PatternCon 2026 is packed with can’t-miss classes! Take a look at what’s waiting for you.

Session 1
Session 2
Session 3

CLICK HERE to meet your PatternCon teachers!

Session 1 Classes
Saturday Morning

#1: The Great Rub Off
Jennifer Stern Hasemann

All Levels • Drafting • 4 Hours

Do you have something hanging in your closet that you wish you had more than one of? Or, maybe you got a stain on your favorite tee. Join me for this fun class and I’ll show you how to clone your ready-to-wear! We will be using Rub Off techniques in class to create pattern pieces without the need to cut the garment apart. There are two ways to Rub Off a garment. For simple things like sleeveless tees and straight skirts, I’ll show you how to use the Paper Rub Off Method. This involves pinning your garment to paper and tracing around the edges. For more complicated garments with sleeves and style lines, I’ll show you how to use the Pattern Ease (or Muslin) Rub Off Method.

Kit fee: $20

* Students should bring: garments to rub off (1 sleeve top or straight skirt, 1 tee with sleeves, anything else in your closet you might want to rub off and have questions about), pattern paper (For method 1), pattern ease, Swedish tracing paper or muslin for fabric rub-offs (method 2), L-shaped ruler and French curve if available, an 18-inch clear grid ruler, pencils or markers, pins

#2: Patternmaking Basics

Sumalee Eaton

Beginner • Foundation • 4 Hours

Ready to FINALLY make your own patterns? This session is a quickstart guide to all the basics you need to know to begin your patternmaking journey. Learn the core concepts of pattern “theory”, then dive into hands-on exercises using a half-scale sloper. No math, no formulas, no sadness, just a judgement-free zone to experiment and ask questions!

No kit fee

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#3: Demystifing Vintage Sewing
Stephanie Canada

All Levels • Vintage • 2 Hours

I regularly use patterns that are 60 to 90 years old! Why would you use these? Where do you find them? Aren’t you afraid of damaging them? I will answer all of these questions and give you the chance to get hands on with patterns you may have never seen.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: a pattern you are stumped on or scared to use

#4: Adapting Garments for Accessibility: Tailor Technique
Lynn Brannelly

All Levels • Adaptive / Alterations • 1 Hour

This lecture explores how thoughtful alterations can transform everyday garments into functional, comfortable, and empowering clothing for people with disabilities. Drawing from decades in costume design and recent experience in adaptive tailoring, this session demonstrates practical examples of modifications tailored to specific mobility, sensory, and medical needs. Participants will learn how to assess individual challenges and address them through pattern adjustments, adaptive closures, and fabric choices. Real-world case studies will highlight inclusive solutions that maintain both style and dignity, helping attendees understand how adaptive alterations can restore confidence, comfort, and independence. Q & A encouraged.

No kit fee

#5: The Art of Knit Sewing: Fabric Selection & Essential Techniques
Tina VanDenburg

All Levels • Drafting / Knits • 2 Hours

Do you love wearing knit garments but sewing them is another story? They can be fiddly and frustrating! Sewing gorgeous knit garments is my absolute favorite, and in this workshop, I'll share my best tips for sewing knits you'll love wearing—no serger required. We'll also dive deep into choosing the right knit fabrics for your projects, exploring stretch, recovery, and drape. Learn which knits work best for different garment styles and how fabric choice impacts your finished piece. You'll create your own personalized knit sample booklet during class, to take home for all your future knit sewing adventures!

Kit fee: $25

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#6: Patterning with Tape
Denise Chukhina

All Levels • Cosplay • 1 Hour

Learn how to create custom patterns using a simple, but effective method using tape! I will demonstrate how to safely cover the body with tape and walk through the process of transferring the taped form onto paper and refining it into a clean, workable pattern. This class is perfect for cosplayers and costume makers who want to achieve a personalized fit for their patterns. No prior patterning experience is required.

No kit fee

#7: Drafting Vintage Patterns with Scale Rulers
Mrs. Depew

All Levels • Drafting / Vintage • 2 Hours

Draft a vintage women's blouse or men's shirt pattern to your size using an easy vintage scale ruler system. All experience levels are welcome!

