My top 5 must have pattern making tools.
Dotted Marking Paper
Dotted marking pattern paper is a great tool to get you started creating your own patterns. You need paper and trust me…you will go through a lot of it.
You can use kraft paper and oak tag once you get really good at pattern making and have developed pattern blocks and master patterns. But, this dotted paper is a great tool for both the beginner and the professional!
Dritz Styling Design Ruler
Pattern making is easier than you think. Essentially, you take measurements, plot the points, and then connect the dots! Here’s the secret, the way the dots are connected is with rulers!
How easy is that!? This ruler by Dritz combines all of the pattern making rulers into one amazing ruler! This ruler will take the place of a french curve, hip curve, and a vary form ruler! Now, there is no need to buy that $150 dollar ruler kit!
C-Thru Clear Plastic Ruler
I know that I just recommended a ruler. But, this see-thru ruler is definitely a must have and has a bit of a different function than the styling design ruler. While it is true that the styling design ruler has a similar looking feature (with the clear grid). I’ve found it is a lot more clumsy to use than the c-thru ruler.
The c-thru ruler has handy little holes in the middle that make awesome pivot points. It also is perfect for adding seam allowances and measuring just about anything! I use this ruler a l l t h e t i m e!
Awl
The awl is a very simple, yet versatile tool. I use my awl for pivoting, scoring, marking, and measuring. This made my must have list because you will need a way to cleanly mark bust points and other important pattern markings.
In college one of my instructors taught me to score my dart legs for closing and how to walk a measuring tape around a pattern edge using the awl. Both genius tips that I use every time I make a pattern!
Pattern Notcher
The pattern notcher is a must have because it creates really clean markings for dart legs, sewing notches, arm hole notches, and more! The pattern notcher makes it really easy to mark your pattern and the notches hold up well over time!
BONUS!
I want share with you my top secret tool to pattern organization. Okay, well…it’s not really a secret! But, here it is…and it’s yours for free! It’s a pattern card!
Have a quick read of the post that explains exactly what a pattern card is and why you should already be using one!
I hope you found my top 5 tools (and the bonus) for pattern making useful. I know I couldn’t make patterns without these 5 tools! Let me know if you have any further questions or want more in depth information on how to use these tools!
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Disclosure: Please note that some or all of the links contained in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I might earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase. Please know that I have experience with all of these products and I feel confident recommending them to you because I have found them to be helpful and useful….Read more here.
