How to Trace a Pattern
@Evelyn_Wood
@LetsGetSewing
@SewingReport
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Learn how to trace a sewing pattern accurately with this step-by-step guide designed to help you preserve your original patterns and customize your fit with confidence.
Materials Needed:
- Sewing pattern (paper or tissue)
- Pattern tracing paper (or Swedish tracing paper, medical exam paper, or tracing interfacing)
- Ruler or French curve
- Pencil or fine-tip pen
- Paper weights or pattern weights
- Measuring tape
- Masking tape (optional)
- Scissors or rotary cutter (for tracing paper)
Tips for Perfect Belt Loops:
- Choose a clean, flat, well-lit workspace.
- Avoid using permanent markers, as they may bleed through delicate tissue.
- Always double-check pattern markings and grainlines before cutting.
- Use pattern weights instead of pins to avoid tearing tissue patterns.
1. Prepare Your Workspace
- Clear a flat surface large enough to lay out the entire pattern.
- Gather all materials so they’re within reach before you begin.
2. Secure the Original Pattern
- Lay the original pattern flat on your workspace.
- Use pattern weights or masking tape to prevent it from shifting during tracing.
3. Position the Tracing Paper
- Roll or cut a piece of tracing paper large enough to cover the pattern piece.
- Place the tracing paper over the original and align edges if possible.
4. Trace the Pattern Outline
- Carefully trace the outer lines of the pattern using a pencil or fine-tip pen.
- Use a ruler for straight edges and a French curve for curves like armholes or necklines.
- Include all notches, darts, and markings as they appear.
5. Add Grainline, Labels, and Seam Allowances
- Mark the grainline arrow exactly as it appears on the original.
- Write down the pattern piece name, cutting instructions (e.g., “Cut 2”), size, and any fold lines.
- If the original does not include seam allowance, add it now using a ruler—commonly ⅝” or as specified.
6. Cut Out the Traced Pattern
- Use scissors or a rotary cutter to neatly cut out your traced pattern piece.
- Store traced pieces in a labeled envelope or folder for reuse.
