Start by tracing a copy of your dress block (instructions for made to measure patterns are included in our basic blocks course/module 1).

Lengthen both back and front to ankles or desired measurement, then mirror both to have the full view – which is necessary for asymmetric style.

Mark a notch on left shoulder line 2 to 3cm past high shoulder point, and identify a point on right armhole 4 to 6cm below shoulder pooint.

Get back first and work on its right side:

• connect with a straight line the points you found on shoulder line and armhole at previous step
• lengthen the line by 8 to 12cm and mark a notch, then lengthen by desired sleeve measurement (I added 25cm more to go a little past the elbow)
• add 8 to 10cm at hemline right side, then connect this point with the previous one
• mark a notch along this line approx at hip level, this will be a very deep slit

Then work on back left side:

• square left from the point you found along left shoulder line. The horizontal line should be roughly as long as shoulder line + desired sleeve length, in this case approx elbow length
• then square down to hemline. This line can be vertical or a bit slanted inwards depending on how loose you want the caftan to be at your hips
• connect this point to hemline.

Trace a copy of the new back, then find neckline midpoint and square down 2 to 3cm. Redraw the neckline rounded passing through that point. Cut through the line.

Starting from left high shoulder point, measure 10 to 12cm and mark a notch for the end of the scarf.

Mark grainline in center back.