5th October 2020

Design

During the pattern cutting workshop this week I improved my pattern so my toile would fit better on the body. Then working with the toile experimented with different pocket and pleat ideas. I began to think that having lots of pleats, waist detail and statement pockets would be too much. Therefore experimented with having large single pleats or having the same pocket shape above the waistband as well as below. Thinking further to the final garment I created a pattern for the pocket detail. This pocket will need to have structure to keep its shape. My tutor suggested the material which makes curtain tie backs stiff, so I researched upholstery interfacing and discovered buckram. I’m also thinking that a felted wool fabric would be best for the main garment as its soft but sturdy enough to keep its shape. I researched a few shops online, John Lewis and the market fabric shop for felted wool. The ones online are suitable but take time to come, whilst the fabric store in the market had very few options. I’m finding it so difficult to figure out where to source fabrics. I feel restricted in the choice, being so used to going into fabric shops in shepherds Bush and Berwick Street nearly every week for fabric research on my previous course. But I’m sure with time I’ll figure out the best places.

---

My first CAD workshop was this week (after mistakenly not going last week). It was so interesting to start learning how to make digital patterns. Confusing at first but I’ll get the hang of it with practice. Generally I don’t enjoy anything digital but It’ll be a great skill to know as many brands use CAD in industry.

---

Research

The ethics workshop today introduced me to the idea of ensuring my work is ethical and safe for both me and others. It made me start to think about what my project proposal may be about. The research lecture also encouraged me to note down some ideas to start. I’m a bit worried as I have no idea really what I want to do and the practice proposal

After this week I’ve also considered doing something about COVID-19, since everything seems to be getting worse again. There’s so much conflict, anger and fear. The track and trace app reminded me of how the government is scrambling to gain control within the chaos. The idea of how we feel the need for order during such a crazy time. With COVID, BLM, Brexit, fake news, political unrest and climate change. The world feels under so much pressure. Maybe I could focus on how the fashion industry is changing or the sense of community and togetherness this time has brought about. I’m not sure, it’s difficult to reflect on these things whilst it’s still happening. But it’s another idea a could consider.