F–F′ = H–H′ = J–J′ = Cut each line, then spread these lines as shown. The distance
is two times the amount of the cowl depth (ex: 3″–4″).
D = From the side neck point, draw a perpenducular guideline parallel to the chest
level.
J′–L = From J′, extend the center front line up to intersect the D guideline.
Blend the shoulder line and armhole line with curved lines.
N′–M′ = Fold on line D–L, and trace N–M and D–M. Label N′–M′.
High Neckline
G–I = Draw a curved line that blends into the curve of the neckline.
For an inset band, draw the desired shape of the outermost neckline, then draw the
desired band width.
A–B, C–D = Edge of the neckline; draw the desired shape of neckline.
If the H.P.S. is altered on the back, make sure the same alterations are made on the
front. Skip the following steps if your design is folded on the center front.
D–E = Extension (ex: ¾″).
Draw a line parallel to the center front line from E to the bottom line.
F–G, H–I = Draw a line parallel to the edge of neckline A–B and C–D.
Cut the lines F–G and H–I, then separate the inset band.
If necessary, unfold the back pattern center back as shown in Figure 3.11.
The band attached to the neckline on the body is a rectangle. The band length is the
same as the original neckline (outer line length); so there is a difference, on paper,
between the inner line length and the outer line length. However, the stretch of knit
fabric allows for this difference. Patternmaking of a round neckline for knit fabric is as
follows.
For a basic round neckline in detail, refer to the previous inset band round neckline
for woven fabric (Figure 3.10).
E–F, G–H = Inner line; draw the band width (ex: ¾″–1¼″) as a parallel curve to the
outer curve.
Separating Neckline (Figure 3.14)
B–C = A–B.
In order to hide the connecting line on the shoulder, in the case of a round
neckline, the seam line is moved from right side neck point ½″–1″ toward the
center back.
E–H = Measure in ½″–1″, then cut it.
Complete the band by reflecting the rectangle lengthwise across line G–F, in order
to fold the band.
3. Inset Band Neckline for Knit Fabrics (V-Neck)
A V-neckline for knit fabric surrounds the neck with a V-shape and utilizes the
characteristics of knit fabrics.
Trace the front and back knit fabric sloper. These are similar instructions for the
woven V-neckline, altered to work with knit fabric.
Draw a curved line connecting C, E, and D for the front neckline, then draw a
curved line connecting A and B for the back neckline.
Trueing (Figure 3.18)
The curved line is the outline for the V-neckline of T-shirts. When drawing a curved
line, you should check that the section where the shoulder points connect (the
H.P.S.) is smooth. If necessary, true the neckline as shown.
Complete the inner lines of the band by drawing curves parallel to completed the
outer neckline, which define a ¾″–1¼″ width.
To determine the center front V-neckline angle, take the front band piece from the
pattern and rotate it on the rectangular band as shown.
Draw a diagonal line matching the front neckline band.
Finished Pattern (Figure 3.22)
Reflect the band over each fold line to make the full band pattern as shown.
The collar is attached at the neckline of a garment. It is one of the most important parts of
garment design because it frames the face and neck. The design of the collar reflects the
style of the garment; for example, compare a sharp, businesslike lapel collar to a trendy,
oversized shawl collar. One is appropriate in the boardroom; the other isn’t. To make the
best collars, designers and patternmakers should understand the basic elements of collar
structure.
The collar roll line shows where the collar folds against the stand, or turns down. In other
words, this is where the stand of the collar changes to the fall of the collar.
The collar edge is the outer edge of the collar and varies depending on the collar design.
The patternmaker can use many different lines to make the collar edge, from straight to
curved lines.
4.1Collar structures
It’s important to establish the collar sewing line, because the depth of the neckline will
dictate what kind of collar might be constructed. For example, in Figure 4.2, A, B, and C
are the front positions of the collar sewing line. In general, A is a standard shirt collar
sewing line, B is a convertible collar or shirt collar sewing line, and C is a sailor collar
sewing line. In addition, D, E, and F are the back positions of the collar sewing line.
Although the back positions of the collar sewing line do not vary as much as the front
position, they can be as varied as D, E, and F.
For the collar sewing line itself, these shapes might vary by degree. They are
classified into four types (Figure 4.3).
The first is convex, for the stand-up collar group; the second is straight, for the
bow and tie collar group; the third is gradual, for the tailored collar group and shirt
collar group; and the fourth is concave, for the flat collar group.
Flat Collar Group
The flat collar group is defined by a collar with no stand or with a small amount (⅜″–1″) of
stand, so it lays almost flat on the garment. Even though the flat collar group is not used
frequently in menswear, for certain design possibilities and to help the overall
understanding of collar types, an explanation of the flat collar group is included. Within
this flat collar group are the flat collar, the Peter Pan collar, and the sailor collar, as well as
the frill collar and cascade collar which are typically found in women’s wear.
The crucial factor in the flat collar is the height of the collar stand. In Flat 4.2, the height of
the collar stand is gradually increased from ¼″ to 1″, so the shape of the collar is changed
from flat to slightly standing up.
The height of the flat collar can vary according to the amount of overlap at the
shoulder point. The more overlap at the shoulder tip, the higher the stand height
on the flat collar.
Trueing Neckline (Figure 4.5)
If the overlap amount is over 1″, the neckline at the shoulder might need to be
trued. If necessary, true the neckline as shown in Figure 4.5.
Record: __________________________________
Trace the upper half of the front bodice onto pattern paper. (It is not necessary to
trace the entire sloper to create a collar pattern.)
Place the traced front bodice pattern onto the back of the bodice pattern with a 1″
overlap at the L.P.S.; the amount of overlapping will vary from ¼″–2″ or more
depending on the collar stand.
A–C = 2½″–3″.
B–E = Draw the desired collar edge on the front. This length can be longer than
the back collar.
C–D = Draw a parallel curve with the back neckline to create a collar edge on the
back.
D–E = Draw a smooth curved line to create a collar edge on the front.
Collar 2 (Figure 4.8)
E′ or E″ = Collar edge for Peter Pan; draw a desired line to create a rounded collar
edge, or bring the collar edge down to a more dramatic point.
Use a straight grainline for the upper collar and a bias grainline for the under collar
as shown.
2. Sailor Collar
Derived from navy uniforms, the shape of the sailor collar goes from front to back in a
square panel that falls flat down the back.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice.
Record: __________________________________
Redraw the collar sewing line by connecting A, C, and B with a curved line. The
curve of B–C should go no more than ¼″ from the straight guideline.
D–E = Draw a perpendicular line toward the armhole, stopping ½″–1″ before the
line.
Draw a parallel line ½″–1″ in from the edge of the collar to mark the position of the
classic trim that is typical for a sailor collar.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) in the bodice.
Draw an extension line if necessary; the extension is half of the button width you
want to use (ex: ½″) + ⅜″–1″ (ex: ¼″ + ⅜″ = ⅝″).
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice.
Record: __________________________________
Basic Line (Figure 4.13)
E–F = Collar fall (ex: 1¾″–2″); it is the band height + ¾″; extend from E.
H–I = An extension width (ex: ⅝″); extend the curve out from G–H.
H–J = Draw a perpendicular line at H that is the same length as the band height
(ex: 1″–1¼″).
J–K = Measure ⅛″ toward center back.
H–K = Center front of the band collar; connect with a straight line.
E–L = Draw a curve parallel to and the width of the band height from D–G–H–I.
L–O = ½″.
Mark the button and button holes on the center front line.
2. Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band
The two-piece shirt collar with a band is a basic collar for men’s shirts. This collar features
collar height and a stand that are developed separately.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice.
Record: __________________________________
K–H = The center front of the band collar; connect with a straight line.
Create the rounded corner at the top left of the band by following the process in
Figure 4.15.
Collar Section of Shirt Collar (Figure 4.20)
K–P = Starting at K, draw a line parallel to the center back, which intersects the G
guideline.
Reflect the patterns across G–F and D–A to create the full collar patterns.
Mark the button and button hole on the center front line.
3. Sport Collar
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice.
Record: __________________________________
G = Midpoint of B–C.
H = Square up ⅜″ from C.
Reflect the patterns across the center back line to create the full collar patterns.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice.
Record: ________________________________
E = H.P.S.
E–G = Parallel to roll line D–F; extend E–G the same length as the back neck line
length.
A′–B′ = Fold along the roll line D–F and mark the position of A and B. Label A′, B′.
K, L, M = Draw the desired collar edge as shown. Line L–M is a slightly curved line.
L′, M′ = Fold the roll line again and trace the collar edge. Finish the collar edge by
connecting it to I.
N = Extend G–E toward the neckline as a guideline. Extend A–K until it intersects
with G–E. Label this point N.
This wedge shape will overlap sections of the pattern once the collar is separated.
Separating the Collar (Figure 4.28)
Separate the collar from the body section, preserving N–J on the collar and N–E on
the body.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice.
Record: __________________________________
Note: Regarding of the reduction ratio, if the back neck length is reduced more
than the front, then the shape around the shoulder point is better. Generally, if the
length of a knit collar is the same as the neckline length, then there is excess
around the neck.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice. (See the
instructions and Figure 4.12 on Sailor Collar.)
Record: __________________________________
F = Midpoint of B–C.
G = Draw a ⅜″–⅝″ line perpendicular to A–C at C.
Finished Line (Figure 4.31)
G–H = Square up the same length as collar height (ex: 1½″–2″) from G (G–H ┴ G–
F).
E–H = Draw a curved line parallel with D–F–G.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice. (See the
instructions and Figure 4.12 on Sailor Collar.)
Record: __________________________________
3. Wing Collar
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) on the bodice. (See the
instructions and Figure 4.12 on Sailor Collar.)
Record: __________________________________
E–F = Draw a line perpendicular to B–E at E, the length of collar height minus (¼″–
½″).
D–H = Draw a line parallel to A–B.
F–M′–N = Reverse the collar edge and trace through F–N as shown.
Mark the fold line on the center back.
Mark the button and button hole on the center front line.
Relationship Between Front Neck Width and Back Neck Width on the Lapel Collars
(Figure 4.37, Lapel Collar Group Foundation)
The relationship between front neck width and back neck width depends on where
the first button is placed as a closure on the garment.
C = The point where the roll lines meet at the center front line, which starts the V-
zone of the lapel collar.
If the V-zone (C in Figure 4.37) or closure on a jacket is located below the chest
line, the front neck width (B) should be bigger than the back neck width (A). In
general, jackets with one-button and two-button closures belong to this category.
However, if the V-zone or closure is located above the chest line, like shirts or
zippers in jumpers, the front neck width (B) should be smaller than back neck width
(A). Jackets with three or more buttons belong to this category.
D is the breakpoint of the lapel collar groups, and visually helps define the V-zone.
Adjustment Steps for the Front Neck Width (Figure 4.38, Lapel Collar Group
Foundation)
Depending on where the V-zone is, the front neck width should be adjusted. The
steps for adjustments are as follows.
G = Raise the H.P.S. ¼″ and measure in ⅝″–⅜″ horizontally. The amount to measure
depends on how many buttons the jacket has. For a 1- or 2-button jacket, measure
in ⅝″. For a jacket with 3 or more buttons, measure in ⅜″.
G–H = From G, draw a line parallel to the original sloper shoulder line. The length
is ¼″ shorter than the back shoulder seam length.
Draw a curved line similar to the sloper armhole line from the midpoint of armhole
line to H.
From the side chest point, draw the new armhole the same length as the original
armhole. Label the new shoulder point I.
G–I = Draw a slightly curved line from the midpoint of G–H to I.
Lapel Shapes (Figure 4.39)
The basic concept for the lapel collar group is to draw a lapel collar line according
to your own design, then reflect that design across the roll line.
The collar section for the back neckline takes almost the same steps for each lapel
collar variation.
G–J = Collar stand at the shoulder neck point; extend ¾″–1″ from the shoulder
line.
Use these steps to prepare the front sloper before drafting lapel collars.
Top Collar (Figure 4.40)
After drawing the desired lapel shape, draw a top collar pattern.
G–Q = Draw a line parallel to J–J′ (roll line) from G; make the length the same as
the back neck length.
Read the explanation in the following section for the rotational amount variation in
Figure 4.41.
R–R′ = Collar stand at the center back line: (the length of J–G) + ¼″.
R′–S = Collar fall: (the length of collar stand) + ¾″.
Draw a 2–3″ slightly curved line from S. Keep the start of the line perpendicular to
S–R.
Rotational Amount Variations (Figure 4.41)
The back neck line (G–Q) needs to be rotated to develop the top collar on the
center back line.
If the rotational amount is bigger than the regular one, the collar edge line is
longer. The collar becomes flatter on the back. So, if the designer wants to
develop a collar that will lay down on the back, use a rotational amount more than
1½″.
1. Shawl Collar
The shawl collar is structurally similar to the notch collar; however, it does not contain a
top collar, its lapel is derived from a single piece, and it has a center back seam.
Measure the back neckline length that you developed according to your design.
Record: ________________________________
Refer to the earlier section “Lapel Collar Group Foundation” (Figures 4.37 to 4.41,
Wing Collar–Lapel Collar Group Foundation). Then follow the next steps.
Follow the instructions in Figure 4.40 (Lapel Collar Group Foundation) to develop
the back (top) collar section.
A shawl collar is not separate from the bodice, but is connected to it. Therefore, a
one-piece facing is made. If the facing is not marked to cut on a fold at the center
back of the collar, it appears as a cutting line on the center back.
Draw a facing line as shown.
If your design has no cutting line at the center back of the collar, follow the next
step.
V–W = Draw a straight line to mark the desired cut under the lapel as shown.
Cutting the Facing and Grainline (Figure 4.45)
Complete the collar and facing sections by marking a grainline and a fold mark as
shown in Figure 4.45.
2. Notched Collar
Named for the notch formed at the intersection of its collar and lapel, the notched collar
is the standard collar used in most tailored jackets. The upper collar is attached to the
bodice facing and the under collar to the bodice. Style variations are achieved by
manipulating the placement of the collar break, the width or shape of the lapel, the
placement of the notch, and the use of a double or single breast.
Measure the back neckline length that you developed according to your design.
Record: ________________________________
Refer to the previous section, “Lapel Collar Group Foundation” (Figures 4.37 to 4.41,
Wing Collar–Lapel Collar Group Foundation). Then follow the next steps.
Draw a lapel line according to the design. The following steps are for standard designs:
L–O = O–P = P–L = Keep same distance 1½″; draw straight lines from L to O and
O to P.
P′, O′, L′, = Reflect the collar across the roll line and trace. Label points P′, O′, and
L′.
Follow the instructions on Lapel Collar Group Foundation to develop the top collar
section.
T–G = T–U = Draw a straight line. This will become an overlapping wedge once the
collar pieces are separated.
Separating the top Collar (Figure 4.48)
Separate the collar from the body section, retaining line G–T on the body and U–T
on the collar.
N–J–R′ = The roll line on the top collar; draw a smooth curved line.
Complete the collar section by making the top collar and the under collar as
shown.
P′–P″, S–S′ = Give ease for the falling area of the upper collar as shown.
Reflect the pattern across S′–R to create a full collar pattern as shown.
X–Y = Draw a curved line to create the separate band. X is ¼″ below, and Y is ⅜″
below from the roll line.
Divide T–R in half, and label Z. From Z measure over 2″–3″ and label U. Divide U–T
in half.
Square each line up as shown.
For the collar section, slash each line from line Y–X to P″–S′, but not all the way
through.
For the band section, slash each line from line Y–X to T–R, but not all the way
through.
Separating the Upper Collar 2 (Figure 4.51)
Overlap ⅛″ on each cutting line to reduce the excess around the roll line.
Reflect the pattern across S′–R to create a full collar pattern as shown.
3. Peaked Collar
A peaked lapel collar is similar to a notched collar, except instead of the top lapel edge
angling downward, it is angled up, thus creating the “peak.”
Measure the back neckline length that you developed according to your design.
Record: ________________________________
Refer to the previous section, “Lapel Collar Group Foundation” (Figures 4.37 to 4.41,
Wing Collar–Lapel Collar Group Foundation). Then follow the next step.
Drawing a Lapel Shape (Figure 4.52)
Draw a lapel line according to your own design. The following steps are for standard
designs.
P′, O′, L′, D = Reflect the collar across the roll line and trace. Label points P′, O′, L′,
and D.
Follow the instructions (Lapel Collar Group Foundation) to develop the top collar
section.
Draw a smooth curved line from S to P′ to complete the collar edge line.
T = The intersection resulting from extending the lines L′–N and Q–G.
T–G = T–U = Draw a straight line. This will become an overlapping wedge once the
collar pieces are separated.
Separating the top Collar (Figure 4.54)
Separate the collar from the body section, retaining line G–T on the body and U–T
on the collar.
N–J–R′ = The roll line on the collar; draw a smooth curved line.
Under Collar and Upper Collar (Figure 4.55)
Complete the collar section by making the top collar and the under collar as shown
in Figure 4.55.
P′–P″, S–S′ = Give ease for the falling area of the upper collar as shown.
Reflect the pattern across S′–R to create a full collar pattern as shown.
For a separated upper collar, follow these additional steps to separate the band.
Divide T–R in half, and label Z. From Z measure over 2″–3″ and label U. Divide U–T
in half.
For the collar section, slash each line from line Y–X to P″–S′, but not all the way
through.
For the band section, slash each line from line Y–X to T–R, but not all the way
through.
Separating the Upper Collar 2 (Figure 4.57)
Overlap ⅛″ on each cutting line to reduce the excess around the roll line.
Reflect the pattern across S′–R to create a full collar pattern as shown.
Check the total neck length to make sure the design does not require any closure.
The length should be at least 1″–2″ bigger than the wearer’s head circumference to
wear this hood design.
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪) in the bodice.
Measure the length from the H.P.S. to the top of the head of your design. It should
have room for ease.
Record: ____________________________
To find the width of the hood, measure the temple-to-temple horizontal
circumference of your desired design, NOT the actual head size. Be sure to have
room for ease.
Divide by 4.
Basic Line (Figure 4.60)
A = H.P.S.
A–F = Hood height; square up from A a guideline the length of the H.P.S. to the
top of the head.
F–G, F–H = Hood width; square out lines that are one-fourth the length of the
temple-to-temple circumference.
H–I = From H draw a guideline parallel to A–F. Connect D to the guideline with a
perpendicular line and label this intersection as I.
J = Midpoint of H–I.
Drawing the Neck Curve (Figure 4.61)
L = Midpoint of E–J.
Check the curved neck length, then make the same length as in front neck and
back neck on the bodice, if necessary.
Finished pattern (Figure 4.62)
Complete the hood center line by drawing a smooth curved line connecting Q, F, P,
O, and D.
Mark the grainline and the notch on the side neck point.
For the three-piece hood collar, first follow the previous steps for creating a two-piece
hood collar.
Drawing the Lines for the Three-Piece Hood Collar (Figure 4.63)
A–B = At the existing edge of the two-piece hood collar, relabel A and B.
A′–C′ = The same length as A–C in the previous step (see Figure 4.63).
C′–E′ = Square down from C′. The length is the same as C–E in Figure 4.63.
Sleeves
The sleeve was developed out of necessity as well as beauty. Primary functions of arms in
the human body are balance and lifting, and it is necessary that the design of the garment
that covers the arms be supportive of this purpose. The types of sleeves vary depending
on their length, their components, and the methods by which they are constructed.
A–B = Draw a line parallel with the sleeve bottom line at cuff height (ex: 2½″) – ½″
to create a cuff; thus 2″.
Note: When making a cuff for the sleeve, determine the height of the cuff; then trim an
amount from the sleeve sloper that is ½″ shorter than the cuff height.
Record 1: ________
NOTE: When the cuff is sewn, the sleeve placket is overlapped half of this amount.
Record 2: ________
The difference between the width of A–B and Record 2: ________
Divide by 2. Record 3: ________
G–H = After the calculation, mark points G and H, which move in from A and B the
amount of Record 3.
Draw straight lines connecting G and H to the bicep line, as shown in Figure 5.2.
Record 1: ________
Record 2: ________
Determine a sleeve placket width (ex: ¾″–1″).
To decide the total width of sleeve hem, calculate using the following directions.
The width of wrist line (G–H) = (Cuff width) + (pleat intake) – (sleeve placket
width/2). Record 3: ________
Find the difference between the width of A–B and Record 3: ________
Divide by 2. Record 4: ________
G–H = After the calculation, mark the points G and H, which move in from A and B
by the amount of Record 4.
Draw straight lines connecting G and H to the bicep line, as shown in Figure 5.5.
J = The midpoint of the back sleeve, as well as the midpoint of the sleeve placket
width. H–J = J–I.
L = The midpoint of I and the closest edge of the placket. Point L marks the center
of the pleat intake.
Record 1: ________
Determine the first pleat intake (ex: 1¼″) and second pleat intake (ex: 1″).
