Category "cut & sew knits"

new lesson image: Drafting an Asymmetric knit top

Announcing Our Newest Lesson: Drafting an Asymmetric Neckline for Knits

Francesca Sterlacci - August 22, 2026 - cut & sew knits, How It's Made, Knits, New University of Fashion Lessons, Pattern Making

UoF’s newest lesson: Drafting an Asymmetric Neckline for Knits—Part of our cut & sew knit-drafting series. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Get ready to bring a little drama to your knits—because this lesson is all about drafting an asymmetric neckline that says, “I woke up fabulous.” You’ll learn how to create that glamorous one-shoulder moment that’s been stealing the spotlight on every runway (and possibly your next Zoom meeting).

Reading the Sketch

Reading the sketch and planning the top’s proportions. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

We’ll decode the fashion sketch like true design detectives—figuring out shoulder width, that tricky neckline drop, and how far your drama (ahem, your neckline) should go.

Using ¼” clear flat elastic cut ½” smaller than the neckline to stabilize the neckline. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Oh, and because nobody likes a droopy neckline, we’ll share a pro tip to keep yours from stretching out while sewing. Think of it as a little elasticity therapy for your top.

But There’s More

University of Fashion’s 3-part knit sewing series. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Become a knit whisperer with our lessons on picking the perfect seam allowances, plus hem and neckline finishes that make your stretchy designs behave like they actually want to be sewn.

Be sure to check out our other cut & sew knit drafting lessons:

Drafting a Women’s Fitted Stable Knit T-Shirt from Measurements

Drafting A Knit Camisole

Drafting an Off-Shoulder Knit Top

Drafting An Off-Shoulder Knit Top with Cuff – 2 Variations

Drafting a Built-up Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Cowl Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Knit Halter Tank with a Racerback

Drafting a Boat Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Collared Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Hoodie Knit Top

University of Fashion Promo code - TUTOR. $55 off a yearly subscription Was $220 now $165. Off expires 10.1.2026

School’s back in session—and so are we!

Think of us as every student’s best-kept secret: your own private fashion tutor, available on demand.

Our mission is your success. Whether you’re a student or teacher at a high school or college—anywhere in the world—and you need support with curriculum development, class projects, or building your portfolio, we’re here for YOU.

What you get

Access 550+ on-demand video tutorials across 13 fashion disciplines, all taught by experienced fashion professors and industry professionals:

Draping: daywear, athleisure, evening & bridal, swimwear, intimate apparel
Pattern Making: daywear, athleisure, evening & bridal, swimwear, intimate apparel
Sewing: machine & hand stitching, seam and hem finishes, zippers, couture techniques, tailoring, embroidery, leatherwork, and more
Fashion Drawing: figure drawing for men, women, and children; fabric rendering; design details; watercolor, pastels, and more
Knits: knitting, crocheting, and cut-and-sew knits
Menswear: measuring the male body and drafting bespoke patterns from measurements
CAD Art: Illustrator, Photoshop, Procreate, 3D design, AI fashion design, textile design
CAD Pattern Making: Tukatech pattern drafting and marker-making software
Accessories: handbags, small leather goods, shoe design
Product Development: starting a brand, adaptive fashion, tech design, flats, specs, tech packs, 3D design, AI fashion design
Childrenswear: global sizing and free kids’ pattern slopers for boys’ and girls’ wear
Fashion Business: start-up, retail, branding, fashion law, licensing, visual merchandising, and more
Lecture Series: adaptive design, costume history, sustainable design, color theory, trend forecasting, textiles, visual merchandising, and more

Special back-to-school offer

We typically run this promotion only once a year (during the holidays), but to help teachers and students get a head start, we’re offering $55 off our annual subscription:

Regular price: $220
Now: $165 with code TUTOR
Offer expires: October 1, 2026

Ready to elevate your fashion education? Use code TUTOR at checkout and start learning today.

If you are a school or group, we offer a free trial so that you can sample our content before taking advantage of our reduced rates for schools & groups.

Hurry, our offers expire October 1, 2026. Please note that the student discount promo code can only be used by teachers for their own personal use and not for use in the classroom. For our group subscription rates (5+ people) and to learn more about our free trials, scan the Group QR code above.

