Description:
This hands-on course guides students through the process of drafting a custom knit bodice sloper with sleeve from personal measurements. Beginning with an introduction to knit fabrics and proper measurement techniques, students will construct a fitted bodice sloper and sleeve, make test garments, evaluate fit, and transfer any adjustments back to their patterns. Students will then grade their finished slopers across all five stretch categories — minimal, moderate, very stretchy, super stretchy, and four-way stretch — creating a comprehensive personal pattern library that serves as the foundation for designing tops, dresses, jackets, and sweaters.
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Identify and classify knit fabrics by stretch category and understand how stretch percentage affects pattern drafting.
Take accurate body measurements necessary for drafting a custom fitted sloper.
Draft a knit bodice torso sloper from personal measurements using correct drafting techniques.
Construct and evaluate a test garment, identifying fit issues and determining appropriate corrections.
Transfer fitting adjustments from a test garment to a working pattern accurately.
Draft a basic knit sleeve and test its fit in relation to the bodice armhole.
Balance the armhole and sleeve cap ratio to achieve proper sleeve fit and mobility.
Grade a bodice torso sloper and sleeve into all stretch categories: minimal, moderate, very stretchy, super stretchy, and four-way stretch.
Produce a complete personal sloper set suitable for use as the foundation for a wide range of knitwear designs.
Supplies:
Tape measure
Ruler and square, or gridded transparent ruler at least 18” long (here’s an example - see the 2” X 18” size)
Drafting curve (here’s Lynda’s favorite)
Paper for drafting (available in art or office supply stores, just make sure it’s at least 36” wide and copy paper weight)
Scotch tape
Pencils and erasers (colored pencils as well)
Pins
3 yards medium weight ponte, or other stable knit
About Lynda's Classes
DURATION: Lynda's classes meet weekly for 4-weeks ($200), 6-weeks ($250) or 8-weeks ($295).
ONLINE/ZOOM: Each 1 1/2 meeting is live, on Zoom and all class meetings are recorded. The link to the recording is sent out at the end of each class and it is available to students for 8 weeks. All class times are noted for Pacific Standard Time (PST).
INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS: As part of each class, Lynda also shows instructional videos, which students will have access to after class. These links do not expire
CLASS SIZE: 8 students in Finish It!, 12 students in classes that include fitting, and 15 students in all other classes
OFFICE HOURS: Lynda will hold office hours once a week. Details will be sent as classes are about to begin.
INSTRUCTOR ACCESS: You'll have access to Lynda during class and in our weekly office hour, your best to ask questions and get hands-on help. If you run into something that can't wait, Lynda is still available by email between classes.
PRIVATE LESSONS: Private online lessons are also an option if you'd like more personalized guidance.