Brian K’s Practical Skills Workshops Series: Reverse Engineering Your Best Fitting Pair of Jeans (Workshop #3)
***This is a 4 part series - it is mandatory to attend all 4 workshops***
Introduction
Participants will learn how to make a pattern by studying an existing pair of jeans. This method preserves the original sample.
Students start by learning how to evaluate a sample to determine how the design and construction impact the shapes of the pattern pieces. They will then make and test a pattern from which they can make a first sample.
What to bring
Choose a pair of jeans based primarily on fit and silhouette. A classic five pocket style works well. Check that the jeans have a straight waistband. A folded top edge indicates that the waistband is straight. If there is a seam on the top edge the waistband may be curved. Plan to work from the same pair for all four workshops.
Materials Fee
A $20 one time fee includes:
straight steel pins
soft drafting paper
manilla hard paper
corrugated cardboard
green or blue painters tape
fabric.
Prerequisite
A basic understanding of sewing and pattern making.
Workshop 3: Checking the pattern against the flat measurements and adding balance notches
Date:November 17, 2026
Supervised drop in Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Workshop Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Location: CUI 312
Format: Lab
Participant # (max): 10 - 15 ppl
Assemble the five basic paper pattern pieces in order to compare them to the original sample.
Adjust the pattern if needed and then learn to add notches at key balance points and add seam allowance.
Cut and machine baste a ½ muslin using Fashion Zone industrial lockstitch machines from fabric covered by the material fee