Today marks the first day of the new semester, and the first class on my schedule is Introduction to Pattern Technology. It is also my very first time attending a class taught by Ms. Alshaima. I felt a mix of curiosity and nervousness as I stepped into the classroom, not knowing exactly what to expect. Since pattern technology is a core skill in fashion design, I was eager to learn the basics and gain a deeper understanding of how patterns are created and used in garment construction. Meeting Ms. Alshaima for the first time added to the excitement, as I had heard she is both knowledgeable and passionate about her subject. I’m looking forward to the journey ahead and hope to build a strong foundation in pattern drafting and manipulation through this course.
Week 2
This week, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Bangkok, Thailand with my classmates and Ms. Maria to participate in the Bangkok Kids International Week. I took part in this event through a collaboration with the designer brand BENT, which made the experience even more special. It was truly unforgettable, as it marked my first time working with a professional designer brand and showcasing my work internationally.
Although we encountered some challenges throughout the process—such as time constraints, coordination issues, and adapting to a new environment—we managed to overcome them and achieved a successful outcome. The experience not only boosted my confidence but also gave me valuable insights into the international fashion industry. I’m proud of what we accomplished and grateful for this meaningful milestone in my journey as a fashion designer.
This week, our lecturer introduced us to the basics of CLO 3D, marking the beginning of our journey into digital pattern making. It was my first time using the software, so everything felt new and a bit overwhelming at first. We started by learning how to launch the application and navigate the user interface. Our lecturer guided us through the main tools on the toolbar, how to import fabric textures, and how to set up a basic workspace. We also began exploring how to create simple garment structures, such as basic bodices and skirts, within the program. Since this semester focuses on digital pattern development, mastering CLO 3D will be essential. Although it’s a challenge for me as a beginner, I’m excited to develop new skills and expand my knowledge in this area of fashion technology.
This week, our lecturer began teaching us more in-depth skills in CLO 3D that will be essential for our upcoming assignments. We started learning how to translate design sketches into digital patterns using the tools available in the software. This included techniques such as drawing pattern outlines, adjusting measurements, and aligning garment pieces accurately. The lecturer also demonstrated how to use specific functions to refine and modify patterns, making the design process more efficient and precise. In addition, we were given our first assignment: to create a basic pattern using CLO 3D. As someone still new to the software, I found the task a bit challenging, but it was also a great opportunity to apply what we’ve learned so far. I’m looking forward to improving my digital pattern-making skills as the semester progresses.
Week 5 （Assignment 1 end）
For Assignment Task 1, I created a basic top and a basic skirt using CLO 3D. This was my first experience building a full outfit digitally, and it really helped me understand the foundation of garment construction in the software. Moving on to Assignment Task 2, I took it a step further by adding sleeves and a decorative ribbon to the top, which gave it a more stylish and personal touch. For the skirt, I experimented with a fishtail design, which was a fun challenge as it involved manipulating the pattern shape and structure more creatively. It was incredibly enjoyable to play around in CLO 3D and see my ideas come to life in a 3D environment. These tasks not only improved my technical skills but also gave me the freedom to explore and express my design style in a digital format.
Completing the first assignment in Introduction to Pattern Technology was both a challenging and rewarding experience. The task was to create a basic pattern using CLO 3D, which was my first time working with digital pattern-making software. At the beginning, I struggled with understanding the tools and how to accurately create and align pattern pieces. The interface felt overwhelming, and it took time to familiarize myself with the functions.
However, through practice and guidance from the lecturer, I gradually began to understand how to navigate the software and apply what we had learned in class. I especially found the 2D pattern window and 3D simulation view helpful for visualizing the structure and fit of the garment. This assignment gave me a clearer idea of how digital patterns are developed, and it helped build my confidence in using new technology for fashion design.
Although the final result wasn’t perfect, I’m proud of what I was able to achieve as a beginner. This assignment has shown me how important precision and patience are in pattern drafting, and it has motivated me to continue improving my skills in CLO 3D for future projects.
