1. The rules of pattern layout and cutting
Symbol Syntax
The rules of pattern layout and cutting

2. Straight of Grain
A line with arrows on both ends means that this line needs to be parallel with the selvage edge.

3. Place on Fold
This means that when your fabric is folded the side of the pattern piece with this symbol should be placed on the edge of the fold. You do not cut the folded edge.

4. Cutting Lines and Sizes
Patterns come in different sizes.
Cut the patterns on the dotted line that is the right size for you

5. Notches
These are triangle shapes marks that you cut into your fabric to show you how to line up pattern pieces.

6. Button Placement/Buttonholes
The “X” shows where the button should be sewn onto and the other mark is where you should make the button hole

7. Circles, dots, and squares
Symbols used for placement

8. Alteration marks
Pattern markings to let you know how to change a pattern to fit you

9. Tucks, Darts

10. Pattern Piece Placement

11. Cutting Line and Seam Allowance
The solid line is for cutting
The dotted line is the seam allowance

12. Selvage Edge The Edge that won’t fray
The tightly woven edges on two of the opposite sides of the fabric
Parallel to the lengthwise grains

13. Pre-shrinking Always preshrink your fabric before you cut out patterns
This helps your project to be the size you intended
Avoids any problems shrinking differences

14. Nap or one way directional fabric
Nap- Velvet, corduroy
Fabric has to be facing a certain way for all printed pictures to be facing right side up
Extra fabric must be purchase to make sure you have enough

15. Grains Lengthwise grain is parallel to the selvage edge
Crosswise grain is perpendicular (or at a 90 degree angle) to the selvage edge.

16. So….what is a pattern symbol?
Marks on pattern pieces to help you identify, lay out, cut, mark and sew each piece.
Pattern symbols can also tell you where to lengthen, shorten or otherwise alter a pattern piece.

17. Recognizing pattern symbols
What is the difference between a straight of grain arrow and a place on the fold arrow?
Straight of grain needs to parallel to, but not on the selvage edge
Place on fold means the edge of the pattern piece needs to be place ON the folded edge.

18. How do you know when to transfer a pattern symbol?
1. If the symbol does not get cut out as part of the pattern, such as notches
2. If you need the mark for correct placement of other pieces, such as pockets, sleeves or collars.
3. If you need to sew something in the middle of a pattern, such as tucks, darts, pleats, or button holes

19. Transfer pattern symbols after you cut out your pattern but before you remove your pattern.

20. Tracing Wheel and Paper
Best used when you are transferring larger symbols with straight lines, such as darts.
Less effective for symbols like placement dots or button placement markings

21. Tracing wheel and carbon paper
1. Use a paper color that you will be able to see on your fabric
2. Place the colored, waxy side against the wrong side of your fabric
3. Rematch the pattern and fabric ends
4. Mark all symbols by pressing down firmly on the wheel and using short strokes

22. Pin and chalk Instructions
STEP 1: Transfer marks using pins and a chalk fabric pencil or marking pen.
STEP 2: Support fabric with one hand, and insert pins through all layers of fabric along outline of pattern mark.
STEP 3: Carefully turn pattern piece over and use marking pencil or pen to mark where the pins are placed in the fabric
STEP 4: Turn pattern piece over so that tissue side is facing up.
STEP 5: Remove Pattern. Once again, follow the outline made by the marking pins to trace the pattern mark onto your fabric.