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Please follow the link above to answer a poll, the question: Would you subscribe to online lessons with Le Grand Chic Italia School of Fashion?
A recent comment on my blog: "Hi Maria, I wish I lived in the Toronto area. I would be registering for the class in a heart beat. I have taken lessons with Maria by skype since spring of 2016, and am so amazed and proud by the progress I have made. Every project, skirts, tops, pants, and jacket, have turned out so well with so few adjustments that it has brought back the pleasure of sewing. I have tried many pattern drafting systems in the past, and all lead to great frustration. I was about to give up sewing for myself, that is when I found Maria, and the sewing world changed. The pattern drafting system is the best, Maria guides you through the steps expertly with the grace and finesse of a great teacher, making sure the student is learning and building a skill set that is second to none. I am so happy that I have the privilege of being one of your students. Long distant student from Montreal."
Graduating class of 2016!
From left to right are John our councilor, Meaghan, Denise, Danielle, Judith, Linda, Kelli, Tonia, Maria and the mayor or Oro-Medonte Harry. It was a wonderful day and ceremony this was the very first time a group of students received the tailor diploma outside of Italy and the first time the whole class earned perfect marks! Antonia was very impressed with the precision, neatness and care the exams were exectued. I am a very proud teacher indeed!
From left to right are John our councilor, Meaghan, Denise, Danielle, Judith, Linda, Kelli, Tonia, Maria and the mayor or Oro-Medonte Harry. It was a wonderful day and ceremony this was the very first time a group of students received the tailor diploma outside of Italy and the first time the whole class earned perfect marks! Antonia was very impressed with the precision, neatness and care the exams were exectued. I am a very proud teacher indeed!
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Imagine creating garments that fit well THE FIRST TIME! This is what I teach in the intensives, we don't have dress forms in my classes students fit each other so many body issues are addressed in a short period of time. The results are mind blowing just ask any of my intensive students they have repeatedly told me what an eye opener these classes are. Novice or experienced sewer makes no difference the draft is the foundation, whether you sew or not has no bearing on your ability to draft a pattern.
Brand new this year! WEEKEND PATTERN DRAFTING RETREATS -12 hours of instruction time each weekend Saturday and Sunday 9 to 12, lunch break, 1 to 4; students may use studio to complete homework after class hours if they wish
These retreats are great for a group of friends to get together and learn how to draft patterns and/or sew garments! It's a fun informative way of passing a weekend doing something you love and get a real sense of accomplishment as well once you get to wear the clothes you make, imagine a garment in the exact colour, fabric you want that actually fits! If there is a group who has been thinking about doing something different and fun don't hesitate to call Maria and book some dates for spring 2019.
The classes are designed to take students from beginners to advanced pattern makers in a very short period of time. Along the way they will learn how to fit the body, a very important aspect of pattern drafting, taking cues from the actual measurements to make necessary adjustments to the pattern even before any cutting of fabric is done. Students will learn about a master pattern, pattern pieces, labeling, marking, fabric properties/widths but first and foremost how to measure accurately. Below is an outline of the program for 4 months at which point the students are assessed and based on those findings we will decide how to go forward. Included in the program is the set-in sleeve as it is an integral part of many garments and the beginning of understanding the two piece sleeve.
After each session there will be homework to put the theory into practice, students are expected to complete ALL homework prior to the next session. They will be required to draft and sew mock ups using different measurements, once the numbers change the whole thing changes (it seems). They will also be given drafting only assignments just to keep the momentum going, I will expect many questions that is the best learning for the students. If there is anything specific students want to cover they may ask and I will do my best to incorporate the request into the program.
There will be syllabus for each individual retreat to show the learning outcomes and how they will be achieved.
Weekend 1 - learn how to properly take measurements, record them and how to create the basic block front and back complete with shaping for the sheath, princess and mock princess seams on the front; mock up, fitting and adjustments.
Weekend 2 – building on the basic block and shaping by doing some dart manipulation while incorporating personal adjustments to fit the body as well as adding more shaping to the back to include a princess seam.
Weekend 3 – getting ready for the set in sleeve starting with the armhole adjustments on the bodice leading to drafting the sleeve
Weekend 4 – challenge students with more complex designs by adding a front opening, flare at the hemline or gores within the design
From week 4 we will decide how to proceed based on the students’ assessment. So far I have 2 students registered if 2 more want to join it will make it more affordable for all, remember 4 is the maximum number I can take making a very small intimate class!
