Introductory Pattern Making
This class combines theory with hands-on practice. You'll learn how to draft patterns from body measurements, understand how flat 2D patterns are transformed into well-fitting 3D garments and gain the skills to create designs that are uniquely your own.
Enrol Now For Term 3 〰️ Starting 6 July 2026 〰️
Enrol Now For Term 3 〰️ Starting 6 July 2026 〰️
What You’ll Learn
Take accurate body measurements
Draft basic pattern blocks from measurements
Understand pattern-making principles and terminology
Create shape through pattern manipulation
Develop skirts, bodices and sleeves
Understand garment fit and balance
Modify simple pattern designs
Build confidence creating your own patterns
Suitable for beginners, with no prior pattern making experience required.
What to Expect
Our courses are held in our Pymble studio on Sydney's North Shore, with morning, afternoon, full-day and evening options available Monday through Saturday.
You'll work at your own pace with support from experienced tutors, building confidence through hands-on projects and individual feedback.
Whether you're interested in creating custom clothing, improving garment fit or exploring fashion design, you'll gain the confidence to draft, modify and develop your own patterns for future sewing and creative projects.
Duration: 11 weeks | 33–38.5 hours of guided tuition (3–3.5 hours per week, with special pricing available for full-day classes)
Course Fees: From $919–$1,079 per term
(approximately $28–$29 per teaching hour)
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Introductory Pattern Making | Course Summary
This course is based on our professional program and is taught in modules that are designed to build your on your skills as your ability to handle more complex garments increases.
Pattern making uses blocks which are base patterns for garments including skirts, bodices, dresses and pants. At CAFA, we specialise in couture sewing which uses a snug fitting block that is enlarged depending on the garment to be made. This style of block development suits dressmakers undertaking custom work.
For those wanting to undertake commercial work, and are only designing in specific size ranges, the blocks can be adjusted to be more specialised and include base fittings and features such as collars, sleeves and cuffs.
A pattern is not considered complete until a sample is sewn and the pattern tested for fit. Students have the option to learn commercial, high end, ready to wear or couture sewing techniques while undertaking the pattern making course. Those learning couture techniques will also be taught the pattern making skills to design the underpinnings associated with couture dressmaking.
The first module is designed to give you enough skills to start pattern making your own designs whilst simultaneously learning how to tackle more complex garments taught in the later modules.
Module 1
Basic blocks for skirts, bodice and pants
Pattern alteration methods for skirts: tapered, A-line, high and low waisted, gored, pleated, wrapped, bubble, circle and cascade skirts
Bodice enlargement and style chansges using dart manipulation
Basic shirts and bodice variations
Strapless, contouring or close-fitting garments
Necklines, collars and sleeve variations
Pants and trousers
Module 2
Dresses and wimple evening wear
Shirt and blouse variations using advanced techniques
Unstructured jackets
Capes and hoods
Module 3
Stretch fabric pattern making techniques
Stretch tops, pants, dresses and unstructured coats
Lingerie and swimwear
Corsetry
Exercise wear
Module 4
Jacket pattern making
Coat pattern making
Module 5
Introductory draped pattern making
Module 6
Draped pattern making for eveningwear and bridal