How to Make Clothes Patterns Online

Choose a Pattern

• 1

  Enter "online sewing patterns" into your search engine. A number of responses will appear; click on and explore until you find the pattern you want to use. Some patterns need to be purchased; others are free.

• 2

  You may need to enter some measurements if the pattern is listed as a "pattern generator." Take the indicated measurements and enter them into the pattern. The pattern generated is custom-made to the measurements.

• 3

  You may go straight to the pattern if it does not need to have added measurements. Look it over carefully, zooming in if necessary, to see all the features of the pattern.

Print the Pattern

• 4

  Check that you have enough paper and ink in your printer before you begin. Click on "print preview" to see how the pages will look.

• 5

  Click on "print."

• 6

  Remove the pages from the tray as they are printed, and check each one carefully for clarity.

Assemble the Pattern

• 7

  Look for the page that shows how the pattern will appear when assembled. Put this aside as your guide. Pages should have numbers or letters showing the order of assembly, and each page should have marks which are lined up to match the adjacent page. These marks are often half- or quarter-circles, or Xs.

• 8

  Use tape to join the pieces, following the guide. Sometimes, blank margins need to be cut away first. Tape both the front and back of the overlapping paper, for added durability.

• 9

  Cut each pattern piece out carefully, using only the lines indicated for cutting. Avoid cutting lines that indicate folds or grain lines.