How to Learn Fashion Design
Fashion design is a challenging, creative and exciting career option. There are several paths to learning fashion design, and designers can be self-taught or academically trained. Many fashion designers start design school with a strong interest in fashion and a good understanding of sewing and garment construction.
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Things You'll Need
- Sketchpad
- Pencils
- Colored pencils
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Seam ripper
- Tape measure
Instructions
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How to Learn Fashion Design
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Start with a good basis in drawing. While no one is asking you to be an expert in figure drawing, you should be capable of fashion sketching. Your fashion sketches will form the portfolio that is critical for admission to fashion design programs, for job interviews and more.
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Begin creating a portfolio of fashion sketches. When you have an idea for a garment, sketch it. Include fabric or trim samples with your sketch.
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Learn to sew. Understanding garment construction is key to successful design. Take sewing classes to learn to use your sewing machine. Experiment with commercial patterns while you learn how a garment goes together, basic construction and fitting.
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Create your own designs. Once you can sketch and sew, create garments from your sketches. These garments, like your sketches, can form a part of your portfolio and illustrate your design skills. Fine sewing stores and local community colleges may offer courses in pattern drafting and draping; however, you can also develop these skills on your own with books and practice.
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Apply to design school. While some fashion designers do become successful without attending fashion design school, completing a program at a well-reputed design school can help you get your first job in the competitive fashion industry. During design school, you will take courses in fine arts, drawing, cutting, pattern drafting, draping and sewing. You can also learn about fashion marketing and production.
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