Kit fee: $20

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#8: How to Digitize Paper Patterns
Ruby Gertz

All Levels • Digital Patternmaking • 1 Hour

Calling all self-drafted and paper pattern hoarders! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could turn all of that bulky paper into digital files that you could easily organize, store, share, and even sell? Learn several techniques for creating accurate digital pattern files in Adobe programs (Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat) from photographs you can easily take on your phone.

No kit fee

#9: Cross-Gender Patternmaking
Julian Collins

Intermediate • Design/Drafting • 2 Hours

Learn to convert patterns between menswear and womenswear for menswear-inspired looks, gender-neutral designs, or adapting vintage patterns. This hands-on patternmaking class teaches the technical differences: dart manipulation for bust shaping, adjusting ease standards, modifying shoulder slopes, reshaping armholes, and changing hip curves. Work with sample patterns to practice conversions both directions—men's shirt to women's, women's blazer to men's. Understand when to maintain menswear construction details versus adapting for different bodies. Perfect for patternmakers wanting to expand design options, create inclusive sizing, or master menswear-inspired womenswear. Basic patternmaking knowledge required.

Kit fee: $20

* Students should bring: pattern paper or tracing material, rulers, french curves, hip curves, pencils, colored pencils, erasers, calculator, measuring tape

#10: The First One: Intro to the Custom Process
Brooks Ann Camper

Beginner • Design / Construction • 1 Hour

How do you make something that has never been made before? Brooks Ann guides you through all the steps she takes to design, pattern, and construct a successful first-of-its-kind garment that fits a specific individual. This lecture is an intro to her custom process and couture/slow sewing.

No kit fee

#11: From Paper to Projector: Converting Patterns Digitally
Aaronica Cole

All Levels • Digital Patternmaking • 2 Hours

Want to digitize your patterns? In this course we'll go over just how to do that so you'll be able to keep your patterns for forever!

No kit fee

#12: Secret to Understanding Fitting
Tricia Camacho

All Levels • Fitting • 1 Hour

Discover the key to mastering garment fitting with an intuitive approach that simplifies the process. Learn how to analyze wrinkles, understand their causes, and make confident pattern adjustments; all guided by one essential question. This session connects the dots between patternmaking and achieving a perfect fit with ease.

No kit fee

#13: Lingerie Fabric & Notions
Jennifer Fairbanks

All Levels • Lingerie • 2 Hours

We will discuss the different fabrics used in lingerie design, where and why they are used, including stretch, elastics and findings. I will hand out a packets of swatches for the attendees for them to take notes and keep as reference.

Kit fee: $45

#14: Re-Thrift-Osing
Stephanie Canada

All Levels • Upcyling • 1 Hour

Let's take that thrifted find and figure out ways to make something new with a twist! Instead of the usual, find something larger and size down or find a bed sheet/curtain and use it like standard yardage, let's stretch our creativity! That extra small 100% silk blouse, what can you make with that to fit someone that wears a 2-3X? That sleeveless linen shirt that doesn't hang right as is, how can you change it to make it work for you? Come along and let's brainstorm new and creative ways of "re-thrift-osing" together!

No kit fee

Students should bring: garment you want to find a way to use again, either thrifted or from your own closet

#15: Embracing Your Unique Body Shape
Carol Huls

All Levels • Foundation • 1 Hour 

Every body is unique, so why settle for a standard fit? This session empowers attendees to recognize and embrace their individual body shapes, understand what fit truly means, and explore how personalized sewing techniques can enhance both comfort and confidence. Through practical guidance, self-assessment tools, and a compelling case study comparing a commercial pattern to a custom knit sloper, participants will gain valuable insights into achieving their ideal fit. The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A, encouraging continued learning and self-discovery.

No kit fee

#16: Crash Course in CLO3D
Lillia Whittington

Intermediate • Digital Patternmaking • 2 Hours

Learn the basics of Clo3D in this lecture. Together we will walk through the basics of Clo3D by manipulating basic bodice blocks to create an a-line sweetheart dress. This simple silhouette will teach you how to manipulate patterns using the common tools of Clo3D.

