When it comes to therapeutic and fulfilling hobbies, sewing stands out as one of the best.   Not only does sewing promote mindfulness, but it requires one to be completely focused on the task at hand. This immersion allows the mind to unwind, which can lead to several health benefits. Regular sewing can steady the heart rate, lower blood pressure, reduce perspiration, and increase dopamine levels, making individuals feel happier and more content.

Sewing is a multi-faceted hobby that offers endless opportunities for learning and improvement and can keep enthusiasts engaged for many years.

One important aspect of sewing is knowing how to make a pattern, and how to cut pattern on fabric.

Simply put, when you learn pattern making you will create basic patterns with specific measurements that can be adapted to various designs. Investing in a pattern maker course, for instance, can translate designs into pieces of fabric.

So, if you are curious about how to create a pattern, then today’s article is for you. In it, we will explore why it is important to learn pattern cutting as well as useful tips and tricks you can try outside of the pattern maker course we recommend with sewing tutors.   

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, understanding pattern cutting is crucial for advancing in the art of sewing.

The best Sewing tutors available
Belinda
5
5 (9 review/s)
Belinda
R400
/R/h
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1st lesson free!
Norma
5
5 (2 review/s)
Norma
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Tshepang
5
5 (1 review/s)
Tshepang
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Rachel
5
5 (3 review/s)
Rachel
R250
/R/h
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1st lesson free!
Lehlogonolo
5
5 (1 review/s)
Lehlogonolo
R250
/R/h
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1st lesson free!
Fhumulani prudence
5
5 (1 review/s)
Fhumulani prudence
R265
/R/h
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1st lesson free!
Minenhle
5
5 (4 review/s)
Minenhle
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lee-anne
5
5 (3 review/s)
Lee-anne
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Belinda
5
5 (9 review/s)
Belinda
R400
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Norma
5
5 (2 review/s)
Norma
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Tshepang
5
5 (1 review/s)
Tshepang
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Rachel
5
5 (3 review/s)
Rachel
R250
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lehlogonolo
5
5 (1 review/s)
Lehlogonolo
R250
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Fhumulani prudence
5
5 (1 review/s)
Fhumulani prudence
R265
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Minenhle
5
5 (4 review/s)
Minenhle
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lee-anne
5
5 (3 review/s)
Lee-anne
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
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Why Learn Pattern Making?

Taking a pattern maker course to create clothing is a skilled sewing technique that requires practice and precision. Knowing how to cut pattern on fabric ensures that garments are made according to their measurements. This is the first reason why it is important to learn pattern cutting. 

In addition, when you know how to do a pattern, there are several other benefits too:

  • Efficiency: Pattern cutting ensures both the designer and manufacturer understand the measurements and specifications of the clothing item which streamlines the production process.
  • Cost Savings: Knowing the precise measurements and fit reduces mistakes and financial losses in clothing manufacturing, making it a cost-effective practice.
  • Minimised Waste: When you learn pattern cutting you will optimise fabric use by cutting pieces efficiently to minimise material waste.

A pattern maker course aims to help you bring a vision or a design to life so that it can be worn as clothing. Patterns are crafted by a diverse range of individuals, from part-time home sewists to professional designers at leading fashion houses.

seamstress measuring waist of model with tape measure
You will learn to create basic patterns with specific measurements. Image: Karolina Grabowska

If this excites you and you want to know how to do a pattern, then read on for more tips.   

Learn Pattern Making for Different Types of Clothing

Successful pattern cutting in sewing is a skill acquired over time, so if it feels daunting at first, remember that no one is born a master pattern maker; the primary prerequisite is a basic ability to sew. While some people pursue formal education to take a professional sewing and pattern maker course and sewing, many others learn through private tutors. To decide on which path to take, it is useful to know the common methods you are likely to learn: 

  1. Flat Pattern Drawing: This basic technique involves transforming a flat pattern drawing into a 3D design, which is then transferred to paper. It helps the designer or sewist identify and improve areas of movement to make the clothing more comfortable.
  2. Drafting: Used to create initial designs that haven't been made yet, drafting involves using standard sizing presets from factories or accurate measurements from a fit model. The design is drawn on paper with markings to guide the garment's construction.
  3. Fashion Draping: This method involves draping fabric over a mannequin to create a 3D shape. Once the desired look is achieved, the fabric is transferred to paper for the final pattern. Although more expensive than other techniques, fashion draping allows designers to visualise their pieces more effectively.

While these are some of the most widely used and recognised techniques, there are also other methods for how to cut patterns on fabric. Bear in mind that most pattern-making is original, stemming from the designer's vision, however, templates can be used to create basic designs at home. For those interested in creating unique patterns, it's important to understand copyright protection.

