what is a bodice block?

a bodice block is the foundation of most garment patterns. it’s a basic template made using your own measurements, and it’s used as the starting point to create different designs.

learning how to draft it is key, because once you understand it, you can use pattern manipulation to turn it into almost anything. this version is a simple bodice without darts, meant to follow your body without fitting too tightly.

measurements you’ll need

here are the measurements we’ll use to draft your bodice block. if you’re not sure how to take any of them, you can always go back to the guide

this is an interactive form, so once you enter your measurements, the step-by-step tutorial will update with your own numbers. no need to worry about calculations. you can just focus on drafting.

drafting the front bodice

in this section, you’ll draft the front bodice block step by step using your measurements. follow each instruction carefully and take your time with every line. the goal is not just to finish, but to understand how the pattern is built.

drafting the back bodice

in this section, you’ll draft the back bodice block step by step using your measurements. follow each instruction carefully and take your time with every line. just like the front, the goal is to understand how each part of the pattern is built.

your final pattern

now that you have your bodice pieces ready, the last step is to add seam allowance. add 2 cm to the shoulder on the back bodice, and don’t add seam allowance to the front shoulder.

for the sides, add 1 cm to each side, and also to the armhole and neckline. for this sloper, you’ll only be sewing the sides and shoulders, so you can skip adding seam allowance to the armhole and neckline if you prefer.