Available Formats
Paperback, 2nd edition
Published: 25th January 2018
Paperback, 3rd edition
Published: 19th February 2026
Pattern Cutting: The Architecture of Fashion
By (Author) Pat Parish
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Bloomsbury Visual Arts
19th February 2026
3rd edition
United Kingdom
Tertiary Education
Non Fiction
Apparel and fashion: technology and techniques
646.4
Paperback
256
Width 210mm, Height 270mm
A fresh, creative approach to pattern cutting for students ready to think outside the lines of basic blocks. This third edition of the popular guide features a modern step-by-step layout, new chapters on current industry styles and sustainable processes, and new work by over 20 exciting designers using the books techniques.
Drawing on over 38 years teaching fashion design, Pat Parish gives an accessible approach to translating imaginative 2D designs into exciting 3D womenswear. By combining technical pattern cutting with a more creative approach focussing on shape and line, she provides an overview that reflects how designers actually think and encourages students to move beyond sticking closely to pattern blocks.
Designed to inspire creativity with transferrable techniques for any garment, each technique features troubleshooting tips and tricks to help students apply them to their own designs. The guides clear structure makes it easy to follow in the studio, with technical drawings alongside step-by-step instructions throughout. Over 50 new photographs including toiles, catwalk images, and garments, case studies and interviews from young designers help you visualise the concepts in 3D and inspire your own designs.
This third edition brings pattern putting up to date for modern fashion industry with two new chapters on draping and geometry, and updated information on sustainable practices, reflecting new directions in design, pattern cutting and material use. Redesigned with an even clearer layout and now featuring imperial and metric conversions throughout, this studio must-have gives you all the inspiration, the tools, and the confidence you need to adapt basic patterns, experiment with new shapes, and translate exciting designs from the cutting table into polished garments.
A great book [with] a different approach to pattern cutting. -- Kathryn Sanders, Southampton Solent University, UK
An easy-to-follow guide on pattern construction for undergraduate students. -- Dr Paula Wren, Senior Lecturer, Manchester Fashion Institute, UK
Pat Parish is a Senior Fashion Lecturer at Chichester College/Northbrook College and London College of Contemporary Arts, UK. She has taught fashion and textile courses for over 38 years, beginning her teaching career at the Royal College of Art. Alongside her teaching, Pat has also worked as a freelance pattern cutter for designers such as Betty Jackson and Anne Tyrrell, and has created collections with Amanda Wakely, Edina Ronay, Bruce Oldfield and many others.