The width of wrist line (G–H) = Cuff length + first pleat intake (ex: 1¼″) + second
pleat intake (ex: 1″) – (sleeve placket width/2).
Record 3: ________
Determine the difference between the width of A–B and Record 3: ________.
Divide by 2. Record 4: ________
G–H = After the calculation, mark the points G and H, which move out from A and
B by the amount of Record 4.
G, H = The new bottom sleeve width may be wider than the original depending on
the amount added for the pleats. Mark G and H equidistant from A and B.
Draw straight lines connecting G and H to the bicep line, as shown in Figure 5.8.
Sleeve Placket (Figure 5.9)
J = The midpoint of the back sleeve I–H; it is also the midpoint of the sleeve
placket width.
J–K = Draw a 1″ × 4″ placket with a 1¼″ cap as shown.
L = Measure ¾″ toward the sleeve center, from the edge of the placket.
L–M = First pleat intake (ex: 1¼″); mark the pleat intake as shown.
N–O = Second pleat intake (ex: 1″); mark the pleat intake as shown.
Cuff Draft (Figure 5.11)
Bishop Sleeve
A bishop sleeve has fullness on the bottom but not on the sleeve cap. This sleeve can be
finished with a cuff or bias tape.
Trace the sleeve sloper at full size onto the pattern paper, following the previous
no-pleat sleeve step (Figures 5.1 through 5.4, Three-Piece Hood–No-Pleat Sleeve
With Placket).
The methods for fullness on the bottom vary according to the design. In this
chapter, there are two examples, but both are based on the slash and spread
method; the first one has more ease from the sleeve cap to the bottom, the
second one has ease from above the elbow line to the bottom. Adjust these
examples to the design.
First example
Draw lines parallel to the center sleeve line, making 2″ wide sections as shown in
Figure 5.13.
Record: ________________
Finished Pattern (Figure 5.14)
Spread each slash line 1″–2″ according to the design. After spreading the total
sleeve hem width, A–B will become ½–2 ½ times greater compared to the original
measurement.
I = The center sleeve line; draw a vertical line from the top of the sleeve cap to the
midpoint of and extend ½″.
I = The midpoint of the bicep line and elbow line; draw a horizontal line to the
under-sleeve line, and separate from the upper portion of the sleeve.
Draw a line parallel to the center sleeve line, making 2″ wide bands as shown.
Record: ________________
Spreading (Figure 5.16)
Spread each slash line 1″–2″ according to the design. After spreading the total
sleeve hem, the width of A–B will become ½–2½ times greater compared to the
original length.
I = The center sleeve line; draw a vertical line from the top of the sleeve cap to the
midpoint of ③ and ④.
After spreading, connect the pattern to the upper section, matching the center
sleeve lines. Measure the gap (▴) between I and the upper part of the sleeve.
I–K = The center sleeve line; measure up, from the bottom of the sleeve, half the
amount of the gap between I and the upper portion of the sleeve.
Redraw the sleeve hem line and the under-sleeve lines as shown.
Trace the jacket sleeve sloper for formal wear (refer to Figures 11.2 and 11.3, Suit
Jackets). Square down from both ends of the bicep level to the sleeve hem.
F′–A′ = Fold on F′–I and trace A–F. Label F′–A′ as shown in Figure 5.18.
M′–A′ = Fold at J, matching point B to A′, and trace B–M. Label A–M′ as shown.
S = Midpoint of Q–R.
S–T = Half the sleeve hem width. Sleeve hem width is the wrist circumference + 4″–
5″. Mark point T on the bottom line.
X–Y′, W′–Y′ = Repeat the process for the top sleeve line T–H.
Under Sleeve and Upper Sleeve (Figure 5.21)
Retrace the top sleeve and the under sleeve onto a piece of paper.
A′–A″ = Draw a line parallel to the center sleeve line from A′ to the sleeve hem
line.
Finished Pattern (Figure 5.22)
If necessary, retrace the parts of the sleeve separately as shown in Figure 5.22. Flip
the under sleeve as shown.
X = Measure over ¾″–1¼″ from the midpoint of the back bicep line.
Y = Measure over ½″–1″ from the midpoint of the back hem line.
Before separating the parts of the sleeve, mark the notches and grainlines.
If necessary, draw a sleeve placket for both sleeves, according to the design.
Raglan Sleeve
A raglan sleeve eliminates the shoulder seam at the top of the cap and connects to the
bodice all the way to the neckline. In general, a one-piece, fitted raglan sleeve in a woven
fabric has a dart on the shoulder, whereas the loose-fit style for woven fabrics and the
style for knit fabrics do not have a dart on the shoulder line.
The starting point is usually one-third of the neckline, but it can start at any point.
The dashed line starts at the midpoint of the front neckline.
Cap Height and Slope (Figure 5.26)
A raglan sleeve contains a sleeve cap and a bicep circumference. In Figure 5.26, E–
F defines the cap height, F–H′ is the bicep level, and E–I is the sleeve length.
First determine the shoulder slope. Increase it for outerwear garments such as
coats and jackets, or garments containing shoulder pads; otherwise, decrease it if
necessary.
Next, determine the sleeve slope from the shoulder tip E. In the figure, E–I and E–I′
are examples of raglan sleeve slopes.
If the slope is flat like E–I, the fit is more comfortable and will allow more activity. It
will not need a dart.
If the slope is slanted like E–I′, the fit is tighter and will allow less activity. It will
need a dart on the shoulder.
Table 5.1. General reference Chart for Sleeve Cap height and Slope
Sleeve Cap Height (Length Back Sleeve Slope (Length Front Sleeve
Item of E–F) of F–G) Slope
A = Side point at the chest line; if necessary, drop ¼″–½″ and extend ½″–1″
according to the design.
C = Locate and mark the point on the armhole that is 3″–3 ½″ above the chest
level.
E–F = Cap height; extend from E. For the cap height, refer to Table 5.1.
E–G = Rotate E–F 1½″–2½″ according to the garment for which the sleeve is
intended. For the amount, refer to Table 5.1.
G–H = Half of the bicep circumference + 1¾″–2¼″ for ease; draw a line
perpendicular to E–G.
Back Draft (Figure 5.28)
C–H = Draw the underarm curve by reflecting line C–A from C to H. The length of
C–H should equal C–A. If it does not adjust the bicep level by extending or
shortening it until it is the same length.
E–I = Extend the sleeve length.
Mark notches at point D, and mark double notches at C to indicate the back draft.
Basic line: Front (Figure 5.29)
Development of the front raglan sleeve is the same as the back, except the
following measurements are changed.
C = A point on the armhole 2½″–3″ above the chest level.
Trace the back bodice and back sleeve separately, and blend the shoulder tip at E.
Trace the front bodice and front sleeve separately, and blend the shoulder tip at E.
If front and back sleeve are connected at the sleeve center, it becomes a one-piece
raglan sleeve with a dart, as shown in Figure 5.32.
For the raglan sleeve without a dart, the process is the same as the raglan sleeve
with a dart, except there is no need to rotate the sleeve cap on the shoulder tip.
Figure 5.33 shows the completed pattern.
Refer to the previous back development steps, except use the following
measurements.
Make sure H–J is the same length on the front as on the back.
If the sleeve is a one-piece raglan sleeve, trace the sleeve together and match the
front and back patterns on the sleeve center (refer to the next step, shown in
Figure 5.36).
One-Piece Raglan (Figure 5.36)
If the front and back sleeve patterns are connected at the sleeve center, it
becomes a one-piece raglan sleeve without a dart, as shown.
Dolman Sleeve
A dolman sleeve is a continuous piece of fabric, from the bodice to the sleeve. This sleeve
is generally a loose-fit style for woven or knit fabrics.
Prepare the back draft. There should be space on the paper to the left of this
bodice to create the sleeve.
A–B = Determine the length of the garment.
C = Determine the neckline width. Measure out ⅛″. If necessary, reshape the
neckline.
C–D = Shoulder slope. Determine the basic shoulder slope; increase for outerwear
garments such as coats and jackets, or garments containing shoulder pads;
otherwise, decrease if necessary.
E = The chest line; drop 3″ and extend out ¾″.
G–H = Half of the sleeve hem + ¼″; square a line perpendicular to G–D.
E–J = E–K = Measure out and measure down 10″–12″. Variations depend on
designs.
A = The length of the garment; make this the same as the back.
E = The chest line; drop 3″ and extend out ¾″, as in the back draft.
D–G = Extend the sleeve length; make the same length as in the back draft.
G–H = (Half of the sleeve hem) + ¼″; square a line perpendicular to B–G.
For the remainder of the steps, refer to the back development (Figure 5.38,
Dolman Sleeve).
Short Sleeve
A short sleeve ends above the elbow line.
Trace the sleeve sloper from the top of the sleeve to the elbow level.
A = Top of sleeve.
C, D = Existing sleeve seam lines intersected with the new bottom line.
Cuffs
Cuffs are used to finish sleeve hems. Aside from their functional use, they can be design
elements as well. There are two types of cuff: sewn-on and turn-back. Sewn-on cuffs are
attached at the end of the sleeve length. The cuff height should be subtracted from the
total sleeve length. Turn-back cuffs are an extension of the sleeve; therefore, the sleeve
should be lengthened to allow their being rolled up.
1. Shirt Cuff
A shirt-cuff type of finishing for a sleeve consists of a separate sewn-on, or a turned-back
and stitched, extension of fabric. This design includes one button as a means of closure.
Mark the second button placement keeping a 1″ distance to adjust the cuff.
4. French Cuff
The French cuff is folded back on itself, and thus the pattern is cut twice as long. This
particular cuff design would be fastened with cufflinks.
Figure 5.46 French Cuff
C′–D′ = Reflect the rectangle over F–E, and trace the outline and buttonhole
placement.
5. Band Cuff
A band cuff is a simple piece of fabric in varying widths that is used to finish sleeve hems,
as well as facilitate closures such as buttons or snaps.
Trace the sleeve sloper from the top of the sleeve to the elbow level.
A = Top of sleeve.
A–B = Sleeve length (ex: 8″); square out on either side.
C, D = Existing sleeve seam lines intersected with the new bottom line.
G–H = Draw a stitch line parallel to E–F. Placement can vary according to the
design (ex: 1¼″).
H′–G′ = Fold line F–E and trace along the sides up to the stitch line to create H′–G′.
Unfold and connect H′ and H′ with a straight line.
F′–E′ = Fold line H′–G′ and trace along the sides up to F–E to complete the sleeve
cuff extension. Unfold and connect F′ and E′ with a straight line.
Plackets and Pockets
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-006
Page Range: 149–173
A placket is a finishing for any kind of vent, slit, or opening that makes it possible for the
wearer to get into a garment. It can be placed at the neckline, sleeves, cuffs, or a hem,
and typically will include some type of closure, which allows it to open wide enough for a
part of the body to slide through, but then close for a close fit or silhouette. A placket’s
standard shape is a straight, rectangular length of fabric; however, it can have virtually any
shape. It can extend all the way through a garment, such as a dress shirt’s placket that
allows the garment to be opened fully, or it can extend only partially through a garment,
such as a pointed placket on a polo shirt that allows for the head to pass through an
otherwise narrow neckline. Plackets can be continuous, which will not require seaming, or
they can be stitched on as a separate piece.
Pockets similarly have multiple construction methods. Pockets are essentially fabric bags
that can be stitched either on the outside or inside of a garment and may have some type
of closure on the opening. Inseam pockets are a low-profile style of pocket, whereas a
patch pocket (which would be stitched to the outside) is completely visible. A style of
pocket that splits that difference—being partly inside the garment, but with some level of
visibility—are front hip pockets, which have the topmost layer of the opening slashed out,
essentially revealing the bottom layer of the pocket bag.
Plackets
A placket is an opening that enables the wearer to put on and take off garments. They are
most common on the upper part of pants, and the necks and sleeves of shirts and casual
jackets. Even though the primary purpose of plackets is to allow clothing to be put on or
removed easily, sometimes they are used as a design element. Plackets often contain
added facings, attached bands to surround and reinforce fasteners such as zippers, snaps,
and buttons, and are often found on the double layers of fabric that hold these buttons,
snaps, or zippers. These facings also give support and strength when plackets are stressed
due to frequent use.
There are several types of plackets in Flat 6.1: a pointed placket for shirts or T-shirts, a
placket for the front of shirts, a front zipper placket for pants, a vent placket for jackets,
and the front plackets for casual jackets or coats.
1. Pointed Placket
This placket is for garments that have no seam line at center front. These designs are
often seen on polo shirts or T-shirts.
Fold the pattern paper, and trace the front body sloper.
E–G = Draw a line parallel to the center front line to the neckline.
Trace the half of the placket A–G–F–E–D–B–C in Figure 6.2 through to the other
side of the paper.
Trace the top placket, and cut off the bottom part.
Under placket = Mark the facing fabric.
This classic placket is used frequently on shirts, but it can be used on the casual jacket and
coat as well. There are two types of placket—folded and cut—and there are two methods
for making the cut placket—seamed edge and pin tuck on the right side.
Type A: Folded Edge
B–E' = Placket width; measure out, then trace the neckline, bottom line, and
placket edge by reflecting over the center front line.
This method does not need a seam allowance; it is included already. E'–B'–C'–D' is
for the seam allowance (see Figure 6.4).
If there is no stitch line on the design, do not draw a stitch line on the right line.
For the left side, the stitch width is placket width – ⅛″. This is because the left side
will be overlapped at the center front, so after closing the garment, the stitch line
on the left side is not seen.
Type B-1: Cut Placket, Seamed Edge
A–B = Extension = half of button width + (½″–1″) according to the design. A–B =
A–E.
For the left, trace the right side of the front by flipping the pattern.
The stitch width is the placket width – ⅛″. (This is because the left side will lie
under the right side at center front; therefore, the stitch line is moved in slightly so
that it is not visible when the garment is closed.)
NOTE: This method does not include a seam allowance for the right side. Make sure to
add seam allowances before cutting fabric.
E–X = After cutting the placket, spread twice as much as the intended pin tuck
intake (ex: ½″).
For the right side, fold the placket lines E–D and B–C (see Figure 6.8).
After folding twice, tuck the placket into the pin-tuck intake as shown.
4. Vent Placket
The purpose of a vent placket is to allow for movement, as well as add decoration to the
garment. This vent placket is seen on either the center back line or the back side line of a
six-panel jacket. For the vent placket of a six-panel jacket, refer to the Bottom Placket,
Figures 6.12 through 6.14 (pages 157–158). There is a top stitch on casual wear, but there
is no top stitch on formal wear.
Vent Placket (Figure 6.11)
This pant-bottom placket is seen on the outseam line of pants. When on casual wear, the
plackets on the bottom of pants will typically have buttons and top stitching. The purpose
of a pant-bottom placket is not only for decoration and to provide room for movement,
but also for ease of getting into and out of the garment. This placket may be altered into
other decorative plackets, such as a vent placket for a six-panel jacket, side vents for
shirts, and vents for sleeves.
The instructions for the back draft are the same as the front draft. Follow the
previous steps (Figures 6.12 and 6.13), and mark the corresponding buttonholes on
the placket.
Pockets
Pockets are containers created as part of the garment. Though historically conceived as
functional elements, pockets can act as significant design details on the clothing. The
functional aspect of pockets is that they require enough width and depth for hands or
items to fit into them, along with good construction to hold the contents securely. Pockets
can be straight, angular, or rounded, as well as many other geometric shapes.
There are numerous styles of pockets. Types of pockets that are located on the upper
portion of garments are usually patch pockets, whereas pockets typically located on the
inside may be inseam, or bound welt pockets. There are several types of pockets in Flat
6.7: front hip pockets for pants, bound or welt pockets, patch pockets on the back of
pants and the front of shirts, and cargo or box pockets.
1. Front Hip Pockets
Front hip pockets are seen on the fronts of pants and skirts. They consist of two separate
layers that are sewn together to create a pouch and placed inside garments. In Flat 6.8,
the style line of the front hip pockets varies. One is a straight (but angled) opening for the
dress pants, and the other is a curved opening with top stitching for jeans. According to
different designs, however, these guidelines are not rigid—shapes of the pockets, pocket
depth, and pocket width can all vary.
Slanted Front Pocket
D–E = A pocket depth; draw a line parallel to the pant center line 9″–10″.
The pocket bag can be made from two separate layers by cutting apart and sewing
along D -F; however, be mindful of the bulk that the unnecessary seam will create.
On the front pant, eliminate A–B–C, which was already included on the pocket part
in the previous step (Figure 6.16).
Jean Front Pocket
D–E = Pocket depth; draw a line parallel to the pant center line 8″–9″.
Reflect the pattern across line D–F, but trace H′ to B′ as shown to create the full
pocket pouch.
The pocket bag can be made from two separate layers by cutting apart and sewing
along D–F; however, be mindful of the bulk that the unnecessary seam will create.
On the front pant, eliminate A–B–C, which is already included on the pocket part in
the previous step.
2. Inseam Pocket
Inseam pockets are sewn inside a seam, so they are invisible compared to other pockets.
Inseam pockets utilize an existing seam for their opening and consist of two separate
layers that are sewn together to create a pouch placed inside garments. In Flat 6.9, the
placement of these pockets are at the side seams for the pants and at the princess line for
the upper bodice.
Inseam Pocket for Pants
X–Y = For the bodice section, extend the pocket entrance¾” by drawing a line
parallel to B–C.
D–E = Draw a line, parallel to the center front, up to the waist line.
X–Y = For the bodice sections, extend the pocket entrance¾″ by drawing a line
parallel to B–C on each princess line.
Trace the pocket outline A–B–C–H–F–I from the bodice.
3. Welt Pocket
Welt pockets, also called slit pockets or bound pockets, are slashes made in the garment
and consist of single or double welts. They are seen on jackets, coats, and the back of
pants. The style of the opening can be straight, curved, or angled as a design element.
The typical grainline is bias for this pocket. In Flat 6.10, the shapes of these pockets are
single welt for upper bodice and double welts for pants.
Single-Welt Pocket for Upper Bodice
F–G, F–H, G–I = Expand the outer line 1″ above E–D, and to the sides of E–A and
D–C, as shown.
H–I = Draw a parallel line 3½″–4½″ below A–C. Connect F–H and G–I.
B–C = Pocket-entrance length; draw a line parallel to the waist line that passes
through A. Make the length 5½″–6″. Shorten this length if it comes within 1½″–2″
of the pattern edge.
If the bound pocket has double welts, draw a line parallel to B–C at the midpoint
of B–D as shown.
For the pocket pattern, trace the pants pattern after folding the darts as shown.
L, M = Measure in ½″–¾″ from where the vertical line J–H and K–I meet the waist
line.
4. Patch Pockets
Patch pockets are patched onto a garment, as the name implies. The designs of patch
pockets have the most variety among pockets. They can be any size and shape and can
be placed anywhere on the garment. In Flat 6.11, the shapes of these pockets, left to
right, are: the kangaroo pocket, the rectangular pocket with a flap for shirts, and the
pentagon for yoke pants. Names for these pockets are typically dictated by their shape.
Kangaroo Pocket
Pocket Shape (Figure 6.33)
Draw a rectangle from A. The pocket size can vary according to the design.
A = Pocket placement; 7″ below H.P.S. and 2″ in from the center front line.
A–B = Pocket width; draw a line parallel to the chest line. 4½″–5″ below.
X–Y = Draw a line parallel to A–B; the length is the top-stitch width + ⅛″.
X–Y = The yoke line (for detail, see Figure 7.29 on Front and Back Yokes).
A = Pocket placement from the center back; from X on the center back, measure in
1¼″–1½″ and down 1–1¼″.
B = Pocket placement from the outseam; from Y on the outseam measure in 1″
″1¼″ and down 1¼″–1½″.
C = Pocket depth; draw a 7″–7½″ perpendicular line from the midpoint of A–B.
NOTE: The pocket size can be varied according to the design. Also, the steps for
Figures 6.38 and 6.39 are interchangeable.
NOTE: For this pocket, you can either make the pattern first, then mark the placement
on the bodice, or you can reverse this order to fine-tune the pocket’s dimensions first.
A′ = Measure 2¼″ in from the center front and down 2¼–2¾″ from the waist line.
E–F = Draw a perpendicular line at the midpoint of A–B, which runs parallel to B–
C.
Draw a rectangle G–H–I–J from G to create the box pocket height. This band will
be added to the pocket A–B–C–D.
G–M = Total band length; measure and add together sides B–C, C–D, and A–D.
M–N = Boxing pocket height or band width; draw a 1″–½″ perpendicular line.
A′–E′–F′–D′ = Measure up 1½″ from the knee line. Trace the pocket A–E–D–F.
E′–B′–C′–F′ = Measure up the same amount from the knee line as in the front, then
match up the front and back pattern pieces at the outseam, then trace the pocket
E–B–C–F.
Details
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-007
Page Range: 174–214
Details, such as interesting style lines or creative pleats, are what make certain garments
stand out. The elements within this chapter are arguably the most important to consider
when creating a clever design. Any of these details can be combined to create any
design.
