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Sewing - Block Pattern Making - Dresses

Course code: P02782

Subject area: Homecrafts

Study level: Part Time

Course level:

Course details

Course time:

10:00 - 16:00

Days of week:

Saturday

Course date:

13th Jun 2026 - 13th Jun 2026

Course location:

Cheney School

Contact details

Email:

enquiries@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

Phone:

01235 555 585

Apply for this course
"This course covers all aspects of flat pattern cutting to enable you to draft a dress block using your body measurements. You will make and fit a toile and learn pattern adaptations and how to draft style lines to get the latest look for your design.
NB. You will need to have completed the bodice block course and bring the draft and toile to this session."
"During this course you will take body measurements and use these measurements to draft a dress block from your bodice block. A toile is made, and the fit checked before a dress pattern is cut of your chosen design.1. Drafting the dress block.2. Fitting of the toile and adjustments.3. Pattern adaptations exercises. 4. Dress design and fashion trends.5. Cut the pattern for your chosen design.6. Your previously drafted bodice and sleeve block7. Your bodice and sleeve toile

(Do not buy any materials until your course is confirmed as running.) Sewing machines are available but you are welcome to bring your own. Items to bring with you: A4 Ring binder and 12 plastic sleevesA4 lined and plain paperPaper gluePen and HB pencil/rubber/sharpener and coloured pencils.Calculator.Set square/metre rule (if you have one)Sellotape/stapler/stapler remover (tutor can provide)2 metres of medium weight calicoPlain pattern paper (can be purchased from tutor)Fashions curves (if you have them)Please collect ideas/suggestions for dresses cut out from magazines

Your basic sewing equipment:Specialist pattern cutting equipment and books will be made available by the tutor for use during the course."

What next?
You will be able to use the skills, knowledge and techniques you have learnt and apply them to drafting more advanced blocks and patterns. It is possible to enrol on other block courses or sign up for a Dressmakers Improvers course.
Entry criteria
This course is only suitable for learners who have successfully completed the Bodice Block courses. As the bodice block is required for the dress block
Fee information
Additional costs: (a) Pre-prepared paper for the draft £2 payable at the first session. (b) Spare pattern paper £1 per metre, and (c) medium calico £4.80 per metre. (Also available to purchase from the tutor)

As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 216 400 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

19+ Fee:

£57.60

19+ Reduced Fee:

£28.80

Learning & method assessment
As this is a not accredited informal methods of assessment will be used, such as, observations, self-assessment, question & answer, practical exercises and 1:1s with the tutor.
To track your progress and achievement you will be required to complete a short document.

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