I was able to take in the Lion Brand Runway Show in Anaheim.  It is quite interesting to take in shows for which the textile is created and not already man made.  The interpretations of the last 3 garments were from fashion students.  It was an excellent example of the amazing garments which knitters can morph with mere yarn.  I enjoyed seeing their interpretations and skills put to the test.  I must say, they did quite well. 

The show was announcing new yarns for this year, and celebrating old favorites.  Vanna White was in attendance showcasing her new glamour variety.  I particularly liked Vanna’s selection of yarns because of their clean, bright, and polished look.  The finished garments had a professional high quality appearance compared to several other types of yarns featured.  Each to their own though, it often depends on what your designer’s eye is aiming to achieve, or what lends well to represent the garment design you’re trying to achieve. 

This week I received a question from a member that said. 

“I am learning to sewing with your HTFD lesson 1.  I have practiced and am able to finally sew straight. Lol! I have a concern though that as I continue to do larger garments, I will have a lot of waste in making mistakes.  Is there any advice for me on how to not be as wasteful, or reuse what I messed up?” 

I would like to share a couple tips that deal with this issue. 

First and foremost…. as I talk about in the lesson…… always practice new techniques, sewing, stitching, cutting, buttonholes, anything that you’ve never done before, in a inexpensive muslin fabric. This will reduce pricey mistakes in final fabric and also help you feel more relaxed trying a new skill, without the pressure of a “do it or die!” mentality.

Even small scraps can be used for an easy…try it first.  Many times I grab scraps that are 4” x 5” to test stitching length, buttonhole size, tension on my machine, etc.  Just keep the scraps handy in a container by your sewing machine and when in doubt, grab one.

Now as you advance in your skills and become more comfortable cutting, draping, seaming, and such, try saving on material cost by using a small mannequin to create your garment.  Scale it down to a mini size.  You can still construct the garment in a final fabric without purchasing yards of expensive textiles. 

This is a great technique for beginners because it allows you to work with small pieces of fabric, not large cumbersome ones. You may feel more comfortable handling less bulk under the machine, and again feel less pressure to make that cut or stitch.

Types of fabric also determine cost of fabric, so definitely consider what type of fabric you need to construct your garment in.  Depending on the final garment you are trying to achieve, you might consider another texture or weight that can also alleviate your cost.

You may also try reusing already made items that are constructed from a textile you like.  For example the final Hooded Scarf I made in this lesson. 

One last thought is to find other designers who are willing to trade or simply give their own fabric scraps away.  Remember a lot of people are in the same situation as you are, instead of buying new fabric, possibly you can work a way to trade something that you no longer have interest in.  I know I have found fabric, bought yardage, and then decided later on to change my direction with the piece or color.  If you are able to find the right person, this might be a way to acquire new textiles by simply trading sometimes.

Happy Designing, Bob

I recently ran into Alden and Carol from BurdaStyle.  It was nice to meet them after admiring the work they do on BurdaStyle.com website.  I look forward to collaborating with them in 2010.  We share similar visions, in that we enjoy watching individuals who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience fashion, do so through my How To Fashion Design program and Free Fashion Projects, as well as patterns available on their site.

Inspiring individuals to create fashion or design in general, whether it be in clothing, jewelry making, knitting, drawing, the list goes on and on….. is what I love to do. Seeing the designer awaken in people is an amazing experience, and to watch them have success in doing it, is what motivates me. 

I can imagine we will inspire many new and creative ideas to further inspire all the designers out there!  Keep an eye out for what’s new with "How To Fashion Design with Bob Martin" and BurdaStyle.com in 2010.

Until next time, keep designing! Bob

Craft and Hobby, are not necessarily the first words one thinks of when you mention fashion design.  However at this year’s CHA convention in Anaheim, CA, I found many interesting craft techniques that can be used in fashion design.  Creating garments is a “craft” in and of itself and is considered to be a hobby, for many creative people.

The fashion design process is all about experimenting and asking yourself questions to provoke your mind to think in ways it normally wouldn’t.  For example:  If I have a foam paper plate, I might put my finger nail into it and see that it makes a distinct mark. Now I might use other objects to see what types of impressions I can create.  Then from there I could create a design in the plate, from those impressions or even added objects on the surface of the plate.  I might choose to then paint over the plate and use it as a print, or stamp for some basic fabric.  This is just a brief example of one way to manipulate fabric using craft like techniques, to create your own original design.

I also found an interesting product to use on velvet fabric and possibly others as well, which is where the experimenting comes in. 

You use this product on the wrong side of the textile, and create a design on the fabric.  Once you have your design completed, you then let the textile dry and then proceed to wash it.  During the washing process, the fabric releases its velvet in the area where you created the design.  This technique could be used for many different applications in creating new textile patterns, prints, designs, and original work.  All it takes is a designer…. aka…You…to take it to the next level!

Journal entry from January's CHA Super Show and Tradeshow.

It is all happening this week in Anaheim, CA the Consumer and Tradeshow Event for crafters and hobbyist alike.  As a member of CHA I was able to travel to CA this weekend and visit all the booths, see and meet several very talented and creative people, as well as network with future business associates. 