The beginning of this chapter focuses on the closure edges of a garment. The buttons
and extensions section explains the methods for calculating proper extension width and
button placement, which depend on the size of button that the design calls for. Facings,
which definitely must be considered for closure edges, can be implemented to finish any
edge of a garment.
Pleats and tucks both relate to creating fullness, and although the examples in this
chapter only feature the application on pants, the slash-and-spread method is an easy and
very useful means for creating fullness in any kind of garment.
If a designer wants to take in fullness or control the fit of a garment, he or she should
consider style lines. In addition to creating seam lines that may be aesthetically pleasing,
style lines such as darts, yokes, and paneling are all technical ways to take out fabric while
creating purposeful design elements.
Finally, the chapter includes instructions for shoulder flanges on shirts and waistbands for
pants. Every style of pant requires a specific waistband—and those that are suitably
chosen will not only serve to complement the design of the garment, but will also allow
for a proper it and a better look. It is important to note that like the rest of this book in its
modular style, following the suggested design verbatim is not required. More than one
waistband style can be combined with another—for example, a low-rise waistband with a
rib-knit waistband and elastic in the back—in order to achieve many different design
possibilities.
As with most closures, functional buttons require an extension beyond the established
seam line. The extensions are overlapped to allow adequate space for button closure; and
when closed, the size of the garment should be the same. The width of the extension is
related to the width of the button.
For example, if the button width on a shirt is ½″, then the extension width is half of the
button width, ¼″, plus the offset, ⅜″. The final extension width is ⅝″.
First Button Placement (Figure 7.2)
In general, the first button placement from the neckline is the same as the
extension width. However, the first button placement for a lapel collar is at the
break point or ½″ below it.
After deciding the button placement, mark the buttonholes. Buttonholes lengths
need ⅛″ ease to for fastening and unfastening.
If necessary, mark the buttons and buttonhole placements for the right and left
sides separately.
Facings
Facings create a finished look for the raw edges of garments and provide reinforcement
for garment construction. There are two types of facings: stitched-on and fold-back.
Stitched-on facings are created by tracing the pattern pieces and determining the desired
width for the facing piece. Facing widths can range from 1″ to 5″ depending on their
location on the garment. A new piece of fabric is then cut and sewn over the raw edges.
Fold-back facings are created by extending the edge of the seam allowance on the
pattern piece. The extension is folded toward the wrong side of the garment and sewn.
Fold-back facings only work on straight seam lines.
1. Stitched-On Facings
Stitched-On Front Facing Example: Lapel Collar Jacket (Figure 7.5)
To mark the facing line on the front pattern, prepare the front piece.
Mark notches: 5″ below the shoulder between C and D, and 7″ above the bottom,
along A and B.
Stitched-On Front Facing Example: Ease for Lapel Collar (Figure 7.6)
Trace the facing from the bodice as shown.
To provide room on the lapel when it is rolled, follow the next steps.
F′–G′ = Draw a ⅛–¼ parallel line with F–G (the length should be the same).
I = Two-thirds of G–H.
G′–H = Draw a similar line to G–H by drawing a parallel line from G′ to I, then
connecting I to H with a smooth line as shown.
F′–E = Draw a similar line to F–E (the length will be slightly longer than that of F–E).
Mark notches: 4″ below from the shoulder and 6″ up from bottom hem.
To mark the facing line on the back pattern, prepare the back piece.
A = Measure along the shoulder the same amount as the front (ex:1¾″) from the
H.P.S.
Mark the folded line at center back on the facing pattern piece.
2. Fold-Back Facing
Fold-Back Front Facing Example: Shirt or Casual Jacket (Figure 7.9)
To mark the facing line on the front pattern, prepare the front piece. Fold the
paper as shown.
A = At the chest line, measure 2½″–3″ over from the center front line.
X–A = Determine the pleat intake (ex: and mark it on yoke line X–Y.
X–A′ = Extend from X the desired pleat intake. Draw a line, parallel to the center
back, down to the bottom to create fullness.
A′–X′ = Repeat the process for X–A′.
Box Pleats (Figure 7.13)
For the box pleat, simply fold the pleat intake over the bodice as shown.
A–B = Mark the desired pleat location, then draw a direction line for the pleat.
A–C = Extend out half of pleat intake (ex: 1″); extend from A.
Redraw the yoke line and bottom line by cutting along Y–X and bottom lines.
Tucks
A tuck is the counterpart to the dart and works similarly—beginning the same way. The
designer can create fullness using tucks by transferring dart intakes into tuck intakes.
Tucks used as design details on the garments can have various sizes, shapes, and angles.
A pleated tuck intake is sewn partially, and a pin tuck is sewn down entirely. The intake of
a pleated tuck can vary, but the intake of pin tucks are generally formed by a narrow
stitched line.
1. Pleated Tucks
Pleated Tucks Placements (Figure 7.17)
Prepare the pattern. Mark the placement of the desired pleated tucks on the pant-
waist and then create the intake for the pleated tucks. To create the intake, use the
slash-and-spread methods. If the pattern already has a dart intake, the dart intake
will become part of the pleated intakes.
A–B = The first pleated tuck placement; center of pant and crease line; cut the
crease line.
A–C = Distance from the first to second tuck; measure out 1½″–2″.
C–D = The second pleated tuck placement; draw a parallel line 5″–6″. This length
is temporary.
C–F = Second pleated tuck’s intake (ex: 1″); mark the this intake on the waist as
shown.
The second tuck intake (C–F) will be added by extending half of the intake at the
center front waist and half of the intake (G) at the side waist (H).
H = Extend half of the intake C–F (ex: ½ ″) from the outseam at the waist point,
then draw a new outseam line as shown.
G = Extend half of the intake C–F (ex: ½ ″) from the center front at the waist point,
then draw a new center front as shown.
Arrange the tuck placement. The first pleated tuck, A–E, ends ½ ″ below hip level.
A–A′ = The first tuck intake (ex: ¾ ″); draw a horizontal line to mark distance.
After folding each tuck intake, true the neckline and bottom line by cutting these
lines.
1. Darts
Although darts are not required on the sloper pattern for menswear, the designer can add
darts as design elements, or for their original purpose—to control excess of the pattern.
The designer can put emphasis on the dart by providing a large dart intake as well.
A–B = New waist line; draw a parallel line to the waist line. Note: When making
darts, if the designer raises the waist 1″ up, the wearer will look slimmer.
C–D = D–E = The half of the dart intake; ⅜″–½″, depending on design.
J–K = Extend the hem by the same measurement as the dart intake (H–I). If the
dart (H–I) does not have any intake and is just a seam/style line, skip this process.
A–B = New waist line; draw a parallel line to the waist line, as done with the back
pattern.
A–C = Measure in 3½″–4″ from the edge of the placket width. If there is no placket
width, then measure in 4″–4¾″ from the center front line.
D–F = Square up from D, ending 2½″ below the chest line. Label as F.
C–G = Square down to the hem line.
G–H = Measure to the right ¼″.
J–K = Extend the hem by the same measurement as in the dart intake (H–I).
Complete the back side line connecting B and K.
2. Yokes
Front and Back Yokes
Yokes are one of the design elements that can eliminate dart intake and stabilize the
upper part of garments. The yoke line can also be utilized to create fullness by utilizing
pleats and tucks at the bottom seam. Even though a horizontal yoke is a typical angle for
shirts and pants, this style line can be placed anywhere on the body—the upper part or
lower part, and at any angle.
A = H.P.S.
A–B = Front yoke-line depth (ex: 1½″–2″) on the neckline; mark the point.
C = L.P.S.
C–D = Front yoke-line depth on the armhole line (ex: 2″–3″); mark the point.
NOTE: The yoke can be placed anywhere on the bodice pattern, such as X–Y, where it
intersects the placket line.
E–F = Back yoke depth (ex: 5½″) on center back; mark the point.
G = H.P.S.
H = L.P.S.
These yokes can be used separately, or as one piece by connecting shoulder lines
together as shown.
Pants Yokes
Yoke Line and Reducing Dart Intake (Figure 7.29)
C–D = Draw a yoke line as shown. It is much better for it accuracy if the yoke
passes through the end of dart leg, but it is not necessary.
If the dart intake is 1¼″ or less, skip this process; however, if it is over 1¼″, it is
better to reduce dart intake as follows.
F and G = Reduce the dart intake by drawing parallel lines with sloper dart legs,
each intake should be half of A–E to keep the same waist circumference.
C′–D′ = The same locations on the bodice as C–D on the yoke section; make sure
the length of C–D equals C′–D′ after trueing.
If there is dart intake left on the pants pattern, see the next step.
D–X = Extend half of dart intake (♦/2) from D on the yoke section as shown.
D′–Y = Take in half of dart intake (♦/2) from D′ on the body section as shown.
There are two methods to create the side panel patterns. The first method is to draw the
front and back separately, and then connect the front side panel and back side panel
together. The second method is to draw the front and back patterns together from the
beginning. The first method is time-consuming and not as efficient; therefore, only the
second method is shown here. For jacket and coat designs with six panels, see Chapters
11 and 12.
Shirts, T-Shirts, and Casual Jackets
Trace the front and the back sloper, with the side seams together. Then determine
the length of your design. The length can vary.
A = On the back pattern, mark the point on the armhole line that is 2″–3″ above
the chest level.
B = On the front pattern, mark the point on the armhole line which is 1″–2″ above
the chest level.
NOTE: The placement of the back point (A) is usually higher than the front (B).
B–E-F = Square down from B to the hip line, labeling E on the waist line and F on
the hip line.
A–C-D = Square down from A to the hip line, labeling C on the waist line and D on
the hip line.
Drawing Side Panel Lines (Figure 7.34)
G–H = Measure ⅜″½″toward the center back; this intake is similar to a dart intake.
J, K = Extend each side panel line naturally from I. The amount varies depending
on the length of design.
O, P = Extend each side panel line naturally from N. The amount varies depending
on the length of the design.
Complete the six side panels by tracing each piece separately as shown.
4. Princess Lines
A princess line is a style that can start from the neckline, shoulder line, or armhole and
continue to a chosen point all the way to the hem. This style line is one of the most
effective ways to control it in garments designed for menswear. One of the important
functions of the princess line is to achieve a slim look. Thus, the linear panels resulting
from the princess line style allow the observer’s eye to move lengthwise down the created
seam lines of the fabric. There is some flexibility in the measurements for the shaping of
the princess lines. For example, in Figures 7.36 through 7.40, the suggested
measurements to shape the princess line are commonly used in menswear; however, these
measurements can be altered slightly to achieve specific it and/or desired aesthetics.
Flat 7.12 Princess Line on the Armhole Line
A–B = New waist line; draw a parallel line 1″ above the original waist line.
F–I = Draw a straight line, then draw a line that curves out ⅜″–½″along the chest
line as shown.
J = Draw a vertical line to the hem line from the midpoint of dart H–I.
L, M = Square in from K toward the side, then label L and M at the intersections.
Back Princess Line 2 (Figure 7.37)
F–H = Draw a curved line that keeps ⅛″ distance from line F–I at the chest level as
shown.
Complete the side seam by drawing a smooth line from the armhole point (at the
side seam) to the hem line, connecting P and Q. When drawing the line, it is not
required to pass through L.
Front Princess Line (Figure 7.38)
A–B = New waist line; draw a parallel line 1″ above the original waist line.
C = Mark a point on the armhole line that is 2″–3″ above the chest line.
C–D = Square down to the new waist line (line A–B).
E–F = ¾″.
I = Extend out ¼″–⅜″ from the side seam at the hem, as shown.
Complete the side seam by drawing a smooth line from the armhole point (at the
side seam) to the hem line, connecting H and I.
Princess Line on the Shoulder Line
Trace the back pattern. The length of the garment can vary.
A = Measure out 1″ from the midpoint of the shoulder line; the starting point on
the shoulder line can vary.
D = Two-thirds of the hip depth (from the waist line to the hip line).
Complete the side seam by drawing smooth line from armhole point (at the side
seam) to the hem line, connecting I and J.
Front Draft (Figure 7.40)
D = Draw a vertical line from the midpoint of B–C to the hip line.
5. Flange
A lange is a projected edge on the fabric. It gives dimension and connects one garment
piece to another. Also, a lange is one of the great design elements. Especially popular for
men’s outerwear, it can highlight masculinity and strong movements by visually
broadening and adding interest to the shoulders. The construction contains a hidden
edge, which can be shown as the wearer moves.
A–B = Draw a curve parallel to the armhole curve; the width of the flange can vary
(ex: 1½″–2″).
C–D = Draw a curve parallel to the armhole curve; make the width of the front
flange the same as the back.
Waistband
The waistband is a strip of fabric used to finish the waist line of pants. Most waistbands
feature a closure at either the center front or side seam, with the exception of knit fabrics,
which usually have an encased elastic band. Waistbands are fastened with a closure such
as buttons, zippers, drawstrings, or hooks and bars.
1. Classic Waistband
O–P, Q–R = The waist line; it may be necessary to drop the waist line 0″–½″
according to the design. Be sure to drop both the front and back.
A–B = Front waist measurement (O–P) + back waist measurement (Q–R) without
dart intake.
B–C = Waistband width (1¼″–2″).
Complete the rectangle, A–B–C–D. A–D = Center front (C.F.), B–C = Center back
(C.B.).
Complete the Waistband (Figure 7.44)
A′–B′–C′–D′ = Reflect the rectangle (A–B–C–D) across line B–C to create the other
half of the waistband.
X–Y = Extend 1½″–2″ from A′–D′ (the front extension). Complete the rectangle.
Mark the button and button placement as shown.
NOTE: In menswear, different fabrics can be used on the facing of the classic
waistband; generally, a bias tape with a brand logo is used.
There is a seam line included on the center back of the waistband to accommodate
later alterations.
2. Waistband for Lower Waist Line
Q–R = Drop the waist line the same amount as on the front.
A–B = Front waist measurement (O–P) + back waist measurement (Q–R) without
dart intake.
A′–D′ = Reflect the rectangle (A–B-C–D) across line B–C to create the other half of
the waistband.
X–Y = Extend 1½″–2″ from A′–D′ (the front extension). Complete the rectangle.
In menswear, different fabrics can be used on the facing of the waistband; if this is
the case, do not reflect the waistband as in Figure 7.49. Figure 7.48 shows the
finished pattern.
3. Curved Waistband
A′–D′ = On the separate paper, reflect rectangle (A–B-C–D) across line B–C to
create the other half of the waistband.
B′–C′ = Reflect rectangle (A–B-C–D) across line A–D to complete the waistband.
Q–R = Drop the waist line the same amount as on the front.
Follow the instructions from Figures 7.47 through 7.49 (pages 205–206) to
complete the waistband.
Figure 7.56 is the finished pattern.
The rib knit waistband with elastic can be a suitable solution for sweatpants. Since the
pattern’s waist measurement and hip measurement are almost the same, and the pattern’s
waist measurement differs from that of the body, a lot of excess fabric must be controlled.
The rib knit waistband should be about 1-2 inches shorter than the pattern’s waist
measurement, which will begin to control some of the fabric, and the rest of the
difference can be controlled by the added elastic.
If needed, an additional drawstring can be added to not only give the pant a more
versatile fit, but to also aid in controlling excess, should the elastic ever permanently
stretch out.
NOTE: The length of A–B depends on the stretchability of fabric. Generally, there
is no closure on the knit pants, so waist circumference should be able to pass over
the hip. Therefore, if the fabric has no stretch, the waist circumference should be
the same as that of the hip. However, if the rib band has stretch, the waist is
slightly smaller than the hip.
Elastic band length; 80%-90% of the waist circumference from body measurement;
note on the pattern.
Reflect rectangle (A–B-C–D) across line A–B to create the full pattern of the
waistband.
J, K = Each point at the center front/back and side seam at waist level.
Mark the hole for a drawstring on the waistband. It is 1 away from the center front
and in the middle of the waistband, as shown.
The length of the elastic band is 80-90% of the waist circumference from the body
measurement depending on the stretchability.
Mark the hole for the drawstring on the center front as shown, if necessary.
Complete the Waistband (Figure 7.63)
Reflect the rectangle (A–B-C–D) across line A–B to create the full pattern of the
waistband.
Front fly tab = Trace the front pattern around the crotch curve line and the center
front, the waist and the zipper top stitch line.
Fly = Trace the zipper top stitch line by mirror image, then draw a ⅛″–⅜″ parallel
line as shown.
Fly = Trace the zipper top stitch line by mirror image, then draw ⅛″–⅜″ parallel line
as shown.
Shirts
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-008
Page Range: 215–255
A shirt is a garment meant for the upper body. Its variations can be diverse; it may have a
closure in either the front or the back, or not at all, because shirts can also be pulled on
over the head. Some are worn tucked in, others are worn untucked. Men typically wear
shirts with pants or a suit, and if the shirt has a front button closure, it is typically
overlapped with the wearer’s left panel on top of the right. Worn by men since the early
Middle Ages, this type of garment was originally a pull-on style. Design variations came
slowly, however—it wasn’t until the 15th century that a standing collar was introduced,
and only later in the 19th century was colored fabric utilized for this type of garment.
Fitted Shirt
Slim-Fit Style
1. Shirt collar with a separate band
6. Adjustable cuffs
Back Draft (Figure 8.1)
Trace the slim-fit back sloper (Figure 2.3, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A–B = Shirt length on the back; extend 2-3″ from the sloper hip line according to
the design.
G–H-I = Dart intake ¾″–1″depending on design (for menswear, gross dart intake is
not necessary).
H, J, and K = Draw a guideline through H, which is square to F–E and reaches the
chest level and the bottom line. Set J ½″ down from the chest level. Label the
intersection of the H guideline with the bottom as K. K is the midpoint of the
bottom dart intake.
N–C = From C, extend the same amount as the dart intake (L–M) on the bottom
line.
Complete the back side seam by drawing a slightly curved line connecting D, E,
and N.
NOTE: For regular shirts, the amount of B–L should be bigger than that of F–G, so that
the vertical dart line appears straight when the shirt is worn.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper (Figure 2.4, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A = Front neck point.
B = Shirt length on the front; extend from hip by the same amount as the back
extension.
D = New side waist point; measure up 1″ and measure in ¼″ toward the center
front from the sloper waist.
A–F = A–G = Half of band width (ex: ¾″); square down from F and G lines which
are parallel to the center front.
H–D = From D, draw a line toward the center front parallel to the original waist
line. Where it intersects with the placket, label H.
H–I = Measure in 3½″–4″.
K = Midpoint of I–J.
K–L = Draw a vertical guideline toward chest line. L should be marked 2½″ below
the chest line.
Draw a slightly curved line by connecting L, J, and O, completing the front vertical
dart line.
P = Extend from E the same amount as the dart intake (N–O) on the bottom line.
R = Pocket placement for the right corner; 7½″ below H.P.S. and 2″ from the
center front line. The pocket should be square to the center front line.
Pocket design; draw a rectangle with these dimensions: width 4½″, depth 5″.
Measure up 1″ from each bottom corner of the pocket. Redraw the bottom line to
form a point. Dimension can be varied according to the design.
Trace the slim-fit sleeve sloper (Figure 2.12, Drafting the Sleeve Sloper). For the
sleeve design, refer to Chapter 5, “No-Pleat Sleeve with Placket,” Figures 5.1
through 5.3 (Three-Piece Hood–No-Pleat Sleeve With Placket).
Measure the back neck length and front neck length (▪).
Refer to Chapter 4, “Two-piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band,” Figures 4.17 through
4.21 (Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band–Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band).
The convertible collar and continuous placket of this design also appear in the short-
sleeved bowling or Hawaiian shirt. Its classic silhouette includes enough wearing ease to
go over the trousers, because it is typically worn untucked.
3. Patch pocket
5. Back yoke
6. Inverted pleat
7. French cuffs
A–B = Shirt length on the back; extend 2 ″–3″ from the hip line.
I–J = Draw a line parallel to the center back line, then complete the box pleats.
Front Draft (Figure 8.9)
Trace the classic-fit front sloper. Refer to Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with
Darts)–Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
D–E = Front yoke line depth (ex: 1″), draw a line parallel to the shoulder line.
F–G = Extension (ex: ¾″); draw a line parallel to the center front line.
G–H = Measure down 4″.
I = H.P.S.
I–K = Extend a line from I parallel to the roll line that is the same length as the back
neck length.
K–K′ = Rotate line I–K 1⅜″
I–L = Continue line I–K down 3¾″, parallel to the roll line of collar.
Trace the classic-fit sleeve sloper (Figure 2.19, Enlarging Slim-Fit Pattern Methods).
For the sleeve design, refer to Chapter 5, “Bishop Sleeve,” Figures 5.12 through
5.17 (Two-Pleat Sleeve With Placket–Second example).
For French cuffs, refer to Chapter 5, “French Cuff,” Figure 5.46 (3) Wing (long-
Point) Cuff).
