TX_Cutie

I'm attempting to make an apron from a Simplicity pattern. Here are some questions I'm having:

Do I pin the pattern to the fabric to cut out the pieces?
If so, after I've got the pieces cut out, do I leave the pattern pinned to it?
If yes, do I sew the pieces together with the fabric paper still attached?
What if I want to reuse the pattern? Do I need to make a copy on tracing paper first?

Sorry for all of the questions but making apparel is so much different than quilting. :oops: Thank you for any help or advice!

Dora

http://video.google.com/videoplay?do...1807681&hl=en#
this should answer your question
dora

QuiltMania

Do I pin the pattern to the fabric to cut out the pieces?

Cut the pattern pieces on the cutting line first (this will be marked on the paper). Then pin it to the fabric and cut out the pieces. Pay attention to the grainline marked on the pattern (this will be a long arrow usually in the middle of the piece).

If so, after I've got the pieces cut out, do I leave the pattern pinned to it?

Yes, until you are ready to use the piece. Keeps you from forgetting what piece is what.

If yes, do I sew the pieces together with the fabric paper still attached?

No, take the paper off. Pin the fabric pieces together but don't sew the pattern paper to them.

What if I want to reuse the pattern? Do I need to make a copy on tracing paper first?

No, you don't need to make a copy. I usually fold them up and put the pieces and the envelope they came in into a ziploc bag. No matter how hard you try, those darn pieces are never going to fit neatly back in that darn pattern envelope.

joeyoz

I copy a lot of my patterns on to freezer paper. That way the original stays in one piece and I can reuse my freezer pattern many times.

MollieSue

Also be sure to notice if it says 'place on fold' anywhere on the pattern piece, along with watching for the grainline markings. It will also have listed on each pattern piece how many of each to cut, whether it be one or two....
And don't cut off the little arrow bump out thingys along the edges, they help you match up the pieces when you're sewing them together.
:D

redkimba

Do I pin the pattern to the fabric to cut out the pieces?
**you can pin the pattern; just be careful so you dont tear the tissue paper

If so, after I've got the pieces cut out, do I leave the pattern pinned to it?
**I generally leave the pieces & the pattern pieces pinned together until I start sewing the pieces together. I remove the pattern pieces & re-fold them.

If yes, do I sew the pieces together with the fabric paper still attached?
**take the pattern pieces off.

What if I want to reuse the pattern? Do I need to make a copy on tracing paper first?
**if you are not sure what size to use, trace off the pattern onto tissue paper or freezer paper first. That way you can re-size as needed.

You can also check your local library to see if they have "Sewing for Dummies". This is a really good series for those of us who have no clue how to do something.

Lisa_wanna_b_quilter

I like to iron pattern pieces first if they are really crumpled. Put little pieces of tape on your pattern where you want to pin so you don't have to be so watchful of tearing. If you decided to make any changes or find anything you had trouble with while making the garment, make notes right on the pattern piece. There should be a layout diagram in the pattern to help you get the best placement with fewest scraps.

Lisa_wanna_b_quilter

PS. As Mollie Sue said, don't cut off the bump thingies. In fact, place your pin in that area sticking out so you will be forced to cut around it.

TX_Cutie

Thank you for the great tips! I didn't have any idea about the grain line marking. I had noticed those notches and wasn't sure what they were for. :oops:

MollieSue

Those notches (much better word for them then my arrow bump out thingys! lol!!) will match the notches on the piece your sewing it to. They help keep everything lined up right.
And how could you have known? I think patterns were much better years ago, about explaining things!
:D