Reading Pattern's Symbols
Reading patterns can be quite a task if you don't talk sewing language. Learn it, and you'll be speaking like a professional seamstress.
Sewing patterns have special symbols that tell you how to arrange the pattern on the fabric, where to sew and how to match the pieces.
They will guide you in either cutting or sewing your pattern.
Ignoring them could result in in twisted pants, slouchy skirts and baggy t-shirts. It's ok if you're going for a harem look, but not if your clothes are supposed to be sleek.
If you study these symbols and markings, the next time you give reading patterns a try, they'll be clear as ice. Here's a little guide to help you.
Sewing Pattern Symbols
Pattern Pieces
Tells you how many of each pattern to cut. It's usually written on each pattern.
Straight Grain or Direction
Selvage
The selvage is the finished edge of fabric. It usually has a different color or texture. Sometimes it also has little holes.
Every woven fabric is made of crosswise (from selvage to selvage) and lengthwise threads. The grain is the direction in which they're going.
In patterns, this arrow must be in the same direction as the length and parallel to the selvage. This will make the fabric preserve its fall and be more resistant to movement. If you place it parallel to the crosswise grain, the fabric will hang after it is sewn.
Pleat
This little symbol marks the beginning and ending of a pleat. The arrow indicates which way to fold. In this example, you would pleat from left to right.
Notch
These help you match pattern pieces.
If you were sewing a blouse, you'd find one in the front pattern and one in the back. You would need to align the triangles from both patterns. This is helpful for strange shaped patterns or ones that have many pieces.
You can find one triangle or several. Some patterns include numbers beside the notch to help you.
Fold
Fold the fabric and place the pattern's edge on the fold. When you cut, only do it around the pattern, never cut the folded edge.
Dots
They are used to mark important parts of the patterns such as dart points or pocket placement (see the image above). Their meaning varies depending on the pattern.
Slash
Lengthen or shorten here. This is the part of the pattern where you can safely adjust the length. Don't do it before or after because the pattern's shape could change.
Cutting Lines
These vary depending on the pattern company but they're usually marked with a dark line and scissors symbol or dotted line.
Buttonholes
Mark where to make the buttonholes.
Buttons
Where to sew the buttons.
Sewing will be easier now that you have the know-how on reading patterns. Pay attention to every symbol. This is sometimes tedious, but remember they're there for a reason.
Immediately transfer the symbols to the fabric after cutting. This way you won't forget to do it. It's not fun to have to find out where they go after removing the pattern.
Go to top of reading patterns symbols
Go to the previous lesson Pattern Sizing for a Perfect Fit
Go to next lesson Fitting and Alteration
Course Index: 9 Steps to Using Sewing Patterns
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