And just because we love every single fashionista out there, you don’t need to be a student or teacher to take advantage of our back to school promo, our sale is open to everyone!

Announcing Our Newest Lesson: Drafting a V-Neck Knit Top – 2 variations

Francesca Sterlacci - July 25, 2026 - cut & sew knits, How It's Made, Knits, New University of Fashion Lessons, Pattern Making

The newest lesson in our Cut & Sew knit drafting series, Drafting a V-neck Knit Top – 2 Variations. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

A V neckline creates a bold, angular break at the top of the garment, bossily redirecting the eye straight down the center front and tricking it into seeing a longer neck and torso than higher necklines like crew, scoop, or square ever will—basically the visual equivalent of standing a little taller without having to enter tense diplomatic talks with your shoe collection.

This lesson new lesson is your backstage pass to drafting a V‑neck knit top in two flavors: one sleek, clean-finished V, and one snazzy mitered V-neckband for when you’re feeling extra sporty.

Reading the V-Neck Sketch

Planning the V-neckline: neck drop and distance away from the neck. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

You’ll use the fashion sketches like a GPS, zeroing in on details such as how deep the front V drops and exactly how far the neckline scoots in from the shoulder/neck intersection.

Reading the V-Neck with Band Sketch

Planning the V-neckline with neck & armhole band finish. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

When you graduate to the V-neckline with a neck and armhole band finish, you’re basically signing up for a tiny knit-fabric science experiment. You still have to plot your neck drop and the distance from the base of the neck like a responsible pattern engineer, but now there’s extra drama: how wide should those neck and armhole bands be, and are they going to behave nicely or stretch out like overcooked spaghetti the minute you stitch them down?

Stretching the neckband a bit as it is guided along the neckline draft. (Image credit: University of Fashion)

To create the pattern neck & armhole band you must cut a trial band whose length equals the total of your front and back neckline, measured on the cross grain, and whose height is double your desired finished neckband width, cut on the length grain. Then fold the band in half and stretch that brave little test band along the drafted neckline, and reduce the band so that the band is a wee bit smaller than the paper draft. You’ll do the same for the armhole band. This helps stabilize the neckline and armhole and provides a clean finish.

Finale

Drafting a V‑neck knit top in two irresistible flavors—one smooth and sophisticated, the other boasting a snazzy mitered neckband—is basically your VIP all-access pass to the secret world of cut & sew knits. Think of it as fashion’s version of discovering the magician’s trick… but with fabric, not rabbits.

Announcing Our Newest Lesson: Drafting a Turtleneck Knit Top – 2 Variations

Francesca Sterlacci - June 27, 2026 - cut & sew knits, How It's Made, Knits, New Lessons, New University of Fashion Lessons, Pattern Making

UoF’s latest lesson, Drafting a Turtleneck Knit Top – 2 Variations, part of a cut & sew knit-drafting series. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Today’s lesson is all about the mighty turtleneck — the fashion world’s version of a warm neck hug. We’ll be drafting not one, but two variations: one with a neckline seam (for those who like a bit of drama) and one that’s all-in-one (for the no-fuss minimalists). By the end, you’ll know exactly how to decode a turtleneck sketch like a pro.

Reading the Seamed Turtleneck Knit Top Sketch

First things first. Start by analyzing the sketch, in this case, the turtleneck with the neckline seam. Determine crucial details such as the front neck drop, how far that neckline runs from shoulder to neck, the center back drop, and of course, the turtleneck height. Because yes, in fashion, a few millimeters can mean the difference between “chic Audrey Hepburn” and “help, I can’t breathe!”

Reading the All-in-One Turtleneck Knit Top Sketch

Analyze the all-in-one turtleneck sketch for proportion and measurements. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

When planning your all-in-one turtleneck knit top, it’s time for some big decisions. First up: How tall will your turtleneck stand? Are you going for elegant-and-refined or full-on “I’m hiding from humanity” height? Next, check if your fabric stretches enough to slip over your head—without ripping seams or your pride. If your fabric’s on the stubborn side, congratulations: you’ve just earned yourself a zipper at the back! Just know that with a zipper, the turtleneck won’t slouch dreamily—it’ll stand more like a soldier on duty. Finally, measure how far that neckline travels from shoulder to neck and how much the center back dips—because even turtlenecks like to keep their proportions in check.

