What is a block pattern - and why they’re a game changer..
There are a few things that have been an absolute game-changer for my sewing practice this last year..
1. Consistency - realising that doing things little and often is so much better than waiting for a 'full day of sewing' - cause it never ends up happening how I’d planned.
2. Making space for creative play - allowing time to get lost in making, without too much pressure on an end result.
3. Having a dress block pattern that fits! This is the main thing that's made a big difference - it means if I want to draft a design, I'm ready to go..
So I wanted to dive into block patterns today, looking at what they are and why they're so useful to you - whether you're drafting your own designs or sewing indie patterns.
What is a block pattern?
A block, sloper - they're the same thing!
A block pattern is a base pattern that is the starting point for creating a design. Usually, it has no design features, so it’s like a blank canvas.
Blocks are custom fit to you, or if you're creating a fashion range for others, to your fit model.
They're typically very fitted patterns that almost ‘mold’ to your body. However, I believe this is only the best starting point if you're creating a super-fitted design. And starting with the right amount of ease for you (and the patterns you're likely to wear!) is always more helpful.
Different types of blocks
Over time, you might build a selection of block patterns - a dress block (can be split to be used as a top and skirt), trousers, coat/jacket.
If you have your own fashion brand or you're a pattern designer, you'd likely build up a wider range of patterns based on the popular styles you use each season.
Why working with a block is a game changer..
In industry, we would never create a design, add all the details and then fit it. It just doesn't make sense. We'd start with something that fits well first - our block, and then add the design. So you only spend the time fitting the blocks once, and then when you've added the design, you're just checking for any changes rather than starting from scratch.
I understand that you may not want to always draft your own designs, but you still likely need to fit your sewing patterns! You can use your block pattern as a reference for something that fits you well. And you can learn to become more confident with the fitting skills and adjustments you need, and tweak the styled patterns to fit each time.
Want your own custom dress block?
In Fitting Foundations, we're going to dive into all things fitting.
Gain confidence in the fitting and toiling process so make clothes that fit and feel good, plus you'll end the course with your own custom dress block!
So, not only will you have new fitting skills, but you'll have a block you can use to draft your own design, or to check the fit of your sewing patterns.
The online course is starting in January 2026. If you'd like to join us, spaces are going live for the waitlist only soon..
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
🎉 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!
Eeee, I'm so excited to run this course again! It's been such a joy in the past to see fitting click into place, after years of frustration!
Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions..
Alys 💕
