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Draped necklines

Draped necklines are created by

inserting a triangle shape, similar to
a godet. A v-shaped neckline can
be drafted on the basic bodice block
pattern, about 1–3cm away from
the neck edge. The triangular shape
is drafted on paper separately; its
outside edges should be the same
length as the neckline edge. The
centre line of the triangle is slashed
down to the point and pivoted open.
The pattern is then redrawn along the
top edge to include the fuller shape;
this top edge width will give you
the depth of the front drape on the
neckline. Experiment with this basic
technique to achieve different lengths
and fullness of drape. You can also
drape jersey toile fabric directly on
the stand for a quicker visual result.

Another way to achieve a draped

neckline effect is to knit the body
vertically, using partial knitting (see
page 102). Decide on the depth and
width of the top of the triangle first
(to achieve the shape and size of the
drape) and then calculate the pattern
by holding the required number of

Increasing and decreasing > Draping and shaping > Creating a knitting pattern
needles over the required number
of rows.

1 Jersey toiles can be pinned

at points on the stand to
produce a draped neckline.
2 Draped design by Juliana
Sissons, using ladder
technique. Fine linen yarn
was used in combination
with soft, bouncy acrylic.
2