Master the Bodice Block - Learn to fit patterns that work perfectly for you
There's nothing I love more than helping people achieve a perfect fit, and the ideal starting point is learning to fit a bodice block.
I'm delighted to offer this opportunity to get you started on your pattern-making journey and equip you with skills you'll use for every garment you create.
What You'll Learn
✓ Take precise measurements and make basic pattern alterations to create your first toile (approximately 3-4 hours). I'll explain the reasoning behind each adjustment so you can apply these principles to all your future projects.
✓ Fit your toile, adjust the pattern, and create additional toiles as needed based on the alterations required (typically 2 hours).
✓ Make and fit a sleeve, refine your pattern, and trace your final block onto card—ready for you to create your own patterns or adapt commercial ones (usually 2 hours).
✓ Use any extra time to discuss how to apply your block to create your own patterns or check and amend commercial patterns.
How It Works
This course builds on the bodice block and fitting guide book which is included in the course fee. I will guide you through the entire process with direct support and expertise.
If you would prefer to work through the first part of the process independently, you can purchase the Bodice Block and Fitting Guide separately, complete the pattern prep and first toile and then book in for a fitting session with me instead.
Recommended Package
Full Bodice block preparation and fitting: 2 days of 4.5 hours each (with a 30-minute lunch break daily) Fee includes all calico, card and paper needed plus Bodice Block and Fitting Guide.
Fitting only: 1 day of 4.5 hours (with a 30-minute lunch break). You must have prepared a toile to fit before the class and please bring the original pattern or block with you.
All fees include any paper and card plus additional calico needed.
Location
I'm flexible about location and can travel to most areas of the Midlands within 1 hour of Leicester. You can work at my studio (a shared studio space in the Makers Yard in Leicester city centre) or I can visit you at home. Please note that if you'd prefer me to come to you, there would be additional travel costs involved.
If there is a small group of you that want to learn the same thing, please do get in touch!
Preparing for the lesson
If attending my studio, you do not need to bring any equipment or materials but please do bring you bodice block and fitting guide and a notebook.
You may also wish to bring lunch or there are several cafes and shop nearby. We have a fridge and microwave. I will provide tea and coffee but please let me know if you have any dietary requirements, for instance, non-dairy milk, decaf tea or coffee.
Please wear close fitting clothes that are easy to put the bodice toile on top of - a t-shirt and leggings is ideal.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to master the skills that will transform your sewing? Get in touch to book your dates and let's create your perfect-fitting bodice block.
My usual available days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10am–2:30pm
Want to take your skills further?
After completing this course, you can arrange additional follow-up lessons or consider enrolling on the Module 2 Pattern-Making Courses at Carolyn Rose School of Sewing, running again in March/April 2026.
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Master the Bodice Block - Learn to fit patterns that work perfectly for you
There's nothing I love more than helping people achieve a perfect fit, and the ideal starting point is learning to fit a bodice block.
I'm delighted to offer this opportunity to get you started on your pattern-making journey and equip you with skills you'll use for every garment you create.
What You'll Learn
✓ Take precise measurements and make basic pattern alterations to create your first toile (approximately 3-4 hours). I'll explain the reasoning behind each adjustment so you can apply these principles to all your future projects.
✓ Fit your toile, adjust the pattern, and create additional toiles as needed based on the alterations required (typically 2 hours).
✓ Make and fit a sleeve, refine your pattern, and trace your final block onto card—ready for you to create your own patterns or adapt commercial ones (usually 2 hours).
✓ Use any extra time to discuss how to apply your block to create your own patterns or check and amend commercial patterns.
How It Works
This course builds on the bodice block and fitting guide book which is included in the course fee. I will guide you through the entire process with direct support and expertise.
If you would prefer to work through the first part of the process independently, you can purchase the Bodice Block and Fitting Guide separately, complete the pattern prep and first toile and then book in for a fitting session with me instead.
Recommended Package
Full Bodice block preparation and fitting: 2 days of 4.5 hours each (with a 30-minute lunch break daily) Fee includes all calico, card and paper needed plus Bodice Block and Fitting Guide.
Fitting only: 1 day of 4.5 hours (with a 30-minute lunch break). You must have prepared a toile to fit before the class and please bring the original pattern or block with you.
All fees include any paper and card plus additional calico needed.
Location
I'm flexible about location and can travel to most areas of the Midlands within 1 hour of Leicester. You can work at my studio (a shared studio space in the Makers Yard in Leicester city centre) or I can visit you at home. Please note that if you'd prefer me to come to you, there would be additional travel costs involved.
If there is a small group of you that want to learn the same thing, please do get in touch!
Preparing for the lesson
If attending my studio, you do not need to bring any equipment or materials but please do bring you bodice block and fitting guide and a notebook.
You may also wish to bring lunch or there are several cafes and shop nearby. We have a fridge and microwave. I will provide tea and coffee but please let me know if you have any dietary requirements, for instance, non-dairy milk, decaf tea or coffee.
Please wear close fitting clothes that are easy to put the bodice toile on top of - a t-shirt and leggings is ideal.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to master the skills that will transform your sewing? Get in touch to book your dates and let's create your perfect-fitting bodice block.
My usual available days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10am–2:30pm
Want to take your skills further?
After completing this course, you can arrange additional follow-up lessons or consider enrolling on the Module 2 Pattern-Making Courses at Carolyn Rose School of Sewing, running again in March/April 2026.
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