How To Make A Sewing Pattern?

How To Make A Sewing Pattern ?

Are you a budding fashion designer creating your own unique pieces? Crafting handmade garments can be incredibly rewarding and gives you the opportunity to express yourself in innovative ways.

Learning how to make a sewing pattern not only increases the efficiency of garment construction but also allows for more precise design specifications. Whether you are an experienced sewer or just getting started, it’s never too late to introduce these essential skills into your creative practice.

In this blog post, we will explore various topics such as how to select suitable fabric for patterns, techniques for altering existing patterns and constructing new ones from scratch. Keep reading to find out how crafting custom clothing can offer hours of satisfaction as well as some great additions to your wardrobe!

What Is A Sewing Pattern?

A sewing pattern is a template used to trace garment components onto cloth so they may be cut out and put together. These patterns are often constructed out of paper, and they allow you to lay out your fabric in a way that ensures the pieces will align correctly when sewn together.

In essence, a sewing pattern is a blueprint for a garment. It provides detailed instructions on where to cut, where to sew, and how to piece the fabric together to create your desired clothing item. With the help of a well-made sewing pattern, even a beginner can produce clothing that looks professional and fits perfectly.

Equipment You Need To Make A Sewing Pattern

In order to create a sewing pattern, you’ll need a set of essential tools to help you perform the task effectively. Here’s a list of necessary equipment:

1. Measuring Tape: This is an essential tool for taking precise body measurements, which are crucial for a well-fitted garment.
2. Pattern Paper: This is the paper on which you’ll draw your pattern. It comes in various types like dot paper, grid paper, or plain pattern paper.
3. Rulers: A variety of rulers like a straight ruler, a hip curve ruler, and a French curve ruler are needed for drawing straight lines and curves.
4. Pencils and Markers: These are used for drawing and marking the pattern on the paper. It’s a good idea to have pencils in different colors for various pattern pieces.
5. Dressmaker’s Scissors: These scissors are used for cutting out the pattern from the paper. Make sure they are sharp for clean cuts.
6. Pattern Weights: These are used to hold down the pattern paper while cutting or marking the fabric.
7. Pin Cushion and Straight Pins: These are used for pinning the pattern to the fabric before cutting.
8. Tracing Wheel and Tracing Paper: These are used for transferring pattern markings onto the fabric.
9. Seam Ripper: This tool is essential for removing stitches if you make a mistake.

Having these tools at your fingertips will make the process of creating a sewing pattern easier and more efficient.

How To Make A Sewing Pattern?

Creating your own sewing pattern might seem daunting at first, yet it’s a skill that can significantly enhance your sewing projects. By learning how to draft a pattern, you gain the freedom to design unique garments that fit your measurements perfectly.

You’re no longer limited to commercial patterns and can bring your clothing ideas to life. Let’s delve into the process of making a sewing pattern from scratch.

Method 1: Drafting A Pattern Using Your Measurements

One way to make a sewing pattern is to use your own measurements. This method is excellent if you’re looking to create a custom-fit garment that will fit like a glove.

What You’ll Need:

• A large sheet of pattern paper or any large piece of paper
• A dressmaker’s curve or a French curve
• A long ruler
• A pencil or a fabric marker
• A tape measure
• A pair of dressmaking scissors
• Straight pins

Step-by-Step Instruction:

1. Take Your Measurements: Use your tape measure to get accurate measurements of your body. Key measurements include your bust, waist, hips, and the length of your desired garment. Remember, measurements should be taken without adding any ease for a perfect custom fit.
2. Draw the Outline: Using your measurements, draw the outline of your garment on the pattern paper. Remember to sketch lightly so corrections can be made.
3. Add Seam Allowance: Once you’re satisfied with the outline, add a seam allowance around the entire pattern. The standard seam allowance is typically about 5/8 of an inch (1.5 cm) but can be adjusted according to your preference.
4. Cut Out the Pattern: Using your dressmaking scissors, cut out the pattern, following the seam allowance line you added.
5. Transferring the Pattern: Pin the paper pattern onto your fabric. Ensure the fabric is well-ironed and laid flat. Then, cut the fabric following the pattern.
6. Assemble the Pieces: Finally, assemble the pieces as indicated in your design. Don’t forget to iron your seams open as you go to ensure a neat finish.

By drafting a pattern using your measurements, you are able to create garments that fit your unique body shape. This ensures the clothing is comfortable and looks great. Additionally, it’s possible to experiment with different fabrics, trims, and design details as desired.

However, this method may be time-consuming for those who are just beginning to learn. Drafting a pattern requires patience and precision as measurements must be accurately taken and translated into the template. But, with practice, this process will become more efficient over time.

Method 2: Making A Sewing Pattern From Existing Patterns

Alternatively, it’s possible to make a sewing pattern without having to draft one from scratch. By using an existing commercial pattern as a base, the amount of work required is significantly reduced.

