Hanfu for Dummies: Index of how-to tutorials

How an entire set of Shuhe would look together.

As articles collect in a blog, it may be difficult to find specific content that are particularly useful, such as tutorials and patterns for making Hanfu. This page records and links all Hanfu how-to sessions as posted on this blog in the past 2 years.

Also, an in-site search on the keywords “dummies” or the tag “how-to” would also generate results that would lead you to these tutorials. Please stay tuned in the future using these functions, or simply check back here.

The Dummies’ Guide to the Aoqun: A guide to making the basic shape of a wide-sleeved top and pleated wrap skirt, with a 15th century flair.

Standup Collar for Dummies: Extended reading for after mastering the Aoqun design above, by variating collar design into a unique design invented in the late Ming dynasty, in the last of days for Hanfu innovations prior to its forced end.

The Dummies’ Guide to the Shenyi: A basic tutorial to the composition of the earliest full-length robe design as prescribed by the Zhou Book of Rituals. A must for coming-of-age or graduation ceremonies!

The Dummies’ Guide to the Shuhe: Part A, Part B: A two-part tutorial by Hu Jingming that also teaches how to sew Hanfu with a sewing machine, as well as doing acrylic prints. The Shuhe is the daily-essential wear worn for physical labour, sports, or simply at home. (Addendum: Shuhe Patterns)

The Dummies’ Guide to the Yesa and Tieli: Fun with long robes, facades, and pleated skirts, designed for the gentleman on the move! Behold one of the most complex designs in the existing Hanfu plethora. Suitable for anything from businesswear to golf.

The Dummies’ Guide to the Jade Belt: A simple photo-essay by Hanfu Beijing member Xuefeijun on making and assembling a jade belt (yudai), perhaps the most uniquely Chinese belt design.

On Maintenance of Hanfu: Hu Jingming continues to give general advice on taking care of fabric and clothing in general, and discusses the necessary precautions and faux-pas in the washing and drying of Hanfu.

On the Curves on Hanfu: Hu Jingming explains how the collar and bottom hems of tops and robes are cut in a mathematically-sound way, allowing for real professional tailoring craftsmanship!