For those of us who sew our own clothes, it’s impossible to avoid being a designer. Even if we are only choosing the fabric to go with a purchased pattern, we need to visualize how our garment will look. More importantly, we need to understand what it will look like on our unique figure. Unless you have lots of experience and insight, it’s hard to create an accurate mental picture. You can plan your projects the way designers do—in illustrated form. Unlike a professional fashion illustrator, you will want your drawings to look like you. How do you do that?

Start With a Photo

In early 2010, Michelle, my first custom bridalwear client, was leaving my studio after our design consultation. Before she headed out the door, I snapped a photo of her. My mind was buzzing with ideas. My worktable was scattered with inspirations. I pulled out a blank piece of paper and was ready to start sketching.

Oh no. I thought, “What have I gotten myself into? I’m a maker, not a sketch artist.” I realized I couldn’t get to the making part, if I didn’t book the dress commission, and I couldn’t book the dress if I couldn’t communicate my design ideas.

Looking over my materials, I recognized what a great photo I had taken. Instead of staring at the photo, I could literally use the photo. I’m not a sketch artist, but I can copy and trace. Because Michelle unexpectedly hit a perfect pose, I developed some easy custom sketching methods that I love. I’ve used a similar process for most of my designs ever since, for myself and others.

Pencil It In

I’ll show my low-tech, high-success method for turning your photo into a design template…