Use a measuring tape to measure various points on your body listed on the pattern envelope, such as your chest or bust, waist, and hips. Match your measurements to the measurements provided on the chart to determine your pattern size. [8] X Research source
Most patterns will list alternative lengths for different widths of fabrics (45 inches wide v. 60 inches wide). [9] X Research source
After reading the rest of the instructions, you may wish to mark which pattern pieces you will need.
The grain line. [12] X Expert Source Kpoene Kofi-BruceCouture Bridal Designer Expert Interview. 28 January 2021. The grain of the fabric runs parallel to the selvages of the fabric—the selvages are the finished edges of the fabric. [13] X Research source . Each pattern piece will contain a line of arrows that corresponds to the grain line. Bent grainline symbols. If a grainline symbol is bent at the top, this means the piece should be placed on a fold. Double layer of fabric. A pattern may call for a specific piece to be cut out of a double layer of fabric.
The pattern pieces diagram may also be useful.
Single, heavy line: this is a cutting line. Double parallel lines: these lines are used to lengthen or shorten a garment. Triangles: triangular notches indicate where one piece will join with another piece. Dots: these empty or filled circles indicate where seams start and stop.
Always double check to make sure your fabric is machine washable.
