ISBN-13: 978-9865680688 (Use the bold numbers to search the ISBN)
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I like to recommend this book but it is not available in English format. I am recommending it because you don’t really need to know how to read Chinese to actually use it. I found this book while shopping in Hong Kong a few years ago. The instructions were quite intuitive and simple to follow, especially I can’t read much Chinese. Available in books 1, and 2. This book covers everything a beginner needs to know about pattern cutting and construction. The book is on the larger size and a little heavy since it has over 221 pages. The cover is paper back. It comes with coloured photographs with step by step instructions. The diagrams are easy to follow. The layout is spacious and not packed with too much information in one space.
The book uses Bunka pattern drafting technique, it shows you how to draft the basic bodice, sleeve, skirt, and trouser blocks. Using this you will then draft other patterns from it. The book covers some tools you will need to basic construction and sewing techniques used to produce these garments, great if you want to make the garments and not just drafting the patterns. The designs range from simple to more popular styles such as the use of hoods, fastenings, elasticated cuffs and waistbands so you can mix and match techniques to create your own design.
I find book 2 is more refine compared to book 1, also because some of the drafting instructions for the blocks have been altered since book 2 came out. I would say just buy book 2 if you can’t decide which one to have. Book 1 contains simple designs compared to book 2. This book is great for students learning to pattern cut for the first time. I can’t say much about the technical language used since I can’t really read the text. I did try google translate just to compare to what I thought what it was saying but I gave up after a bit. I can genuinely say, I didn’t really need the text to draft any of the patterns since the diagrams were very clear and informative. For the pattern cutter, it is a great book for brushing up your skills with new techniques or just reference for garment construction. I did noticed a few designs similar to Pattern Magic in here. Although it doesn’t have many challenging designs, I still feel it is a great book to have. It was around $150 HK dollars or this book. That’s a really good price for a pattern cutting book. The only downside I have with this book is, if you have greasy fingers, I find it is easily marks on the black pages, which isn’t many.
I hope I have given you some ideas on which books to buy when starting off pattern cutting. Pattern cutting can be very frustrating at first but after a while you will start to realise how it relates to the body, and how you can make a 2D pattern fit on a 3D body. By understand this, you will be able to create designs and styles to fit on the body. It is also useful to have some proper pattern cutting equipment to make your pattern cutting experience more enjoyable. I actually find drafting patterns really rewarding and satisfying when you have the right equipment.
If you are looking for more advance books on pattern cutting, then check out my next review on my pattern cutting books for intermediate to advance level.
Happy Pattern Cutting!
Shan x
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