January through April 2011 Program for City Wide Couture

The Personal Challenge - In January members can declare their personal garment challenge. We will report back to the group through Show and Tell and our blog to share our work in progress and our completed garments.

January 22 - Two Methods to Develop a New Pattern that Really Fits -- Experienced sewers can use several methods for a new pattern design. A perfectly fitted sloper can be used to draft new patterns, or a new commercial pattern can be drape fitted for every garment. A portfolio of well-fitted patterns can be transformed by grafting new elements on to these tried and true patterns. Ginny and Ruta will present the methods with their pros and cons - You pick the best method for yourself.

Afternoon Special: Making a sloper – After class workshop to draft and fit a bodice sloper

February 26 - Darts -- Adding a dart to a bodice can make a garment hang beautifully, making you look slimmer and more attractive. See a demo on adding a side dart to any pattern. A dart will often look better or be a cool design element if it is rotated into a new position. This demo with hands on practice will get you comfortable with rotating your darts to new and flattering locations. Bring scissors, tape and an awl. Leader: Karen

Emergency Hand Sewing Skills – Volunteers will stay for a hands-on program offered to St. Dunstan’s parishioners. This is a “thank you” class for their hospitality and part of our community service.

March 26 - Ties and other closures using cord. At least three techniques for making/creatively using ties and cords to close a garment will be demonstrated. Lois Ericson’s buttonhole edge was a highly ranked item from our ballot. Samples of construction process and garments using the techniques can add to the fun. Martha will lead this program. Who else would like to participate?

After our meeting, the six lucky ones will continue with their second class with Pam Howard on drape fitting their sheath.

April 23 -- Meeting Cancelled
May 28 -- Hand Stitches:  Rolled Hem and Buttonhole

June 25: Using a Croquis to Improve Your Results -- This demonstration with lots of hands on practice will get you used to using a croquis to design an outfit, work out pattern selection, details, and proportions. This is a fun way to solve problems, try out new silhouettes, and improve your results. Bring your croquis (if you don’t have one we will have samples), pencils, sketchbook, tracing paper, and colored pencils. Leader – Jenny

Part II - After program session to shoot the photography for individual croquis.