A useful feature of Dennic Chunman Lo's "Pattern Making " (from the Portfolio Skills series) is its "Step-by-Step Block-to-Design" workflow, which bridges the gap between technical drafting and creative fashion design. Key highlights of this feature include:

6. Grading for Production

Unlike hobbyist books, Lo takes you into the professional world. You will learn how to grade a size 8 pattern up to a size 16 using the "cut and spread" method on the block.

: This is the most frequently recommended companion for pattern-making books. The printed 1-inch grid helps maintain accuracy when drafting long lines or squaring off blocks. Manila Pattern Paper (Tag Board)

The "Bible" of his method is the creation of the basic block (or sloper). He provides step-by-step instructions for: Pattern Making Dennic Chunman Lo - sciphilconf.berkeley.edu

• The basic set-in sleeve
• Sleeve cap ease (how much fabric to ease in)
• Bell sleeves, puff sleeves, and raglan sleeves.