Finished Patterns (Figure 8.13)
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Front Facing Example: Lapel Collar Jacket).
This type of garment—which was originally worn by cowboys in the American West—is
characterized by a pointed standing collar, pockets on the front, and a curved, V-shaped
yoke on the back.
2. Classic placket
3. Pleated patch pockets with flaps
6. Adjustable cuffs
7. Curved hem
Back Draft (Figure 8.14)
Trace the slim-fit back sloper (Figure 2.3, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A–B = Shirt length on the back; extend 1″–2″ from the sloper hip line.
A–D = Back yoke depth from center back neck point (ex: 5½″).
Draw a curved line by connecting D, H, and E, completing the line for the back
yoke section (variations depend on yoke designs).
Draw a curved line by connecting D, H, and F, completing the line of the back body
section.
I = Side chest point.
J = New side waist point; measure up 1 and measure in ½″ toward the center back
from the sloper waist point.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper (Figure 2.4, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A–B = Yoke line depth on the neckline (ex: 1½″).
E–F = E–G = Half of the band width (ex: ⅝″); from F and G draw lines parallel to
the center front line.
H = Side chest point.
I = New side waist point, measure up 1″ and in ½″ from the sloper side waist point.
H–J = Make the same length as the back draft (I–C) from H to the bottom line.
J–L = Draw a line to the front band square to the center front.
L–M = Measure down ⅝″.
Complete a front bottom line by drawing a curved line from M to K, similar to the
back bottom line.
N = Top right pocket position, 7″–7½″ below A (H.P.S.) and 2″ in from the center
front line.
N = Pocket design; draw a rectangle of width 4½″ and depth 5″, then measure up
1″ from each bottom corner of the pocket. Redraw the bottom line to form a point.
Refer to Chapter 4, “Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band,” Figures 4.17 through
4.21 (Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band–Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band).
Apply the front placket, left and right sides. Refer to Chapter 6, “Classic Tailored
Placket” (Figures 6.6 and 6.7, Type A: Folded Edge–Type B-1: Cut Placket, Seamed
Edge).
Apply the top stitches on the bottom hem lines and pockets.
Classic-Fit Style
1. Shirt collar with separate collar stand
2. Classic placket
3. Patch pocket with flap
5. Shoulder epaulettes
6. Curved hem
8. Shirt cuffs
Back Draft (Figure 8.22)
Trace the classic-fit back sloper. Refer to Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with
Darts)–Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A–B = Shirt length on the back; extend 1½″ from the hip line.
E = L.P.S.
F = Side chest point.
E–G = Vertical yoke width at shoulder tip; measure in ≈1½″; it can vary depending
on design.
F–H = Vertical yoke width at side seam; measure down ≈2″; again, it can vary
depending on design.
D–L = Measure over 1¼″ on the shoulder seam to mark the position of the
epaulette (see Figure 8.22).
Trace the classic-fit front sloper. Refer to Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with
Darts)–Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A = New front neck point; measure down ¼″ from the sloper neck point.
B = New shoulder neck point; measure horizontally ⅛″ from the sloper neck point.
A–E = A–F = Measure out on either side of A half of band width (ex: ¾″); draw
lines parallel with the center front from the neck to the bottom.
I = L.P.S.
Trace the classic-fit sleeve sloper (Figure 2.19, Enlarging Slim-Fit Pattern Methods).
For the sleeve design, refer to Chapter 5, “One-Pleat Sleeve with Placket,” Figures
5.5 and 5.6 (No-Pleat Sleeve With Placket–One-Pleat Sleeve With Placket) and
“Two-Piece Sleeve for Casual Wear,” Figures 5.23 and 5.24 (Two-Piece Sleeve for
Casual Wear). Combine the one-pleat sleeve with the two-piece sleeve.
For the cuff of this design in detail, refer to Chapter 5, “Shirt Cuff,” Figure 5.41
(Short Sleeve) and “Adjustable Shirt Cuff,” Figures 5.42 and 5.43 (Shirt Cuff).
Combine the shirt cuff with the adjustable shirt cuff.
Collar Draft (Figure 8.28)
See Chapter 4, “Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band,” Figures 4.17 through 4.21
(Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band–Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band).
The design of the collar point can vary.
Apply the front placket, left and right sides. Refer to Chapter 6, “Classic Tailored
Placket” (for the left: Figures 6.4 and 6.5, Pointed Placket–Type A: Folded Edge;
for the right: Figures 6.6 and 6.7, Type A: Folded Edge–Type B-1: Cut Placket,
Seamed Edge).
Apply the top stitches on the bottom hem lines and pockets.
4. Back yoke
8. Curved hem
Trace the slim-fit back sloper (Figure 2.3, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A–B = Shirt length on the back, extend 1-2″ from the hip line.
Complete the back dart legs by connecting H, L, and J with straight lines. Repeat
with N, M, and J.
Q = New side waist point; measure up 1″ and inside ¼″ from sloper side waist
point.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper (Figure 2.4, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
I–J = Draw a line parallel to sloper hip line, intersecting line parallel to the center
front from F.
K = Midpoint of the sloper waist line.
L–M = L–N = Measure out on either side of L half of the dart intake (ex: ⅜″).
Draw a curved line by connecting O–M and O–N to make each princess line.
Draw a smooth line connecting M–Q and N–R to make each princess line.
Trace the slim-fit sleeve sloper (Figure 2.12, Drafting the Sleeve Sloper). For the
sleeve design, refer to Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve for Casual Wear” (pages 130–
131).
For the shirt cuff of this design in detail, refer to Chapter 5, “Shirt Cuff,” Figure
5.41 (Short Sleeve).
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Facings).
3. Patch pocket
6. Curved hem
Back Draft (Figure 8.36)
Trace the classic-fit back sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A–B = Shirt length on the back; extend 1″ from the hip line.
B–C = Draw a guideline to the side seam.
D–E = Draw a line to the armhole line square to the center back.
F = Midpoint of D–E.
K = New side waist point, measure up 1″ and measure in ¼″ from sloper waist line.
Complete the side line by connecting L, K, and J with a slightly curved line.
M = Midpoint of B–C.
Complete a bottom line by drawing a gradual curved line connecting L and M.
Trace the classic-fit front sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A = Measure down ⅛″ from the sloper front neck point. Redraw the neckline.
A–G = A–H = Measure out on either side of A half of the placket width (ex: ¾″);
draw a line parallel ¾″ from the center front line to the hem line.
M = Midpoint of B–K.
G–H′ = H′–G′ = To make a hidden-button style, copy the band width (H–G) + ⅛″
three times, as shown.
N = Pocket position; 7″ below the H.P.S. and 2″ in from the center front line. Draw
a desired design; design can vary.
Refer to Chapter 4, “Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band” in details (Figures 4.17
through 4.21, Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band–Two-Piece Shirt Collar,
Separate Band).
Apply the front placket, left and right sides. Refer to Chapter 6, “Classic Tailored
Placket” (for the left, Figures 6.4 and 6.5, Type A: Folded Edge–Type B-1: Cut
Placket, Seamed Edge; for the right side hidden button, refer to Figure 8.37,
Design Style Points).
Mark the grainlines. Grainline can vary according to the design and fabrics.
Short-Sleeve Tuxedo-Style Shirt
2. Classic placket
3. Pin tucks
Trace the slim-fit back sloper (Figure 2.3, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A–B = Shirt length on the back; extend ½″ from the hip line.
G = New side waist point, measure up 1″ and in ⅜″ from the sloper waist point.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper (Figure 2.4, Drafting the Torso Sloper).
D = New side waist point; measure up 1″ and in ⅜″ toward the center front from
the sloper waist point.
E = Side seam at hem. Make the same length as the back draft (F–H).
Complete a side line by connecting C, D, and E.
A–F = A–G = Half of the placket width (ex: ¾″); draw a line parallel to the center
front line on each side.
Mark the positions of buttons and buttonholes.
To make pin tucks, draw a parallel line 1¼″ from the front band, and draw two
more parallel lines, each ⅜″ from the preceding line. This can vary with each
design.
To complete pin tucks, cut and separate the pin-tuck lines double desired size of
the pin tucks(ex: ¾″).
Trace the slim-fit sleeve sloper (Figure 2.12, Drafting the Sleeve Sloper). For the
sleeve design, refer to Chapter 5, “Short Sleeve” (Short Sleeve).
Collar Draft (Figure 8.44)
Refer to Chapter 4, “Standing Collar with Extension,” Figures 4.32 and 4.33
(Mandarin Collar (Standing Collar without Extension)–Standing Collar with
Extension).
Apply the front placket, left and right sides. Refer to Chapter 6, “Classic Tailored
Placket” (for the left: Figures 6.4 and 6.5, Pointed Placket–Type A: Folded Edge;
for the right: Figures 6.6 and 6.7, Type A: Folded Edge–Type B-1: Cut Placket,
Seamed Edge).
Label the patterns.
Mark the grainlines. Grainline can vary according to the design and fabrics.
Dolman Sleeve Shirt
3. Welt pocket
4. Dolman sleeves
6. Curved hem
Back Draft (Figure 8.46)
Trace the classic-fit back sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A–B = Shirt length; extend 2″ from the sloper hip line. Draw a guideline parallel to
the hip line.
C = New shoulder neck point, follow the shoulder line ⅛″ down from the sloper
shoulder neck point.
F = Measure down 3″ and measure out ¾″ from sloper side chest point.
E′–J′ = Band cuff height (ex: 1¼″–2″); draw a line parallel to line E–J.
F–K = L–F = From F, measure along the sleeve and side seam (ex: 10″–12″);
variations depend on designs.
Trace the classic-fit front sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
C = New H.P.S; follow the shoulder line ⅛″ down from the sloper shoulder neck
point.
D–E = Extend sleeve length. Make sure it is the same length as the back draft.
F = New side chest point; measure down 3″ and out ¾″ from the sloper side chest
point.
F–G = Square a line down to intersect guideline B, and make the same length as
the back draft(F–G).
G–H = Measure up 2″.
E′–j’ = Band cuff height (ex: 1¼″–2″); draw a line parallel to line E-j.
F–K = L–F = From F, measure along the sleeve and side seam (ex: 10-12″) the same
amount as the back draft.
M = Midpoint of K–L.
P–Q = Square down to the waist line. The length can vary.
O–R = Measure 1″ down from the waist line Q at the front edge. Continue R down
to the hem line B–H.
Mark the positions of the pocket 7″ down from the shoulder neck point C, and 2″
in from the center front.
Mark buttons and buttonholes.
i’–E′ = Draw horizontal line to E′–E, then make the same length as j’–E′.
i-E = Draw horizontal line to E′–E, then make the same length as j-E.
i’–i’ = Draw a straight line.
Back:
Trace the back cuff (E′–J′–J–E) from Figure 8.46 matching E′–E to E′–E.
E′–I′ = Draw horizontal line to E′–E, then make the same length as E′–J′.
E–I = Draw horizontal line to E′–E, then make the same length as E–J.
Refer to Chapter 4, “Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band,” Figures 4.17 through
4.21 (Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band–Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band).
Apply the front placket for the left and the facing for the right side. For the
placket, refer to Chapter 6, “Classic Tailored Placket” (Figures 6.4 and 6.5, Pointed
Placket–Type A: Folded Edge); for the right, refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On
Facings” (Figure 7.7, Stitched-On Facings).
Flat-Front Pants
Slim-Fit Style
1. Straight waistband
2. Fly-front zipper
4. Single darts
5. Double-welt pocket
Trace the front pants sloper (Figures 2.23 through 2.25, Terms for Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
A–B = Drop the waist line; ½″–1″ from the original sloper waist line. Generally, the
waist line is dropped for the slim-fit style, and the amount depends on the design.
E–F = Measure ½″ out from either side of the sloper hemline, or more, depending
on design.
Complete the inseam and outseam lines by drawing straight lines from the knee to
E and F.
Back Draft (Figure 9.2)
Trace the back pants sloper (Figures 2.26 through 2.29, Drafting the Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
A–B = New waist line; drop the waist line from the original sloper waist line by the
same amount as in the front draft.
C = Pocket position, measure down 1¾″–2″ from the new waist line.
D–E = Draw a line through point C parallel to the new waist line, which is 5½″–6″.
Complete the inseam and outseam lines by drawing straight lines from the knee to
G and H.
For the waistband, refer to Chapter 7, “Classic Waistband,” Figures 7.43 through
7.45 (pages 203–204).
Apply the front hip pocket. Refer to Chapter 6, “Slanted Front Hip Pocket” (pages
160–161).
Apply the front fly closure. Refer to Chapter 7, “Tailored Front Fly Closure” (Figure
7.64, Figure 7.65, Slim-Fit Style).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabrics, especially for the grainline of the belt pattern.
Single-Pleat Pants
Classic-Fit Style
1. Straight waistband
2. Fly-front zipper
3. One pleat on the front
5. Two darts
7. Rolled-up cuffs
Front Draft 1 (Figure 9.5)
Trace the front pants sloper (Figures 2.23 through 2.25, Terms for Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
A–B = To make the front pleat, begin by cutting the crease line.
A–C = Make a gap at point A half the width of the pleat intake amount (ex: ¾″).
C–D = A–C.
E–F = G–H = Extend half of amount C–D (ex: ⅜″) from each the front waist and the
side waist points.
Z = Measure down ¼ and out ¼″ from the edge of the crotch; then redraw the
front crotch line and inseam line as shown.
K–M = L–N = Cuff height (ex: 2″); draw a line parallel to K–L.
M′–N′ = K′–L′ = Fold at line K–L and trace line M–N to create line M′–N′; then fold
at line M′–N′ and trace line K–L to create line K′–L′. This will complete your cuff.
Back Draft (Figure 9.7)
Trace the front pants draft 2 from Figure 9.6 in the previous step.
A = Measure down ⅝″ from the front crotch edge, and square out a horizontal line.
B–C = Draw a straight line. Complete the inseam line by drawing a line that curves
in ⅜″–½″ near the midpoint of B–C.
O, P = One-third of M–N.
Complete a waist line by drawing a curved line after folding the dart legs.
To complete the welt pocket, refer to Chapter 6, “Welt Pocket” (pages 165–168).
Apply the front fly closure. Refer to Chapter 7, “Tailored Front Fly Closure” (Figure
7.64, Figure 7.65, Slim-Fit Style).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabrics; especially for the belt pattern.
Straight-Leg Jean
Slim-Fit Style
1. Straight waistband
2. Fly-front placket
4. Yokes
5. Patch pockets
Trace the front pants sloper (Figures 2.23 through 2.25, Terms for Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
K–L = Measure ½″ out from either side of the sloper hemline, or more, depending
on design.
K–M, L–N = For the straight-leg look, draw a perpendicular line from the hem line
to the knee line.
Complete the inseam by drawing a similar line to the sloper line from the crotch
edge to M.
Complete the outseam by drawing a similar line to the sloper line from J to N.
A–B = Drop the waist line the same amount as the front.
K–L = Measure ½″ out from either side of the sloper hemline, or more, depending
on design. Make sure this is the same amount as the front.
K–M, L–N = For the straight look, draw a perpendicular line from the bottom to
the knee line.
Complete the inseam by drawing a similar line to the sloper line from the crotch
edge to M.
Complete the outseam by drawing a similar line to the sloper line from the hip line
to N.
Yoke (Figure 9.14)
To complete the yoke, refer to Chapter 7, “Pants Yokes,” Figures 7.29 through 7.32
(pages 194-195).
For the waistband, refer to Chapter 7, “Waistband for Lower Waist Line,” Figures
7.46 through 7.49 (pages 206-207).
For the straight-leg jean, record the actual measurements of the waist
circumference on the paper. Do not add ease on the waist circumference, as
shown.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabrics, especially for the waistband pattern.
Double-Pleat Pants
Classic-Fit Style
1. Straight waistband
2. Fly-front zipper
3. Two pleats
4. Inseam pockets
5. Two darts
6. Double-welt pocket with tabs
Front Draft (Figure 9.17)
Trace the front pants sloper (Figures 2.23 through 2.25, Terms for Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
C–D = 1½″.
F = Extend from the center front waist point half the amount D–E (ex: ⅝″). Draw a
straight line to the hip level.
G = Extend from the side waist point half the amount D–E (ex: ⅝″). Draw a new
curved outseam to the hip level.
Z = Measure down ¼″ and out ¼″ from the edge of the crotch, then redraw the
front crotch line and the inseam line as shown.
For the waistband, refer to Chapter 7, “Classic Waistband,” Figures 7.43 through
7.45 (pages 203-204).
Mark the waistband loop position as shown.
Mark the grainlines. The directions of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabrics, especially for the waistband pattern.
Slim-Fit Style
1. Low waist with rounded waistband
2. Fly-front zipper
3. Front patch pockets
5. Curved yoke
7. Cropped hem
A–C, B–D = The waist height; measure 1½″–2″ down, then draw a line parallel to
A–B.
B–E = Length of the pants; the midpoint of the knee level and hem line.
P, Q, R, S = Dart placements; measure 1¼″ up and down from the knee line, then
draw darts. The intake is 1″ and length is 2¼″.
G′, H′ = Extend from G and H. The length is double the dart intake.
Trace the back pants sloper (Figures 2.26 through 2.29, Drafting the Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
A–C, B–D = The waist height; measure down the same length as the front, then
draw a line parallel to A–B.
B–E = Length of pants; the midpoint of knee level and the hem line.
E–F = Draw a horizontal line.
N = Dart point.
P = Patch pocket placement. Draw the pocket according to the given dimensions
in Figure 9.22.
To complete the yoke, trace the yoke from Figure 9.24 (Slim-Fit Style) onto
separate paper.
Blend the bottom and top yoke lines with a smooth curved line.
Front Rounded Waistband (Figure 9.24)
Trace the front waist section (from Figure 9.23) onto separate paper.
X = Measure 1″ out from the center front line, then draw a straight line.
A′–B′–C′–D′ = Trace the other piece of the front waistband as a mirror image of A–
B-D–C.
Y, Z = Measure 1½–2″ out from the center front line, then extend from the A′ and
C′.
Trace the back waist section (from Figure 9.24) onto separate paper after folding
the dart.
Apply the front fly closure. Refer to Chapter 7, “Casual Front Fly Closure” (Figure
7.65, Figure 7.65, Slim-Fit Style).
Label the patterns.
Dropped-Crotch Pants
Loose-Fit Style
1. Straight waistband
2. Fly-front zipper
3. Tucks
4. Dropped crotch
5. Patch pockets
6. Knit band hem
Trace the front pants sloper (Figures 2.23 through 2.25, Terms for Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
C–D = Length of pants; one-third of length between knee level and bottom.
C–E, D–F = Knit cuff height; measure up (ex: 5½″).
E′–F′ = Cuff width; measure in from E and F. The width is 80 percent of E–F
(depending on the stretchability).
Complete the dropped front crotch line by drawing a smooth line connecting G–I-
H.
Complete the inseam line by drawing a line between H and F that curves in ¾″ at
the midpoint.
Draw a straight line from the crotch point to E on the side seam.
J, K = The intersection of the center of pant with the new waist line and with line
E–F; label as J and K.
Front Draft 2 (Figure 9.28)
J–J′, J′–L = Tuck intake (ex: 2½″–3″); slash the line J–K, spread the tuck intake.
Then draw a straight guideline.
Trace the back pants sloper (Figures 2.26 through 2.29, Drafting the Pants Sloper–
Drafting the Pants Sloper).
A–B = Drop the waist line 2″.
E′–F′ = Cuff width; measure in from E and F, the width is 80 percent of E–F.
Complete the dropped back crotch line by drawing a smooth line connecting G–J-
I–H.
Complete the inseam line by drawing a line between H and F that curves in ¾″ at
the midpoint.
Draw a straight line from the hip line to E on the side seam.
Pocket (Figure 9.30)
Trace the pocket pattern on a separate piece of paper. Refer to Chapter 6, “Patch
Pocket,” Double-Welt Pocket for Pants–Cargo (Box) Pockets.
Waistband Draft (Figure 9.31)
For the waistband, refer to Chapter 7, “Waistband for Lower Waist Line,” Figures
7.46 through 7.49 (pages 205-206).
Measure the new waist line for the waist measurement. Do not add ease on the
waist circumference.
Apply the front fly closure. Refer to Chapter 7, “Casual Front Fly Closure” (Figure
7.65, Figure 7.65, Slim-Fit Style).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabrics; especially for the grainline of the waistband pattern.
A jacket is a garment of varying hem lengths meant for wear on the upper body. A jacket
usually has sleeves and other modifiable details such as collars, lapels, plackets, and
pockets. The overall appearance of a jacket is dictated in part by its intended function.
Different fabrics can be used to enhance the silhouette of a jacket from dressy to casual.
Much like other types of garments, a casual jacket can be made of virtually any kind of
fabric, from light to mid-weight, or even heavyweight—all depending on the design. The
jacket design can also be altered by changing the size and shape of the details or by
changing the bodice silhouette from loose to fit.