The weather in CA is amazing compared to back east! I could get used to this real quick!

There is quite a lot of stir over all the free samples, and “make and take” crafts going on here.  I’m very impressed to see CHA introducing sewing back into the Convention this year.  The National Sewing Council has a booth which includes the winner of their contest “Passion for Fashion”, and lots of Janome sewing machines!!  Check out this coat made from their sales bags and fabric!

Okay.... so I am going to be very busy in the next week trying to catch up on all the events I need to blog about.  Here are just a few things to look forward to:

• CHA 2010
• Burda Style
• Inspiring Technique
• Have we met?
• NSC Sewing Lounge
• more......

Well if I spend all this time listing things, I won't be able to get the writing done, so ttyl  Bob

Bob would ever consider being a contestant on Project Runway?

I recieve this question alot and so I thought I would address it in my blog today. 

I had considered applying for Project Runway earlier on, when it first aired, but now I don’t really feel it is a path leading to where I am going in my career now.   This is mainly because my aspirations have changed, now being involved with the How to Fashion Design DVD program, and with the other areas where I want to work.  I don’t see Project Runway being a benefit to those goals.  

I am a competitive person so that aspect of the show excites me, however the project challenges Project Runway presents to the designers does not.   With the time constraint, and the manner in which the challenge is presented, it doesn't allow for the design aspect that I like most.  So the show does not inspire me in the way I like to design, not that this method is wrong, but it just isn’t me as a Designer.  This may seem hard to understand for some of you out there staring out in design, but if you understand the design process clearly,
you know why I say this. 

So for those of you out there with this nagging question lingering over your heads...LOL...you now can be at rest having the answer ;)

How To Fashion Design is a program that teaches fashion design to practically anyone who wants to learn. It’ offers an alternative to reading books and paying for expensive classes or college.

 

It’s unique because it’ covers all areas of fashion design, sewing, drawing, designing, researching, and illustrating. Most programs focus on one of those areas but not all of them together. They are all essential, and they all need to feed off each other, which is what my program teaches… It’s a college education at your fingertips, and at an extremely low price.

 

Where, How, and When did I become interested in Fashion Design?

 

This is always been one of the first questions I am asked. I think the reason being is that it seems like an unlikely field for a straight country boy who grew up in “Small Town USA”. 

 

I was really attracted to the idea of design in general first.  I love the idea of gathering research, experimenting and discovering answers. The design process is full of this. I have always been into making things from building homes to skateboard ramps, from props for plays to ice sculptures. Working with my hands is what I love to do.

 

I have always been interested in fashion since I was a child. Whether it was dressing up and playing pretend or trying to find my own personal style as a teenager.   It was when the love for design and interest in fashion collided that I knew I wanted to pursue it. I had a late start and moved to London when I was 22 to study fashion design. From there the rest is history.

 

I have your DVDs, which I like very much.  I followed along step-by-step on drawing the human figure and was pleased with my results right away. The idea that a fashion sketch is 9 heads tall is interesting, but is there a formula for drawing people of regular height, 8 heads tall?

 

Thanks for you question Joanne!

There is a formula for drawing the 8 head figure as well.  As a fashion designer, you will not want to illustrate your designs on a model of 8 heads, for reasons we discuss in the Fashion Drawing DVD.  With that said the figure points are as follows for an 8 head figure.

Line 1 – Head     Line  2 - Chest line at nipples  Line 3 - Waistline, at bellybutton  Line 4 - Groin Area Line 5 - Just above the knee  Line 6 - Just below knee  Line 7 - Mid calf  Line 8 - Bottom of feet.

Be sure to master your 9 head figure first! 

I would strongly suggest that you be able to draw accurately the proportions for the 9 head fashion figure before any bad habits could form, due to any confusion of these two serperate figure sizes.

Remember to meet me in the studio and discuss your projects.  I enjoy reviewing your work, so until next time, keep designing!

 

What will fashion trends be in the years to come? 

People seem to be discussing this subject more and more with the economic and environmental issues. 

I see fashion in the next 5 years turning to more “green” thinking.  It is becoming more important to people, really in the last 10 years, and I think you will continue to see that grow in interest. Typically people who don’t normally consider it will.

The bad economy will also force people to rethink their wardrobe and to be more versatile. I think you will see styling play a big role in what we wear. Simply adding accessories to your wardrobe, for example my “Heel Jacket”, where women can dress up an ordinary outfit with a cleverly designed accessory.

Ecommerce also will, and has had an affect on the way we can buy designer clothing. Some people never had access to buy certain top brand names. Internet has opened the door for people to buy brands and styles they would not have before.

There is a lot of information on the internet about this topic and if you would like to read more, you can find one article here at fashion.infomat

Check out the Free newly uploaded Designed Garment by Bob Martin.

I call this garment the Cumber Belt! 

Inspired by the cumber bund this trendy accessory fits every occasion.  From casual to even formal, you decide when you choose the fabric.  This garment is a fun, stylish, and a simple project to complete.  I have included detailed instructions as well as photographs to help you along the way.

