Pattern Magic: Stretch Fabrics

by Tomoko Nakamichi

Pattern Magic is the cult pattern–cutting book from Japan. Taking inspiration from nature, from geometric shapes and from the street, this book harnesses the sheer joy of making and sculpting clothes. Pattern Magic takes a creative approach to pattern cutting, with step–by–step projects for fashion designers and dressmakers to enjoy.

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 toiles and the finished garments. These easy–to–follow illustrations and detailed instructions make it easy to create stunning, sculptural clothes with a couture look.

• Step–by–step projects for fashion designers and dressmakers – with clear diagrams and photographs.
• Gives all the basic information needed to start pattern from the basic block to measurements and scaling.
• Easy–to–follow, detailed instructions make it easy to create stunning, sculptural clothes with a couture look

Reviews for Pattern Magic :

'The feeling of figuring the puzzle out makes this book series a joy to explore' House of Pinheiro

'If you've mastered the basics of pattern cutting, have caught the bug and are eager to experiment with complex 3d designs, you should definitely take a look at Pattern Magic' Tilly And The Buttons Blog

'I've had an explosion of inspiration, and I'm not even an expert in sewing!… I'm sure that many of you, fashion designers or not, can learn a lot from these tutorials' ImaginativeBloom.com



Part 1: Creating form through

Accents, Gathered hole, Crater, The drop hole, Lumps and bumps

Part 2: Making patterns for haute couture

Draped design, The twist, Hide and seek, Interwoven design, Bamboo shoot, The knot, Two distinct expressions, An intriguing curve, Bunka–style sloper (block) for an adult woman, Bunka–style sloper (block) for an adult woman (Size M) (half–scale)

Genres: Sewing, Fashion, Nonfiction, Design, Crafts, Fashion Design

104 pages, Paperback

First published March 21, 2012

About the author

After serving many years as a professor at Bunka Fashion College, Ms. Nakamichi currently delivers lectures and holds courses on design making, both in Japan and overseas.

Reviews

[Ligaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last and fourth volume in the "Pattern Magic" series by Tomoko Nakamichi. The designs in here are fantastical, weird, and brilliant all at the same time. I don't know that I'd make a one, but it sure is a mind twist to figure how these shapes stitch together in the end. Clear and professional photography and concise step-by-steps text. Every sewist should take a look.

[Katie Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great challenge to visualize and understand how Nakamichi transforms a simple block (i.e. knit shirt pattern). I look forward to manipulating blocks using a similar technique after trying out some of these patterns for myself!

[L · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting info but the designs are too out there for everyday wear. I didnt find the designs attractive.

[Aris John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have this one in Japanese.
For those who can pattern, you don't really need an english translation. Ü

[Maer · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING - Love EVERYTHING I learned!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very cool patterns presented in a fun and unique way!

[Smiley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although interesting and creative, I found most of the patterns in this book impractical for real life.