How to Cut Out a Pattern

If you read yesterday's post about How to Read a Sewing Pattern, you might be thinking now about the next step. Cutting out the pattern. It's not as simple as just cutting around the lines, but it's not complicated, either. There are just a few more things to consider when cutting the pattern pieces out. Let me encourage you to read through this tutorial so that you have an understanding of it before you actually start cutting. I hope this is helpful!

This diagram may help you understand the parts of the fabric such as selvage and folded edge.

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You may really benefit from reading this post about grainline, how to find it and why it's important.

Most patterns come with a few pages of pattern pieces in no particular order. You'll probably have to look through each page to find all the pieces you need for your particular project.

Your pattern instructions should help you understand what to do with each marking, but be sure to transfer the markings to the fabric so you can locate them and line them up when pinning the project together to get ready to sew. You'll see below about marking.

 Now, cut ON the appropriate lines.

The most common pieces that will be marked for lining up are collars, sleeves, waists, buttonholes, ruffles, etc.

 

These are important tips to know before cutting out your pattern and the fabric. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. These are the most common things you will see on a pattern piece, but sometimes you may encounter something you don't understand. If I missed any common ones, comment and let me know! I'll be happy to add them later to this post.

 

Do you use a pattern when sewing or do you just work by measurements?

 

This is part of my 31 Days of Home Economics series. You can find the rest of the posts by clicking the tab above labeled {Home Economics}.

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