I have two girls that I love to sew clothing for. The problem I run into is patterns. What is the easiest way to make two different sizes of the same pattern? Do you cut the smaller one, then cut the larger one's fabric bigger from the smaller pattern? Or do you cut the larger pattern first, then re-cut the smaller one? What if I plan to use the same pattern later on for a larger size? Are there any tricks or formulas to altering an already cut pattern? Just trying to make it a little easier and I'd love to hear any great tips or suggestions. I'd rather not buy two patterns each time. It's kind of a waste of money. Thanks!
I always trace my patterns, that way you can use them in the future as well. I just use thin craft paper, or wrapping paper that is like craft paper. I tape it up to a large window and just trace it, using a ruler on the straight edges. I've never used tracing paper before, but I have used tissue paper and it does not work very well. It tears too easily.
Have fun and good luck!
The easiest solution would be to not cut the pattern at all, but to trace it onto either tissue or another "paper" for use. There are several items available if you don't want to use tissue paper. Either Nancy's Notions or Clotilde would have what you need and they both have websites. I know the one is www.clotilde.com and they sell a variety of tracing papers to use for patterns that have more than one size. I am planning on getting some of the nylon "paper" that they sell to trace the patterns for doll clothes I have for my daughter so I don't have to cut any of the patterns and chance losing pieces; plus the nylon will be much more durable to be able to use more than one time and I won't have to worry about tearing it. Good luck and hope you find a suggestion that will work for your situation! All the best, C. :)
I am definitely not a seamstress, but my mom, who was a great one, always folded and pinned down to the size she needed. Therefore, always having the numerous sizes. Have fun. I greatly envy anyone who sews...
What I do is either pin or tape the pattern to the smaller size that way i can reuse that pattern several times with different sizes to adjust it to. I always cut around each peice so that i dont mess with the original pattern.
Carrie had some great ideas! I'll have to check those out. I've just always used tracing paper. There's a little wheel you get with it and it works really well. You can get it most any place you'd get your other supplies. Have fun!