As always send me the pictures of you wearing your finished garment. 

Happy Designing!

 

 

Now that 2010 has arrived and you are making your first New Year's resolution, I thought I would put the challenge out there to all of you who have been putting off your dream to learn design.

What better time to start down the path to your dreams, than now! 

Take your future by it's boot straps and get on board with How To Fashion Design with Bob Martin Today!

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

I am looking forward to meeting all the new clients of How To Fashion Design with Bob Martin, in the year to come!

Happy Designing,

Fashion Designer Bob Martin

Any words of advice for a knitting designer?

My words of advice for a knitting designer are, try to knit anything!  One thing that knit designers have over fabric designers are the ability to actually create your textile.   Knitwear is very organic because you grow everything.  Every time you add a row you can do whatever you want in the design, you can drop stitches, you don’t have to use any seams, you can add yarn, you can take yarn away, and there is no limit!!  You can literally grow it into anything, so let that be your inspiration to just try anything! 

 Garrith Pugh knitted garbage bags!

As a designer myself I am often look at Aitor Throup or Garrith Pugh as two of my favorites.  Garrith Pugh, because his designs are off the wall and bizarre yet exquisitely executed.  His garments are far out but believable at the same time.  Most people think, I would never wear that, but this is the type of design that inspires other ready wear designers. I really like those designers that are inspiring other designers.

Some designers look at past designs for inspiration, and there are even designers that look back to their own designs and find new inspirations.  You hear some designers say, don’t copy my designs, but in away it is a compliment to have someone look at your work and be inspired by it.  I love to see a design come down the runway that makes you think… I have seen that before but I can’t quite put my finger on where it was.

These types of fashions are truly innovative and you will see them filter down through seasons, to other designer’s collections.  This is just a few reasons why these are my favorites.

I was asked a question about portraying texture in clothing and felt the answer would be interesting to most you designers as well.

This can be very difficult at times, depending on the textile you are trying to represent.  One of the techniques I use, and find works quite effectively, is to do a rubbing. 

What is a rubbing you may ask? 

Well it is when you place a textured surface under your drawing paper and literally rub the graphite of your pencil on top of your paper and over the textured surface you placed underneath.  Patterns for almost any textile can be replicated by using this method.  Experiment with plastics, metals, wood objects, or even very heavily textured fabrics themselves. 

You will find this drawing tip to be very useful, especially when trying to draw fabrics like knit.  Don't forget that the rubbing can be a simple suggestion of the texture, and doesn't have to cover the entire garment in the illustration.

To learn more about drawing fashion and techniques like these, check out my Fashion Drawing DVD

This is the season for hustle and bustle! 

People are searching high and low for that perfect gift for that special person in their lives.  I wanted to remind everyone that How To Fashion Design with Bob Martin is a great unique gift for anyone who is creative on your list.  The variety of people enjoying this lesson has astounded me.  We have new clients ranging form beginner designer, to accomplished sewers, all learning from this lesson. 

It thrills me to know that people have discovered how to use the design process in the creative projects they do, even like jewelry making.

 The response has been Awesome! Thanks to all of you for your encouragement. So those of you looking and looking for a unique gift for a teen, or even an at home hobbyist, this lesson will give them the ability to take their creativity to the next level.

Until next time!

Jersey is a great material!

This is probably ....next to leather, my favorite fabric to construct garments with.  It can come in a variety of styles and patterns, even some surprising ones at times.

Jersey fabric will stretch with movement, and with the shape of the body.  This gives your garment an easy fit, and makes it very comfortable to wear.

When you shop for your jersey, you may find different weights.
I suggest you use medium-weight to lightweight jersey for shirts.

 

Some jersey will stretch more than others, especially if it is a Lycra mix (for example, 80% cotton and 20% Lycra) instead of a 100% cotton jersey.

 

If you have never sewn with jersey before, I would use medium weight 100% cotton jersey.  Lighter-weight and Lycra-mix jerseys will be slightly more difficult to cut and sew. These types of jersey do make the drape of the garment look nice, but may be a bit too ambitious for your first try.

 

Give my favorite textile a try and let me know what you think, and most of all Keep Designing!

As I have said many times over, fashion is fast and efficient.  Every designer needs to have work habits that keep them on task and on time. 

 

One way of working efficiently is by cutting pattern pairs at the same time.  This is done by placing the pattern piece on the fold of the fabric. Be sure to first identify which pieces need to be cut in pairs, and which need patterns only one piece. Accidentally cutting two fronts could cost you a lot of fabric and wasted money. 

 

Also remember that when you are using contrasting fabrics, you will want to pin the pattern pieces accordingly.  This can also be costly if you purchased just enough fabric to make the garment, and then cut out your pattern in the WRONG fabric...has anyone ever done this before?...

If you are making everything out of the same fabric then pin ALL the patterns pieces down first.  If you are using another fabric for contrast, then lay that out as well and pin the patterns to the piece of contrasting fabric.

 

One can never be too organized when it comes to efficeincy.