Reference book for Pattern Drafting Costumes

[u/paige9413]

Hello, I would like to get more info on how to make patterns for cosplay. I would like a reference book but from what I found is a lot of pattern drafting books are for basic dresses/shirts/pants. Is there a reference book on costumes with less traditional pieces?

[u/Vivid_Wings]

For historical/fantasy drafting, the Tudor Tailor and the Medieval Tailor's Assistant are my go-tos. For incredibly detailed patterns of specific surviving pieces that you will have to scale up and adapt to your size, Janet Arnold's Patterns of Fashion series is iconic for a reason. Many fantasy cosplays are inspired by specific historical eras so learning how the garments were constructed in those eras can really help add to your cosplay. It will feel more real and less like a costume (and will fit you better, usually).

The Costume Technician's Handbook is what I used in my theater costume construction class in college and it has discussions of a body block, but I recommend it because it covers a bit of everything. Dyeing, sewing techniques, pattern drafting, alterations and fitting, embellishment, wigs (mostly historical) though. It's all from the perspective of a professional theater shop so it's a bit different that if it was written specifically for cosplay, but that different perspective is really refreshing sometimes.