Sewing patterns are blueprints for how to make a garment, and once you learn how to use them, a whole world of possibilities opens up!
There are three basic steps, and I dive into each one below:
How to Use Sewing Patterns
Step 1: Pick your pattern
Step 2: Get your size
Step 3: Print or trace your pattern
Step 1: Pick a beginner-friendly pattern
Set yourself up for success with a pattern that's designed for beginners! Here are some fan-favorite beginner-friendly patterns:
This is one of the 6 patterns in my book, "Sewing the Curve," and it's a great one to start with!
A versatile knit t-shirt, you can fill up a whole wardrobe with Concords.
The Calder is a great first pants pattern to try, with stylish wide legs and a comfortable elasticated back waist.
You can make over 350 different garments with this most popular Cashmerette pattern!
Step 2: Get your size
Picking the right size starts with knowing the size of your body.
How to take your measurements »
Once you have your measurements, let the Cashmerette Size Calculator do the rest of the work for you!
Simply enter your measurements and get your starting size in seconds.
Step 3: Print or trace your pattern
If you're using a printed sewing pattern, you'll need to trace your pattern pieces.
If you're using a digital PDF sewing pattern, you'll need to print your pattern at home or at a copy shop.
Why isn't my PDF pattern working?!
Using a PDF sewing pattern and something went wrong?
Find out how to fix it with our handy checklist.
Photo credit: Linda Campos