5 Reasons to Learn Draping

Hello, I'm Francys, a teacher at Domestika, and today I want to share with you the benefits of three-dimensional modeling, better known as draping, and present you with 5 reasons to learn the technique!

Draping is a technique especially used in Haute Couture ateliers, and it is common to think that it is only used for creating glamorous clothing, but this is a misconception. Draping is a simple and intuitive technique that can be used to make various types of molds for different niches and audiences, whether female, male, children's, plus size, and transgender.

To inspire you to learn more about the technique, here are 5 advantages and benefits:

QUICK VISUALIZATION OF RESULTS: ELIMINATING TRIALS AND ADJUSTMENTS

Working directly on the mannequin, we have the advantage of observing the result in real-time, something that is not feasible with conventional flat modeling, as it requires sewing the mold to visualize it. In contrast, with draping, we can remove the mold from the mannequin and try it on, whether on a client or on our own body. This way of constructing a mold not only reduces the need for numerous trials and adjustments but is also especially advantageous for those who make their own clothes.

INCLUSIVE MODELING THAT SERVES VARIOUS BODY TYPES

Among existing modeling methods, draping is the most inclusive as it caters to various body types, in addition to being an excellent method for constructing pieces for people with special needs, such as wheelchair users, individuals with dwarfism, pregnant women, people who are overweight, and people with posture problems like kyphosis, hyperlordosis, scoliosis, among others.
It is also the best method to serve brands and designers who make agender clothes, that is, clothes for gender-neutral or transgender audiences, as there are specifics that need to be considered when modeling a garment.

OBTAIN UNIQUE SHAPES, TEXTURES, AND VOLUMES

Exploring shapes, volumes, and textures is much easier to do on a mannequin than on a two-dimensional mold.
The dart made in draping better accentuates in the garment. Certain volumes or drapes are only possible to be made on a mannequin. These effects make all the difference in a piece or a collection.

UNLOCK YOUR CREATIVITY

Whether you're a fashion designer, pattern maker, or sewing enthusiast, you know it's common to experience creative blocks when trying to create something new. Who hasn't faced a blank sheet waiting for the idea to appear?
Manipulating fabric on the mannequin aids in the creative process and is a technique used by designers worldwide, and it can also help you come up with original ideas.

CALCULATION AND DIAGRAM-FREE MODELING

Normally, to make a mold in flat modeling, we need a method to trace accompanied by a table of measurements, right? With draping, none of this is necessary. We only need a mannequin or a body with the marking of guide lines. Thus, this is an excellent method for those who struggle with mathematical calculations.

So, what do you think of the advantages? I invite you to discover the course "Modeling: Create a Custom-Fit Dress Using the Draping Technique" here at Domestika and learn about this and many other advantages that the technique offers!