At Ellen College of Design, we believe that the most profound learning happens when students step away from their sketchbooks and get their hands on the fabric. Last week, our fashion department hosted an intensive Draping & Construction Masterclass, and the results were nothing short of spectacular.
The studio was a hive of creativity as our budding designers explored the transition from a flat concept to a three-dimensional silhouette.
The Workshop Journey: From Muslin to Masterpiece
The session was designed to challenge our students to think like architects of the body. Here’s a look at what was covered during this high-energy workshop:
- Understanding the Grain: Students began by "squaring" their muslin, learning how the grainline dictates the drape, fall, and movement of a garment.
- 3D Manipulation: Moving beyond standard patterns, the class practiced pinning, tucking, and pleating directly onto the dress form to create organic, avant-garde shapes.
- Structural Integrity: A drape is only as good as its foundation. The afternoon focused on inner construction, where students mastered the art of invisible support, boning, and couture-grade seam finishes.
- Trueing the Pattern: To wrap up the session, students learned the technical process of "trueing"—transferring their 3D draped muslin back onto paper to create a production-ready pattern.
Student Highlights & Breakthroughs
The most exciting part of the day was seeing the diverse interpretations of a single design brief. From structured, architectural bodices to fluid, Grecian-inspired gowns, the room was filled with a variety of textures and techniques.
Watching the fabric respond to the dress form in real-time changed my perspective on design. You realize that the fabric often tells you what it wants to be." — Nandini Tiwari
Why These Sessions Matter
At Ellen College, these masterclasses are a core part of our experiential learning philosophy. By bringing in industry-standard techniques and focusing on precision construction, we ensure our students aren't just making clothes—they are crafting high-quality garments that meet international standards.