I have been writing quite a few posts about Shingo Sato’s TR cutting school. So as you might know by now, each July-August there’s a challenge for those who have completed the online master class. A challenge consisting of various tasks to complete in order to pass. No instructions, just pictures.
Last September I wrote a post about the latest TR Masters’ Challenge, which this time was split in two parts. The second part was going to be in December-January. So it started in mid-January and lasted for about 2 weeks. I was in the middle of a rather busy period, but incredibly managed to finish all of the 5 tasks. Each of them had the same theme:
First mission
The first task was the most simple one. Here you can see the recurring twisted element, that was actually a trompe l’oeil -effect. Meaning it’s not really twisted, but only folded in a way that it Looks like it turns around.
I decided to explain this pattern, too, so you’ll get the idea.
Here you can see the first passage: unite the bust-darts with an arch and draw a line that passes through the whole bodice, touching also the arch. Measure the line.
Prepare the twisted element using the measurement you just took. This is difficult to explain with words, so have a look at the picture. Both long sides of the triangles need to have the same measurements. The short ends will be folded, so make them twice the desired final width. And leave some extra paper (=don’t cut a straight line). You’ll cut that bit folded, matching the bodice-edge.
The final pattern pieces will look something like this. Remember to add some tacks.
So basically to sew these 3 pieces together, you start by sewing the darts and then sandwich the twisted element folded in half in between the upper- and lower sections of the bodice.
Second mission
This time there were more twisted elements to add to the bodice. And they were overlapping, too.
The pattern itself wasn’t so difficult, but sewing this thing together was a bit trickier. I happened to have these two unrelated scraps of fabric that were a perfect match in color.
Third mission
Obviously the tasks were getting more difficult as we proceeded. So now it was time to make a skirt using the same elements. It would’ve been quite easy otherwise, but the whole thing had to be made in one pattern piece only..
This was a real puzzle, but in the end I managed to figure it out. I think the design also looks quite lovely.
Fourth mission
After a skirt, it was going to be a sleeve-integration. Same rules as last time: only one pattern piece. The twist continues from the shoulder to the neckline and becomes a scarf.
Last mission
The final task was the most difficult one. It was a jacket and the twisted element can be found in the lapel and collar, although it doesn’t show all that much. Of course everything in one pattern piece again.
I finished this task only one day before deadline. Almost gave up, but luckily it was ready just in time. Happy about it.
Next TR Masters’ Challenge will start in July, so we’ll see what kind of tasks will be waiting for us then!
14 Comments
That looks amazing.
I like your blog, it’s highly inspiring… and some of it can be transferred in wearable garments.
I really like the first one and luckily you made a tuto.
I’m keeping that in mind and maybe one day I’ll integrate it on a top.
Thank you. I’m glad you enjoy my blog. 🙂 Yeah, I figured the first piece would be the most useful and also the easiest to make.
This is really great. As I already mentioned on Instagram, I LOVE the skirt! I always find it interesting to look at patterns that were created by TR masters, but seldomly think that they are wearable in the way they are presented (which is of course not the task of the challenge as far as I understand) – but I would wear your skirt right away as it is (at least, if I would ever go to a nice restaurant at night…. ?).
Thanks also for sharing the first pattern! This is so nice of you!!!!
Thank you! Yes, I know. In fact I always try to get the idea of the different techniques and then implement it in some other ways. The skirt is very unique. 🙂
These are quite amazing! Sometimes, i just wish i could understand all of these techniques right now but i’m not giving up anyways. I’m always looking for ways to improve myself and you have being so helpful in this regard and for this i am grateful.
Each time i read post on your blogs and how you have to overcome these challenges, they inspire me in unimaginable ways.
Thank you for sharing!
Thank you! Always glad to inspire. 🙂 Don’t worry, you’ll get there. Start with the easier patterns and work your way through. Some pieces just take more time to figure out. It’s like solving puzzles!
Dear author of the shape of fabric may I know your good Name please
My name is Minna. Nice to meet you. 🙂
enjoying the site and looking to try my hand at trying to make one. Wish me luck
That’s awesome! 🙂 Good luck!
Kudos to you ma, pls can you make off shoulder pattern ??
Thank you! 🙂 Do you mean the Fourth Mission with the twisted motif on the shoulder or an off shoulder pattern in general?
I’ve been binge reading all your blog posts and they’re just… mind blowing. All the geometry and math that goes into this is just pure genius. I really like the skirt one and if it’s okay with you, could you please provide the pattern? Or maybe just a few more pictures and some hint to the construction 😉
Thank you for your lovely comment. 🙂 Yeah, Shingo Sato likes to come up with real riddles when inventing the tasks. 😀 I will search through my pattern stash if I can find that one, but I think it was quite a mess, so not sure if seeing the pattern would help much. I remember creating the twisted elements separately and then taping them to the skirt pattern as I proceeded. It’s also good to get rid of the darts (by turning them into flare) before doing anything else. Check out @el_atelier_de_la_moda on Instagram. Janneth has been posting lots of pictures of the Challenges. 🙂