Things You'll Need:
- measuring tape
- pencil & notebook
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Step 1
Take basic measurements first. If you plan on making home decorations like curtains, determine the length of your windows. If you want to make clothing like a shirt, take preliminary measurements of your body.
Basic body measurements to know: circumference of your bust (at it's biggest point), waist, and hips. This will determine the size range for the pattern you purchase. -
Step 2
Finding a pattern at the fabric store involves looking through the books of various pattern companies like McCall's, Burda, and Simplicity. Each picture will have a pattern number beside it, write the down the pattern numbers you are interested in and bring it to the file drawers.
Most stores divide drawers by name of the pattern company, and then in numeric order. If the pattern or pattern size you want is out of stock, keep your notes and try to buy it online directly through the pattern company. -
Step 3
Each pattern jacket will list a size range. Do not pick the size you wear in a clothing store. Instead, compare your body measurements to those on the back of the envelope. If you are between two sizes, purchase the larger pattern size and make adjustments later. This helps when purchasing the fabric, since fabric often shrinks when first washed and stretches over time.
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Step 4
Most patterns offer multiple styles (Views) in one envelope and label the pictures with a letter that corresponds to the instructions.
Based on the 'view' you are making, read the suggested fabrics on the back of the envelope. Depending on what you are making, there may also be suggestions for types of lace trim, netting, lining, underlining, etc. It's not a good idea to stray from these suggestions, and make sure you buy all the materials you will need to make your pattern view. -
Step 5
There may be a note on your pattern about Nap or Without Nap. These are suggestions for using plaids, stripes, or textured and piled fabrics. There is a technique for matching plaid pieces together, or cutting a high pile fabric like fake fur. These are not for the novice, and even experienced sewers should take the Nap suggestions to heart!
The same is true of fabric weight; wool is heavier than cotton, and heavier fabric can be harder to maneuver in your sewing machine. Beginners should definitely use caution and ask for help when shopping for fabric. -
Step 6
Standard fabric bolts come in 60" or 45" widths, and the measurements should be listed at one end of the bolt. If you cannot find this, ask a clerk to measure for you.
Once you choose fabric(s), find the further instructions for the specific pattern view you will be using. Based on your measurements and the width of your fabric, it will list the length of fabric you need cut. Fabric is measured in yards, and if you've never used a pattern before, add a quarter or half yard onto the total length to cut. -
Step 7
The final items you need are listed under Notions, which are things like zippers, hooks, buttons, or other accenting items. Find the items needed for your view and be sure to buy the right size and length of zippers/velcro/elastic.
If you are not sure what kind of thread to buy, get all-purpose polyester, or ask a store clerk. To pick a color for thread and other notions, find a color that matches or is slightly darker than the fabric. If the fabric has many colors, use the most common color; if no color stands out, choose notions that compliment one of the darker colors. -
Step 8
A final word about patterns: if a project looks complicated in the picture, it probably is. The more notions or kinds of fabric needed, the more difficult the project might be. A beginner should look for patterns needing the least variety of supplies.