This course will cover a lot of ground in a short period of time and priced very competitively for more information please feel free to contact Maria at 705 487-2328 or by email mcalautti@rogers.com or go to the contact page, click here
Here is what Lori had to say about the bodice intensive week of 2014
Brand new this year! WEEKEND PATTERN DRAFTING RETREATS -12 hours of instruction time each weekend Saturday and Sunday 9 to 12, lunch break, 1 to 4; students may use studio to complete homework after class hours if they wish
These retreats are great for a group of friends to get together and learn how to draft patterns and/or sew garments! It's a fun informative way of passing a weekend doing something you love and get a real sense of accomplishment as well once you get to wear the clothes you make, imagine a garment in the exact colour, fabric you want that actually fits! If there is a group who has been thinking about doing something different and fun don't hesitate to call Maria and book some dates for spring 2019.
The classes are designed to take students from beginners to advanced pattern makers in a very short period of time. Along the way they will learn how to fit the body, a very important aspect of pattern drafting, taking cues from the actual measurements to make necessary adjustments to the pattern even before any cutting of fabric is done. Students will learn about a master pattern, pattern pieces, labeling, marking, fabric properties/widths but first and foremost how to measure accurately. Below is an outline of the program for 4 months at which point the students are assessed and based on those findings we will decide how to go forward. Included in the program is the set-in sleeve as it is an integral part of many garments and the beginning of understanding the two piece sleeve.
After each session there will be homework to put the theory into practice, students are expected to complete ALL homework prior to the next session. They will be required to draft and sew mock ups using different measurements, once the numbers change the whole thing changes (it seems). They will also be given drafting only assignments just to keep the momentum going, I will expect many questions that is the best learning for the students. If there is anything specific students want to cover they may ask and I will do my best to incorporate the request into the program.
There will be syllabus for each individual retreat to show the learning outcomes and how they will be achieved.
Weekend 1 - learn how to properly take measurements, record them and how to create the basic block front and back complete with shaping for the sheath, princess and mock princess seams on the front; mock up, fitting and adjustments.
Weekend 2 – building on the basic block and shaping by doing some dart manipulation while incorporating personal adjustments to fit the body as well as adding more shaping to the back to include a princess seam.
Weekend 3 – getting ready for the set in sleeve starting with the armhole adjustments on the bodice leading to drafting the sleeve
Weekend 4 – challenge students with more complex designs by adding a front opening, flare at the hemline or gores within the design
From week 4 we will decide how to proceed based on the students’ assessment. So far I have 2 students registered if 2 more want to join it will make it more affordable for all, remember 4 is the maximum number I can take making a very small intimate class!
This course will cover a lot of ground in a short period of time and priced very competitively for more information please feel free to contact Maria at 705 487-2328 or by email mcalautti@rogers.com or go to the contact page, click here
Here is what Lori had to say about the bodice intensive week of 2014
- What a great week we had! Lori learned so much in one week here is what she had to say: "The course was everything I hoped for. It was amazing to follow the steps and be able to draft a pattern that fit the client beautifully! I was able to do this for myself, as well as for someone with a totally different body type. This is exactly what I was looking for to take my sewing skills to the next level!! I am excited to continue to work with the book and expand the list of elements that I am able to draft. Thanks for a wonderful week"
- 2015 was a very successful year as well with two wonderful ladies Maria and Denise who did both intensives and we even squeezed in a field trip to some fabric stores in the GTA! They were very happy with this outing and we all learned a lot especially how much we enjoy a real cappuccino from an Italian bakery. All kidding aside they worked exceptionally hard and made a lined dress, skirt, knit top and not one, not two but THREE PAIR of pants! Unbelievable! Denise actually wore her dress at a fashion show I held recently in Collingwood. Maria is a bit further away in Pennsylvania making it a bit hard for her to attend.... I do miss the ladies, hope they are well!
- 2016 Intensive, once again a very successful two weeks! The ladies were unbelievable during the course of the program, I did work them hard and they were up to the task completing patterns for a Dolman, raglan for knits and raglan for wovens as well as perfecting the princess seams on both front and back and the two piece sleeve by creating mock ups and a top, that was only the first 5 days! The remaining 5 days were spent on perfecting the pants fit and perfect it they did! Taking home perfect fitting pants, one of them actually wore them home! We were hoping to go to some fabric stores in Toronto but never did make it making the choice to perfect the pants fit rather going on a field trip. It was a great time, I was told that I named the program appropriately "intensive" describes it to a T! We even Skyped with Antonia a couple of times so she can meet the ladies and give some advice on pants fitting.
