Learning how to sew can be quite challenging for first timers, especially in garment making, but believe me when I say that once you have created your first piece of ready-to-wear clothing, the feeling is ecstatic and you may probably be so excited to sew a second piece right away. For first timers, sewing from a pattern is the easiest way to produce a clothing without stressing too much. Patterns are very useful for beginners but not everyone knows how to use them so today, I will share with you some guidelines on how to sew from a pattern.
Let me discuss with you some terminologies first.
Pattern envelope: it is the package that contains all your pattern materials
Views: those are the style variations of a single pattern or project
1. For beginners, I suggest you choose a simple pattern for your first-time project. There are a variety of fashionable patterns available for purchase but keep in mind that you are still mastering the craft so let go of your fashion obsession first and choose those that are categorized as EASY/SIMPLE. Patterns are printed from the front cover of each pattern envelop. It is imperative that you already know your measurements and size so you may select a pattern that fits your size.
2. The pattern envelop contains the pattern pieces, key & glossary for your marking references, pattern layout, and a step-by-step instruction information sheet on how to put the project together.
3. Read through the back cover of the pattern envelop to learn a brief product description for your selected pattern and it also tells you how much fabric you would be needing for this sewing project.
4. Once you have chosen a view to sew, lay out on a solid flat surface the pattern layout or the pattern template sheet and then put the pattern on top of that. Pin the edges so that you can cut them evenly.
5. Iron the patterns on low temperature to flatten them out and to get rid of folds and creases.
6. Lay out your fabric and place the template pattern on top. Pin the edges with 15mm seam allowance.
7. Go back to your pattern user guide to check on which patterns should be sewn first and so on.
8. Make sure you are sewing from the wrong side of the garment, which normally hides the stitches.
The guidelines mentioned above are simple reminders for those who are planning to sew using patterns. For the complete instruction guide, refer to the step-by-step instruction information included in the package. Perhaps some are more comfortable doing DIY crafts if visuals are presented so below is a link of a very useful video on how to sew from a pattern. Good luck and enjoy!