Learn more about creative Japanese pattern drafting
Try our Japanese draped top pattern and learn about the publications you can buy to improve your draping skills
Have you heard of the Drape Drape books by Hisako Sato? There are three amazing books in the pattern cutting series from the Bunka Fashion College in Japan, school of Yohji Yamamoto. Each book includes fashionable and achievable designs, with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and diagrams that guide the reader through the draping process. With a folded pattern at the back, this book provides inspiring ideas and highly practical techniques for anyone wanting to learn about draping.
Style number four in the fantastic Drape Drape 2 book is an amazing one-piece design with scoop-neck asymmetric side. We're offering you this pattern totally free so you can dip your toes into this creative technique! Find the download here!
Take a look inside book number three to see more of the projects by this talented author. If you're looking to create eye-catching sculptural designs then perhaps the Pattern Magic series by Tomoko Nakamichi. The Pattern Magic series features four books that take a creative approach to pattern cutting, with step-by-step projects for fashion designers and dressmakers to enjoy. This book looks at creating interesting surfaces, optical illusions and curved shapes through pattern cutting. All the basic information you need to start pattern cutting is included, from the basic block to measurements and scaling. Each project is beautifully illustrated with clear diagrams and photographs showing the stages of construction, the muslins (toiles) and the finished garments. These easy-to-follow illustrations and detailed instructions make it easy to create stunning, sculptural clothes.