Do You Have Your Stretch Degree?

If you haven’t already mastered the mysterious math of stretch ratios, check out our lessons Introduction to Knit Fabrics and Knit Fabric Principles. Because when your fabric bounces back like an overcaffeinated bungee cord, you’d better plan your design details accordingly.

Finale

In the end, designing your turtleneck is all about balance—between comfort and drama, structure and ease. Whether you choose a sleek, stand-up collar or a cozy, fold-over style, remember that every decision shapes both the look and the feel of your finished piece. After all, a well-planned turtleneck doesn’t just frame your face—it tells the world exactly how you’d like to be seen.

Announcing Our Newest Lesson: Drafting a Surplice Under Bust Knit Top

Francesca Sterlacci - May 23, 2026 - cut & sew knits, How It's Made, New Lessons, New University of Fashion Lessons, Pattern Making, Sewing

UoF’s newest lesson, Drafting a Surplice Under Bust Knit Top is part of a cut & sew knit drafting series. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Our latest cut & sew knit lesson has officially entered the chat — drum roll, please! It’s time to draft a Surplice Under Bust Knit Top. Equal parts sexy and sophisticated, this design wraps, flatters, and might just make Diane von Furstenberg’s iconic wrap dress a little nervous.

Reading the Sketch

Learning how to read a sketch— design details & proportions. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Once you’ve nailed drafting your knit sloper in our lesson Drafting a Women’s Fitted Stable Knit Sloper from Measurements, you’ve basically unlocked “boss level” in cut & sew knits. You are now officially cleared for takeoff into drafting land.

First stop: reading the surplice knit top sketch like the fashion detective you are. Study those proportions—the front neck drop, how far that neckline is from the neck in both front and back, where the wrap point hits on the body, and how much shirring is partying at the side seam.

Sewing Knits

University of Fashion’s 3-part knit sewing series. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

When it comes to sewing and taming cut & sew knits, consider us your personal knit wranglers. Our 3-part series walks you through choosing just-right seam allowances, plus hem and neckline finishes that help your stretchy creations behave like they actually asked to be sewn.

Be sure to check out our other cut & sew knit drafting lessons for more techniques and practice with knit drafting:

Drafting a Knit Halter Tank with a Racerback

Drafting A Knit Camisole

Drafting an Off-Shoulder Knit Top

Drafting a Built-up Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Cowl Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Boat Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Collared Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Hoodie Knit Top

Drafting An Off-Shoulder Knit Top with Cuff – 2 Variations

Announcing Our Newest Lesson: Drafting a Square Neckline for Knits

Francesca Sterlacci - April 25, 2026 - cut & sew knits, How It's Made, Knits, New Lessons, New Lessons, New University of Fashion Lessons, Pattern Making, Sewing

UoF’s newest lesson in our cut & sew knit series: Drafting a Square Neckline for Knits (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Our latest lesson continues our journey into the wild world of cut & sew knit pattern drafting — where fabric stretches, stitches dance, and woven rules simply don’t apply. Drafting for a square neckline for wovens is one thing, but working with knits? That’s a whole different animal.

It All Starts with a Knit Sloper

UoF’s knit sloper lesson: Drafting a Women’s Fitted Stable Knit T-shirt from Measurements from which a camisole & racerback tank top is drafted. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Attention all knit newbies! One of the biggest rookie moves in fashion history? Thinking you can just grab your woven sloper and call it a day for a knit project. Nope. Nada. Big, stretchy mistake!

Our lesson, Drafting a Women’s Fitted Stable Knit T-shirt Sloper from Measurements – is your golden ticket to the magical realm of cut & sew knits. Once you’ve drafted this powerhouse sloper, you’ll unlock a whole wardrobe of possibilities: racerback tanks, camis, body-skimming tees—basically, your dream closet waiting to happen. Oh, and did we mention it’s also the foundation for chic knit dresses and jumpsuits? You’ll be unstoppable (and fabulously comfy) in no time.

UoF’s other knit neckline lessons (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Not only will you master the art of drafting a square neckline knit top (hello, elegant minimalism!), but you’ll also unlock a whole neckline buffet of options. Feeling nautical? Try the boat neck. Want some drama? Go for a cowl. Prefer a sleek, built-up look or a little off-the-shoulder sass? We’ve got you covered—all using the same trusty knit sloper. It’s basically neckline mix-and-match magic!