During this week’s lesson, we were introduced to the process of importing finished pattern files into CLO3D. This method is particularly useful, as it helps simplify our workflow and makes it easier to stay on track for Task 2. Our lecturer walked us through each step, from exporting patterns created in drafting programs like ET to converting them into CLO3D-compatible formats. We also learned how to properly bring these files into CLO3D and make necessary adjustments, such as setting seam allowances, selecting appropriate fabric materials, and fine-tuning simulation settings. Gaining an understanding of this process really opened my eyes to how digital tools can make garment development more efficient. This session definitely gave us valuable skills that will help speed up our work and improve the quality of our 3D designs moving forward.
I started working on the digital patterns for the two looks selected by Mr. JR from my 20 initial designs. This is my first time creating digital patterns using the CLO3D application, and although it was challenging at first, I found the process surprisingly enjoyable. Once I began to understand the tools and techniques within the software, it became more intuitive and even exciting to see my designs come to life in a 3D environment.
Creating digital patterns is a completely different experience compared to traditional methods like hand-drafting on paper or draping on a mannequin. While each technique has its own process and complexity, they are all interconnected. Understanding how fabric behaves through draping helps inform digital simulation, while hand-drawn patterns provide a foundation for accuracy in digital work. Exploring all three approaches has given me a more well-rounded perspective on pattern making and strengthened my technical skills as a designer.
Week 8
Ms. Alshaima has taught us many useful techniques for using CLO3D, and she has been incredibly patient and supportive throughout the learning process. Whenever I encountered difficulties or got stuck, she took the time to explain things clearly and guide me step by step, which helped me gain more confidence in using the software.
This week, I continued working on my digital pattern, but I still faced several challenges. There were many issues with the fit and structure of my pattern, and a lot of small details needed to be refined to improve the overall outcome. It was a time-consuming process, but also a valuable learning experience.
By completing my digital pattern, I now have a basic understanding of how CLO3D works. I realize that I still have a long way to go and much more to learn about the software. However, at this stage, my main focus is to complete my assignment to the best of my ability while continuing to improve my skills through practice and feedback.
Week 9
After completing my digital pattern in CLO3D, I went to the printing shop to have it printed. Once I had the printed pattern, I began cutting it out using calico fabric to create my first test fit (toile). This step was important to check the proportion, fit, and construction of my design before moving on to the final fabric.
Ms. Alshaima gave me several useful tips for sewing the toile, especially since my final garment will be made from denim. She explained that sewing denim requires different techniques compared to lighter fabrics, such as using specific stitches and seam finishes. Even though I was working with calico, she encouraged me to practice denim sewing techniques on it to prepare myself for the real garment.
This is my first time sewing a denim garment, and although it has been challenging, I’m grateful for Ms. Alshaima’s patience and guidance. She helped correct my sewing mistakes and pointed out areas that needed improvement. Thanks to her support, I’ve gained more confidence in handling heavier fabrics and understanding the construction techniques needed for denim.
Week 10
One of their key suggestions was to use a round, thicker cup sponge for the corset to give it a better shape and a more structured, polished appearance. They also recommended adjusting the proportions of the jacket by making it more oversized to enhance the silhouette. Additionally, they advised me to increase the length of the skirt to create better overall balance in the look. With their feedback, I now have a clear direction for refining my pattern before moving on to the final denim garment.
This was a crucial stage in the development of my final garments, as it focused on creating and refining the test fit (toile) based on my digital pattern work. This process helped me bridge the gap between digital design and physical construction, allowing me to evaluate the fit, proportions, and functionality of my garments before working with the final fabric.
Through this assignment, I completed the toile for Look 1 and received valuable feedback from both Mr. JR and Ms. Alshaima. They pointed out several areas for improvement, such as using a thicker, rounder cup sponge to enhance the shape of the corset, making the jacket more oversized for a bolder silhouette, and extending the length of the skirt for better balance. Their suggestions helped me see my work from a more professional and practical perspective.
This was also my first time sewing a denim-style garment, and even though I used calico for the toile, I applied denim sewing techniques under Ms. Alshaima’s guidance. Her advice and corrections gave me a better understanding of how to handle heavier fabrics and improve my construction methods.