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Book 1 - Pattern Drafting and basic tailoring
This course will teach the fundamentals of fitting skirts using personal measurements a great way to be introduced to the tools of the trade. Students will learn many tricks only known to seasoned tailors in the past, on how to make a garment look sculpted to the body with no drag or pull lines. They will learn how to take accurate measurements and how the numbers impact the overall design to create impeccably fitting garments starting with a right angle and some lines on paper. Truly an amazing course especially for anyone who has fit issues, once you have tried custom, bespoke garments you will never go back to off the rack!
Learn how to create your own tops with enough ease in all the right spots. Starting from a base draft, learn how to add darts, create armholes and necklines and then carry that over to simple dresses. Learn about the 3 F's of garment construction; fit, fabric and finish and how important it is to implement this knowledge into any garment you make!
Check out this article! http://www.thebarrieexaminer.com/2012/10/03/pattern-making-course-promotes-fashion-freedom
Tools of the trade
Here is a picture of the "squares" used to create the beautiful garments seen on this website. Truly easy to use as they are all pre-marked, so all the draftsperson has to do is mark and go! For the tops we have our little "drafting 2-step". Starting with a right angle using the blue square mark 1, 2, 3, then slide down and mark 4, 5, 6, connect the dots and the base front is done! The added bonus is that personal measurements are used so the garment can't help but fit. Along the way students learn how to make adjustments for an even more perfect fit.
My mantra is
"there is no such thing as an imperfect body, only imperfect clothes"
"the clothes must fit the body, not the body fit the clothes"
The instruction book has step by step instruction on how to draft the patterns, complemented by the in class instruction and students really get a good grasp of pattern drafting for custom clothing. Kits available from Maria Calautti
Le Grand Chic Italia has perfected this pattern drafting technique over the past 70+ years virtually eliminating most mathematical calculations! If you have no sewing knowledge or experience the preparatory course Learn to Sew is for you, a 4 week course (once weekly) that will give you the foundation necessary to continue on to the pattern drafting course.
For more information contact Maria at 705 487-2328 or email mcalautti@rogers.com
For more information contact Maria at 705 487-2328 or email mcalautti@rogers.com
Project Catwalk - 2010
The students are in full gear preparing for Project Catwalk next week, very excited about the challenge! They have some GREAT ideas! This is kind of like baptism by fire for them, they are getting a crash course on how to draft tops, considering that they have only had THREE CLASSES on skirts only........ I think they are doing a FANTASTIC job so far! Keep you posted with any new developments.
IMAGINE CREATING YOUR OWN PERSONAL DESIGNS THAT ACTUALLY FIT!
Isn't this AMAZING?! Created in only 3 days a reversable cape, LUX the boot covers, an assymetrical dress with embellishments and a hat!!!! How great are the students! This year's Project Catwalk entry garments. Look out next year, here we come!!!
Project Catwalk 2011 Denise and Amy JOB WELL DONE!
What a dress and coat! These two ladies created the whole outfit in only 2 and half days including the ring! The did an amazing job as you can see. Read the description in Denise's own words;
"European Pattern Drafting offered at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario, brings students into the classroom to teach them how to take an idea from pen, to paper, to pattern, to Perfection. Techniques taught in this course curriculum help produce fine tailors of the future. With a course directly imported from Le Grand Chic Italia, where clothes fit the body instead of the body fitting the clothes, instructor Maria Calautti opens the door to endless garment design.
The 2011 Project Catwalk held at the CreativFestival showcased Georgian College as one of 4 competing schools. Students designed a garment suitable to wear to the Royal Wedding for a style icon of their choice; ours was Marlene Dietrich. Her style was unquestionable and unwaveringly classic. Not only was she a wonderful actress, but she was also an accomplished seamstress, milliner and showgirl with a family background in fine jewellery, making every accessory of the utmost importance in every outfit she donned. Her interests included the violin, poetry and theatre. Marlene was known for her meticulous awareness of what her body language was saying down to the last detail. She was awarded the Medal of Freedom and the Legion d”honneur for her wartime work supporting the troops in WWII during which time she still made her own fashion statement even in full uniform.
