Are you ready to take your sewing skills to the next level? Learning how to draft and sew a collar is a game-changer for any aspiring tailor or DIY fashion enthusiast. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, using simple language and easy-to-follow instructions. By the end, you’ll be crafting professional-looking collars that will make your shirts stand out!
Why Mastering Collar-Making Matters
Collars are the crowning glory of many garments, especially shirts. They frame the face and can make or break the overall look of your creation. But let’s be honest – collars can be tricky to make. Many sewers struggle with getting them just right. Don’t worry, though! With our guide, you’ll be drafting and sewing collars like a pro in no time.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before we dive in, let’s gather our tools. You’ll need:
- Measuring tape
- Paper for pattern drafting
- Pencil and eraser
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Fabric for your collar
- Interfacing
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Iron and ironing board
Got everything? Great! Let’s get started on our collar-making journey.
Step 1: Taking the Right Measurements
The first step in how to draft and sew a collar is getting the right measurements. There are two ways to do this:
- Measure a shirt you like: Measure from one end of the collar to the other.
- Measure your neck: Wrap the measuring tape around your neck where the collar will sit. Add about two fingers’ width for comfort.
Remember to add the width of one placket (usually about an inch) to your measurement. This accounts for the overlap when the shirt is buttoned.
Step 2: Drafting the Collar Band
Now, let’s create the pattern for the collar band. This is the part that stands up around your neck.
- Take your neck measurement and divide it by two.
- Draw a line of this length on your paper.
- Decide how tall you want the back of the collar band. An inch and a half is a good starting point.
- Draw a curve from this point down to about 3/4 inch at the front.
This curve is crucial – it helps the collar sit nicely against your neck. Play around with the curve until you’re happy with it.
Step 3: Crafting the Collar Pattern
Next, we’ll create the pattern for the top part of the collar – the part that folds over.
- Measure from the center back of your collar band to the edge.
- Use this measurement to draw the basic shape of your collar.
- Add about 3/4 inch to the back for overlap.
- Decide on the shape of your collar points. You can go classic, pointy, or rounded – it’s up to you!
Remember, the joy of making your own clothes is that you can customize everything to your liking.
Step 4: Preparing Your Fabric
Now that we have our patterns, it’s time to cut our fabric. Here’s what you need to do:
- Cut two pieces each of your collar band and collar from your main fabric.
- Cut two pieces each from your interfacing.
- Iron the interfacing onto one piece each of your collar band and collar.
This interfacing gives your collar structure and helps it keep its shape.
Step 5: Sewing the Collar
Here’s where the magic happens! Follow these steps to sew your collar:
- Place the two collar pieces right sides together.
- Sew around the edges, leaving the bottom open.
- Cut the corners and flip the collar to face the right side.
- Press the collar flat and topstitch around the edges for a professional finish.
Step 6: Assembling the Collar Band
Now, let’s put the collar band together:
- Position one interfaced piece and one non-interfaced piece with their right sides facing each other.
- Sew along the top edge.
- Turn right side out and press.
- Insert the collar between the two band pieces, aligning the raw edges.
- Sew along the outer edge of the band, enclosing the collar.
Step 7: Attaching the Collar to Your Shirt
The final step in how to draft and sew a collar is attaching it to your shirt:
- Find the center of your collar and the center back of your shirt.
- Pin the collar to the neckline, matching these center points.
- Sew the collar to the neckline, starting from the center and working your way out to each side.
- Press the seam and topstitch for a polished look.
FAQs
How do you sew perfect collar points?
Sewing perfect collar points is all about technique. Start by trimming the seam allowance close to the stitching at the point. Clip the corner, being careful not to cut the stitches. Use a point turner to flip the collar to the right side. Press the point flat. For extra sharpness, use a pin to gently push out the point from the inside.
How to draft a collar stand for a shirt?
To draft a collar stand, start with your neck measurement. Divide this by two. Draw a line of this length. Add about 1.5 inches for the back height. Curve this down to about 0.75 inches at the front. This curve helps the stand fit comfortably around your neck. Don’t forget to add seam allowances to all sides.
How do you draft different collars?
Drafting different collars is fun and creative. For a pointed collar, extend the collar points outward. For a rounded collar, curve the edges. A wing collar has very short points that stand up. A mandarin collar is just the stand without the fall. Experiment with different shapes and sizes to create unique styles.
How do you make a collar step by step?
Making a collar involves several steps. First, draft your pattern. Cut your fabric and interfacing. Apply interfacing. Sew the collar pieces right sides together. Trim corners and turn right side out. Press flat. Create the stand separately. Attach the collar to the stand. Finally, sew the completed collar to your garment.
How to sew a two-piece collar?
A two-piece collar consists of the collar itself and the stand. Sew the collar first, following the steps in the previous answer. For the stand, sew the outer edge of the two stand pieces together. Insert the collar between the stand pieces. Sew along the inner edge, enclosing the collar. Attach this unit to your garment’s neckline.
Wrapping Up: You’ve Made a Collar!
Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to draft and sew a collar. It might seem tricky at first, but with practice, you’ll be creating perfect collars in no time. Remember, sewing is all about patience and precision. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect – even experienced tailors sometimes need a do-over.
Now that you’ve mastered this skill, why not try different collar styles? Experiment with various shapes and sizes to find what suits you best. Happy sewing!