Saturday Sewing Tip

This one is about cutting apart patterns. I like to do mine way before I even have the fabric. That way, when I want to pin a pattern, I can get right to it without having to stop and cut the pieces apart.

I like to use electric scissors for this. It makes it go a lot faster. Of course, these scissors aren't used for fabric. Anyone who sews knows that you never use fabric scissors to cut paper. I don't particularly like electric scissors for fabric, anyway. I know people who can use them, but they always seem to jam up on me no matter what. But they make separating pattern pieces quick and easy.

After I cut each piece, I refold it along the original lines. Sometimes, that means the number is hidden. So I always write the number where I can see it.

When all the pieces are cut and refolded, I stack them in order. Did you know that pattern pieces are numbered in the order which they'll be used? So much easier to have "1" on top than to have to shuffle through 23 pieces!

If your pattern has a minimal number of pieces, you can easily put them right back into the envelope. I like to tuck them inside the instructions first, and then slide the whole packet inside. But if you have a pattern with many pieces, this is usually impossible. Trust me, the inability to repackage patterns into their original envelopes is not your fault. I've seen how they are put together. In the factory, the pieces are laid on an open envelope, and then the envelope is folded around them!

So a good trick for these impossible-to-repackage patterns is to use inexpensive gallon type plastic storage bags. (Save the expensive ones for food, LOL!) Not only will the bag hold the pattern, but it is also a great place to put notions and threads you'll need when you start working on the garment. Punch a hole in the top and hang it from the same hanger where you'll hang your garment as you're working on it, and you'll have it all in one convenient place!

Hope you liked this week's tips!