How to Sew Using Men's Shirt Pattern Pieces

Sewing your own shirt allows the opportunity to have the perfect fitting garment. It is critical to know how to use a pattern and prepare the pattern pieces properly. There are a few things to keep in mind as you work.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Take Body Measurements

1. Find the neck size by taking the measuring tape around the nap of the neck and bringing the tape at a slight downward angle at the throat. Leave room to place two fingers under the tape before recording the measurement.
2. Go from shoulder to shoulder across the upper back to find the shoulder size.
3. Determine the sleeve length by calculating the number of inches from the top of the shoulder to the desired length at the wrist and hand.
4. Place the tape measure around the chest under the armpits to take the chest measurement.
5. Record the circumference around the waist and stomach.
6. Calculate the length of the shirt by finding the point where the shoulder seam meets the attached collar seam. Measure from this point to the desired length of material that will tuck into the pants.
7. Use the acquired body measurement to choose the correct men's shirt pattern size.

Pattern Pieces and Information

8. Look at the front of the pattern package and choose the correct size and shirt view or style you wish to sew. Each pattern shirt view is assigned a letter to help you find the correct pattern pieces and reference information.
9. Turn the package to the back for a list of materials and how much you will need.
10. Open the package and read the instructions carefully. Use the designated view's assigned letter to separate your shirt's pattern pieces from the ones you will not use.
11. Cut out and press the tissue pattern pieces with a cool dry iron. Pin them together with straight pins on the seam lines.
12. Fit the pattern pieces carefully on the person that will wear the shirt. Mark on the pieces any adjustments you will need to make to have a proper fit.
13. Refer to the instruction sheet for correct pattern piece layout. Read the instructions on the pattern pieces also.
14. Pin the pieces in the correct place on the material with straight pins. Use tracing paper and a tracing wheel to mark seam lines, notches and other important information on your material.