What You’ll Need:

• A commercial sewing pattern
• Pattern paper or any large piece of paper
• A dressmaker’s curve or a French curve
• A long ruler
• A pencil or a fabric marker
• A pair of dressmaking scissors
• Straight pins

Step by Step Instruction:

1. Selecting the Pattern: Choose an existing pattern that is closest to your desired design and make sure you have enough fabric for the project as indicated in the pattern instructions.
2. Tracing the Pattern: Place the pattern onto a large piece of paper and trace it out, including all notations. Remember to include seam allowance where necessary.
3. Adjusting the Pattern: Once you have a traced version of your pattern, you can adjust it according to your needs. For example, you can increase or decrease the pattern size for a better fit or alter the shape of the pattern to create a different style.
4. Transferring the Pattern: Pin your paper pattern onto your fabric and cut it out according to the seam allowance line. Then, assemble the pieces as indicated in your design.

Using an existing pattern is an excellent way of making clothing without having to draft one. This method is ideal if you’re a beginner or are short on time and can help you understand the basics of pattern making. Additionally, it gives you the freedom to make alterations as desired for a custom fit.

Therefore, making a sewing pattern may seem intimidating at first but with practice, it’s possible to create beautiful garments that fit your body perfectly.

Whether you choose to draft a pattern from scratch or use an existing one as a base, there are plenty of ways to explore and develop your skills in pattern-making. In no time, you’ll be able to create beautiful, unique pieces that show off your creative talent.

What Types Of Fabric Are Best For Making Sewing Patterns?

Different types of fabric have unique characteristics that make them ideal for certain types of patterns and projects. When choosing a fabric, you should consider the drape, weight, and stretch of the material.

1. Cotton: Cotton is versatile, comfortable, and easy to work with, making it a great choice for beginners. It’s excellent for various garments like dresses, blouses, and children’s clothes.
2. Linen: Linen is a lightweight and breathable fabric, suitable for warm-weather clothing. It’s known for its natural wrinkles, adding casual elegance to dresses, skirts, and tops.
3. Silk: Silk is a luxurious fabric with a beautiful sheen and drape, perfect for formal wear and lingerie. However, it’s a bit tricky to sew due to its slippery nature.
4. Denim: Denim is a heavy-weight fabric that’s durable and wear-resistant, ideal for jeans, jackets, and bags.
5. Wool: Wool fabric is warm and resilient, excellent for winter clothing like coats, jackets, and sweaters.
6. Knit: Knit fabrics have a good stretch and are comfortable to wear. They are perfect for t-shirts, leggings, and dresses.
7. Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is easy to care for and has a wide range of uses. It’s great for sportswear, outdoor clothing, and costumes.

Remember, each fabric behaves differently, and the success of your sewing project heavily depends on your choice of fabric. It’s advisable to select a material that matches the recommended fabric types in the pattern instructions.

How To Take Measurements Accurately For A Sewing Pattern?

When it comes to answering how to make a sewing pattern, taking measurements is an essential step that requires exact accuracy. Taking accurate measurements is crucial for creating a well-fitted garment. Here’s a guide on how to take measurements accurately for a sewing pattern:

1. Body Measurement: Wear close-fitting clothes or undergarments to get precise measurements. Stand straight and relax your body for accurate results.
2. Bust Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your bust. Keep the tape measure straight and snug, but not tight.
3. Waist Measurement: Measure around the smallest part of your waist, usually about 1 inch above your belly button. Do not suck your stomach in.
4. Hip Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, approximately 8 inches below your waist.
5. Back Width Measurement: This measurement is taken from shoulder to shoulder. Stand straight, and ask someone else to measure it for you.
6. Arm Length Measurement: Starting from the shoulder point, measure down to your wrist.
7. Waist to Hip: Measure from your waist down to where your hips are the widest.
8. Height: Stand straight against a wall and measure from the top of your head to the floor.

Remember, always measure twice to ensure accuracy. It’s better to ask someone for help, especially for measurements that are difficult to take on your own, like back width and arm length. Keep these measurements handy while creating your sewing pattern.

Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using A Sewing Pattern

When using a sewing pattern, it’s easy to make mistakes, especially if you’re a beginner. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Not Pre-Washing Your Fabric: Fabrics can shrink when washed. Therefore, it’s crucial to pre-wash your fabric before cutting out your pattern pieces to prevent the final garment from becoming too small.
2. Ignoring the Grainline: The grainline indicates the direction in which the fabric should be cut. Ignoring this can lead to your garment hanging incorrectly. Always align the grainline marking on the pattern with the grainline of the fabric.
3. Not Transferring Markings: Pattern markings provide essential information for construction, such as where to match pieces, insert zippers, or make pleats. Failing to transfer these markings to your fabric can lead to construction issues.
4. Choosing the Wrong Fabric: Not every fabric works for every pattern. The wrong fabric choice can lead to a garment that doesn’t fit or hang properly. Always check the pattern envelope for fabric recommendations.
5. Incorrect Seam Allowance: The seam allowance is the extra space between the stitching line and the edge of the fabric. Not following the recommended seam allowance can result in a garment that’s too tight or too loose.
6. Skipping the Test Garment: Making a test garment, or muslin, is an essential step to ensure a proper fit. Skipping this step can result in wasting time and fabric on a garment that doesn’t fit.

