Sewing patterns are the foundation of any great sewing project. Whether you’re making clothes, home décor, or accessories, patterns guide you through each step, ensuring your finished piece turns out as planned. But if you’re new to sewing, you might be wondering where to find sewing patterns and how to use them properly. In this guide, we’ll explore the best resources for patterns and offer tips on how to read and work with them effectively.
Where to Find Sewing Patterns
1. Online Pattern Stores
The internet is a treasure trove for sewing patterns, with hundreds of websites offering both free and paid options. Many of these patterns are downloadable PDFs that you can print at home. Popular sites for purchasing and downloading sewing patterns include:
- Etsy: A vast marketplace for unique, indie patterns from various designers.
- Spoonflower: Known for its fabric customization, it also offers downloadable patterns.
- BurdaStyle: A mix of trendy and classic styles, including free and premium patterns.
- Tilly and the Buttons: User-friendly patterns, ideal for beginners.
- Sew Over It: A great resource for chic, contemporary designs.
2. Pattern Companies
Major pattern companies have been providing sewists with patterns for decades. These companies offer a wide range of styles, from vintage to modern clothing and accessories:
- Simplicity: A well-known brand with patterns for all skill levels.
- McCall’s: Offers easy-to-follow patterns, especially for garments.
- Vogue Patterns: Known for their fashionable, high-end designs.
- Butterick: Offers simple and practical patterns, ideal for casual sewing projects.
These companies sell patterns online, at craft stores, and often in larger department stores.
3. Sewing Magazines and Books
Many sewing magazines and books offer a selection of patterns in each issue or chapter. This is an excellent way to expand your collection while also learning about different sewing techniques. Some popular sewing magazines that include patterns are:
- Love Sewing Magazine
- Threads Magazine
- Simply Sewing Magazine
These publications often come with downloadable or traceable patterns that cater to all types of sewists.
4. Sewing Blogs and YouTube
If you prefer following along with visual instructions, sewing bloggers and YouTubers often provide free patterns as part of their tutorials. Some bloggers also offer pattern-making tips and advice on customizing patterns to fit your style.
5. Vintage Pattern Shops
For those who love the charm of vintage fashion, there are online stores specializing in vintage patterns. These patterns can range from the 1920s to the 1980s and are a great way to create timeless pieces. Websites like Vintage Patterns Wiki and Etsy feature a wide selection of vintage designs.
How to Use Sewing Patterns
Once you’ve selected the perfect sewing pattern, the next step is learning how to use it correctly. Here are the key steps to get started:
1. Understand the Pattern Layout
Every sewing pattern comes with a layout, which is a map showing how the pieces should be cut and arranged on the fabric. Before cutting your fabric, study the layout carefully:
- Grainlines: These are arrows on the pattern pieces that indicate how the fabric should be aligned. Always make sure your grainline runs parallel to the selvage (the finished edge of the fabric).
- Cutting on the fold: Some pieces will need to be placed along the folded edge of the fabric, as indicated by a special symbol. This helps ensure symmetrical parts like bodices or skirts.
- Notches and Markings: Notches (small triangles) and dots are used for aligning seams and joining pieces. These should be transferred to the fabric with a fabric marker or chalk before sewing.
2. Read the Instructions
Patterns come with detailed instructions that walk you through the sewing process. While these may seem overwhelming at first, take your time to read through the entire instruction booklet before you begin. Many patterns also include diagrams, which are helpful visual aids for understanding complex steps.
3. Choose the Right Size
Sewing patterns usually offer a range of sizes. It’s important to take accurate measurements of your body or project before selecting which size to cut out. Remember that commercial patterns may not always align perfectly with standard clothing sizes, so rely on your measurements rather than size labels.
4. Prepare the Fabric
Once you’ve chosen the fabric for your project, wash, dry, and iron it before cutting. This process helps prevent shrinkage after sewing and makes the fabric easier to work with.
5. Cut and Assemble the Pieces
Lay out your fabric as instructed in the pattern’s layout guide and carefully pin the pattern pieces to the fabric. Cut around the edges as precisely as possible, leaving extra fabric for seam allowances as instructed. Once all pieces are cut, it’s time to start assembling. Begin by matching up the notches, marks, and edges, and follow the instructions for sewing each part together.
6. Test for Fit
If you’re sewing a garment, it’s always a good idea to test the fit before finalizing the seams. You can baste (temporarily stitch) the pieces together to see how the garment fits, then make adjustments as needed.
Tips for Working with Sewing Patterns
- Trace the Pattern: Instead of cutting your original pattern, consider tracing it onto tracing paper. This allows you to preserve the original pattern for future use or in case you need to make alterations.
- Check for Seam Allowances: Not all patterns include seam allowances in the design. Double-check your pattern to see if you need to add them manually when cutting.
- Practice on Scrap Fabric: If you’re using an unfamiliar fabric or tackling a new pattern, consider doing a test run on scrap fabric before using your final material. This allows you to perfect your technique without the risk of ruining your project.
Conclusion
Sewing patterns offer endless possibilities for creating unique projects, from garments to home décor. By knowing where to find the best patterns and learning how to use them properly, you can bring your sewing skills to new heights. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, sewing patterns provide structure and inspiration for all your creative endeavors.