Trace both the slim-fit front and back slopers (Figures 2.2 through 2.4, Slim-Fit
torso Sloper–Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A, A′ = Measure ⅛″ in and down from the back H.P.S. and center back neck point.
Draw a curved line.
C, H = Drop ¾″ and extend ½″ from the sloper side chest point on the back and
front.
Complete the back armhole line by drawing a curved line that is similar to the
sloper armhole line.
D′ = Measure down ¼″ from the center front neck point. Connect D and D′ with a
curved line as shown.
D–E = Draw a line parallel to the front shoulder line; the length should be the same
as the back shoulder length (♦).
F = Midpoint of D–E.
Complete the front armhole line by drawing a curved line similar to the sloper
armhole line.
The sleeve draft for a casual jacket foundation is slightly adjusted from that of a suit
jacket. A suit jacket sleeve is for formal wear, but casual jacket sleeves are for casual
wear. Before drafting your patterns, measure the front and back sleeve armhole lengths
of the bodice patterns.
A–B = Sleeve length; arm length + 1″.
Square down from both E and F to the wrist line; the intersection points are G and
H.
Trace both the classic-fit front and back torso slopers (Figures 2.17 to 2.21, Close-
Fit (with Darts)–Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
Follow the instructions for the slim-fit casual jacket foundation (Figures 10.1 to
10.4, Pants Design Variations–Slim-Fit Jacket Foundation).
Follow the instructions for enlarging slim-fit pattern methods (Figures 2.17 to 2.19,
Close-Fit (with Darts)–Enlarging Slim-Fit Pattern Methods).
Stadium (Varsity) Jacket
Slim-Fit Style
1. Front zipper
2. Knit standing collar
3. Flanges on the front and back armhole
4. Single-welt pockets
A–B = Jacket length on the back; extend 1″–2″ from the sloper hip line.
Complete the side seam by connecting E–I–H with a slightly curved line.
J–K = E–L = Flange width; draw a curve parallel (ex: 2″) to the armhole line.
Mark the notches on the armhole line and the flange line.
Front Draft 1 (Figure 10.8)
Trace the front slim-fit casual jacket foundation (Figure 10.1, Pants Design
Variations).
A = Jacket length on the front; extend 1″–2″ from the sloper hip line.
A–B = Draw a line parallel with the hip line to the side line.
E–F = The band height; measure up the same length as the band height in the
back draft (ex: 2½″).
G–H = C–I = Measure in ½″.
Complete the side line by connecting D–I–H with a slightly curved line.
Q–R, D–S = Flange width; draw a curve parallel (ex: 2″) to the armhole line, the
same width as the back.
Trace pocket pattern pieces separately. Refer to Chapter 6, “Welt Pocket” (pages
165–168).
A–B = 80–90 percent of the length of F–H from the front draft.
B–C = 80–90 percent of the length of F–H from the back draft.
NOTE: The length of the band varies depending on the elasticity of the knit, but is
80–90 percent of the length of the hem.
C–D, A–E = The band height (2½″).
Sleeve Draft (Figure 10.11)
Trace the casual jacket slim-fit sleeve sloper (Figure 10.4, Slim-Fit Jacket
Foundation).
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪).
C–F = 1¼″.
Mark the grainlines. The directions of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabrics, especially for the grainlines of the flange patterns.
Safari Jacket
Classic-Fit Style
1. Button closure with facing
2. Sport collar
3. Patch pockets with flaps
A–B = Jacket length on the back: extend 1″–2″ from the sloper hip line.
Complete the center back line by connecting A, F, G, and H with a slightly curved
line.
Front Draft (Figure 10.16)
Trace the front classic-fit casual jacket foundation (Figure 10.5 or 10.6, Slim-Fit
Jacket Foundation–Developing from the Classic-Fit Torso Sloper).
Complete the side line by connecting E, D, and C with a slightly curved line.
F–G = Draw a 1″ wide yoke that is parallel to the shoulder seam line. The
dimension can vary according to design, however.
Cut the line F–G to attach this to the back shoulder line.
J = Flap pocket placement; measure down 1¼″ and in 2½″ from the center front at
the waist point. Dimensions: width: 6¾″; length: 2½″.
K = Patch pocket placement; measure down ⅝″;. Dimensions: width: 6⅝″; length:
6½″.
Trace the classic-fit casual jacket sleeve sloper (Figure 10.5 or 10.6, Slim-Fit Jacket
Foundation–Developing from the Classic-Fit Torso Sloper).
For the sleeve, refer to Chapter 5, “One-Pleat Shirt Sleeve” (Figures 5.5 and 5.6,
No-Pleat Sleeve With Placket–One-Pleat Sleeve With Placket) and “Two-Piece
Sleeve for Casual Wear” (Figure 5.23, Two-Piece Sleeve for Casual Wear).
Cuff Draft (Figure 10.19)
For adjustable cuffs, refer to Chapter 5, “Adjustable Shirt Cuff” (Figure 5.43, Shirt
Cuff).
Refer to Chapter 4, “Sport Collar,” Figures 4.22 through 4.24 (Sport Collar).
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Facings).
Connect the front yoke to the back yoke.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric.
Windbreaker
Slim-Fit Style
1. Zipper on the front
2. Standing collar
3. Patch pockets with single welt
Trace the back slim-fit casual jacket foundation (Figure 10.1, Pants Design
Variations).
A–B = Jacket length on the back; extend 1″–2″ from the sloper hip line.
F–G = Extend the cap sleeve height (ex: 4½″–5½″) from F. The sleeve cap height
varies according to the style.
Also, draw a smooth raglan sleeve line by connecting E, L, M, and I on the sleeve
section.
M–I = M–D.
H–N = Draw a line perpendicular to H–G, which is half of the sleeve hem
circumference + ⅛″.
Q and R = Measure up the length for the band height (ex: 2½″) from the bottom
line B–C.
E–F = Extend the same cap sleeve height (ex: 4½″–5½″) from E as in the back
draft.
F–H = Square down to E–G, which is the back bicep circumference (G–I) – ½″.
G–M = Square down to G–E, which is half of the sleeve bottom circumference –
⅛″.
N–O = ¼″.
P and Q = Draw a parallel line to A–B, the same length as band height in the back
draft (ex: 2½″).
R = Pocket placement; measure up 1¼″ and out 3¾″ from the center front at the
waist point.
Measure both lengths of line P–Q on the front draft and line R–Q on the back
draft.
The length of elastic band is 80–90 percent of the pattern length (A–C).
NOTE: The length of elastic varies according to the elasticity of different rubbers.
After separating the raglan sleeve draft, join the two separate pieces into one
piece.
A and B = Measure up the length of the cuff height (ex: 2½″) and draw a parallel
line with the sleeve bottom line.
Mark notches at each position on the sleeve cap. Also, mark notches that indicate
the front and back.
Sleeve Cuff (Figure 10.26)
Measure the back neck length (⊚), side neck length (•), and front neck length (▪).
Refer to Chapter 4, “Standing Collar without Extension,” Figures 4.30 and 4.31
(pages 94–95).
Finished Patterns (Figure 10.28)
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Facings).
Moto Jacket
2. Inner drawstring
4. Shoulder epaulettes
6. Welt pocket
7. Patch pockets
Trace the back classic-fit casual jacket foundation (Figure 10.5 or 10.6, Slim-Fit
Jacket Foundation–Developing from the Classic-Fit Torso Sloper).
A–B = Jacket length on the back; make the desired length from the sloper hip line
(ex: 1½″).
E = The L.P.S.
Mark the string tunnel (casing) placement by drawing a ¾″ line parallel to the waist
line, as shown.
Lengthwise draw the half of the epaulette belt: the length, half of epaulette width
+ ¼″ – ½″, and the band width, ⅝″.
Front Draft (Figure 10.31)
Trace the front classic-fit casual jacket foundation (Figure 10.5 or 10.6, Slim-Fit
Jacket Foundation–Developing from the Classic-Fit Torso Sloper).
M = Flap placement: measure down ¾″ and in 2¼″ from the center front waist
point. Dimensions: width: 7¾″; length: 3″.
Lengthwise draw the half of the epaulette belt: the length, half of epaulette width
+ ¼″ – ½″, and the band width ⅝″.
For the placket in detail, see Chapter 6, “Plackets: Attached Placket” (Figure 6.10,
Type B-2: Cut Placket, Pin Tuck on the Right Side).
Trace the classic-fit casual jacket sleeve sloper (Figure 10.5 or 10.6, Slim-Fit Jacket
Foundation–Developing from the Classic-Fit Torso Sloper).
For the sleeve, refer to Chapter 5, “One-Pleat Sleeve with Placket” (Figures 5.5
and 5.6, No-Pleat Sleeve With Placket–One-Pleat Sleeve With Placket).
Cuff (Figure 10.36)
For the cuff, see Chapter 5, “Shirt Cuff” (Figure 5.41, Short Sleeve).
Measure the back neck length (⊚) and front neck length (▪).
Refer to Chapter 4, “Standing Collar with Extension” (Figures 4.32 and 4.33,
Mandarin Collar (Standing Collar without Extension)–Standing Collar with
Extension).
These are the additional steps to develop the welt bound including the zipper for
the hood that is inside of the welt.
X–Y = Draw a parallel line ¾″–1″ from the neckline that ends 1″–1½″ from the
center front.
Draw a rectangle to separate the welt case for the zipper as shown. The width is
the length of X–Y, the height is the length of X–X′.
Next are the additional steps to develop the welt bound including the zipper for
the hood that is inside of the welt.
Refer to Chapter 4, “Two-Piece Hood” for details (Figures 4.58 through 4.62,
Peaked Collar–Two-Piece Hood).
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Facings).
The suit jacket is an upper-body garment typically worn as outerwear. While a jacket can
be worn over any outfit for a casual look, it is usually paired with dress pants as part of a
suit. When a vest is added to a suit, and all of the pieces are made of the same fabric, it is
called a three-piece suit. However, if different fabrics are used, the pieces are referred to
as separates.
Although the formal styling of suit jackets may not allow for many design variations,
elements such as the number of buttons at center front or the neckline shape can be
points of design detail. Different fabrics can be used to enhance the silhouette of a suit
jacket style—from very formal and dressy to casual. The jacket design can also be altered
by changing the size and shape of the lapels, or by changing the bodice silhouette from
fitted to loose. Suit jackets generally have either straight or fitted silhouettes—and can
have more details than immediately meet the eye.
One of the major design elements of the suit jacket is a side panel. A side panel is a
separate piece connecting the front of the garment with the back. This results in there
being no seam on the side. The style line created by the side panel on the front and back
is closer to the side seam compared to a princess line. These style lines are frequently
used in menswear jackets and coats. Suit jackets are typically identified by how many
pieces they are made of; for example, a four-panel suit jacket is made of four pieces and a
six-panel suit jacket is made of six pieces. A six-panel suit jacket is a traditional type for
suit jacket design, especially in formal suits.
Like casual jackets, suit jackets are also worn over other garments; therefore, the wearing
ease of a suit jacket is similar to that of a casual jacket. In this chapter, four panel slim-fit
and classic-fit jacket foundations and six panel slim-fit and classic-fit jacket foundations
will be used to develop suit jacket design variations.
Trace both the slim-fit front and back slopers (Figures 2.2 through 2.4, Slim-Fit
torso Sloper–Drafting the Torso Sloper),
A, A′ = Measure ⅛″ in and down from the back H.P.S. and measure ⅛″ down from
the center back neck point. Reshape the neckline.
C, H = Drop ¾″ and extend ½″ from the sloper side chest point on the back and
front.
Complete the back armhole line by drawing a curved line that is similar to the
sloper armhole line.
D′ = Measure down ¼″ from the center front neck point. Connect D and D′ with a
curved line as shown.
D–E = Draw a line parallel to the front shoulder line; the length should be the same
as the back shoulder length (♦).
F = Midpoint of D–E.
Complete the front armhole line by drawing a curved line that is similar to the
sloper armhole line.
Measure the front and back armhole length from the suit jacket foundation (Figure
11.1, Jacket Design Variations).
Complete the front sleeve cap by drawing a curved line connecting A, N, L, O, and
E.
Apply the adjusting sleeve ease process shown in Figure 2.13 (Notches) and Table
2.5 (Drafting the Sleeve Sloper) for the jacket sleeve ease.
H–X, G–W = Measure in an equal amount from each point H, G, at the wrist line so
that the sleeve hem circumference is the wrist circumference + (4″–5″).
For the two-piece sleeve draft, refer to Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal
Wear” (Figures 5.18 through 5.22, Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear–Two-Piece
Sleeve for Formal Wear).
Follow the instructions for the slim-fit four-panel suit jacket foundation (Figures
11.1 through 11.4, Jacket Design Variations–Suit Jacket Sleeve).
B. Enlarging the Slim-Fit Four-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation
If the slim-fit four-panel suit jacket foundation has already been developed, trace the
pattern and enlarge it to give more ease for the classic fit.
Follow the instructions for enlarging slim-fit pattern methods in Figures 2.17
through 2.19 (Close-Fit (with Darts)–Enlarging Slim-Fit Pattern Methods).
Six-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation
A–B = Jacket length; extend 3″–4″ from the hip line. The length varies depending
on design.
F–G = Draw a line parallel to the center back line. G is the intersection at the
bottom line.
L = Measure in ⅛″ from A.
Draw a curved line connecting L, K, J, H, and F.
M, N, and O = Extend a line from the back interscye line to the bottom line. M is
an intersection at the chest line, N is an intersection at the waist line, and O is an
intersection at the bottom line.
Front and Back Body Draft 2 (Figure 11.9)
Complete each back side line by first connecting P, Q, and R, and then P, S, and T
with smooth curved lines.
Z = Midpoint of W–Y.
Z–A′ = Measure toward the side seam half of the dart width (ex: ⅛″–¼″).
A′–B′ = Draw a vertical line that ends 2″ below the chest line.
G′, H′ = From W, measure ⅜″ toward the center front to find G′ and ⅛″ toward the
side seam to find H′.
Z–A′, A′–L′ = Half of the dart intake (♦) = (ex: ⅛″–¼″). Measure out on either side of
A′.
M′, M″ = Draw vertical lines from Z and L′ to line E′–C′–K′.
N′–K′ = From K′, extend the same amount as the width of M′–C′ (♦), toward the
outside.
I′–I″ = From the bottom, extend the same length as K′–D′ (ex: ¼″) to make the
seam the same length as the back side seam.
F′–F″ and P–P″ = Measure horizontally ⅜″ toward the back draft. And redraw a
similar line to the original line.
P′–Q′ = The pocket width; total width of pocket (ex: 5¼″–5¾″) – (the width of E′–
O′).
Classic-Fit Six-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation
Front, Side, and Back Draft (11.12)
Trace both the classic-fit four-panel jacket front and back foundation (Figure 11.6
or 11.7, Suit Jacket Sleeve–A. Developing from Classic-Fit Torso Sloper).
Follow the instructions for the slim-fit six-panel suit jacket foundation (Figures 11.8
to 11.11, B. Enlarging the Slim-Fit Four-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation–Slim-Fit Six-
Panel Suit Jacket Foundation).
Finished pattern is Figure 11.12.
Suit Jacket Lining
The lining pattern for a suit jacket has added ease, because lining is often constructed out
of a lightweight fabric and people need room for movement. On the other hand, the
lining pattern must be shortened from the bottom, so that the lining will not be seen from
the outside. The exact amount of ease that will be added varies depending on the
thickness of fabric and the sewing methods as well as the cost of manufacturing. In
general, the lining pattern has an added ½″–1″ in circumference and is shortened 1″–2″ in
its length. The following example is for suit jackets.
Trace the front suit jacket pattern that has the facing line in it (refer to Chapter 7,
Figure 7.5, Buttons and Extensions).
Remove the pocket mouth and true the side seam line by redrawing it.
Because there is a length difference near the pocket mouth, raise the side line up
the same length as the difference of the pocket mouth (♦), as shown.
Front, Side, and Back Lining Draft (Figure 11.14)
Trace the front (which is made from the previous steps), side, back, and sleeve
patterns.
Enlarge each line ⅛″; on the center back, enlarge ¾″–1″, as shown.
Shorten ¾″ from the hem lines and sleeve hem lines.
A, B, C = (♦) Extend an amount that is double the seam allowance of the outer
shell (⅜″ × 2 = ¾″) plus ¼″ of ease (total 1″) from the bottom of the under-sleeve
cap and the upper-sleeve cap as shown in Figure 11.15.
Check the sleeve if there is ease in it. The lining pattern does not have a lot of ease
in it. Ease is ⅛–⅜″ in total front and back. Extending A, B, and C reduces the ease
in the sleeve lining pattern to make sewing easier.
Single-Breasted Notched-Collar Jacket
Slim-Fit Style
1. Notched collar and lapel
2. Six panels with one button
3. Vertical darts
6. Two-piece sleeves
7. Side vents
Front Draft (Figure 11.16)
Trace the slim-fit front six-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.11, Slim-Fit Six-
Panel Suit Jacket Foundation).
E = Midpoint of B–C.
NOTE: This amount depends on how many buttons the jacket has. For a 1- or 2-button
jacket, measure in ½″ and measure up ¼″. Review Chapter 4, Figures 4.37 through 4.38
(Wing Collar–Lapel Collar Group Foundation).
G–H = Draw a line parallel to the sloper shoulder line. The length is ¼″ shorter
than the sloper shoulder length.
H–I = Subtract from the armhole to make the same length as the sloper armhole
length.
G–I = Draw a slightly curved line from the midpoint of the G–H to I.
G–J = Extend ¾″ from point G.
K–U = Follow the instructions in Chapter 4 for “Notched Collar” (Figures 4.46
through 4.48, Notched Collar–Notched Collar).
V = Single-welt pocket position on the chest; measure up 2″ and toward the side
2¼″ from the chest point on the center front. Pocket dimensions: width, 4¼″–4½″;
depth, 1″.
W = Double-welt pocket position on the waist. Dimensions: width, 6″; depth, 2¼″.
Complete the collar section by making the top collar and under collar as shown.
Trace the side and back of the six-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.11, Slim-
Fit Six-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation).
Complete the side vent and the side back vent by drawing straight lines on each
point.
Trace the slim-fit jacket sleeve sloper (Figure 11.4, Suit Jacket Sleeve).
For the two-piece sleeve draft, follow the instructions in Chapter 5, “Two-Piece
Sleeve for Formal Wear,” Figures 5.18 through 5.22 (Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal
Wear–Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear).
Finished Patterns (Figure 11.21)
Apply the front and back facings. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-on Facings”
(Figures 7.5, 7.6, and 7.8, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Front Facing
Example: V-Neck Vest).
Label the patterns.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainlines of flange patterns.
Double-Breasted Tuxedo Jacket
Design Style Points
Often considered the most formal of jacket styles, this jacket has a peaked lapel, a breast
pocket, and two double-welt pockets with flaps. It is a six-panel jacket with six buttons, a
double-breasted front closure, and a center back vent.
Classic-Fit Style
1. Notched collar and peak lapel collar
3. Vertical darts
5. Single-welt pocket
6. Two-piece sleeves
7. Vent placket
Trace the classic-fit front six-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.12, Slim-Fit Six-
Panel Suit Jacket Foundation).
C = Breakpoint.
G = Measure ¼″ toward the side seam and measure up ¼″ vertically from the
H.P.S.
NOTE: This amount depends on how many buttons the jacket has. This jacket has two
buttons but it is double-breasted, so assume that it has three buttons. For a 3- to 4-
button jacket, measure out ¼″ and measure up ¼″. Review Chapter 4, Figures 4.37 and
4.38 (Wing Collar–Lapel Collar Group Foundation).
G–H = Draw a line parallel to the foundation shoulder line. The length is ¼″ shorter
than the foundation shoulder length.
H–I = Measure down ¼″.
G–J = Collar stand at the shoulder neck; extend ¾″–1″ from point G.
J–K = 4½″–5″.
K–M = Draw a 3½″ line perpendicular with the roll line. Label M instead of L for the
peaked lapel.
V = Single-welt pocket; measure in 2¼″ from the center front and up 1½″ from the
chest line. Dimensions: width: 4¼″–4½″; depth: 1″.
W = Double-welt pocket with flap. Dimensions: width: 6″; the depth: 2¼″.
Trace the classic-fit back and side six-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.12,
Slim-Fit Six-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation).
For details of the vent placket, refer to Chapter 6, “Vent Placket,” Figure 6.11 (3)
Attached (Continuous) Placket).
Trace the classic-fit jacket sleeve sloper (Figure 11.12, Slim-Fit Six-Panel Suit Jacket
Foundation).
For the sleeve draft, follow the instructions in Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve for
Formal Wear,” Figures 5.18 through 5.22 (pages 129–131).
Finished Patterns (Figure 11.26)
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figures 7.5 and
7.6, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Facings).
Slim-Fit Style
1. Notched collar and lapel
2. Six panels with three buttons
3. Vertical darts
Trace the slim-fit four-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.1, Jacket Design
Variations).
