Have you ever tried your hand at pattern drafting? As 2017 ended, a few of my friends from the Instagram Sewing Community decided to get together (virtually) and work through Cal Patch’s book, Draft It Yourself Clothes: Patternmaking Simplified.

The basic concept of the book is to create a basic pattern (skirt, t-shirt, woven shirt, pants and dress) that fits you perfectly. After getting the basic pattern right, you then use Cal Patch’s instructions to draft different styles using the basic pattern as your starting point. It’s amazing how many options you can get out of one good pattern!

Up first is the Basic Skirt. I haven’t worn an a-line skirt in years, but I was pleasantly surprised at the flexibility offered by separates.

I am usually drawn to neutrals and really loved this linen-colored drapey fabric with black and white dot trails randomly strewn about. This fabric actually has a red flower border print on one side but I didn’t use that part in my skirt. Any woven fabric would work well but I’d go for something with polyester blended in if you’re trying to avoid wrinkling.

The Draft It Yourself Clothes book walks you through taking your measurements and drafting the skirt pattern for your exact body. When you draft your own patterns, you can draw in the length, fit and design features you prefer! That’s reason enough to rejoice, but you’ll want to stay tuned to future posts to see how easily this pattern can be transformed into very different styles.

If you’re new to pattern drafting, TheFabricMarket.com is a wonderful place to shop. Their great prices take the stress out of choosing fabrics for trial garments and leave you plenty of room for practice.

If you’d like to learn to make your own patterns or brush up on sewing techniques, be sure to visit my website, MadeByJaime.com to get info on upcoming local sewing classes!