One good habit I have learnt from my pattern cutting course is to be a perfectionist. I can still hear my tutor’s going, ‘Get everything together before you start making the cake! Get the fit and proportion right before you even start on the style!’ And that is exactly what I am doing.
I wanted to include a well made suit to my portfolio. After all, anyone can make a suit but not everyone can make one that is to die for. So I started with a block pattern, draped it on the stand and adjusted the fit. But alas, this has been going on for ages. I have forgotten how many times I have altered the pattern to make the fit absolutely perfect. And I’m not even there yet. My next toile will be my 3rd. I dare not even think about details such as the lapel style until I get my final toile done first.
I’m surprised why a coat only took me a couple of toile before I had the final pattern but a suit is taking me ages. Anyway, I shall persevere. After all, this pattern block will form the basis for any suit I intend to make in the future. Got to get everything ready before I make my cake!
Stephen Yong 