Terms & glossary

A basic pattern shape, drafted to fit a specific set of body measurements without seam allowances or design details, used as the foundation for other patterns; called a sloper in American usage.

The technique of moving a dart from one location on a pattern to another while keeping the garment's overall fit and shape unchanged.

A diagram showing exactly how pattern pieces are positioned on a given fabric width to minimize waste, used especially in production cutting.

The fixed reference point on a pattern, often a bust point or hip point, around which a dart is rotated during dart manipulation.

The American term for a basic, made-to-fit pattern with no seam allowances or style lines, used as a foundation when drafting new pattern designs; called a block in British usage.