Things you need to start your garment designing journey
Things you need to start your garment designing journey
Over two years of studying fashion design I have accumulated plenty of tools that I use for designing, sewing and pattern making. Here is a list of useful tools and equipment which will assist you from your very first project:
- Sewing pins - These are necessary while toile making and also during the tailoring process. Mine used to always get lost, so I invested in a little magnetic pin holder which is making my life so much easier now.
- Scissors - Get two kinds of scissors: one you will use only for cutting a fabric (tailoring scissors) and another for cutting paper. Make sure that they are sharp. If you have a chance, before purchasing tailoring scissors double check if they can cut through a range of fabric weights with ease.
- Drawing tools - During the course you will need to constantly save your ideas in a sketchbook. For that you can use stuff like: markers, pens, pencils, crayons and charcoal etc. It’s really whatever works best for you and what creative medium you prefer to use. However it is good to have some variety, and to try new techniques from time to time
- Pattern master - Pattern master is an essential tool while working on the pattern of your garment. It is usually used to draw seam allowances, to establish 45 or 90 degree angles, or to shape armholes and measure curves.
- Tape measure - It is an absolutely essential tool for sewing, I cannot imagine sewing a garment without constantly measuring everything.
- Magazines - It is actually one thing I wish I had known before I started my course: collect old magazines and papers. Especially in first year we are doing lots of collaging. It is a really fun and easy way to design, discover new shapes or to illustrate.
When you have the correct tools and equipment, your practice should be trouble-free and pleasant, and who doesn't want that during busy times and before the deadlines!