Mark the front width, then reshape the shoulder line on the front. The amount
depends on how many buttons the jacket has. For a 3-button jacket, measure out
⅜″ and up ¼″. Refer to Chapter 4, “Lapel Collar Foundation,” Figures 4.37 through
4.41 (Wing Collar–Lapel Collar Group Foundation).
Redraw the center back line, then draw a yoke line on the back.
Redraw the bottom line and side seam line on the front and back. Make sure that
the length of the side seam is the same on the front and back.
Draw the notched lapel collar design. Refer to Chapter 4, “Notched Collar,”
Figures 4.46 through 4.49 (pages 105–106).
Mark buttons and buttonholes on the front.
Trace the pocket and flap onto separate paper, then create pleats.
Trace the slim-fit jacket sleeve sloper (Figure 11.4, Suit Jacket Sleeve) and for the
sleeve draft, refer to Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear” (Figures 5.18
through 5.22, Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear–Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal
Wear).
Finished Patterns (Figure 11.29)
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-on Facings” (Figures 7.5 and
7.6, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Facings).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainlines of the yoke.
Two-Button Suit Jacket
Classic-Fit Style
1. Notched collar and lapel
2. Six panels with two buttons
3. Vertical darts
4. Patch pockets
5. Handkerchief pocket
6. Two-piece sleeves
7. Side vents
Front, Side, and Back Draft (Figure 11.30)
Trace the classic-fit six-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.12, Slim-Fit Six-Panel
Suit Jacket Foundation).
Determine the length of this design. For the front pattern, because there is no
need to create welt (this design is patch pocket), bring up that welt amount at the
bottom. Redraw the front side seam line.
Mark the front width, then reshape the shoulder line on the front. This amount
depends on how many buttons the jacket has. For a 3-button jacket, measure out
⅜″ and up ¼″. Refer to Chapter 4, “Relationship between Front Neck Width and
Back Neck Width on the Lapel Collars,” Figures 4.37 through 4.41 (Wing Collar–
Lapel Collar Group Foundation).
Draw the notched collar design. Refer to Chapter 4, “Notched Collar,” Figures
4.46 through 4.49 (pages 105–106).
Complete the side back vent placket by drawing straight lines on each pattern
(back and side).
Mark a patch pocket placement below the waist, which is continued from the front
pattern to the side pattern.
For the sleeve draft, trace the classic-fit jacket sleeve pattern (Figure 11.12, Slim-Fit
Six-Panel Suit Jacket Foundation) and refer to Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve for
Formal Wear,” Figures 5.18 through 5.22 (Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear–Two-
Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear).
Finished Patterns (Figure 11.32)
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-on Facings” (Figures 7.5 and
7.6, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Facings).
Slim-Fit Style
1. Standing (mandarin) collar
2. Princess line panels with four buttons
Trace the slim-fit four-panel suit jacket foundation (Figure 11.1, Jacket Design
Variations).
NOTE: The measurement of the extension at the center front depends on button size.
Reshape the bottom line and side seam line on the front and back.
Measure in ¾″ at the center back (as shown), and measure out ⅜″ on the back
pattern side seam; extend out by half of the length that you measured in at the
center back.
Draw princess lines that start from the armhole line, as shown in Figure 11.33.
Refer to Chapter 7, “Princess Lines” (Figures 7.36 through 7.38, Shirts, T-Shirts, and
Casual Jackets–Princess Line on the Armhole Line).
Mark a pocket placement on the front. The size of the pocket and its placement
are also flexible to create the desired design aesthetic.
Sleeves Collar (Figure 11.34)
Trace the slim-fit jacket sleeve sloper (Figure 11.4, Suit Jacket Sleeve).
For the two-piece sleeve draft, follow the instructions in Chapter 5, “Two-Piece
Sleeve for Formal Wear,” Figures 5.18 through 5.22 (Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal
Wear–Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear).
Finished Patterns (Figure 11.35)
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-on Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Facings).
Mark the grainlines. The directions of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainline of the cuff.
Jacket Design Variations
Coats
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-012
Page Range: 351–377
Coats are articles of outerwear, typically with a hem length at the hip line or longer.
Traditionally intended to offer protection from the elements, coats can have many other
functions and come in many different lengths and fabrics. Moreover, due to their long
ongoing presence in fashion (with variations having been seen since ancient times), there
are many different existing styles and shapes of coats.
Different coat design variations can be created by modifying certain details, such as the
basic silhouette, the hem length, design elements, and so on.
The coat foundation is initially developed from a jacket foundation, after which it can be
manipulated into a variety of designs, enhanced by the addition of details (such as
different collars and sleeves), and given color and texture through the use of different
fabrics.
Coat Foundation
Because a coat can be worn over a jacket and a shirt, coat patterns contain the most
wearing ease of any garment type. The coat foundation is based on the woven torso
sloper, and has ease for ¼″–thick shoulder pads, as does a jacket foundation. Therefore,
the patternmaker who wants to design coats without shoulder pads or with pads of
different thickness should take this into consideration. There is a difference between the
back neck width and the front neck width in the coat foundation compared to the jacket
foundation. This is because the break point of the coat is generally located below the
chest line; therefore, the front neck width is wider than the back neck width. The finished
drafts of body section are as follows.
Trace the back slim-fit torso (shirt) sloper (Figures 2.2 through 2.4, Slim-Fit torso
Sloper–Drafting the Torso Sloper)
A = Extend the bottom line down ⅜″.
D = Midpoint of B–C.
E = Measure up ⅛″ vertically from B.
F = Measure down ¾″ and out 1″ from the sloper side chest point.
C–F = Complete the back armhole line by drawing a curved line that is similar to
the sloper armhole line.
G = Measure down ⅜″ and out 1″ from the sloper side bottom point.
Trace the front slim-fit torso (shirt) sloper (Figures 2.2 through 2.4, Slim-Fit torso
Sloper–Drafting the Torso Sloper)
I–J = Draw a line parallel to the shoulder line; the length is the back shoulder
length (♦) – ¼″.
K = Measure down ¾″ and out 1″ from the sloper side chest point.
J–K = Complete the back armhole line by drawing a curved line that is similar to
the sloper armhole line.
L = Measure down ⅜″ and out 1″ from the sloper side bottom point.
For the slim-fit coat sleeve sloper draft, follow the instructions in Chapter 11 for
“Suit Jacket Sleeve” (Figures 11.2 through 11.4, Suit Jacket Sleeve–Suit Jacket
Sleeve).
For the two-piece sleeve, follow the instructions in Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve
for Formal Wear” (Figures 5.18 through 5.22, Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear–
Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear).
NOTE: A coat sleeve is similar to a jacket sleeve in sleeve height, cap sleeve curve, and
cap ease.
Classic-Fit Coat Foundation
As first discussed in “Definition of Slim-Fit and Classic-Fit Style” (Chapter 2, Slopers–
Definition of Slim-Fit Style and Classic-Fit Style), the classic-fit sloper needs more ease
than the slim-fit sloper. Therefore, to make a classic-fit style, the pattern has to gain more
ease. There are two methods for developing the classic-fit four-panel suit jacket
foundation. The first method is to draft a new classic-fit four-panel jacket foundation from
the classic-fit torso sloper; the second method is to enlarge the size of the slim-fit four-
panel suit jacket foundation.
Developing from the Classic-Fit Sloper
NOTE: The instructions for creating the classic-fit coat foundation are the same as the
slim-fit coat foundation, except the classic-fit torso sloper is used.
Trace both the classic-fit front and back sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21, Close-Fit
(with Darts)–Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
Follow the instructions for the slim-fit coat foundation (Figures 12.1 through 12.3,
Jacket Design Variations–Slim-Fit Coat Foundation). For the sleeve sloper, do not
apply the two-piece sleeve instructions.
Enlarging the Slim-Fit Coat Foundation
If the slim-fit coat foundation has already been developed, trace the pattern and enlarge
it to give more ease for the classic fit..
Follow the instructions for enlarging slim-fit pattern methods in Figures 2.17
through 2.19 (pages 34–35).
Chesterfield Coat
Slim-Fit Style
1. Notched collar and lapel
3. Vertical darts
4. Double-welt pockets
5. Two-piece sleeves
Trace the front and back slim-fit coat foundation (Figures 12.1 and 12.2, Jacket
Design Variations–Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
A–B = A coat length; extend 20″–25″ from the hip line. The length varies
depending on the design.
E–F–G = Draw a straight line by extending the line from E–F to the bottom line.
H = The midpoint of line A–D.
Complete the center back line; a straight line through A and H, by drawing a
smooth curved line connecting H and E.
I, J, and K = Extend a back interscye line to the hip line. I is an intersection at the
waist line, J is an intersection at the hip line, and K is an intersection at the bottom
line.
L = Midpoint of line H–D.
L–M = Draw a line parallel to the chest line from L to armhole line.
I–N = 1″–1¼″.
K–Q = Find half of the width of K–P on the line G–P′, and measure toward the
center back.
Complete each back side seam line by first connecting M, N, J, and P′, and then M,
N, J, and Q with a smooth curved line.
Draw a desired vent placket on the center back line as shown.
Front Draft (Figure 12.7)
T, U, and V = Extend the line from S to the bottom line. T is an intersection at the
waist line, U is an intersection at the hip line, and V is an intersection at the bottom
line.
J′–Y = Y–K′ = Measure out on either side of Y half of dart width (♦) = (ex: 3/16″″–
¼″).
L′–B′ = B′–M′ = Measure out on either side of B′ half of dart width (♦) = (ex: 3/16″–
¼″).
N′–O′ = Extend half of the dart intake (♦) from N′ toward outside.
H′–H″ = Extend the same length as C′–N′ (ex: ¼″) to make the same length as the
back side length.
E′–E″ and M–M″ = Measure horizontally ⅜″ toward the back draft. And redraw a
similar line to the original line.
Q′–R′ = Calculate; the total pocket width (ex: 5 ½″–6″) – the width of D′–P′.
Extension and Lapel Collar (Figure 12.9)
For the front lapel draft in detail, refer to Chapter 4, “Lapel Collar Foundation,”
Figures 4.37 through 4.41 (pages 99–101).
D = Breakpoint.
D–C = Draw a parallel line to the center front line from C to the bottom line, and
connect D to the center front line at the bottom.
K to P = Follow the instructions for Chapter 4, “Notched Lapel Collar,” Figure 4.46
(Notched Collar).
Q = Draw a line parallel to D′–B′–P′ 2¼″ below. Refer to Chapter 6, “Welt Pocket”
(pages 165 to 168).
Trace the slim-fit coat sleeve sloper (Figure 12.3, Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
For the two-piece sleeve, follow the instructions in Chapter 11 for “Suit Jacket
Sleeve” (Figures 11.2 through 11.5, Suit Jacket Sleeve–Suit Jacket Sleeve).
Finished Patterns (Figure 12.13)
Apply the front and back facings. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings”
(Figures 7.5, 7.6, and 7.8, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Facings).
Classic-Fit Style
1. Shirt collar with separate collar stand
3. Patch pockets
Trace the back classic-fit coat foundation (see Figure 12.4 or 12.5, Classic-Fit Coat
Foundation–Enlarging the Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
A = New neck point at the center back; lower ¼″.
A–C = A coat length; extend 12″–13″ from the hip line. The length varies
depending on design.
E, F, G = Measure in ½″ from the waist line, hip line, and hem line on the center
back.
Complete the center back line; a straight line through A and I, a smooth curved
line connecting I and F, and a straight line through F, G, and H.
J = The side point at the chest line.
L = Measure out from the side seam at the hip line the same amount that was
measured in from the center back line to G (ex: ½″).
M = From the side seam at the hem line, measure out three times the length of C–
H (ex: 1½″).
Complete the side seam line by connecting J, K, L, and M with a curved line.
Complete the hem line by drawing a smooth line.
Front Draft (Figure 12.15)
Trace the front classic-fit coat foundation (see Figure 12.4 or 12.5, Classic-Fit Coat
Foundation–Enlarging the Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
A–C = Coat length on the front; extend the same length (ex: 12″–13″) as in the
back from the hip line.
C–D = Draw to the side seam a line parallel to the hip line.
A–E = A–F = Measure out on either side of A half of the attached placket width
(ex: 2½″); draw parallel lines with the center front to the hem line.
D–H = Measure out the same amount of C–H (½″ = ♦) as in the back draft.
Complete the side line by connecting G and H with a curved line. Make sure that
the length of G–H is the same as the length of K–M in the back draft.
Trace the classic-fit coat sleeve sloper (see Figure 12.4 or 12.5, Classic-Fit Coat
Foundation–Enlarging the Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
Double-check the amount of ease. The front and the back sleeve caps should
contain a certain amount of ease.
NOTE: Using Table 2.5 (Drafting the Sleeve Sloper) as a reference, determine if the
amount of ease is appropriate or if the sleeve cap length should be adjusted. Adjusting
the sleeve cap is discussed in Chapter 2, Notches.
Measure the back neck length ⊚ and front neck length (▪).
Refer to Chapter 4, “Two-Piece Shirt Collar with Band,” Figures 4.17 through 4.21
(Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band–Two-Piece Shirt Collar, Separate Band).
Do not apply the extension on the band because this design does not have an
extension. Mark the hook instead of buttons.
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figures 7.5 and
7.6, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Facings).
3. Princess lines
5. Yokes
6. Two-piece sleeves
Trace the front and back slim-fit coat foundation (Figures 12.1 and 12.2, Jacket
Design Variations–Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
For the two-piece sleeve, follow the instructions in Chapter 11 for “Suit Jacket
Sleeve” (Figures 11.2 through 11.5, Suit Jacket Sleeve–Suit Jacket Sleeve).
For details about the standing collar, refer to Chapter 4, “Standing Collar with
Extension” (Figures 4.32 and 4.33, Mandarin Collar (Standing Collar without
Extension)–Standing Collar with Extension).
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figure 7.7,
Stitched-On Facings).
Apply the front placket, left and right sides; cut placket on the right side. Refer to
Chapter 6, “Classic Tailored Placket” (Pointed Placket–Type A: Folded Edge).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainlines of flange patterns.
Military Coat
Classic-Fit Style
1. Notched collar
2. Double-breasted closure
3. Patch pockets
4. Epaulettes
5. Two-piece sleeves
6. Sleeve belts
7. Vent placket
Trace the classic-fit front and back sloper (Figures 12.1 and 12.2, Slim-Fit Style–
Slim-Fit Style).
Complete the lapel collar; refer to Chapter 4, “Notched Collar” (Figures 4.47
through 4.49, Notched Collar–Notched Collar).
Mark the pocket placement on the front. If there is not enough space on the front,
the pocket can be continued on the back.
Trace the classic-fit coat sleeve sloper (see Figure 12.4 or 12.5, Classic-Fit Coat
Foundation–Enlarging the Slim-Fit Coat Foundation).
For the two-piece sleeve, follow the instructions in Chapter 5, “Two-Piece Sleeve
for Formal Wear” (Figures 5.18 through 5.22, Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear–
Two-Piece Sleeve for Formal Wear).
Mark the sleeve belt placement on the upper sleeve. After that, trace the sleeve
belt pattern onto separate paper.
Apply the front facing. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (Figures 7.5 and
7.6, Buttons and Extensions–Stitched-On Facings).
Label the patterns.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainlines of flange patterns.
For the more casual look, a vest can be totally cut out of a single fabric; however, for a
formal look, the suit vest has a more specific fabrication. Because it will be worn under a
suit jacket, (thus having the back panels hidden at all times), it is customary that the back
pieces are cut out of a thinner fabric, typically a lining fabric. In addition to allowing the
belt to be adjusted easily, cutting the back panels out of lining fabric reduces general bulk
on the wearer.
V-Neck Vest
Slim-Fit Style
1. V neckline
3. Single-welt pocket
4. Shoulder yoke
5. Princess lines
6. Armhole darts
7. Adjustable band
Front and Back Draft 1 (Figure 13.1)
Trace the front and back slim-fit sloper together to create a side panel (Figures 2.2
through 2.4, Slim-Fit torso Sloper–Drafting the Torso Sloper).
A = New back neck point; measure down 1 ⅛″ from the neck point.
E = The midpoint of A and the chest line (C.L.).
B–C = New waist line; draw a parallel line 1″ above original waist line.
Draw a curved line connecting E and F, and then draw a straight line connecting F
and G.
A–O = Measure ¾″ in from the H.P.S. on the back, and then draw a smooth curved
neckline.
O–P = Shoulder length; measure 1″ in from the shoulder tip. Do the same for the
shoulder length on the front (R), except drop R ¼″.
Q = Measure ¾″ in from the H.P.S. on the front. Connect Q and R with a straight
line.
J–Q = Draw a straight guideline, then draw a smooth curved line as shown.
T, T′ = Measure over ⅜″ from the back interscye line on the chest line.
U = The intersection of a horizontal line from S and the front interscye line.
Front and Back Draft 3 (Figure 13.3)
Complete the armhole line by drawing a curved line connecting R, V′; V, S, T′; and
T, P as shown.
W = Draw a line down from T to the hip level. At the side seam measure up 1 ½″
to find W. Draw a line from W toward the center back to intersect with T.
Complete the back side panel lines by drawing smooth lines connecting T and X,
then T′ and X′, passing through the previously marked measurements.
Draw a straight guideline connecting X and Y, then redraw a smooth curved line as
shown.
I′ = Measure up 3 ½″ from K.
Draw a straight line connecting I′ and L, then a straight guideline connecting L and
W.
Z = Measure over 1 ½″ from the intersection of the guideline L–W and front
interscye line.
Measure in ⅞″ from the line, and measure ½″ for the dart intake.
Complete side panel lines on the front by drawing smooth lines connecting V′ and
Z′, then V and Z, passing through the previously marked measurements, as shown.
Draw a dart on the back armhole as shown. The dart intake is ½″; the length of the
legs is 2 ½″.
Draw a single-welt pocket on the front. Refer to Chapter 6, “Welt Pocket″ (pages
165-168).
Draw a band placement on the back.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainlines of flange patterns.
Classic-Fit Style
1. Shawl collar, which stops on the shoulder
3. Single-welt pocket
4. Darts
Trace the back classic-fit sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21, Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A = New back neck point; measure down 1 ⅛″ from the neck point.
Draw a curved line connecting E and F, then draw a straight line connecting F and
G.
H = Measure in 1 ½″ at the L.P.S.
J = Measure in ¼″.
O = Draw a vertical line up from the midpoint of L–M to line I–K, and extend an
extra ½″ up. Carry this line to the bottom line.
Trace the front classic-fit sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21, Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
C–D = Draw a line parallel to the center front, up to ⅝″ above the waist line.
H = Measure in ¼″.
L = Draw a vertical line down from the edge of the new armhole line to the waist
line.
N = Draw a vertical line up from the midpoint of L–M to line G–K. Then measure
½″ down. Carry this line down to the bottom line.
D–Q′ = Trace the desired shawl shape by folding the roll line D–E.
Apply the front and back facings. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings″
(pages 178-180).
Classic-Fit Style
1. Front zipper
3. V neck
Trace the back classic-fit sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21, Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A = New back neck point; measure down ½″–1″ from the neck point.
B–C = Drop the hem line down 1″–2″ from the hip line.
J–K = Pleat intake (ex: ¾″–1″); measure out. Refer to Chapter 7, “Pleats” (pages
181-184).
M = Welt pocket placement on the back. Draw a ¾″–1″ parallel line to the waist
line; the width is 4″–5″. Then mark the welt pocket height; the dimension is ¾″.
Place a zipper inside of the welt.
Trace the front classic-fit sloper (Figures 2.17 through 2.21, Close-Fit (with Darts)–
Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A–B = Drop the hem line down the same amount as in the back.
C = Measure up 1″–2″ from the chest line.
Draw a curved line connecting C and D, curving in ¼″–⅜″ at the midpoint of C–D,
as shown.
E = Measure in 1″ from the L.P.S.
H–I = Yoke line; draw a parallel line a 2″–3″ down from the shoulder line.
Mark the zipper stitch line.
J = Flap placement; measure in 1 ⅞″ and up 2 ¾″ from the center front chest point.
The dimensions: width = 4 ½″–5″, length = 3″.
L = Flap placement; measure in 1 ½″ and up ½″–1″ from the center front at the
waist point. The dimensions: width = 7″–8″, length = 3″.
M = Pocket placement; measure down ¾″ and in ⅛″ from L. The dimensions: width
= 6 ¾″–7 ¾″, length = 7 ½″–8″.
N = The midpoint of the flap width; square down from N to the bottom of pocket.
For the box pockets in detail, refer to Chapter 6, “Cargo (Box) Pockets” (Figures
6.40 through 6.44, Five-Point Pocket for Pants–Cargo (Box) Pockets).
Apply the front facings. Refer to Chapter 7, “Stitched-On Facings” (pages 178-
180).
Label the patterns.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainlines of flange patterns.
