If you want to use a commercial pattern when making a textile item, watch these informative videos on YouTube to find out everything you need to know: •‘How to Cut Out Sewing Pattern Pieces’ (8:33) •‘How to Arrange Sewing Pattern Pieces’ (12:10)
Tips for cutting out a pattern • Arrange the pattern pieces on the fabric. Straight-of-grain arrows should run parallel with selvage edges. Place fold arrows on fold or follow bias arrow if required. Pattern instructions will suggest a layout.
• Pin in position. • Using a sharp scissors, cut around each pattern piece. Leave a 1.5 cm seam allowance if not already allowed. Most patterns include this allowance, in which case cut fabric to exact size of pattern pieces.
• Keep fabric flat on the table with one hand. Do not lift the fabric up to cut it. Cut notches outwards.
Fold arrows
Straight grain
Transferring pattern markings Transfer important pattern markings from a pattern to the fabric using any of the following methods: