How to Choose Sewing Patterns for Beginners

Sewing can be daunting and confusing for beginners, especially when it comes to picking patterns to start out with. When starting out, the best advice is to go for easy patterns that are easy to sew and do not require much to execute. Top sewing machines require accumulated skills and pattern knowledge; the idea is to build confidence and learn as you go.

Do not start off with complicated sewing patterns which may be difficult to execute and which may end up leaving you discouraged. Go for easy and quick patterns without complicated techniques; start with pieces that are easy to sew. The fabric you are working with should also be one that is easy to handle- beginners should avoid slippery or stretchy fabrics.

How to choose sewing patterns for beginners

• Start with what is in your closet

There is no better person to start fitting and sewing for than you. You already know what is good for your body and what best fits you. Study your favorite dresses looking at how it is designed and sewed. Look at the shape – waist and curvature, how the neckline is done, the sleeve setting, length etc.

• Pick the right fabric

As already indicated above, beginners should go for easy to handle material, preferably cotton which makes for easy handling. Avoid fabrics that are stretchy or slippery like chiffon which require more experience and knowledge.

• Get the measurements right

The biggest secret to getting sewing patterns right is getting the measurements right. Take real up to date measurements to avoid sewing the wrong size. Do not go by store sizes or by measuring your clothes. Take accurate measurements of the waist, the hips, the shoulder span, the arms- both width and length, length from shoulders to knees, the bust and any other.

• Refer to pattern size guide

Make sure that the measurements match your pattern pieces and must factor in whole-body measurement. Always refer to the pattern guide to ensure that you get the right size otherwise you may end up short.

• Utilize pattern options

Top sewing machines allow customization of sewing pattern into preferred garment size. Customize your patterns for the best fitting and body flattering designs.

Tips for using sewing patterns

• Make sure that you have read through the whole pattern instructions so that the sewing workflow is clear to you before you begin. Never skip this step
• Printing out the pattern, trimming it into the right shapes and taping the pieces gives you a clear profile of the PDF pattern you are working on and the expected result.
• For traditional paper patterns, tracing is compulsory.

How to interpret sewing patterns

Always start by reading the instructions on the booklet or file where there is all kind of information pertaining to fabric, measurements, tips etc.

• Line drawings

The flat line drawings will give you better design and patter insights because flat patterns show lines more accurately since it is the stripped-down representation of the pattern.

• Sewing level

For beginners, sewing patterns categorized as “easy” will always have detailed instructions to guide you.

Beginners should choose patterns with fewer pattern pieces; the fewer the pieces, the simpler the pattern and the faster you complete.

• Fabric recommendations

Sewing patterns will always recommend the best fabric types for the project. Try to stick to the recommended fabric for best results.

• Fabric size

You will find a fabric yardage chart which will guide you on the fabric size required which should take into account shrinkage. It is advisable to buy extra fabric for print patterns and those with a nap to maintain directionality.

• Thread and notions

Along with yardage information, you will get a list of notions needed for each pattern such as bias tape, elastic, interfacing, zippers etc.

• Size chart

The size chart outlines the pattern pieces and matches the lines to different sizes.

• Measurements chart

You will find a layout of the sewing pattern with all the respective measurements. Read this information before you start cutting and follow it as you cut the pieces.

Pattern layouts will show:

• Layout of fabric
• The arrangement of pattern pieces.
• Explanation of the lines and the right and wrong side of the fabric.

• Symbols

Symbols tell you how to lay the pattern on the fabric, the positioning of the grainline, fold information, where gathers are, button positioning etc. 

Conclusion

This is the basic information on how to choose sewing patterns for beginners. If you are a beginner, next to buying your top sewing machine, you need insights on how to interpret sewing patterns and turn them into exciting outfits.