How to True Up a Sewing Pattern When Altering
Embarking on a sewing project can be both exciting and challenging. One of the most crucial steps in ensuring a successful outcome is to properly alter the sewing pattern to fit your body measurements. However, this process can sometimes be daunting, especially when it comes to trueing up the pattern. Trueing up a sewing pattern involves adjusting the pattern pieces to ensure they fit together correctly and maintain the desired shape. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to true up a sewing pattern when altering, so you can achieve a perfect fit every time.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the actual process, it is essential to understand the basics of trueing up a sewing pattern. Trueing up is the act of making minor adjustments to the pattern pieces to ensure they fit together without any gaps or overlaps. This process helps maintain the intended design and ensures that the final garment will fit comfortably.
1. Gather Your Materials
To begin, gather all the necessary materials for trueing up your sewing pattern. You will need:
– The original sewing pattern
– A ruler or measuring tape
– Pattern paper or tracing paper
– A pair of scissors
– A tracing wheel or pen
2. Assess the Pattern
Carefully examine the original sewing pattern to identify any areas that require adjustment. Look for gaps, overlaps, or areas where the pattern pieces do not align correctly. Pay close attention to notches, grain lines, and dart placements.
3. Trace the Pattern
Lay the original pattern on pattern paper or tracing paper, ensuring that the grain line is aligned with the paper’s edge. Trace the pattern pieces, including any notches, grain lines, and dart placements. If you are using tracing paper, you may need to use a tracing wheel or pen to transfer the pattern onto the new paper.
4. Make Adjustments
Once the pattern pieces are traced, it’s time to make the necessary adjustments. Here are some common adjustments you may need to make:
– Gapping: If there is a gap between two pattern pieces, draw a line connecting the points where the pieces should meet. Cut along this line and adjust the pieces to fill the gap.
– Overlapping: If there is an overlap between two pattern pieces, draw a line to connect the points where the pieces should meet. Cut along this line and adjust the pieces to eliminate the overlap.
– Lengthening or Shortening: To lengthen or shorten the pattern, measure the desired length and mark it on the pattern piece. Cut along the marked line and adjust the length accordingly.
5. Recheck and Adjust
After making the adjustments, recheck the pattern pieces to ensure they fit together correctly. Make any additional adjustments if necessary. It is crucial to double-check your work to avoid any mistakes.
6. Finalize the Pattern
Once you are satisfied with the adjustments, finalize the pattern by trimming any excess paper and ensuring all notches, grain lines, and dart placements are accurate. Now you are ready to cut your fabric and start sewing your garment.
Conclusion
Trueing up a sewing pattern when altering is a vital step in achieving a perfect fit for your garments. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pattern pieces fit together correctly and maintain the desired shape. With practice, you will become more comfortable with the process and be able to alter patterns with ease. Happy sewing!