This dupioni silk dress with touches of gold sparkle, embroidered silk hat, gold gloves and stretch taffeta fake fur trimmed coat, embodies every aspect of style Marlene herself would have chosen to wear to the royal wedding today. From head to toe to fingertip, this ensemble is as fluid as the iconic style Marlene was known for. Not shown, is a matching crystal ring with slivers of silk embedded in the stones. She loved when her gowns simply grazed the floor for that little touch of elegance and showmanship whilst maintaining her chic look and simplicity."
Marlene was quoted as saying,
“I dress for myself. Not for the image, not for the public, not for the fashion, not for men.”
By taking the European Pattern Drafting course created originally in Italy by Le Grand Chic Italia, one is able to bring any pattern to life for themselves or others with the perfect fit every time. Join us and see for yourself.
"European Pattern Drafting offered at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario, brings students into the classroom to teach them how to take an idea from pen, to paper, to pattern, to Perfection. Techniques taught in this course curriculum help produce fine tailors of the future. With a course directly imported from Le Grand Chic Italia, where clothes fit the body instead of the body fitting the clothes, instructor Maria Calautti opens the door to endless garment design.
The 2011 Project Catwalk held at the CreativFestival showcased Georgian College as one of 4 competing schools. Students designed a garment suitable to wear to the Royal Wedding for a style icon of their choice; ours was Marlene Dietrich. Her style was unquestionable and unwaveringly classic. Not only was she a wonderful actress, but she was also an accomplished seamstress, milliner and showgirl with a family background in fine jewellery, making every accessory of the utmost importance in every outfit she donned. Her interests included the violin, poetry and theatre. Marlene was known for her meticulous awareness of what her body language was saying down to the last detail. She was awarded the Medal of Freedom and the Legion d”honneur for her wartime work supporting the troops in WWII during which time she still made her own fashion statement even in full uniform.
This dupioni silk dress with touches of gold sparkle, embroidered silk hat, gold gloves and stretch taffeta fake fur trimmed coat, embodies every aspect of style Marlene herself would have chosen to wear to the royal wedding today. From head to toe to fingertip, this ensemble is as fluid as the iconic style Marlene was known for. Not shown, is a matching crystal ring with slivers of silk embedded in the stones. She loved when her gowns simply grazed the floor for that little touch of elegance and showmanship whilst maintaining her chic look and simplicity."
Marlene was quoted as saying,
“I dress for myself. Not for the image, not for the public, not for the fashion, not for men.”
By taking the European Pattern Drafting course created originally in Italy by Le Grand Chic Italia, one is able to bring any pattern to life for themselves or others with the perfect fit every time. Join us and see for yourself.
PROJECT CATWALK 2012
from left to right: Maria, Caroline, Meaghan, Amy and Margaret at the Festival
Check out the slide show in the special events page
Genvieve looking radiant! The shrug is removable, the train is also removable, so once the dance starts, she can have a beautiful party dress. To show respect to the Church, Genvieve chose a shrug to cover her shoulders and back, the dress itself is strapless, made with a built in bustier that not only keeps the dress secure but also shapes the soft tissue around the middle to a gorgeous hour-glass figure in the same manner as the Cynch It pants. The lace is hand beaded with crystals that are clear and sparkle when the light hits them. The hats were made by Meaghan Armstrong of Le Petit Chapeau in Barrie, Ontario.
To walk outside Genvieve had a cape that was wool on one side and shantung on the other, and was also lined with thinsulate in the middle for warmth. Her something old was a trim on the cape that was from 1973 that worked perfectly with the whole look!
Pictured below are both Genevieve and Maria in their creations that were made to measure, hand finished gowns. Maria's shawl is tied by threading one end through very large buttonholes that both rouched and fastened it in place.
To walk outside Genvieve had a cape that was wool on one side and shantung on the other, and was also lined with thinsulate in the middle for warmth. Her something old was a trim on the cape that was from 1973 that worked perfectly with the whole look!
Pictured below are both Genevieve and Maria in their creations that were made to measure, hand finished gowns. Maria's shawl is tied by threading one end through very large buttonholes that both rouched and fastened it in place.
dresses by Maria Calautti, created with the Le Grand Chic pattern drafting method