Drafting Twist Sewing Patterns
One of my favourite details to draft is a twist detail. Not only do twist sewing patterns and details look impressively complex and beautiful, but it’s also super easy to create!
Twists like these, in their most simple form, are just two strips of fabric looped around each other.
We can take that idea and elevate it into more complex designs and sewing patterns by growing the twist onto a bodice or skirt pattern piece, but the basic idea remains the same…it’s two pieces of fabric looped around each other.
Let’s look at some examples of twist sewing patterns and their varying skill levels below.
Twisted Detail
Skill level: Beginner
Pattern:
Partial Bodice Twist
Skill level: Beginner
Pattern:
Waist Dress Twist
Skill level: Intermediate
Pattern:
Full Bodice Twist
Skill level: Intermediate
Pattern:
Every month I pick a topic and deep dive into it over my social media channels.
August’s topic was Twist Sewing Patterns. You can find the full tutorials on my Youtube playlist here, or watch the videos below.
For the mini tutorials and shorter videos head over to my Instagram page.
Draping a Twisted Detail Sewing Pattern
Twist sewing patterns are one of those lovely details that we can create with both flat pattern cutting and draping.
I prefer to create smaller details by draping them over the garment that I want to add them to, and larger garments by using flat pattern cutting.
Draping VS. Flat Pattern Cutting
Draping
- Good for smaller details.
- Useful to drape rather than create flat if your fabric is unusual or tricky to work with.
- Very intuitive and creative.
Flat Pattern Cutting
- I prefer to use it for larger pieces if I need armholes, waists or specific necklines on my pattern.
- It can be quicker if you know your fabric well and how much volume you need to add.
STEP 1:
Mark the twist position onto the block and cut two strips of fabric to drape with.
STEP 2:
Twist the two pieces through each other and pin onto the manneqin
STEP 3:
Define the drape, pin it into place and begin assessing the amount of fullness.
STEP 4:
Unpin the drape and reduce the fullness if needed, on both drapes.
STEP 5:
Repin the drape into place, define all key positions and trim away any excess fabric.
STEP 6:
Mark all key sewing and construction positions onto the drape.
STEP 7:
Remove the drape from the mannequin and trace onto paper to create a pattern.
STEP 8:
Cut out the first toile of the drape and stitch it up, checking the fullness, drape position.
Do You Want More Twist Sewing Inspriation?
Wondering where to get the tools that I've used in this tutorial?
Shoben’s fashion tape is widely used in the industry to help marl positions on the stand, body and drapes You can buy a roll of it here.