Fun topic because I was a Home Economics teacher in the 60's. While in college I had been taught to start with a pattern, learned to alter it to fit me. Then I learned to alter using flat pattern techniques (math oriented). Then, I learned to make garments through a process called 'draping'-used segments of fabric which I pinned to a dress form. This was creative, artistic and non-structured. I was not very successful with this technique. So, I taught my students to start with a pattern but to use it a a launch point to create. It is like using the alphabet you learned in preschool to write a recipe or a poem. So, a lesson in the life of a sewist or would-like-to-be sewist, start where you are and move forward in your pursuit. I love to sew-everyday; but, I still can't create without some structure to start with.