Brian body block: Sewing Instructions

NOTE
Brian is a block, not a pattern

A block is a basic shape on which other patterns are based. They are sometimes also called slopers, although purists will argue that a block and a sloper are different things.

Blocks are typically not made as-is but rather serve as a basis for other patterns so the instructions below will not go in depth about closures or finishes and are for the default Brian block.

Step 1: Mock-up Construction

  • Sew the front to the backs at the shoulders .
  • Matching notches, sew the sleeves to the shoulder .
  • Sew the side seams .
NOTE

You may need to leave the bottom of sleeve side seams open to put the garment on.

TIP

If you are making adjustments you may wish to sew the seams wrong sides together to make them easier to adjust.

Step 2: Try it on

  • Try it on and check the fit by pinning the back closed whilst wearing it.
  • Make any alterations and try it on again.
  • Repeat until you are happy.
TIP

If you do not have someone to help with pinning, you may find it easier to cut the front part in two with seam allowance rather than on a fold and sew the back seam up so that you can pin in the front when trying on.

Keep an eye out for anything you keep doing whilst wearing the mock-up, are you pulling it down? Constantly adjusting the shoulder? etc. Things like these are signs of where the pattern may need adjusting.

Sometimes you may need to wear the mock-up for an extended amount of time to get a better sense of the fit so don’t be afraid to walk around in it for a couple of hours.

NOTE

Remember to treat Brian as a basis rather than a final product, so adjust what you need to get the desired look.
For instance:

  • Change the neck line
  • Add/change the closure allowances
  • Add a collar

It is all up to you! Experiment and go forth!

Step 3: Make a paper pattern

  • Once happy with all your changes unpick your mockup and make a paper pattern based off of it.
  • Now you have a pattern you can use to produce a garment.
NOTE

It is best practice to make a paper pattern from the mock-up if you have made any alterations, as this will allow you to clean up any lines but also means you have a pattern that you can keep producing garments from.

Brian body block: Required MeasurementsBrian body block: What You Need