The best Sewing tutors available
Belinda
5
5 (9 review/s)
Belinda
R400
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Norma
5
5 (2 review/s)
Norma
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Tshepang
5
5 (1 review/s)
Tshepang
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Rachel
5
5 (3 review/s)
Rachel
R250
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lehlogonolo
5
5 (1 review/s)
Lehlogonolo
R250
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Fhumulani prudence
5
5 (1 review/s)
Fhumulani prudence
R265
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Minenhle
5
5 (4 review/s)
Minenhle
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lee-anne
5
5 (3 review/s)
Lee-anne
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Belinda
5
5 (9 review/s)
Belinda
R400
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Norma
5
5 (2 review/s)
Norma
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Tshepang
5
5 (1 review/s)
Tshepang
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Rachel
5
5 (3 review/s)
Rachel
R250
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lehlogonolo
5
5 (1 review/s)
Lehlogonolo
R250
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Fhumulani prudence
5
5 (1 review/s)
Fhumulani prudence
R265
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Minenhle
5
5 (4 review/s)
Minenhle
R150
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Lee-anne
5
5 (3 review/s)
Lee-anne
R350
/R/h
Gift icon
1st lesson free!
Let's go!

Helpful Tips and Tricks for How to Cut Pattern on Fabric

If you're trying to learn pattern making, consider these seven tips for more efficient pattern cutting:

  1. Use Pattern Weights Instead of Pins: They keep the fabric flat and prevent distortion.
  2. Use a Rotary Cutter: It allows for precise cuts and saves time.
  3. Overlap Main Pieces with Pocket Pieces: Ensure seam lines match up for a cleaner finish.
  4. Stack Main and Lining Fabrics: Cut both layers simultaneously to save time.
  5. Cut Multiple Garments at Once: More efficient than cutting one garment at a time.
  6. Cut the Larger Pieces First: Helps manage your fabric more effectively.
  7. Practice Cutting Sessions: Regular practice improves your skills and speed.

These expert tips can greatly reduce the time needed to create new clothing patterns. In addition, investing in essential sewing tools is vital for serious pattern cutting and garment creation. These could include:

how to do a pattern
Pattern cutting is crucial for advancing in sewing.Image Source: Cotton Bro
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins and sewing needles
  • Fabric scissors
  • Measuring tapes and rulers
  • Fabric markers or pencils
  • Plenty of fabric

By following these tips and using the right tools, you can enhance your efficiency and precision in pattern cutting.

Take Sewing Classes

To further hone your sewing skills, consider taking classes through platforms like Superprof, which offers a variety of sewing courses all over South Africa, or online.  These classes provide personalised guidance and hands-on experience to help you learn pattern cutting and other sewing techniques. By following expert methods and tips and using the right tools and resources, there is no doubt that you can significantly develop your pattern cutting skills and create beautiful, well-fitted garments.

Sewing Courses with a Superprof

sheets of brown paper with clothing patterns hung on a rail
Sewing classes provide personalised guidance to help you learn pattern cutting and other sewing techniques. - Image: Kseniachernaya

Do you feel your sewing techniques need a boost? Are your sewing machine skills a bit rusty? If so, you're not alone. Many amateur sewists picked up sewing as a "pandemic pastime," but that doesn’t mean they can work efficiently or make their projects stand out. Is there a solution? Absolutely. Hiring a sewing tutor for online classes or local courses can make a significant difference. Here are three reasons why beginner sewists should take sewing courses:

  1. Tailormade Training: Engaging in sewing courses with a professional tutor, either online or in-person, provides private instruction tailored to your needs. Customised lessons let you focus on what you want to learn without waiting for classmates to catch up.
  2. Helpful Advice: While the internet offers numerous tips and tricks, the invaluable advice from tutors during sewing classes is indispensable. This personalised guidance is crucial for the improvement of sewing students.
  3. Rapid Skill Development: While self-learning is fine, the assistance of a private tutor will accelerate your progress and help you avoid developing bad habits that can hinder your growth.

But where can you find sewing courses online or in cities like Johannesburg, Durban, or Port Elizabeth? Look no further than Superprof. With over 17 million private instructors teaching 1000+ topics, Superprof is a leader in e-learning and private tutoring. Here are some compelling reasons to hire a personal sewing instructor on Superprof:

  • Affordable Tuition: Competitive pricing makes quality instruction accessible.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Choose between in-person or virtual lessons.
  • Excellent Support Staff: Benefit from a supportive tutor-student system.
  • Wide Selection of Teachers: Find the perfect tutor for your needs.

There is also the added benefit that Superprof tutors are encouraged to offer their first lesson for free!

Pattern cutting is a crucial aspect of sewing that demands attention from those who want to take their craft seriously. By taking tailored sewing courses and following expert advice, you can significantly improve your sewing abilities and create beautiful, well-fitted garments.

Find sewing classes that include fashion illustration and pattern-making right here on Superprof.

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Niki Jackson

Niki is a content writer from Cape Town, South Africa, who is passionate about words, strategic communication and using words to help create and maintain brand personas. Niki has a PR and marketing background, but her happiest place is when she is bringing a story to life on a page.