Kit fee: optional bodice blocks for purchase 

* Students should bring: notebook, computer with Clo3D (optional but strongly recommended)

#17: Start Smart: Pattern Drafting Tools, Terms & Confidence Boosters
Shawnelle Cherry

Beginner • Tools / Foundation • 2 Hours

If you’ve dipped your toe into pattern drafting but still feel fuzzy on the tools and markings, this class is for you. We’ll walk through the essential drafting tools—like clear rulers, L-squares, hip curves, armscye curves, awls, and the mysterious 45-degree angle ruler—so you can see exactly how each one works. You’ll handle the tools, try them out, and learn when (and why) to reach for each one. We’ll also look closely at common pattern markings like grainlines, apex points, dart legs, and center front/back indicators—explaining what they mean and how they guide your drafting decisions. Expect demos, hands-on practice, and plenty of visual examples to connect the dots. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding and way more confidence in your patternmaking skills.

No kit fee 

 * Students should bring: basic bodice, skirt, pant sloper (if you have them)

Session 2 Classes
Saturday Afternoon

#18: Draping Techniques
Jasmine Chandler

All Levels • Draping • 3 Hours

Participants will learn essential draping techniques, starting with the basics and advancing to more complex concepts, with room for creative experimentation.

Kit fee: $30

#19: Draft your Perfect Knit T-Shirt: Custom Fit From Scratch
Tina VanDenburg

All Levels • Drafting / Knits • 3 Hours

Sure, you can use someone else's pattern for your favorite t-shirt, but nothing fits quite like one drafted from your own measurements. In this workshop, you'll learn to draft a knit t-shirt tailored to your unique body—or anyone else's! And this basic pattern? It's what I use to draft nearly all the knit garments in my wardrobe, from tops to dresses. Leave with a personalized pattern that guarantees a perfect fit every time. Say goodbye to pattern adjustments and hello to garments made exactly for you!

Kit fee: $10

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#20: Mastering Measurements
Sumalee Eaton

Beginner • Foundation • 3 Hours 

Measuring is essential to patternmaking– but for those of us who are shy of math, it can feel like a chore! Banish your fear of numbers and get friendly with your rulers and measuring tape in this fun hands-on workshop. Learn how to eyeball common fractions used in sewing, how to handle your clear ruler with confidence, how to easily add or adjust seam allowances, how to measure yourself or another person in preparation for a project, and more. This session is focused on the Imperial system, but will touch on the Metric system, of course!

No kit fee

#21: All About Sleeves
Saremy Duffy

All Levels • Fitting • 3 Hours

Sleeves can be as tricky to fit as pants. Why is that? Understanding different styles of sleeves and how they interact with movement and fitting adjustments. We’ll also go over many fitting adjustments and how to update the armhole and other pattern pieces.

Kit fee: $5

#22: Drape a Bodice on Your Body
Ruby Gertz

All Levels • Draping • 3 Hours

Learn how to efficiently capture body shape and proportions through the art of draping directly on the body. Instead of flat drafting, and then sewing up a muslin to check the fit, start with the muslin itself and check the fit as you go. Instead of fixating on the numbers and relying on the accuracy of measurements, we will learn how to “read” the body and pin, cut, and mark in a way that is less like architectural drafting and more like sculpture. This process is hands-on and requires communication and collaboration among participants.

Kit fee: $30

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#23: Pattern Magic: Altering Patterns to Fit Your Body
Aaronica Cole

All Levels • Fitting / Alterations • 3 Hours

There's nothing wrong with your body! It's those pattern pieces! In this class we'll learn to measure properly and then adjust patterns to fit your unique body.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: tape measure, pen, paper, 1-2 printed patterns to adjust, rulers

#24: Draft Your Bralette
Nikki Griffin

All Levels • Drafting / Lingerie • 3 Hours

Participants will take their own measurements and learn to draft a simple bralette: cups and front/back band. Will be able to cut out pattern and sew later.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: tape measure, ruler, pencil/eraser, drafting paper, 2y narrow elastic

#25: Abstract Origami Patternmaking
Tricia Camacho

Intermediate / Advanced • Drafting • 3 Hours

Ready to get wild with your patterns?  This class is for the true pattern nerds who want to explore the *weird and wonderful*. We’ll break down the 3 core principles of patternmaking and then crank up the creativity! Think dramatic 3D shapes, folds, and unexpected silhouettes. If you’ve ever wanted to push the boundaries of what’s possible with paper and fabric, this one’s for you.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#26: Different Types of Early Drafting Systems
Conni Spotts

All Levels • Drafting / Historical • 2 Hours

In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s there were numerous ladies tailoring systems on the market. This lecture will briefly explain the different types of systems: proportional, direct measurement, and mechanism and how one might be able to recognize the differences in instructions. Physical examples of rulers will be available for students will handle and explore. Sample reading and understanding of respective instructions will be demonstrated. Time permitting, students will practice specific system(s) instruction.

