LKP is particularly excited to have published three titles on fashion techniques for beginners in partnership with the University of Fashion (UoF): Sewing, Pattern Making and Draping.
The lead author of the series is Francesca Sterlacci, Founder and CEO of UoF, the first and largest online fashion design video library in the world, with hundreds of lessons in key design disciplines. She is also on the faculty of the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.
Previously at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, Sterlacci was Chairperson of the Fashion Design department and taught at their affiliate schools in Italy, the Philippines and China.
Sterlacci is the creator of the Leather Apparel, Haute Couture and Outerwear and Performance Apparel programmes at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
In Sewing: Techniques for Beginners readers will start by learning the basics: how to choose tools; how to choose and use thread; pressing techniques; and how to choose and use appropriate interfacings and linings. Basic techniques include seam and hem finishes, sewing buttons and buttonholes and finishing details including bindings and spaghetti straps, tailored pockets and zips. It also includes a comprehensive guide to hand stitches and advice on how to test, select and sew with knit fabrics.
A regularly quoted fashion expert, Sterlacci has worked for designers in Paris, Milan, London, Singapore, India, Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Pattern Making: Techniques for Beginners will teach readers how to create a two-dimensional garment diagram or template, drafted on a flat surface from either measurements or transferred from a draped muslin. The basics of drafting all fundamental components of a garment are included – from a straight sleeve, to collars, skirts and pants. They will also learn to produce a complete set of slopers, used as the foundation for design variations.
Each book covers a core subject that any fashion design student needs for their degree and includes step-by-step photographs that offer a precise visual guide that is second to none.
Draping: Techniques for Beginners will demonstrate why draping is the most creative way for a designer to turn their design ideas into reality. Readers will learn how to use a dress form and how to prepare the muslin for draping, how to drape basic bodices (including a range of darts and necklines) and also basic skirts and dresses.
Catwalk photos demonstrating the techniques in full flourish are dotted throughout the book to provide further inspiration.
Students and their instructors can either use the books on their own or in tandem with the UoF videos and so benefitting from the ultimate learning experience.