Clone your Clothes with Dot n Cross
Helen Shine, a pattern cutter with over 12 years of experience in London's fashion industry, leads this hands-on workshop at the Cornish Craft Barn in Blackwater on Monday 5 October 2026. The class teaches you how to trace a favourite top or dress onto dot and cross paper — no unpicking required — and produce a workable paper pattern to take home. During the session you will learn the basics of tracing a garment, add seam allowance, discuss grain lines, and make some pattern pieces from scratch such as straight plackets and simple facings. There will also be a discussion of construction techniques and the order in which to sew the finished garment. Note that if your pattern has quite a few pieces, you may not have finalised all of them by the end of the session. This is an intermediate class: you should have prior experience working with bought patterns and a good grasp of basic garment construction before attending. Bring a simple garment — ideally cotton or a sturdy fabric, with just a few pattern pieces — from your wardrobe or something vintage; recently purchased garments from the last 5–10 years cannot be traced. Jersey, stretch, and complex tailored pieces are not recommended for this class. Maximum five students. All pattern cutting tools and paper are provided, along with a course booklet, refreshments, cake, and a 10% discount in the cafe for lunch.