Reading a Sketch

Reading the sketch to plan the neck drop, the width of square neck and the distance from the neck. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Once you’ve nailed your knit sloper, you’re officially ready to dive into drafting the square neck knit top—cue the dramatic runway music! Step one: channel your inner designer and read the sketch (yes, like it’s the latest plot twist in your favorite book). Study those proportions—the neck drop, the width across the front neck drop, and how far that neckline sits from the neck.

Sewing Tips

Sewing tip on how to keep the square neckline and armhole from stretching (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Knits have a mind of their own when it comes to necklines and armholes, so think of this as your “behavior management” strategy. Cut a piece of ¼” wide clear flat elastic just ½” shorter than the neckline and armhole circumferences and stitch it in as you sew—like a tiny backstage bouncer keeping everything from stretching out of control.

More About Knits

UoF’s knit lecture lessons: Introduction to Knit Fabrics and Knit Fabric Principles (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Thirsty for more knit know-how? Pull up a chair, because the stretch saga continues.

If you haven’t already untangled the mysterious math of stretch ratios, check out our lessons Introduction to Knit Fabrics and Knit Fabric Principles—they’re like subtitles for what your fabric is trying to tell you. When your knit bounces back like an overcaffeinated bungee cord, you’ll want to plan those design details accordingly, not just cross your fingers and hope for the best.

Finale

And there you have it—your very own square-neck masterpiece, drafted with precision and just the right dose of fashion flair! Remember, every great designer started with a sloper and a little creative courage (plus maybe a few choice words at their ruler). Keep experimenting with shape, proportion, and personality, because once you’ve conquered knits, the world of stretch becomes your oyster—or should we say, your spandex runway.

Announcing Our Newest Lesson: Drafting a Scoop Neckline for Knits

Francesca Sterlacci - February 21, 2026 - cut & sew knits, New Lessons, New University of Fashion Lessons, Pattern Making, Sewing

Part of our Cut & Sew knit drafting series: Drafting a Scoop Neckline for Knits. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Ready to wrestle some knits? Our latest lesson continues our journey into the wild world of cut & sew knit pattern drafting — where fabric stretches, stitches dance, and woven rules simply don’t apply. Drafting for wovens is one thing, but working with knits? That’s a whole different zoo.

University of Fashion knit foundation lessons: Introduction to Knit Fabrics and Knit Fabric Principles. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Planning the neckline draft. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

In this lesson on drafting a scoop neckline, we’ll start with how to “read” a fashion sketch — basically translating a pretty drawing into practical pattern geometry. You’ll figure out how far to scoop that front and back neckline and how to decide the sweet spot where shoulder meets neck.

We’ll also walk you through several neckline finishes: a clean fold-over edge if you’re going sleek, a classic binding if you like structure, or the self-finished neckline and armholes trick (that’s two backs and two fronts — fashion math at its finest).

Sewing tip on how to keep the scoop neckline and armhole from stretching (Image credit: University of Fashion).

And because knit necklines love to stretch out like gossip at a fabric sale, we’ve included a pro secret: stabilize them with ¼” (6mm) clear flat elastic — cut just a wee bit shorter than the neckline and armhole circumference. Your future self (and your garments) will thank you.

Master this neckline and elastic trick, and knits stop being “high-maintenance divas” and start behaving like your most loyal wardrobe besties.

But There’s More

University of Fashion’s 3-part knit sewing series. (Image credit: University of Fashion).

Become a knit whisperer with our lessons on picking the perfect seam allowances, plus hem and neckline finishes that make your stretchy designs behave like they actually want to be sewn.

Be sure to check out our other cut & sew knit-drafting lessons:

Drafting a Women’s Fitted Stable Knit T-Shirt from Measurements

Drafting A Knit Camisole

Drafting an Off-Shoulder Knit Top

Drafting An Off-Shoulder Knit Top with Cuff – 2 Variations

Drafting a Built-up Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Cowl Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Knit Halter Tank with a Racerback

Drafting a Boat Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Collared Neckline for Knits

Drafting a Hoodie Knit Top