How to Make Your Own Sewing Patterns
By Marilyn Lopez / July 29, 2024 / No Comments / Crotchet
Creating your own sewing patterns can be a rewarding and creative process, allowing you to design garments that perfectly fit your style and measurements. Whether you’re aiming for a unique dress or a perfectly tailored suit, this guide will help you understand the basics of pattern making, from taking accurate measurements to drafting and cutting your custom pattern.

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Gathering Your Materials
Before you start drafting your pattern, gather the necessary materials:
- Measuring Tape: For taking accurate body measurements.
- Pattern Paper: Large sheets of paper or specialized pattern-making paper.
- Pencil and Eraser: For drafting and making adjustments.
- Ruler and French Curve: For drawing straight lines and curves.
- Scissors or Rotary Cutter: For cutting out your pattern pieces.
- Pins or Pattern Weights: To hold the pattern pieces in place while cutting fabric.
Taking Accurate Measurements
Accurate measurements are crucial for creating a well-fitting pattern. Here’s how to take them:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, where your body bends.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
- Length Measurements: Measure from your shoulder to the desired hemline (e.g., dress length) and other relevant points like arm length or inseam.
Drafting Your Pattern
Follow these steps to draft your pattern:
- Choose a Basic Block: Start with a basic block or sloper that fits your measurements. A basic block is a simple pattern that can be modified for different styles.
- Create a Basic Shape: Use your measurements to draw a basic garment shape on your pattern paper. For example, for a dress, draw the bodice, waist, and skirt sections.
- Add Seam Allowances: Include seam allowances around the edges of your pattern pieces. Typically, seam allowances range from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, depending on your sewing preferences.
- Draft Details: Add details such as darts, pleats, pockets, or collars. Use a French curve for smooth, curved lines and a ruler for straight lines.
Making Adjustments
Test your pattern by making a muslin or toile—an inexpensive, test garment made from a similar fabric. Fit the muslin on yourself or a dress form to check for accuracy and make any necessary adjustments:
- Check Fit: Look for areas that may need alteration, such as excess fabric or tight spots.
- Adjust the Pattern: Modify the pattern based on your muslin fitting. Add or subtract fabric where needed, adjust seam lines, and refine the shape.
Adding Design Elements
Once you’re satisfied with the basic fit, add design elements to your pattern:
- Design Lines: Incorporate features like princess seams, waistbands, or decorative elements.
- Fitting Adjustments: Make further fitting adjustments as needed, including changes to the neckline, armholes, or length.
Cutting Out Your Pattern
When cutting out your pattern pieces:
- Lay Out the Pattern: Place your pattern pieces on fabric according to the layout instructions, ensuring they are aligned with the fabric grain.
- Cut Carefully: Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to cut out your pattern pieces. Follow the edges precisely to avoid discrepancies.
Assembling Your Garment
With your pattern pieces cut out, you can begin sewing your garment:
- Follow Instructions: If you’ve drafted a pattern for a specific design, follow your sewing instructions to assemble the garment.
- Sew and Fit: Assemble the garment and fit it as you sew. Make final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
Conclusion
Creating your own sewing patterns opens up a world of possibilities for customizing garments to your unique style and measurements. By taking accurate measurements, drafting your pattern, making necessary adjustments, and adding design elements, you can craft beautiful, well-fitting clothing tailored to your preferences. Embrace the creative process and enjoy the satisfaction of wearing garments made just for you. Happy pattern making!