Welcome to Patternmaking Online!
It is with the greatest pleasure and excitement that I am offering this course to students all over Australia and beyond.
Since starting teaching in 1989, only those students who were in Melbourne have had the opportunity to learn the DKEMEL Patternmaking method, developed by me and inspired by an Italian method, which no longer is available.
The method is a specially designed Ruler to quickly and effectively draft basic blocks, Skirts, Bodices, Pants and Sleeves. The most important step after this is how to develop the pattern and I want to share this with you.
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 What is the DKEMEL Patternmaking method?
The DKEMEL Patternmaking Ruler allows you draw a bodice within 5 seconds. Other methods can take up to 2 hours or more for novices.
The books and Supplementary Manual provide instructions on the pattern development. This stage of patternmaking is the most difficult as you need to know how to allow for ease, how to draw different styles of collars, sleeves, design lines etc. Dragana Edwards has made this easy with her simple, clear diagrams.
Who should be doing this course?
Fashionistas, private dressmakers, home sewers, anyone who loves to sew for themselves, friends, family or private clients. It allows you to draft patterns to individual measurements or using DKEMEL standard sizing. For those who are wanting to design for the mass market, may do so using the DKEMEL standard sizing. The grading is based on European standards of 4cm for bust, waist and hips. Shoulders, necklines and armholes have different grade rules. I do not teach grading.
Recommended Reading: Concepts of Pattern Grading" by Carolyn L Moore, Kathy K Mullet and Margaret Prevatt Young.
What can I learn to draft?
Women's Skirts, Tops (of any kind), dresses, pants, jackets, coats etc. - casual, neat casual and tailored type styles.
Available in sizes: petite to large.
I do not teach evening wear, bridal wear, swimwear, sportswear. Children's or Men's wear.
My expertise is in Women's wear and although I make for my young girls, I do not teach children's wear.
Men's wear is an entirely different cut. I never make for my husband, he does not need much!!
How much does it cost? DKEMEL Patternmaking Ruler, Armhole Curve, 3 Books and Supplementary Manual (PDF to be sent after purchase)
Tape measure
90 days support via email only.
Total cost for DKEMEL Patternmaking kit $159.00 AUD.
What previous experience do I need?
It is recommended that you have basic sewing skills. You need to know basic garment construction, as this will help you understand the terminology. e.g. darts, princess lines, easing etc.
Basic math skills and knowledge of using rulers and/or tape measure for measuring is helpful. Need to know right angles and fractions.
If you have an aptitude for technical drawing, this would be a great advantage.
How long is the course?
As with any skill you learn, there will always be a lot to learn.
The time it takes you to learn my patternmaking will depend on your own aptitude, how much time you spend studying and practising.
I will be offering 90 days support with a purchase of the DKEMEL Patternmaking Kit, thereafter you may choose to pay a $99 annual membership. This will allow you to have your questions answered via email and receive "How to draft" instructions for various designs.
What if I need more help after 90 days?
Yearly membership is available for $99.00 per annum - I will answer your personal questions via email only, within 24 to 72 hours.
"How to Draft" instructions will be available on various designs created by Dragana Edwards. Designs that have been created and stitched to wear, not calicos!!!
What if I want hands-on lessons?
You can either join my regular hands-on Patternmaking Classes if a vacancy exists and you are based in Melbourne. I do keep a waiting list and do advise you promptly on up and coming places.
Or
Sunday Workshops are offered on a regular basis - as advertised on my Home Page, details available on request.
When can I start?
Now, what are you waiting for!! Go to Products -Order here and purchase your DKEMEL Patternmaking Kit.
I am waiting for your order and questions!!
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Long, loose fitting overcoat. Separate collar, one piece sleeve with cuff detail , patch pockets, the new unfinished look.
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Student Testimonials
"I drafted my first real pattern yesterday. I've always been a little apprehensive about drafting. Thank you for making it so easy.
Now I can learn at home without having to go to TAFE and waste time on subjects that don't interest me and I don't have to do any assignments. I am so glad you took the time and effort to write the books and make the ruler."
Julie, Albion Park NSW
“I have successfully drafted and made my first skirt. My husband and daughter went out for the afternoon so they wouldn't be in the firing line. From past sewing experiences I usually end up with the garment in the bin and very frustrated. They came home to a very happy mother and a completed skirt all made in two and a half hours. Yippee. Thanks heaps, from me and my family. I couldn't believe that it fitted me perfectly without any alterations. I am looking forward to my next sewing day and another success.”
Sue, East Doncaster VIC
“WOW!! I can draft my own designs. Thank you so much for all your support over the 90 days. You were very patient and prompt in your responses. Once I compared my measurements with your standard chart and you guided me in some of the queries, I got it!! Your “how to draft’ instructions are great and have helped me with my own ideas. I keep checking your website to see what you have made next and can’t wait for more.”
Diana, Joondalup, WA
“I have tried other patternmaking methods and always found them to tedious. Your ruler has taken out the sweat and pain of drawing the bodice. Thank you for helping me to get started with the actual pattern development. I have been using your “how to draft” instructions to practice on my measurements and I can’t believe how easy it is. I can make my own designs finally!”
Debbie, Brisbane, QLD
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