MPB Book Review! DRAPING: THE COMPLETE COURSE

Readers, do you believe in synchronicity?

If not, how do you explain how it is that the very summer I purchase not one, but two body forms so I can learn draping, Laurence King Publishing releases a brand new, 320-page book entitled "Draping: The Complete Course" authored by Karolyn Kiisel?

Or -- even spookier -- how a complimentary copy landed on my doorstep just last week, sent to me by their marketing department? 

Needless to say, I was thrilled to receive "Draping," and I am equally thrilled to share my enthusiasm about it.







"Draping" is a BIG book.  Fashion Incubator's Kathleen Fasanella, who also received a copy, claims this book weighs 4 lbs. and I believe it.  (Kathleen calls the book "exquisite" and "a game changer" in her review.)  Full-color photos and diagrams fill nearly every page.







"Draping" is divided into three sections: Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced, with each section covering specific types of garments (i.e, blouses, pants, dresses, etc.) and focusing on one special draping project for each garment type.



These draping projects include everything from a circle skirt, to -- I'm not kidding -- Gilbert Adrian's gown for Glinda in The Wizard of Oz. 







Or how about Audrey Hepburn's bateau-neck sheath dress from Breakfast at Tiffany's?







These projects are all outlined in step-by-step detail.  Kiisel's writing is clear and her tone authoritative.

"Draping" also includes a DVD containing 32 video tutorials led by Kiisel herself that relate to specific steps illustrated in the book.  I've already watched the DVD from start to finish and I loved it; it's like taking a draping class taught by a master (see video clip at bottom of page).

I have not put "Draping" to use yet, but I intend to, and soon.  (As you know, I've also signed up for a beginner's level draping class on Craftsy taught by Paul Gallo, so I'm curious to see how different instructors approach the topic.)

"Draping: The Complete Course" can be pre-ordered (the official release date is October 1) on Amazon for less than $45. 

You can take a closer look at my copy on my Picasa folder here (more than 50 photos).

Here's a sample tutorial from the book:



Have a great day, everybody!