Unit 4: Introduction to draping
Pattern Making and Draping notes · PTU syllabus (BSTD 501-20)
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Unit summary
Draping shapes fabric directly on a form. This unit explains the fundamentals of the draping technique and its process.
After this unit you can
- List tools and preparation for draping
- Follow the draping process
- Compare draping with flat pattern making
PTU syllabus topics
Draping technique and process fundamentals
- 1
Prepare the dress form
Tape style lines
- 2
Prepare muslin
Grain lines marked
- 3
Pin to the form
Keep grain straight
- 4
Shape and trim
- 5
Mark seam lines
- 6
Transfer to paper pattern
Topic 1
Tools and preparation
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Dress form | Body shape for fitting and draping |
| Muslin | Inexpensive trial fabric |
| Pins, tape, chalk | Securing and marking |
| Style tape | Marks style lines on the form |
| Scissors, ruler, curve | Cutting and truing |
Topic 2
Draping fundamentals
Draping (moulage) is creating a design by pinning fabric on a dress form. It suits complex, flowing and asymmetric designs.
- 1
Prepare the form and mark style lines
- 2
Prepare muslin with straight grain marked
- 3
Pin and drape fabric
- 4
Mark seams and darts
- 5
Remove and true
- 6
Cut final fabric
Method
3-D on the form
2-D drafting with measurements
Best for
Evening wear, cowls, drapes
Basic garments, mass production
Speed
Slower
Faster once blocks exist
Key terms
- Draping
- Shaping fabric on a form
- Muslin
- Cotton used for trial drapes
- Dress form
- Body shape for fitting
- Style line
- Marked design line on the form
- Grain
- Thread direction in fabric
Quick revision
- Draping is done in 3-D on a dress form.
- Use muslin first, mark grain.
- Suited to complex flowing designs.
Important exam questions
Practice questions written to the PTU exam pattern for this unit's syllabus: short answers (Section A style) and long answers (Sections B and C style).
Short-answer questions
- Q1.What is draping?
- Q2.Why use muslin?
- Q3.Name two draping tools.
Long-answer questions
- Q1.Explain the steps in draping and compare it with flat pattern making.
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