Hence, it’s important to be aware of these mistakes and avoid them while using a sewing pattern. With the help of these tips, you will be able to create a perfect garment with ease!

Tips On Cutting Out A Sewing Pattern

Cutting out a sewing pattern is an important step in the sewing process. Here are some tips to ensure you do it correctly and efficiently:

1. Use the Right Tools: Have a pair of fabric scissors dedicated to cutting fabric alone. Using them on paper can dull the blade, making them less effective for fabric. Use paper scissors to cut out the paper pattern.
2. Iron Your Fabric and Pattern: Before you start cutting, iron your fabric to remove any wrinkles. You should also iron your pattern if it’s been folded to ensure precision.
3. Lay Your Fabric Correctly: Always follow the layout provided in the sewing pattern instructions to ensure the pattern pieces fit onto the fabric. This is especially important if the fabric has a directional print or nap.
4. Secure Your Pattern: Secure the pattern to the fabric with pattern weights or pins to prevent it from shifting while you cut.
5. Cut Carefully: Cut slowly and carefully along the lines of the pattern. Don’t rush this step as accurate cutting leads to a more successful sewing project.
6. Mark Your Pieces: After cutting, use a fabric marker or tailor’s chalk to transfer any pattern markings onto your fabric pieces. This ensures you don’t forget any important notches, dots, or darts when sewing.

So, proper cutting is crucial to the overall success of your sewing project. Taking your time in this step will ensure a better fit and more professional-looking outcome.

FAQs

How Does A Sewing Pattern Work?

A sewing pattern works by providing a scaled-down representation of each part of a garment. These pattern pieces are systematically marked with various symbols and notations, guiding the sewer in aligning, cutting, and assembling the fabric.

Notations on a pattern may indicate the grain line (the direction of the threads in the fabric), where to fold the fabric, where to place darts or pleats, and marking for where to sew buttonholes or other fixtures.

To translate the pattern onto the fabric, the pattern pieces are pinned onto the fabric and then traced around. The fabric is then cut along these traced lines, creating pieces that, when assembled, will form the complete garment.

Can You Make A Sewing Pattern Digitally?

Yes, you can create a sewing pattern digitally with the help of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. This process involves digitizing your measurements and creating a digital pattern that reflects the exact shape and size of your body. Digital patterns are becoming increasingly popular as they save time and make modifications easier.

How Long Does It Take To Make A Sewing Pattern?

The amount of time it takes to make a sewing pattern varies depending on the complexity of the design and the type of garment being made. Generally, it can take anywhere from 1-2 hours for a simple skirt to 8-10 hours or more for a complex dress design.

Which Type Of Paper Is Best For Sewing Patterns?

The best type of paper to use for sewing patterns is lightweight tracing paper. This type of paper has a slightly transparent finish, which makes it easier to trace and cut out the pattern pieces accurately. It’s also inexpensive and easily available at any craft store.

What Is The Difference Between Sewing Patterns And Dressmaking Patterns?

Sewing patterns are used to make any type of clothing item, while dressmaking patterns are specifically designed for dresses. Dressmaking patterns tend to have more detailed instructions and easier-to-follow diagrams as they focus on a single garment type.

What Can You Sew With No Sewing Pattern?

You can sew clothing items such as pillowcases, tote bags, and aprons without using a sewing pattern. You can also create accessories like headbands, scarves, and hats without relying on a pattern. For more complex projects like garments or quilts, however, it is best to use a sewing pattern for accuracy.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, sewing patterns serve as the blueprint for creating a variety of garments and accessories. Hence, knowing how to make a sewing pattern actually is extremely vital.

Moreover, mistakes can occur, especially for beginners, but understanding common pitfalls and how to avoid them can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether you opt for a traditional paper pattern or a digital one, a well-executed sewing pattern is the foundation for a successful sewing project. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with time, you will master the skill of sewing from patterns, enabling you to create unique, fitted, and well-constructed pieces.

References:

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Own-Sewing-Patterns

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattern_(sewing)

https://extension.unh.edu/sites/default/files/migrated_unmanaged_files/Resource004455_Rep6349.pdf

https://www.nal.usda.gov/exhibits/ipd/apronsandkitchens/exhibits/show/sewing/work-clothes