The Best Sewing Tools for Pattern Making

Sewing patterns are the backbone of your projects. They are responsible for the basic construction of how pieces fit together.

When you first started sewing, you probably used someone else’s patterns. However, once you understand the basics of patterns and sewing, you may start to have your own ideas for patterns.

Fortunately, it only takes a few useful tools to start creating your own sewing patterns. Add these essentials to your collection along the way to elevate your patterns and designs.

The First Essentials: Pattern Draft Paper and More

Before you start crafting beautiful patterns, you’ll need to buy a few essentials. Start with a price range you’re comfortable with and adjust as needed in the future.

Pattern Paper

You’ll need pattern-making paper to draft your ideas and add essential details like hemlines and flares. Pattern paper is the template for how to cut out the garment you’re working on.

It’s normal to use two layers of pattern paper — one to adapt your pattern and one to trace and create space for seams (seam allowance).

Special tracing paper is easy to work with, but you can use things as arbitrary as doctors’ office exam table paper to save money.

Choose a thin, semi-transparent option that’ll be easy to work with in layers. You can work in more durable pattern paper later on, when you’re accustomed to making your own patterns.

High-Quality Scissors

Precise cutting is important. Invest in a quality pair of paper scissors and fabric scissors to save yourself time and stress down the road. Use each type of scissors only on its designated material, so they stay sharp and continue producing clean cuts.

Rulers or Tailor’s Measuring Tape

Soft, flexible measuring tapes are generally more versatile than hard rulers. As a beginner, you should focus on becoming well-versed in common sewing measurements.

There will be longer lines on certain parts of your patterns. Use your ruler or measuring tape to get the precise length of these lines. Being a few inches or centimeters off can throw off your garment’s fit or skew the pattern, ruining the aesthetic.

Pattern Notcher

You’ll need a pattern notcher to mark seams, darts, and pleats. This is best used with paper patterns. It takes a lot of the handwork out of notching and ensures each notch is uniform.

Sewing Pins and Pin Cushion

There’s a reason seamstresses are known for always having a pin cushion around. Sewing pins are extremely useful for holding together two or more layers at a time.

Tack the pin through each layer and then cut or sew to your satisfaction. To safely store the sharp pins, all you have to do is pop them back on the cushion, and you’re good to go.

Tools for Sewing Different Sizes and Upgrading Your Pieces

Once you’ve become proficient at making and transferring usable patterns, it’s time to upgrade your future works. These tools for sewing make for the perfect transition to more complex pattern work. They allow you to customize and adjust standard garments as needed or wanted.

Foundation Block (Cardboard)

When making several of the same garment types, even if they have different designs or features, you’ll need a sewing block. This is typically made of cardboard and serves as the foundation for future patterns.

The most common types of sewing blocks are bodice, skirt, and pant blocks. This is because all of these garments tend to fit the body snugly.

Sewing blocks ensure a personalized, comfortable fit for the wearer. If you make garments for yourself or your family often, a cardboard block will be your new best friend.

Tracing Wheel and Carbon Paper

Carbon paper easily transfers patterns to fabric or paper. For effective and uniform markings, you’ll need to use it with a tracing wheel, which transfers the details onto the desired surface.

Tracing wheels come with blunt, serrated, or double edges according to your needs. Serrated edges work best for fine details, while blunt edges make broader and sharper-looking lines. Double tracing wheels can cut your work time down if you’re making identical markings (cutting and sewing lines) at the same time.

Grading Ruler

A grading ruler allows you to change the size of your garment in a uniform fashion. This is extremely valuable if you have a clothing line or plan to make matching garments for differently sized people.

Start with a foundational pattern (usually size small), then use the grading ruler to upgrade the base size. The grading ruler measures the adjustments in precise millimeters, which is key for achieving a comfortable and uniform fit for everyone.

Pattern Awl

A pattern awl will make sure all of your markings for darts and pockets transfer correctly onto your pattern paper. This primarily ensures an accurate fit for the finished product. If you’re looking to upgrade your work and achieve more consistency, this tool for sewing is a must-have.

Refining the Details

These tools for sewing and adjusting small details are key to producing good designs:

• Fabric pens or markers
• Pattern weights (to hold layers in place)
• High-quality fabric shears
• Test fabric (calico or muslin works best)
• Mannequin or test dummy (to fit garments to a uniform base)
• Curved ruler
• L-shaped ruler (good for 90-degree angle work)
• French curve (good for symmetry and arc-based design)
• Sticky tape
• Pencil
• Eraser (for fixing your mistakes)

Keep these essentials on hand whenever you’re drafting and cutting patterns. The small details always count when it comes to sewing and pattern making!

Find the Best Pattern Making Tools for Sewing at GoldStar Tool

At GoldStar Tool, we have a wide selection of the best tools for sewing and pattern making. Our experienced team can help you find the materials you’re looking for, allowing you to advance in your sewing journey.

As a beginner pattern maker, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all of your tool options. At GoldStar Tool, we value quality and consistency above all. Reach out to our team for guidance and browse our tools for sewing today!