Usefulbox Sewing School
Beginner

Patternmaking: Skirt Block

Ready to move beyond commercial patterns?

Patternmaking: Skirt Block
4 hours
Max 5 students
Level 1, 39–43 Shepherd St, Marrickville

In this hands-on three-part workshop, you'll learn the foundations of patternmaking by drafting a custom skirt block using your own measurements.

A skirt block is the foundation of countless skirt styles — and an essential tool for anyone wanting to understand fit, alter patterns with confidence, or start designing their own garments.

By the end of the two sessions, you'll walk away with a personalised skirt block and at least a simple A-line skirt pattern ready to cut and sew.

SKILL LEVEL --> INTERMEDIATE

Have completed a beginner sewing course Have sewn a few garments Curious about patternmaking and design

Why you'll love this course

Finally understand how patterns are made
Draft a block that fits YOUR body
Small group with personalised guidance (4–5 students)
Walk away with something genuinely useful for future sewing
A relaxed, welcoming studio atmosphere

What you will learn

Taking accurate body measurements and understanding ease
Drafting a basic skirt block from scratch
Creating waist darts and hip shaping
Understanding grainlines, pattern symbols and seam allowances
Truing seams and walking your pattern
Making a toile assessment and refining your fit
Turning your block into a simple A-line skirt pattern with pockets

Class format

3 x 4-hour Saturday afternoon sessions (fortnightly)
4–5 students per class
Step-by-step guided instruction
Plenty of time for questions and practice

What's included

Patternmaking paper and all drafting tools (including ruler), to share
Toile fabric for your assessment
Patternmaking notes and reference sheets to take home
Tea and coffee throughout

What to bring

Notebook
Lunch and snacks

Your teacher

Sheena Lee

Sheena Lee

Sheena has 40+ years in the fashion industry, from design to bridal and patternmaking. She studied at RMIT University and has taught at TAFE. She loves helping students create beautifully fitted, timeless garments with confidence.

Patternmaking - Skirt block

8 August – 5 September·3 sessions

Full Term

3 sessions

8 August – 5 September

5 spots available

with Sheena Lee

$380

Level 1, 39–43 Shepherd St, Marrickville

Access via stairs only