Pattern Drafting: Basic Tools and their function

This post has been updated and re-written on my new website, HERE. 

In the last post, we reviewed the basic pattern drafting tools. Today, I'd like to discuss a bit further what their intended purpose is. Stay with me, because next time...we will discuss the basic pattern foundation! Again, if you haven't taken my survey, please click the link below and answer a few short questions. I'd really appreciate it! Thanks heaps!

Isn't that Sewing Survey

Craft Paper *Essential

Okay, so paper is essential for flat pattern drafting. You can use butchers paper, craft paper (my favorite), or even newspaper. Really, any paper that is approx. 36" X 24" will do. 

"L" Square

This tool helps to create accurate 90° angles and straight edges. It measures, rules, and squares simultaneously. 

Hip Curve

The hip curve helps to shape the hip line, hem, and lapels. 

Vary Form

The vary form ruler blends and shapes armholes, necklines, and side seam curves

French Curve *Essential

Essential tool for accurately shaping armholes and necklines

Pencils, Paper Scissors, Eraser, and Measuring Tape *Essentials

You must have these or else you will have no way to draw! Duh!

Awl 

The awl will pierce a small hole in your pattern to indicate the end of a dart, pocket, trim, or button hole. The awl is also handy for scoring paper to fold, as well as "walking" your measuring tape around curves for accurate measuring. 

Notcher

The pattern notcher will create flawless pattern markings. For example, dart legs, seam allowance, center lines, ease, and to identify front from back patterns. 

Tracing wheel

Pointed and very sharp wheel transfers marking onto a clean sheet of paper

Clear Plastic Ruler *Essential

Perfect for measuring seam allowance as well as any measurement really.