When using patterns some makers like to use scissors and pattern pieces to cut all the rectangles and squares and others prefer to use a rotary cutter and ruler. Typically this is a learned behavior that comes from how an individual learns to sew - if you learn to sew through quilting, you will more than likely learn to use the rotary cutter and ruler, but if you learn to sew through garment sewing then you may be more comfortable using a pattern piece and scissors. Whatever you do, don't let someone tell you that one of those options is correct or incorrect, sewing is all about finding out what is comfortable for you and doing it the way you want to!!
I personally love to use a rotary cutter and ruler as I feel that I get more accurate results, but I also feel inept when I'm using a pair of scissors - I just can't seem to keep things straight or able to follow a line. This means that my patterns typically have measurements whenever a rectangle or square is being cut as it's my preferred method. Today however, is all about cutting with scissors and pattern pieces!! I've come up with a tool to help us out when a pattern only has measurements and I've done up a video to walk you through using it. Let me walk you through the process!!
Start with gathering your tools:
- Downloadable template in Imperial (Inches and Feet) or Metric (Centimeters and Meters)
- Scissors for paper cutting
- Tape to put together pieces that are bigger than the template
- Optional - Labels to put on your new pattern pieces
Steps to make your new pattern pieces:
- Download the template to your computer and save it somewhere that you'll be able to find later (you'll want to be able to pull this out over and over again).
- Print out the template as many times as necessary to create your pattern pieces - if your pattern pieces are larger than the template then you will need to print two or more to tape together.
- Using your scissors, cut out the size you need from the template if it's smaller than the template. If the pattern calls for a piece larger than the template then you will need to do some math to make your larger template pieces.
- Cut out the largest piece possible from the first template piece, then cut the additional length and height from the second or third template piece. Tape them together by aligning the outside lines.
- Optional - Label your new pattern piece for quick reference (a label maker can help here if you want to try one out!):
- Pattern Name
- Pattern Piece Name
- Measurements
- Pattern Designer
Thank you! This is a huge help!