No kit fee

#27: Empowering History of Keister's Ladies Tailoring College
Conni Spotts

All Levels • Historical • 50 Minutes

Keister’s Ladies Tailoring System was established by J.A. Keister in St Louis in 1894 and was taught to thousands for five decades through local colleges - owned and operated by women. The drafting system gave women the power to create and the power of economic independence. During this short lecture, the business structure of the college will be discussed along with the stories of women whose connection the college benefitted not only themselves but Keister’s business itself. The interplay of people within the Keister network is interesting to discover and is worth sharing.

No kit fee

Session 3 Classes
Sunday Morning

#28: Efficient Work Flow for Pants Fitting
Jennifer Stern Hasemann 

Intermediate • Fitting • 4 Hours

Learn how to customize a pants pattern to agree with your unique shape. We will pick the best starting size and trace the pattern pieces. Then see which easy body specific fit adjustments you may need to customize the pattern for a personal fit. Did you know that a lot of fitting can be accomplished by adjusting the angle of the center front/back edges? Learn how to do that, plus more, like removing excess ease on the back leg before cutting out the fit muslin. You'll leave class with a pattern that is ready for fitting.

Kit fee: $40

* Students should bring: sewing machine and basic sewing supplies (pins, seam ripper, fabric scissors, tape measure, paper scissors, Scotch tape and pattern paper)

#29: Building the Basics: Draft a Bodice Block
Lillia Whittington

Intermediate • Drafting • 4 Hours

Draft a basic bodice block set from scratch! In this class we will use the Helen Joseph Armstrong drafting method to draft your basic bodice block. This is great if you have been interested in stepping into the world of pattern-making or are looking to better understand the foundation of basic pattern drafting.

Kit fee: $45

* Students should bring: pencil and eraser and measuring tape, paper, ruler

#30: Fitting the Upper Body
Saremy Duffy

All Levels • Fitting • 3 Hours

Learn techniques to fit your own body using yourself as the dress form and how to transfer the change to your pattern. Do’s and Don’ts, what to watch out for, and how these changes will affect the rest of the pattern and its pieces.

Kit fee: $5

#31: Draft Your Panties
Nikki Griffin

All Levels • Drafting / Lingerie • 2 Hours

Participants will take their own measurements and learn to draft a full panty pattern—to cut out and sew later.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: tape measure, ruler, pencil and eraser, drafting paper, 2y narrow elastic

#32: Hidden Architect: Tailoring Insights
Julian Collins

All Levels • Design / Construction • 1 Hour

Discover what separates a $200 jacket from a $2,000 one—the invisible interior. This visual lecture explores internal construction of tailored menswear from 1890s-1980s, revealing how hair canvas, pad stitching, shoulder pads, and interfacing create shape and longevity. We'll dissect vintage garments, examine canvas samples, and decode quality tailoring engineering. Learn to identify full canvas vs. fused construction, understand when historical techniques trump modern shortcuts, and discover which internal details matter most. Perfect for sewists ready to elevate their tailoring knowledge and understand professional construction standards.

No kit fee

#33: Digital Patternmaking in Adobe Illustrator
Jasmine Chandler

Intermediate • Digital Patternmaking • 2 Hours

Unlock the power of Adobe Illustrator for fashion design in this focused, digital patternmaking course. Designed for sewing enthusiasts, emerging designers, and creative entrepreneurs, this session provides an accessible introduction to creating digital sewing patterns.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: laptop computer (if you have one)

#34: Designing Adaptive Fashion
Lynn Brannelly

All Levels • Design / Adaptive • 1 Hour

This lecture focuses on designing adaptive garments from the ground up, combining patternmaking techniques with the art of visual proportion. Drawing from professional costume design methods, the session explores how to achieve flattering silhouettes and camera-ready style for clients with seated, asymmetrical, or prosthetic-adjusted body shapes. Participants will learn how to modify patterns for comfort and mobility while applying visual “rule-breaking” techniques—such as seam placement, proportion shifts, and fabric contrast—to enhance balance and style. Through real-world examples, attendees will gain tools to merge accessibility with aesthetics, creating adaptive fashion that looks as good as it feels.