Vest Design Variations
Jersey Knit Torso Sloper and Tops
DOI: 10.5040/9781501303951.ch-014
Page Range: 393–431
The T-shirt is the most popular clothing for jersey fabric, which is, more specifically, a
cotton single-jersey. The fiber content for T-shirts is typically a lightweight cotton yarn and
the types of cotton single-jersey are classified by the number of the yarn (20 Ne, 30 Ne,
40 Ne, 60 Ne, and so on)—the bigger the number, the thinner the yarn, resulting in a
lighter-weight fabric. The weight frequently used for T-shirt garments ranges from 30 Ne
to 40 Ne.
A complicating matter, on the other hand, is that of stretch knit fabrics. The kinds of
stretch knit fabrics vary greatly, and the degrees of stretch also vary, depending on what
percent of the fabric is composed of spandex or lycra. The range can be anywhere from
2–25 percent stretch; however, the most frequently used stretch fabrics for standard
stretch jersey garments range from 3–5 percent stretch.
Because the types of knit and the amount of stretch affect the patternmaking for knit
fabric, this book defines a non-stretch knit as a 30–40 Ne cotton single jersey; and stretch
jersey as a 3–5 percent elastic content stretch jersey. The slopers included account for this
amount of stretch and ease. It is important to note that while the design variations
featured in this section of the book pertain to classic jersey/knit fabric garments, the styles
included here are not the only kinds that can be made out of knit fabric. As long as the
patternmaker starts with a knit fabric sloper, he or she can use any of the woven design
variations; for example, a casual jacket can be made out of a thick ponte knit, or a
dolman-sleeve shirt out of a T-shirt jersey with a rib-knit collar.
Patternmakers working with knit fabrics should take these sewing methods into
consideration. Also, the pattern for a knit fabric garment has to take a size increase into
account because the garment size usually increases after sewing. To remedy this, the
pattern size is reduced in advance. The areas of the garment that increase after sewing
include the shoulder, chest, biceps, bottom line (both body and sleeve), armhole, and
sleeve cap (Figure 14.1). Additionally, the vertical length is reduced slightly, relative to the
horizontal circumference areas, which are increased.
14.1Stretchable Characteristic of Knit patterns
Record your own measurements in the space provided. Refer to Chapter 1, “Taking
Measurements” (Standard Points for Measurement–Taking Measurements). You may also
refer to Tables 1.4, 1.5, and 1.6 for reference sizes (Taking Measurements–Reference Size
Charts for Men).
A–E = (Chest circumference/4) ± (0–¾″). Adjust using the formulas in the following
chart:
Chest Cir. Formula Chest Cir. Formula
F–B = Height/8″.
E–G, F–H = Draw perpendicular lines from points E and F to center front line, and
label as G and H.
E–G = Chest circumference line (C.L.).
I–J = Back interscye length line; draw a line up from I that intersects A–D.
M = Midpoint of E–G.
M–N–O = Side seam line; square down from point M to line BC. (N is an
intersection with F–H; O is an intersection with B–C.)
D′–E′ = Draw a horizontal line that is perpendicular to the center back (A–B).
F′ =The midpoint of C′–I.
I–H′ = Draw a straight line with an angle of 45 degrees at I, which is half the length
of I–M.
Complete a back armhole line by connecting D′, F′, G′, H′, and M with a gradual
curved line, ending square to point M.
D–I′ = Front neck depth; use the length of the back neck width (⊚) + ¼″.
I′–J′ = Front neck width; square out at I′ the length of the back neck width (⊚) – ⅛″.
L′ = Midpoint of K′–I′.
Complete a front neckline by connecting K′, M′, and I′ with a gradual curved line.
NOTE: In general, the front shoulder slant for knit fabrics is bigger than that of
woven fabrics. This is because if the patternmaker cuts the folded excess from the
shoulder in advance, the appearance of the front armhole line is better, and there
is no pulling or tugging on the front chest and neck areas due to the inherent
stretch of knit fabrics.
Draw a line from K′–N′ extending beyond N′. Measure from K′ the same length as
the back shoulder length to find O′.
K–Q′ = Draw a straight line at an angle of 45 degrees from K for a length that is ⅛″
less than I–H′.
Complete the front armhole line by connecting O′, P′, Q′, and M with a gradual
curved line, ending square to point M.
C–T′ = Front drop length; extend the center front ¼″–⅜″ from C, and complete the
bottom with a gradual curved line T′–R′.
NOTE: The front drop length is the amount added at the front bottom line to
ensure it falls parallel to the back bottom line—especially if there is no bust dart.
The measurement will vary depending on individual body types.
Apply the notches as shown. Refer to Chapter 2, Tables 2.5 and 2.6 (Drafting the
Sleeve Sloper) and Figure 2.14 (Notches).
Sleeve Sloper
For the specific parts of the sleeve sloper, refer to Chapter 2, “Sleeve Sloper,” Figures 2.5
through 2.7 (pages 26–27).
For the sleeve draft, measure both the front armhole length and the back armhole length
accurately. Table 14.2 shows the measurments for size 38R.
A–B = Sleeve length; arm length + 1″, square out on either side of B.
E–G, F–H = Square down from E and F to wrist line at B. Each intersecting point is
G and H.
J, I = Square out on either side of D to lines F–H and E–G; each intersecting point
is J and I, respectively.
Front Sleeve Cap (Figure 14.9)
N = Midpoint of L–E.
N–O = Square in ⅜″ from N.
Complete the front sleeve cap curve by drawing a curved line connecting A, M, L,
O, and E.
Complete the back sleeve cap curve by drawing a curved line connecting A, S, T,
U, W, and F.
Complete the front under-sleeve line by drawing a slightly curved line connecting
E, A′, and Y.
Complete the back under-sleeve line by drawing a slightly curved line connecting F,
B′, and X.
Apply the notches as shown. Refer to Chapter 2, Tables 2.5 and 2.6 (Drafting the
Sleeve Sloper) and Figures 2.13 through 2.15 (pages 31–32).
Follow the instructions for enlarging the slim-fit pattern in Chapter 2, Figures 2.17
through 2.21 (Close-Fit (with Darts)–Making New Classic-Fit Slopers).
A–E = (Chest circumference/4) ± (0–¾″). Adjust using the formulas in the following
chart:
For the sleeve draft of the classic-fit sloper, follow the sleeve instructions of the
slim-fit sloper in Figures 14.8 through 14.12 (Torso Sloper–Sleeve Sloper).
Foremost, this chapter covers two different styles or “cuts” of the sloper: the slim fit and
the classic fit. Each style lends different functionality to the garment. This should be taken
into consideration when designing.
Slim-fit knit-wear shows off the form of the wearer (to varying degrees), and in the case of
athletic wear, can offer compression. Relaxed-fit or classic-fit knit-fabric garments offer
comfort and ease for the wearer. Use these two sloper variations for the following
designs, and use these guidelines to complete the following design variations.
Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Slim-Fit Style
1. Round neckline with inset band
2. Long sleeves
A = Square up ½″ from the center back neck point. Redraw the neckline.
E = H.P.S.
Mark the double top stitches at the hem; the distances from the hem are ¾″ and
1″, as shown.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper for knit fabrics (Figures 14.3 through 13.7, Slim-Fit
Torso Sloper–Torso Sloper).
A–B = Drop the hip level on the front ½″ to make the same as in the back
extension.
E = Front H.P.S.
Mark the double top stitches at the hem; the distances from the hem are ¾″ and 1″
as shown.
For the neck band of this design in detail, refer to the instructions in Chapter 3,
“Inset Band Neckline for Knit Fabrics (Round Neck),” Figures 3.12 through 3.16
(pages 73–75).
Measure the back outer neckline length (A–E) and front outer neckline length (E–F).
Golf Shirt
Classic-Fit Style
1. Shirt collar with separate collar stand
2. Pointed placket
3. Short sleeves
4. Yokes
5. Princess lines
6. Double-needle top stitching
Trace the classic-fit back sloper for knit fabrics (Figure 14.13, Sleeve Sloper).
Trace the front classic-fit sloper for knit fabrics (Figure 14.13, Sleeve Sloper).
A–B = Drop the hip level the same as in the back (ex: 1″).
E = The midpoint from the front neckline to the chest line along the edge of the
placket.
E–F = Draw a perpendicular line toward the armhole.
For the collar in detail, refer to the instructions in Chapter 4, “One-Piece Shirt
Collar with Inclusive Band,” Figures 4.13 through 4.16 (pages 85–86).
V-Neck T-Shirt
2. Three-quarter-length sleeves
3. Side panels
Trace the slim-fit back sloper for knit fabrics (Figures 14.3 through 14.7, Slim-Fit
Torso Sloper–Torso Sloper).
I–J = ⅞″–1″.
Draw a vertical line from the midpoint of I–J to the hem line.
Complete the side panel line by drawing smooth lines from the armhole to the
hem connecting H–I–L and H–J–L as shown.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper for knit fabrics (Figures 14.3 through 14.7, Slim-Fit
Torso Sloper–Torso Sloper).
A–B = Raise the hip level ½″ to make the same as in the back.
E = Measure in the same amount as in back draft (ex: ⅛″) from the H.P.S.
F = Measure down 4″–5″ from the center front neck point.
E–F = Draw a straight guideline, then draw a line that slightly curves in ⅜″ at the
midpoint of E–F as shown.
E–G = F–H = Create a band width (ex: ¾″).
I = The point at the armhole that is measured 1½″ up from the chest line.
J–K = ⅞″–1″.
Complete the side panel line by drawing smooth lines from the armhole to the
hem connecting I–J–M and I–K–M as shown.
Measure the back neckline length (A–E) and the front neckline length (E–F).
Trace the knit fabric slim-fit sleeve sloper (Figures 14.8 through 14.12, Torso
Sloper–Sleeve Sloper).
A–B = Sleeve length; B is the midpoint of the elbow level to the wrist level, making
a three-quarter sleeve.
C, D = The new sleeve hem should be brought in ⅜″ on either side. Draw similar
curved lines with under-sleeve lines from C and D to the biceps level.
Join the front side panel with the back side panel into one piece at the side seam.
Label the patterns.
Classic-Fit Style
1. Round neckline with inset band
2. Raglan sleeves
Trace the classic-fit back sloper for knit fabrics (Figure 14.13, Sleeve Sloper).
L–M = Determine the T-shirt length.
Refer to Chapter 5, “Raglan Sleeve without Dart,” Figures 5.33 through 5.36
(pages 137–139), except the following measurements are changed.
D = Square up ⅜″.
Development of the front raglan sleeve is the same as the back, except the
following measurements are changed.
Trace the classic-fit front sloper for knit fabrics (Figure 14.13, Sleeve Sloper).
Measure down ¼″–½″ from the sloper neckline. Redraw the front neckline.
Join the front side panel with the back side panel into one piece at the side seam.
Label the patterns.
Polo Shirt
Slim-Fit Style
1. Front placket
2. Rib-knit collar
Trace the slim-fit back sloper for knit fabrics (Figures 14.3 through 14.7, Slim-Fit
Torso Sloper–Torso Sloper).
A–B = Shirt length on the back; measure down 1″–2″ from the hip line (H.L.).
NOTE: The hem length of the back pattern should be longer than the front to
accommodate the wearer’s movements (such as bending over), while still allowing
the garment to remain tucked in.
B–C = Draw a line that is parallel to the hip line, from B to the side seam line.
Draw a smooth curved line connecting the side chest point with E and C.
F = Measure 2″ up from the hip line (H.L.) to mark a slit at the side line; then draw
out a ½″ parallel line to the side seam line, as shown. Square in at both ends.
Trace the slim-fit front sloper for knit fabrics (Figures 14.3 through 14.7, Slim-Fit
Torso Sloper–Torso Sloper).
A = The length on the front. If the pattern length was adjusted at the back, adjust
the front length as well.
Draw a smooth line from the chest line to the bottom passing through F to create
the side line.
G = Measure 2″ up from the hip line (H.L.) to mark a slit at the side line; repeat the
same procedure as the back.
For the placket of this design in detail, refer to the instructions on Chapter 6,
“Pointed Placket” (Figures 6.1 through 6.3, Pointed Placket). Adjust the placket
length to 6″–7″ as shown in Figure 14.37. Also, do not create the pointed section.
Sleeve Draft (Figure 14.38)
Trace the knit fabric sleeve sloper (Figures 14.8 through 14.12, Torso Sloper–Sleeve
Sloper).
C–D, C–E = Draw a horizontal line toward the side, stopping ½″ in from each side
line.
F–G = For the draft of knit band, create a rectangle that is 90 percent of the width
of D–E, and is ¾″ in height.
For the knit collar in detail, refer to the instructions on Chapter 4, “Rib-Knit Collar”
(Figures 4.29a through 4.29c, Wing Collar).
Hooded Sweatshirt
2. Decorative zipper
B–D = Shirt length on the back; drop the hip level 1″–2″.
Cut at line E–F, then separate the band from the bodice.
Trace the front classic-fit sloper for knit fabrics (Figure 14.13, Sleeve Sloper).
A–D = Drop the hip level on the front the same amount as the back sloper.
Because the front band is a curved line, redraw a band piece to make a straight
line. Draw a rectangle from Q.
O–P = Square out 5″–6″ toward the side seam. Mark the zipper pocket placement.
Trace the knit fabric sleeve sloper (Figure 14.13, Sleeve Sloper).
For the hooded collar in detail, refer to the instructions on Chapter 4, “Two-Piece
Hood” (Figures 4.58 through 4.62, Peaked Collar–Two-Piece Hood).
Measure the back neck length (⊚=A–C) and front neck length (▪=B–C) on the
bodice.
Figure 14.39 shows the completed pattern.
Pants made of knit fabric have a unique place in modern dress. What originated as a
garment intended for athletes’ warm-up suits, now are on the rise as a fashion item. Due
to consumers wanting more comfort in the clothes that they wear, many are turning to
knit fabric garments, and thus a rise in activewear designs. Designers are beginning to
create designs that attempt to bridge the gap between fashion and comfort, using knit
fabrics along the way. Because of the manufacturing process of a knit fabric versus a
woven, knit fabrics are much softer and consequently used for more casual applications.
Sweat Pants
Slim-Fit Style
1. Rib-knit waistband with elastic
2. Double-needle top stitching on the hem
Front Draft 1 (Figure 15.1)
E–F = Hip line (H.L.), square out from E one fourth of the hip circumference + ⅜″.
L = Knee line; measure up 3″ from the midpoint of J–K. Square out on either side.
N–M = Half of the total hem opening – 1″ (ex: 9″); position N–M so that it is
centered on point K.
D–O = Measure in ⅛″.
P = Measure in ⅜″–½″ from the intersection of line O–M on the knee line.
O–P = Draw a straight line, then square a guide mark ⅛″ in from line O–P and
halfway down. Draw a smooth curved line.
H–R = Measure over one-fourth of hip circumference + ⅛″.
In order to draw a back draft, trace the front draft. Include the hip line, crotch line,
knee line, and crease line.
(I)–A = Measure down ⅝″ vertically from the front crotch edge (I) and draw a
horizontal line.
A–B = Crotch width; (hip circumference/24) + (¼″–⅜″), extend from A. This line is
parallel to the previous crotch line in the front.
C and D = ½″ to the outside, draw lines parallel to front inseam and outseam line
to the hem line.
B–C = Draw a straight line, then complete the back inseam line by drawing a line
that curves inward ⅜″–½″ near the midpoint of B–C.
E = Measure in 1″–1¼″ from the front hip line point at the center front.
K–D = Extend from F the same length as the front outseam line (⊚).
Back Draft 2 (Figure 15.4)
For the waistband in detail, refer to the instructions in Chapter 7, “Rib Knit
Waistband with Elastic,” Figures 7.57 and 7.58 (Rib Knit Waistband with Elastic).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainline of the waistband pattern.
Classic Track Pants
Classic-Fit Style
1. Continuous self-casing waistband
2. Drawstring
3. Inseam pockets
4. Side panels
Trace the sweat pants in the previous section (Figures 15.1 through 15.4, Slim-Fit
Style–Slim-Fit Style).
A–B = Draw a line parallel to the center front/back line, ¼″ to the outside, from
waist point to hip line.
C–D = Draw a line parallel to the side seam line, ¼″ to the outside, from waist
point to hip line.
B–E = Draw a curved line that is similar to the sloper crotch line.
F, H = Measure out ¼″ horizontally from the inseam at the knee level and the
bottom.
E–F = Draw a slightly curved line that is similar to the sloper inseam line.
G, I = Measure out ¼″ horizontally from the inseam at the knee level and the
bottom.
D–G = Draw a line parallel to the side seam line, ¼″ to the outside.
J–J′, K–K′ = J′–J″, K′–K″ = Belt height; draw a line perpendicular to the waist line,
2″ above it.
Trace L–M–I–M′ from the front draft to make a side separated panel.
X–Z = The same length as L–M in the back draft; extend from Y.
P = Mark the pocket placement below ¾″ from the waist line on the front. The
length is 6″–6 ½″, the width is ⅝″.
Mark the hole for a drawstring on the waistband. It is 1″ away from the center front
and is the midpoint of waistband width as shown in Figure 15.8.
The length of elastic band is 80–90 percent of the waist circumference from the
body measurement.
Apply the notches on the inseam, pockets, and double top stitches on the hem.
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainline of the waistband pattern.
Lounge Pants
Design Style Points
A style of modern loungewear, this design’s pattern is derived from the sweatpants
pattern and includes different elements to give it less of a casual look. The center front
has a fly seam and button closure, along with a curved waistband, similar to denim. There
are two single-welt pockets on the front, and on the back, an angled yoke to control the
fit and shaping of the garment.
Slim-Fit Style
1. Low waistline
3. Fly-front zipper
4. Single-welt pockets
5. Yoke
Trace the jersey knit slim-fit pants front sloper. (Figure 15.1 to 15.2, Slim-Fit Style–
Slim-Fit Style).
A = Measure in ½″ at the center front, then draw a straight line from the hip line up
to A.
NOTE: Dart intake can vary according to the intake of C–D. Dart intake should be
less than the intake of C–D.
I = Center of dart intake; measure out 1½″ from the crease line toward the
outseam.
P–Q = Measure out ½″, then draw a straight line from the hem to the knee line.
Back Draft (Figure 15.11)
Trace the jersey knit slim-fit pants back sloper. (Figure 15.3 to 15.4, Slim-Fit Style–
Slim-Fit Style).
A = Measure in 0″–¼″ from the center back at waist point; it can be changed
according to the intake of B–C.
B–C = Measure in ⅝″–¾″ from the waist point at the outseam; draw a curved line
from the hip line to C. It should be less than ¾″ to draw a curved line nicely on the
outseam line. If it is more than ¾″, then increase the dart intake or move in the
location of A.
A–D = Measure down the same length (ex: 1″–1¼″) as in the front draft.
L–M = Measure out ½″, then draw a straight line from the hem to the knee line.
Front Zipper (Figure 15.12)
Draw a front fly zipper stitch line from Z to the hip line as shown.
Apply the front fly closure. Refer to Chapter 7, “Casual Front Fly Closure” (Figure
7.65, Slim-Fit Style).
Reshape the waistline (D–E), waistband line (F–G), and yoke line (H–K–I).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainline of the waistband pattern.
Lounge Shorts
Design Style Points
These shorts are an update to a loungewear staple—shorts. This design is given details
that make it less casual but also don’t ignore the comfort factor. On the front, the shorts
have a separate waistband, which doubles as a casing for the drawstring. There are slant
pockets on the front, and pin tucks down the center of each pant leg.
Classic-Fit Style
1. Separate casing waistband
2. Drawstring
Trace the enlarged front and back pants patterns. Follow the instructions
“Enlarging Front and Back” (Figure 15.7, Classic-Fit Style). However, note that the
length must be shortened for this design.
F–G = The length of pants excluding the waistband width; measure down 11″;–12″
from the crotch line toward knee line. The length can vary according to the design.
A–C = Waistband width (ex: 1¾″); measure up. Then mark the width.
B–D = Make the same length as the length of outseam on the front draft.
E = Make the same length as the length of the inseam on the front draft.
D–E = Draw a slightly curved line as shown, so that the hemline meets square with
point E.
Waistband (Figure 15.19)
For the waistband in detail, refer to the instructions in Chapter 7, “Separate Casing
with Drawstring,” Figures 7.62 and 7.63 (Figure 7.65, Slim-Fit Style).
Mark the grainlines. The direction of grainlines can vary according to design
intention and fabric, especially for the grainline of the waistband pattern.
Jersey Knit Pants Design Variations
Reference Size Charts for Men
Page Range: 453–455
Basic Metric Conversion
Page Range: 456
Example: An adjustment requires that you divide 5½″ by 3, which yields 1.833. The
decimal portion (0.8333) falls on the chart nearest decimal 0.8125 for fraction 13/16″.
Thus, the number used is 1 13/16″. For centimeters, it is 3.02 cm.
