Why Ease and Movement Matter: The block pattern mistake most pattern cutters make
Why super fitted block patterns are useless -
In my last blog post, I spoke about what a block pattern is and why they're so useful.
But the truth is, I have had so many students come to one of my workshops or 1:1 tuition and bring an overfitted block. One that they spent hours drafting out in a 'pattern making' class, that they can barely move in, and they have zero clue how to use it!
There are a few reasons why this bothers me as a tutor..
4 mistakes you’re making, creating an over-fitted block pattern
1 - Block patterns should still allow you to move and feel comfortable!! It's pointless to make a block that is completely wrinkle-free when standing still in a mirror, but doesn't work when you walk and move and react to life!
2 - Unless you're creating a corset or skin-tight patterns, there's no need for your block to be skin-tight too. The blocks serve as the base for your designs, so if you're creating everyday wear with some ease for movement, then your block should reflect this!
They should be a great starting point, so you don't need to completely rework the fit each time you draft your own design. You can jump straight into getting creative and adding your design details.
3 - They don't teach their students how to use and adapt their block pattern. So you’re left with a pattern that isn't useful! And that’s where all the fun begins.. especially when you start drafting your own designs!
4 - I'm a pattern maker who's worked in the fashion industry for many years, and I rarely create any block patterns completely from scratch..
In fact, when I did as a junior pattern maker, it was so disheartening! I spent hoursss plotting out each measurement, drawing in all the lines and curves, assuming it would fit well because the measurements were right. But it didn't, because it still needed to be fitted!
So instead, I learnt to refine the fit of my block patterns so I could use them repeatedly, adapting them to suit my clients' size range and style.
My advice if you're starting with pattern making..
If you want to develop your pattern making and fitting skills, then my advice is don't waste your time plotting away and drafting a block from scratch. Instead, learn fun pattern-making techniques, get confident sampling, experimenting and learn how to get a good fit - this skill will be much more useful to you!
And if you build these solid foundations, there's no stopping you!
In Fitting Foundations, we'll work with a block pattern that has a small amount of ease built in, and I'll show you how to get a custom fit to suit you and your needs! Plus, you can keep using your fitting skills on all your sewing patterns.
If you're interested in learning about fitting and toiling, so you can feel good in the clothes you sew, then join the waitlist below..
Psst.. being part of the waitlist means you'll get early access with special pricing and bonus goodies when you sign up!
Dates for your diary..
Fitting Foundations runs for 6 weeks, starting on 8th January 2026
Spaces are going live for waitlist only on 27th December.
Waitlist only perks
If you're part of the waitlist, you'll gain access to:
🎉 Early bird price - waitlist only!
🎉 First three people who sign up - receive a free 1:1 online session
🎉 Free bonus workbooks so you can get the most out of your block after the course - including how to use your block to test the fit of your sewing patterns!
If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch!
Alys 💕
