Reading patterns for sewing
Symbols on sewing patterns are the pictures that tell you what to do when you’re making clothes. They are super important because they help you understand how to cut the fabric, where to sew, and how to put everything together.
Sewing pattern markings/symbols make it easier to follow the instructions and make the clothes correctly. So, even if you’re new to sewing, you can look at the symbols and know what to do without reading many words. They’re like a secret code that helps you make your outfit.
Using fabric marking tools made just for this purpose, place temporary markings on the fabric, as indicated by the pattern, before you sew. You’ll find a directory of symbols on most pattern sheets to help you decipher the markings on your pattern.
Here’s an example from an actual pattern.
What else you might find:
- Darts
- Matching points
- Fold placements
- Zipper insertions
- Stitching paths
- Buttonholes
- Button placements
- Alteration points
- Cutting lines
- The heart of your design – the center front and back
Imagine navigating through a project without these sewing pattern markings/symbols – quite a daunting prospect, isn’t it?
Fabric marking tools
As you cut out your pattern pieces with good-quality scissors, bring those markings to life on your chosen fabric. This is where the magic happens, thanks to an assortment of fabric marking tools at your disposal.
These tools could be tracing wheels accompanied by tracing paper for precision, or perhaps removable chalk markers or markers that can be erased when their purpose is fulfilled.
The key here is durability – your markings should be resilient through handling and even a gentle ironing touch. The last thing you want is to lose track of those meticulously placed reference points on your fabric – a frustration we all aim to avoid.
Available at ABQ Sewing Studio
If you’ve made clothing, quilts, or home decor, you may already have what you need to mark your fabric. If not, it is available at our online store in the Rulers & Notions section, or you can pick up some marking tools when you come into the store to choose fabric. Browse garment sewing fabric online.
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