Recommended Pattern Makers
There are many, but these are companies I’ve had consistently good results from.
- Seamwork is membership based. With membership, you can download as many patterns as you like, and you can watch their video tutorials. Their video tutorials demonstrate in detail how to sew many of their patterns. First choice for beginners.
- Style Arc offers well-designed patterns. The AUD exchange rate means they are a bit more affordable for US sewers than other companies. The instructions are brief and assume you understand garment sewing terms.
- Twig & Tale creates patterns ranging from clothes to dolls and bags. Their patterns all come with detailed, step-by-step written instructions as well as a video tutorial. Recommended for all skill levels.
Printing Patterns
Usually patterns are sold as PDFs that you print yourself. You have three options:
- Print at home on your regular printer, and tape the pages together.
- Take the A0 or copyshop file to your local printer and have them print it. They might use A0 or blueprint paper.
- Upload the A0 or copyshop file to an online printer such as Brooklyn Motif. I find that this is cheaper per sheet than a local printer, but you’re paying for shipping.
Note on paper size: A0 paper is about 33×46″. If your pattern is printed on these sheets, it may still need to be taped in a couple spots. Blueprint paper seems to be more expensive but printers have it on rolls. Some local printers only have one or the other, so bring both files to yours and find out your options.
Trace Your Pattern Before Cutting
It’s a good idea to trace your pattern so you can keep the original unaltered.
If you plan on sewing clothes a lot, it is a good idea to buy a bolt of Pellon Pattern Ease or Easy Pattern tracing material. It’s more like fabric than paper, making it more durable, and it will be at least 20″ wide.
Instructions
There will usually be a PDF with instructions. These may be more or less detailed depending on the company.
Not Recommended
I have had unsuccessful experiences with the following companies:
- Crinkle Dreams (Elemental Coat pattern)
- Sew Liberated (Hinterland dress)