Page:The practical designer (Rosenfeld, 1918).djvu/24

18 THE OPERATIVE AND SPECULATIVE METHODS ON PATTERN CUTTING

The art of designing is divided into two different branches, which are operative and speculative. By the operative method we create all fundamental divisions, which we use from time to time to prepare all foundation lines for pattern drafting of all model patterns employed for manufacturing of all kinds of garments. The foundation patterns are no doubt the most necessary, as they are the foundations of every particular style. It is necessary, therefore, to understand that these outlines are the operative parts in connection with designing and pattern cutting for all kinds of branches on garment cutting, which will therefore be known that all systematical productions of proportions and pattern drafting are the most constructive parts on garment production.

The speculative method is an entirely different proposition of carrying out the production of styles which are produced from time to time. It is, no doubt, necessary that in order that we may build styles, we are in need of many well controlling ideas so that we may be able to produce well developed ideas, which means taste and effects and are, therefore, called the speculative branch on designing and pattern cutting.

Taste and effects are positively no systematical productions. It is a self production of well tried out experience of garment production and of a great deal of confidence, which is the main controlling idea on this subject. It shall therefore be understood that in order to gain confidence through ourselves, it is necessary for us to become well acquainted with all the modern and practical peculiarities of how to prepare all the proportions, so that we shall know each and every part of the garment separately in order that we may not be kept back in going forward with all the practical work. It is also necessary that before we may employ a method of any style, we need to have the acquaintance of how to produce all proportions and systematical foundation patterns for all different principles for making connections of style by which we practice the speculative method on designing and pattern making.