No kit fee

#35: Draft Your Own Custom Leggings
Tricia Camacho

Intermediate • Drafting • 2 Hours

You’ll learn how to draft a custom leggings pattern from your own measurements.  No commercial pattern needed!  We’ll walk through each step of the drafting process so you can create a pair of leggings that fit and feel amazing. We’ll cover what to consider when working with knit fabrics so your final garment stretches, moves, and wears just the way you want.  Whether you’re new to drafting or ready to level up your wardrobe, this class is a fun and empowering place to start.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#36: Collecting Vintage Sewing Patterns
Mrs. Depew

All Levels • Vintage • 1 Hour

A crash course in the care, use, and storage of vintage sewing patterns for new and experienced collectors. How to safely repair damaged patterns, proper storage, and best practices for using them.

Kit fee: $10

#37: How to Grade a Basic Pattern
Jennifer Fairbanks

Intermediate • Drafting / Grading • 2 Hours

This class will discuss how to determine basic grade rules for a pattern based on the size chart (for a woven garment). We will work with a sample bodice and skirt sloper. Given the space the students can use, this will really be demo only with handouts.

No kit fee

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#38: Working with Thermoplastics
Denise Chukhina

All Levels • Cosplay • 1 Hour

Explore the world of thermoplastics in this introductory class for all skill levels. I'll demonstrate how to work with Worbla, Fosshape and Wonderflex showcasing how each one behaves, shapes and finishes differently. We'll also cover essential safety practices for heating, molding and cutting thermoplastics as well as where to source materials and tools. Whether you're creating armor, props or sculpted costume pieces this class will give you the beginning knowledge to start incorporating thermoplastics in your own projects.

Kit fee: $20

#39: Pocket Power: Drafting Creative Pockets That Wow Wow
Shawnelle Cherry

All Levels • Drafting • 2 Hours

Why settle for basic pockets when you can turn them into a design feature? In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to draft and design pockets that do more than hold your phone. From sleek in-the-seam pockets to statement patch pockets with pleats, bold triangle welts, whimsical motif styles and even a hidden pocket surprise, you’ll discover clever ways to add both function and flair to your garments. A great class for fashion sewists and pattern drafters who know the best garments always come with a clever pocket. By the end, you’ll never look at a plain pocket the same way again!

No kit fee

* Students should bring: pattern needle wheel, clear plastic grid ruler, curve ruler, pencil and eraser, scissors, measuring tape, pattern paper, Scotch tape

#40: Pad a Dress Form as Your Body Double
Brooks Ann Camper

All Levels • Tools / Foundation • 1 Hour

Learn Brooks Ann’s unconventional way to pad a dress form to match your own body. See examples of custom padded forms, learn about various tools and materials, and be guided through a step-by-step process for transferring your body’s unique shaping onto the form through custom padding. And the best part: No numbers necessary! It’s a unique approach to creating a unique tool. You’ll leave with the knowledge and techniques to pad your own custom form that can change along with you, as your body changes over time. An updatable 3D body double can be a game-changer tool!

No kit fee

#41: Cosplay Case Study: Anne Boleyn
Sumalee Eaton

All Levels • Cosplay / Historical • 2 Hours 

Join Sumalee for a deep dive into her costume construction process for one of her favorite costumes: a 16th century Tudor gown based on a famous portrait of Queen Anne Boleyn. Study the gown up close, ask questions, and above all--hear how you can apply Sumalee's lessons learned to your own historical cosplay process! This session will include a mix of storytelling, hands-on activities, discussion, and Q&A, all designed to help you deepen your relationship with historical costuming and cosplay.

Kit fee $10

#42: Theater Tips That Help in Everyday Sewing
Tricia Camacho

All Levels • Design / Construction • 1 Hour

Take a peek behind the curtain and discover the stage-worthy techniques that can seriously level up your everyday sewing! In this class, I’ll share some of my favorite time-tested tricks from the world of theatrical costuming. From unexpected tools and smart construction sequences to creative problem-solving and mindset shifts. These aren’t just cool party tricks… they’re practical methods I use in my own garment sewing all the time. Tips that will help you stitch smarter, faster, and with more confidence.

No kit fee