How to Draft a Shawl Collar Pattern
Shawl collars have been a timeless fashion staple, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to various garments. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sewist, mastering the art of drafting a shawl collar pattern can elevate your sewing skills and allow you to create custom clothing with ease. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of drafting a shawl collar pattern, ensuring that your finished product is both beautiful and functional.
Understanding the Shawl Collar
Before diving into the drafting process, it is crucial to understand the basics of a shawl collar. A shawl collar is characterized by its wide, draped design, which is often adorned with a stand-up collar. It is typically attached to the garment at the neck edge and extends downwards, creating a soft and flowing effect. Shawl collars can be found on various types of clothing, including blazers, dresses, and coats.
Materials and Tools
To draft a shawl collar pattern, you will need the following materials and tools:
– A piece of paper (preferably 11″ x 17″ or larger)
– A ruler or measuring tape
– A pair of fabric scissors
– A pencil
– A fabric marker or pen
– A straight edge
Step 1: Measure the Collar Width
Start by measuring the desired width of your shawl collar. This measurement will vary depending on your personal preference and the type of garment you are creating. A standard width for a shawl collar is around 4-5 inches. Record this measurement for later use.
Step 2: Measure the Collar Length
Next, measure the desired length of your shawl collar. This measurement should be sufficient to cover the neckline of your garment while allowing for ease of movement. A typical length is around 6-8 inches. Write down this measurement as well.
Step 3: Draft the Collar Shape
Lay your paper flat on a hard surface. Using your ruler, draw a straight line to represent the bottom edge of the collar. From this line, measure and mark the collar width in the center. This will be the widest part of the collar.
Step 4: Create the Collar Slope
From the marked collar width, draw a diagonal line upwards to create the collar slope. The angle of the slope will determine the collar’s drape. For a more pronounced drape, create a steeper angle; for a less pronounced drape, create a gentler angle. Continue drawing the line until it intersects with the straight line representing the bottom edge of the collar.
Step 5: Draft the Stand-Up Collar
Using your ruler, draw a straight line parallel to the bottom edge of the collar, starting from the intersection point of the diagonal line and the bottom edge. This line represents the stand-up collar. The length of this line should be equal to the desired collar length you measured earlier.
Step 6: Connect the Collar Pieces
Using your fabric marker or pen, connect the bottom edge of the collar to the stand-up collar line, creating a continuous shape. This will form the shawl collar pattern.
Step 7: Add Notches and Grading
Add notches to the pattern to indicate the points where the collar will be attached to the garment. Additionally, grade the pattern by gradually increasing the width of the collar as it approaches the stand-up collar.
Step 8: Cut and Transfer the Pattern
Cut out the shawl collar pattern and transfer it onto your desired fabric. Make sure to consider the fabric’s grainline and ensure that the pattern is aligned correctly.
Congratulations! You have successfully drafted a shawl collar pattern. Now, you can use this pattern to create a custom garment that showcases your newfound sewing skills. Happy sewing!