1 1 0.969–1.030 2.54
2 2 5.08
3 3 7.62
Fractions Decimals Range Centimeters
4 4 10.16
5 5 12.70
6 6 15.24
7 7 17.78
8 8 20.32
9 9 22.86
10 10 25.40
Quarter-Scale Slopers
Page Range: 457–461
arm length
The length from the shoulder-tip point (low point of shoulder) to the wrist bone. With a
tape measure, measure the length from the shoulder tip, passing through the back of the
elbow to the wrist.
armhole
The part of an upper-body garment where the arm passes through, or where a sleeve is
attached.
armscye
Literally “arm’s eye.” See armhole.
axillary fold, anterior
The uppermost position of the axillary fold in front.
axillary fold, posterior
The uppermost position of the axillary fold in back.
back waist length
The measurement of the vertical distance from the nape of the neck down to the
waistline. NOTE: Keeping the waistline marked with either elastic or string tied around the
subject’s waist will help to acquire a more accurate back waist length measurement.
band cuff
A piece of fabric in varying widths that is used to finish sleeve hems, as well as facilitate
closures.
bias
A diagonal line across the grain of fabric. True bias is at 45 degrees.
bias bound line
Any edge of a garment that will be finished with a double-folded piece of bias-cut fabric.
bicep circumference
The measurement around the thickest part of your fit-subject’s upper arm, not necessarily
around the actual bicep muscle. With the subject’s arm extended to the side and bent up
90 degrees at the elbow, measure around the thickest part of the arm (between the
shoulder and the actual bicep muscle).
bishop sleeve
A type of sleeve that is set in normally at the armscye and gathered into a cuff or band at
the wrist.
block (pattern)
See sloper.
bodice
A term typically used to denote a woman’s tight-fitting upper garment, it can also refer to
either the upper part of a garment, or a garment for the torso part of the body.
body suit
A full-body garment (such as a spandex unitard) made out of a four-way stretch fabric,
which clings to the body and allows the measurer to view and measure all of the contours
of a fit-subject’s body without the thickness of clothing. Additionally, a measurer can easily
mark important points such as the waist line, chest line, and crotch point line while
measuring, enhancing the accuracy of the measurements.
body type
The relationship of human body shape to body size. Every physical characteristic in a
person’s physique can be a determining factor of his body type, whether it is height,
weight, or lower- to upper-body ratio, as well as the body weight appearance for
individual body parts such as the shoulders, chest, and abdomen.
box pleat
A pleat with a raised portion in the middle and two creases facing each other underneath.
box pocket
A three-dimensional pouch-shaped pocket that can be any size and shape and that can be
placed anywhere on the garment. It either is created with an added inset to make the box
shape, or includes the boxing amount within itself.
buttock protrusion
The most projected point in the buttock, on the fullest part.
cap height (sleeve cap height)
The length from the bicep line to the shoulder tip point (low point of shoulder) on a
sleeve. This number is an inverse relationship to the sleeve cap width, thus increasing or
decreasing the amount of wearing ease in a sleeve.
cap width (sleeve cap width)
The width across the bicep line on a sleeve. This number is an inverse relationship to the
sleeve cap height, thus increasing or decreasing the amount of wearing ease in a sleeve.
casing
A strip of fabric that either is a part of, or is stitched into, a garment, and that typically will
hold a drawstring for giving a garment additional shaping.
chainstitch
A machine-made stitch that uses only one thread, making connected loops on the back
side. Typically used on knit garments, as the stitch can be stretched with the fabric.
chest circumference
Circumference passing through the center point of the sternum. When taking this
measurement, the measurer should stand behind the subject while keeping the measuring
tape parallel to the floor. NOTE: Measuring a man’s chest circumference is different from
measuring a woman’s bust circumference; due to the nature of their somatotype, women
have a bust circumference that is greater than their chest circumference (i.e., area
immediately underneath the bust). However, men have a chest circumference that is
bigger than bust circumference, so for menswear patternmaking, the chest circumference
is used.
classic-fit
Basic garments free from the influence of fashion trends. A classic-fit style refers to a
traditional-style garment with a waistline that is not highlighted, and with an emphasis on
function rather than fashion. The classic-fit style has more ease than the slim-fit style.
collar stand
The lower piece of a collar that, when cut separately from the upper collar piece, adds
stability as well as shaping.
continental pocket
A pocket that is cut away at the top, usually in a curved shape. Used on trousers and
jeans.
convertible collar
A rolled shirt collar that can be worn open with small lapels as a sport collar, or closed
with a button, appearing like a regular shirt collar.
cowl
A large type of collar that can extend almost all the way to the shoulders, and is draped in
circular style.
cowl neck
See cowl.
crease line
The line that is in the center of each pant leg from the hem through the knee, up to the
waistband. Usually pressed into trousers to form a crease.
crew neck
A round neckline, typically finished with a rib knit.
cropped
A style of garment that is cut off or otherwise shortened from its traditional form.
crotch depth
The lengthwise measurement from the pant-waist line down to the crotch point.
crotch point
The lowest vertical point of the torso section of the body (which excludes legs and feet),
between the genitals and buttocks.
cuff
A type of finishing for a sleeve, which usually consists of an extension of fabric that is
either separate and sewed on or turned back and stitched.
cuff height
The lengthwise measurement of a sleeve cuff.
cutting line
On a pattern, the outermost line along the perimeter, which signifies where the fabric
needs to be cut. Usually on the outside edge of seam allowance.
dart
A tapered intake of fabric stitched into a garment that gives it three-dimensional shape.
divided line
On a pattern, a series of dashed lines which indicate that each section is equal in length.
dolman sleeve
A sleeve with a very deep armhole and a narrow and fitted wrist.
double breasted
A conventional type of closure down a garment’s center front, usually overlapping with
two rows of buttons. Both rows of buttons used to be functional closures; however, in
typical garments produced today, only one row of functional while the other is decorative.
double welt
See welt pocket.
drop
The length of a garment’s hem, typically measured at center front.
drop length
To measure down on or from something, such as when lengthening a hem.
ease
On a pattern, a measurement of extra fabric that is meant to bring a certain amount of
fabric into a smaller area without any puckering or gathering. Allows extra fabric to exist
in a garment for movement and comfort.
ease, wearing
The difference in measurement between the circumference of the body and the
circumference of a pattern. The more wearing ease a garment includes, the easier
movement will be for the wearer.
epaulette
A wide, flat band derived from military uniforms, which extends from the shoulder-tip
point along the shoulder seam.
extension
An increase in length or width of any given design element on a garment or garment
pattern. Usually for overlapping closures.
facing
A layer of fabric covering part of a garment and providing reinforcement, which is used to
finish necklines, hems and openings.
facing line
On a pattern, a line that indicates a facing that will have some of the same contour lines
as whatever pattern piece it is drawn on. The pattern is then traced onto, and cut out of a
new piece of paper.
facing, fold-back
A type of facing that is a continuation of the garment fabric, turned back on itself. Though
not always possible for a given garment, this is typically a better alternative to stitched-on
facings, because there are no seams to create unnecessary bulk.
facing, stitched-on
A type of facing that is cut separately from the garment fabric. Used on curved seams or
hems.
faux
Something that is either in imitation of another design element, or false.
finished line
On a pattern, the stitch line that will join two pattern pieces together.
five-point pocket
A type of patch pocket, typically found on the back of jeans, that has a pointed bottom
edge.
flange
An extension of the shoulders over the armhole seam; sometimes made by using a wide
band at the edge.
flap (pocket flap)
A separate piece of fabric that covers a pocket opening.
flat collar
A type of collar that lays smoothly along the bodice with no collar stand.
flat pattern
See patternmaking.
folded line
On a pattern, a double-semicircle symbol that indicates that the pattern is symmetrical
and is meant to be aligned with and cut on the fold of fabric.
french cuff
A sleeve cuff that is folded back on itself and thus is cut twice as long. Fastened with
cufflinks.
grainline
A line on a pattern indicating how it should be oriented on fabric before being cut out.
guideline
On a pattern, a nonpermanent line that can aid the patternmaker in aligning certain
elements, such as creating 90-degree angles.
H.P.S.
High point of shoulder; see shoulder neck point.
height
The lengthwise measurement of a fit-subject, from the top of his head to the floor.
hem
The finished lower edge of a garment or sleeves.
High point of shoulder (H.P.S.)
See shoulder neck point.
hip circumference
Circumference around the point of greatest buttock protrusion; made while keeping the
measuring tape parallel to the floor.
hip curve
A curved ruler for drawing side lines, sleeve lines, and flat-curve lines.
hip pocket
Pocket on the front of pants and skirts. Consists of two separate layers that are sewn
together to create a pouch, which is placed inside the garment. See slant pocket and
continental pocket.
hood
A type of collar on a jacket, coat, or sweatshirt that covers the head and neck, and has an
opening for the face.
inseam pocket
A pocket that is placed along the seam line of a garment, and when worn, is not highly
visible.
inseam length
The lengthwise measurement from the crotch down to the point midway between the
ankle and the floor.
intake (dart, pleat, etc.)
Any amount of fabric that is pleated, darted, tucked, or otherwise controlled that
contributes to the shaping of that fabric.
interfacing
A fabric used to stabilize certain elements of garments, such as collars, cuffs, and plackets,
to create a crisper look. Can be woven, knitted, or web, and can be fusible or sew-in.
interscye length, back
A measurement taken across the upper area of the back, from the uppermost point of the
left posterior axillary fold to the uppermost point of the right posterior axillary fold.
interscye length, front
A measurement taken across the upper area of the chest, from the uppermost point of
the left anterior axillary fold to the uppermost point of the right anterior axillary fold.
inverted pleat
The reverse side of a box pleat; a pleat that has two creases facing each other with a
raised portion in the middle.
jean pocket
A type of pocket with a curved opening seen on blue jeans. See continental pocket.
jersey
A specific type of knit which is knitted in a plain stitch without a recognizable rib.
kangaroo pocket
An extra-large pouch-type pocket on the center-front of a garment that typically
resembles a kangaroo pouch.
knit
A type of fabric that is made of interlocking loops of yarn.
L-square
A straight-edged ruler at a 90-degree angle; used for drawing perpendicular lines
L.P.S.
low point of shoulder; see shoulder tip point.
lapel
The turned-back front section of a jacket, coat, or shirt where the collar is joined.
lapel collar
See lapel.
line overlap
On a pattern, a symbol indicating that there are two pattern pieces that are sitting on top
of each other and need to be separated, and that one will need to be traced onto a
different piece of paper in order to be cut out.
lining
An additional layer of fabric that is attached to the interior of a garment in order to
conceal seams.
lockstitch
A machine-made stitch that involves two threads: one fed through a tension disk and a
needle, the other from a bobbin. Typically used on woven fabrics.
low point of shoulder (L.P.S.)
See shoulder tip point.
mandarin collar
A type of standing collar that does not touch at center front and typically has curved
edges.
master pattern (sloper)
See sloper.
match and combine
On a pattern, a double-semisquare symbol that indicates that the pattern should be
aligned along the existing seam line to its counterpart (for example, a shoulder seam will
have a match-and-combine symbol when creating a yoke).
measurement indication
On a pattern, a number or line that tells the sewer the specific amount of ease or
gathering that needs to be taken in or out of a seam while stitching.
midpoint
A point on any given line that is equidistant from both ends.
military-style
A type of garment with design elements such as epaulettes, shoulder flanges, and patch
pockets that are derived from the uniforms commonly worn by officers and soldiers.
moto-style
A type of garment with design elements such as a standing collar or stitching details that
are derived from the protective jackets commonly worn by motorcycle riders.
muslin
A non-stretch fabric, typically inexpensive plainweave cotton, that is useful for testing
various patterns and designs before selecting a final fabric.
nape
The seventh cervical vertebrae in the back of the neck; where the neck bone protrudes
from the back of the neck.
neck circumference
Measurement of the circumference of the anterior neck, just under the Adam’s apple, to
the nape.
neck, anterior
The connection point between the base of the neck and front center line.
neckline
The contour or shape of an upper body garment along the neck, shoulders, or above the
chest.
notch
A short hash mark on the seam-allowance edge of patterns that indicates to a sewer
where along a seam line pattern pieces need to be matched up.
notched collar
A type of collar which, when sewn, has an open space (or notch) where it is joined with
the lapel.
offset
The distance between one design element and another.
one-way grainline
A grainline marked on a pattern with only one arrow. Indicates that there is only one
direction in which the pattern may be oriented before cutting if the fabric used has a nap,
such as fur, velvet, or a textured fabric.
outseam length
The lengthwise measurement from the pant-waist line down to the point midway between
the ankle and the floor. This is equal to the crotch depth plus the inseam length.
overlock
A machine-made stitch that creates a series of loops around the seam allowance to not
only stitch the fabric together but also keep it from fraying. Typically used on knit fabrics,
as the looped stitches allow the fabric to stretch.
oxford
A style of shirt that includes a sport collar, a tailored placket, and usually a patch pocket
on the front left panel. This style of shirt gains its name from oxford cloth, the type of
fabric from which it is usually cut.
pant-waist circumference
The measurement of a fit-subject’s torso that crosses over the belly button and is parallel
to the floor.
patch pocket
A pocket that is stitched to the outside of a garment.
patternmaking
A process that converts a rectangular piece of fabric to a form useful for human needs,
and that gives shape to a design.
perpendicular
At an angle of 90 degrees to a given line.
Peter Pan collar
A type of flat collar with rounded edges.
pin tucks
Series of small tucks that are stitched down and pressed to one side.
placket
An opening or slit in a garment that enables the wearer to put on and take off the
garment; usually covered or bound with a band of fabric for reinforcement.
pleat
A non-stitched fold of fabric in a garment. Indicated on patterns with a set of symmetrical
diagonal lines and arrows pointing to the direction in which the fabric should be folded.
pointed placket
A type of placket for garments that have no seam line at center front. These designs are
often seen on polo shirts or T-shirts.
polo
A type of knit shirt with a placket neckline and a collar and usually with short sleeves.
princess line (princess seam)
Basic style of garment that has multiple continuous vertical panels which are shaped to
the body, but have no waistline seam.
raglan sleeve
A sleeve that extends to the neckline, set in by seams slanting from the front and back
underarm.
reflect
To mirror (make a copy of) a line, shape, or pattern over a certain axis.
rib knit
Type of knitted fabric that shows alternate lengthwise rows of ribs and wales on both
sides.
rotational amount
The distance that the non-stationary point of a line has been rotated.
safari-style
A style of African-inspired coat or jacket that usually includes lapels, a buttoned center-
front closure, and box/cargo type pockets.
sailor collar
A type of flat collar with a large hanging square piece in the back and long pointed front
edges that are worn tied into a knot.
seam allowance
The area on a pattern or fabric between the finished (stitch) line and the cutting line.
shawl collar
A rounded collar without lapels, which is cut as a part of the bodice pattern (in one piece),
with a seam in the center back.
shoulder length
The measurement of the length from the shoulder neck point (high point of shoulder, or
H.P.S.) to shoulder tip (low point of shoulder, or L.P.S.).
shoulder pads
A shaped wad of material sewn into the shoulder of a garment to add bulk and shape.
shoulder neck point
A point on the body where the neck meets with the shoulder. On upper-body patterns,
the shoulder neck point, or high point of shoulder, is typically the topmost point, and the
point from which the length of hems are measured.
shoulder tip point
A point on the body where the shoulder bone ends. On a pattern it is the lowest point of
the shoulder seam where the shoulder meets with the armhole.
single-breasted
A conventional type of closure down a garment’s center front, usually overlapping with
only one row of buttons.
single welt
See welt pocket.
slant pocket
A pocket with a straight but angled opening that is cut away on the top layer, usually used
on trousers.
slash and spread
The process of cutting a pattern along a line (slash) and opening one end (spread) while
keeping the other intact. This method is typically used for dart manipulation and to add
fullness in a garment, but it can also be used to reduce fullness.
slashing
See slash and spread.
sleeve cap
The topmost part of a sleeve; essentially includes all the elements above (and including)
the bicep line.
slim-fit
A style of garment that emphasizes the slender waistline of the body, and is snug and
form-fitting.
slope (shoulder slope)
The angle that is created from the measurement difference of the high point of shoulder
to the low point of shoulder.
sloper
A basic pattern that does not contain design elements for developing various items of
clothing. Also referred to as a basic pattern, block, or a master pattern.
somatotype
See body type.
sport collar
Any variation of a standing collar that is not meant to be worn with a necktie.
spreading
See slash and spread.
stadium (varsity) style
A style of jacket or upper-body garment that is boxy in shape, with stripes on the sleeves
and usually a school emblem on the chest. Adopted by general sportswear from the style
of jackets that were given to high-school varsity sports team members.
standing collar
A collar that stands up around the neck and buttons in center front.
sternum
The connection point that is midway between where the third and fourth ribs meet the
vertical center line of the body. It is near the midpoint of the nipple line.
stitch line
On a pattern, a line that can indicate top stitching, or a finished line.
stroller jacket
A semiformal style of suit jacket, similar to a tuxedo, with satin lapels and a peaked collar.
style line
Any type of line or curve in a garment that has a visual effect. Typically manifested as
seam lines.
tailored placket
A type of placket that is either bound with a separate band of fabric or folded back and
stitched to create a reinforced edge.
top collar
The upper part of a jacket collar, which connects to the lapel.
top stitch
Machine stitching that is visible on the right side of fabric.
torso sloper
A sloper for upper-body garments.
track pants
A type of warm-up pant with stripes down the side seam, which is typically made from a
heavy knit fabric. Usually worn over a uniform by athletes or as loungewear.
true
To redraw or smooth a line to achieve the desired shape.
tuck
A stitched or non-stitched fold or turn of fabric in a garment. Indicated on patterns with a
set of diagonal lines and an arrow pointing to the direction in which the fabric should be
folded.
tuck
Folds of fabric, similar to pleats, which can be stitched down.
tuxedo-style
A conventional style of shirt that is usually white in color with long sleeves, a pin-tucked
front, wing collar, and French cuffs. Typically worn to formal events with a tuxedo jacket
and a bow-tie.
two-piece sleeve
A type of sleeve for suits, which is cut in two separate pieces to allow shaping for a bend
at the elbow.
under sleeve
One half of the two-piece sleeve—the underpart of the arm. Includes shaping for a bend
at the elbow.
upper sleeve
One half of the two-piece sleeve—the top part of the arm. Includes shaping for a bend at
the elbow.
upper sloper
See torso sloper.
V-neck
A neckline that is cut down the center front into a distinct point, creating a ‘V’ shape.
vent placket
A type of placket opening that does not extend through the length of the fabric and is
bound.
waist circumference
The measurement around the waist passing through the points of lateral waist, anterior
waist, and posterior waist.
waist, anterior
A marked point that is the height of the lateral waist in center of the front.
waist, lateral
In front view, the most slender place in the contours of the torso.
waist, posterior
A marked point that is the height of the lateral waist in center of the back.
waistband
A strip of fabric that finishes the waistline of a garment, such as a skirt, trousers or jeans.
welt pocket
An inset pocket that is bound or finished by an upstanding welt. Also can refer to a bound
pocket, which is a slit pocket with two finished edges, resembling a bound buttonhole.
Western-style shirt
A type of garment that was originally worn by cowboys in the American West.
Characterized by a convertible collar, pockets in front, and a curved, V-shaped yoke in
front as well as the back of shirts.
windbreaker
A style of jacket with a zipper down the center front, close-fitting waistband and cuffs, as
well as an attached hood. Typically made of a lightweight nylon fabric.
wing collar
A tailored shirt collar with spread points, or a stiff standing collar with turned-down points
in front, for formalwear.
wing cuff
A pointed single cuff with no overlap stitched to the sleeve and closed with one or more
buttons.
woven
A type of fabric that is made of interlacing yarns with each other at a 90-degree angle.
wrist circumference
The measurement around a fit-subject’s wrist, which crosses over the wrist bone.
yoke
The portion of a garment across the shoulders in either the front or back, or a portion of a
lower-body garment, such as a skirt or jeans, which is usually a lined, separate piece of
fabric that is seamed in.
Bibliography
Page Range: 467
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Calasibetta, Charlotte Mankey, and Phyllis Tortora. The Fairchild Dictionary of Fashion,
third edition (New York: Fairchild Publications, 2003).
Kim, Injoo, and Mykyoung Uh. Apparel Making in Fashion Design (New York: Fairchild
Publications, 2002).
Knowles, Lori A. The Practical Guide to Patternmaking for Fashion Designers: Menswear
(New York: Fairchild Publications, 2006).
MacDonald, Nora M., and Ruth E. Weibel. Principles of Flat Pattern Design (Englewood
Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1988).
Richardson, Keith. Designing and Patternmaking for Stretch Fabrics (New York: Fairchild
Books, 2008).
Zamkoff, Bernard, and Jeanne Price. Basic Pattern Skills for Fashion Design, second
edition (New York: Fairchild Books, 2006).