Overall, this assignment taught me the importance of refining patterns through trial and error, and how small adjustments can significantly impact the final outcome. It also helped me develop a stronger eye for proportion and garment structure, which I will carry forward into the final production stage.
In Week 12, I was halfway through the sewing process of Look 1. Unfortunately, I encountered a problem with the corset—the size turned out too big compared to the toile I had previously tested. I wasn’t sure what went wrong, but thankfully, Ms. Alshaima was very patient and helped me troubleshoot the issue. Luckily, I didn’t have to unpick the entire corset; instead, I only needed to adjust a small section at the side to fix the fit.
Additionally, I decided to replace the zipper with eyelets and lacing at the back. This change not only added a more stylish and functional detail to the design, but it also made the corset easier to adjust and fit to the model’s body more accurately.
Week 13
By Week 13, I had mostly completed Look 1 and began working on Look 2. To be honest, I was already behind schedule in starting the second look, which added a lot of pressure with the final presentation just around the corner. However, I am determined to complete it on time and maintain the quality of my work.
I have been working tirelessly every day to ensure that both garments are finished properly and presented in the best possible condition. Although the process is exhausting, I am committed to pushing through and giving my best effort to meet the deadline with work I can be proud of.
Fortunately, I managed to complete both garments in time for the presentation day. Although I feel I didn’t finish everything as perfectly as I hoped, the garments were complete and presentable. During the presentation, I was very nervous, but I still managed to express my ideas and explain my design concept clearly.
Mr. JR and Ms. Alshaima gave me valuable feedback on how to improve Look 2 so it would better match Look 1. They suggested enhancing the surface texture to create a stronger visual connection between both looks. To achieve this, I added bleached textures and used burning techniques on certain areas, similar to those in Look 1. I also revised the hemline to better match the silhouette shown in my design sketches.
Additionally, I took their advice to change the brown inner shirt to white, which gave the outfit a fresher, cleaner look and balanced the overall color composition. I really appreciate their feedback, as it helped me refine my work and bring it closer to my original vision.
The final presentation marked an important milestone in my project, and I’m proud to say that I managed to complete both of my garments on time. Although the process was intense and challenging, especially with the tight schedule, I pushed myself to deliver the best results possible. During the presentation, I was extremely nervous, but I managed to communicate my concept clearly and explain the story behind my designs.
Mr. JR and Ms. Alshaima provided me with constructive feedback that helped me see areas for improvement, particularly in Look 2. They pointed out that the texture and detailing in Look 2 didn’t match the visual intensity and theme of Look 1. Taking their suggestions seriously, I went back and modified the garment. I applied bleach to create a textured effect and used controlled burning to better reflect the distressed, post-apocalyptic concept that inspired my collection. These changes helped unify both looks visually and conceptually.
In addition to that, I altered the hemline of Look 2 to better reflect my original design sketch, and I changed the brown inner shirt to white to create a fresher, more balanced overall appearance. These improvements not only brought my work closer to my initial vision but also helped me understand how small adjustments can elevate a garment significantly.
This experience has taught me the importance of staying open to feedback, adapting quickly, and continuing to refine my work even after a deadline. It was a challenging but rewarding journey that has helped me grow as a designer, both creatively and technically.
Overall Self-Reflection
This module has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in my fashion design journey. From concept development to final garment construction and presentation, I’ve grown both technically and creatively.
Learning to use CLO3D for digital pattern making was a new experience for me. Although it was difficult at first, with Ms. Alshaima’s support, I developed a solid foundation and understood how digital and traditional techniques connect. Creating fabric manipulations with second-hand denim, such as burning and bleaching, helped bring my concept to life and taught me the value of experimentation.
Time management was a major challenge, especially when I fell behind on Look 2. However, I pushed through, completed both looks on time, and even made improvements after receiving feedback from Mr. JR and Ms. Alshaima during the final presentation.
Overall, this module has improved my design process, construction skills, and ability to work under pressure. I’ve learned to stay adaptable, open to feedback, and committed to continuous improvement as a designer.
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