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Program facts 
Learn about pattern making and design with this 18-credit-hour certificate program in apparel construction. You’ll develop entry-level skills in the areas of sewing, flat-pattern design, draping and more.
Harper offers a number of opportunities to get real-world experience in the fashion industry, from an annual Student Fashion Show to Studio V, a professional student-run boutique. You can also participate in the Harper’s Bizarre Fashion Club, along with dozens of other student organizations.
Harper’s apparel construction program is designed to meet the current workforce needs of the fashion design industry. You can apply coursework in the Apparel Construction Certificate toward the A.A.S. in Fashion Design.
This 18 credit-hour certificate program is designed for those students interested in patternmaking and design. The following courses provide entry-level skills in sewing, flat pattern design and draping. Facilities simulate the professional atmosphere of the fashion industry.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| FAS 100 | Industrial Sewing Methods | 3 |
Description: Introduces students to basic principles of apparel construction techniques. Course projects require the use of industrial sewing equipment. Presents instruction in basic sewing techniques and their application to garment construction. (NOTE: Final project should be completed to participate in the annual department Little Black Dress competition.) Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 101 | Flat Pattern I | 3 |
Description: Introduces the principles of patternmaking through drafting basic block and pattern manipulation. Working from the flat pattern, students will apply these techniques to the creation of a garment design. Accuracy and professional standards stressed. Pattern tested in muslin for fit. Final garment will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in FAS 100 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 102 | Flat Pattern II | 3 |
Description: Continues development of basic sloper set. Manipulates basic sloper set to create original design. Patterns tested in muslin for fit. Garment is constructed from corrected patterns. Final garment will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 104 | Apparel Design and Construction | 3 |
Description: Develops patterns from basic sloper set. Actual construction of finished garments to be shown at the annual department fashion show. Emphasis on styling, fit, and professional finishing. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in FAS102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 113 | Advanced Industrial Sewing Methods | 3 |
Description: Focuses on application and mastery of basic sewing skills in patten and fabric recognition and problem solving related to individual creative design. Emphasis on technolgy, technical accuracy and appropriate use of selected material and supplies. (NOTE: This course is intended for students with basic sewing skill and machine proficiency.) Prerequisite: FAS 100 with a grade of C or better or placement as demonstrated through Fashion Design Department testing. Contact program coordinator for additional information. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| FAS 201 | Draping | 3 |
Description: Continues advanced development of the creative design process through basic draping techniques on industry standard dress forms. Final garments will go through the annual jury to participate in the annual department fashion show. Prerequisite: FAS 102 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Students interested in fashion design may also be interested in:
For more information about the Apparel Construction Certificate program, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.