Before getting into pattern drafting, it is important to know the pattern drafting tools and their functions.
If you want to know what pattern drafting is all about, you can check out this post on Dress pattern drafting for the beginner.
Let’s jump right in to the pattern drafting tools and their functions.
1.TRACING WHEEL
This is a tiny but very useful tool.It has tiny, sharp wheels that roll.
Tracing wheels are used to transfer pattern markings from pattern to tracing paper. Tracing wheels also transfer line markings to both sides of fabric at the same time.
This, however, is not suitable for heavy fabric. Tracing wheels come in different sizes.But no matter the size, it all serves the same function.
Darice 27081-6 Start-to-Sew Kit, Assorted
Dritz Tracing Bundle: Smooth & Serrated Tracing Wheels
Pounce Tracing Wheel Set, Serrated Perforator Embossing Rotary Tool
2.CRAFT PAPER.
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Without a pattern craft paper, it will be next to impossible to draft a pattern. Craft papers for pattern drafting are made up of two kinds of paper.and are essential for both flat pattern drafting and draping. Both techniques require a medium to create the patterns.
The two types of pattern Craft papers include
1.DRESS makers Tracing paper usually used with a Tracing wheel to mark fabric
2. Dressmakers pattern paper.This has grid lines to help you create and adapt patterns.
Both techniques require a medium to create the patterns.
Even though you are a home designer, you need pattern craft paper
If you are a professional designer using pattern-creating software programs, You will still need some craft paper to transfer your patterns to your fabric.
Bienfang 50-Yard by 36-Inch wide Sketching and Tracing Paper Roll
Medical Pattern Paper: 21″ x 225′ Single Roll of Patternmaking, Drafting
Dressmakers Squared Pattern Paper, W: 80 cm, 15m pattern drafting tool
3.PATTERN RULERS
Pattern rulers come in several shapes and forms.Some are plastic, wood, and acrylic, while others come in metal forms.
These rulers are available in a variety of shapes.They also act as guides when drawing curves on a paper pattern.
Although patterns and rulers serve singular purposes, some, however, can be used for multiple purposes.
The Dritz styling design ruler combines hip curves, French curves, and a clear transparent ruler. That not withstanding, I will still mention the single-use rulers.
RZDEAL 6 Stlye Plastic Fashion Stick Pattern Design Rulers
DIY Sewing Ruler Tailor Set French Curve pattern drafting tool
Ynuth 6x Clothing Measurement Ruler Comma Straight Curved Design Sewing Crafts Tool DIY
4.THE HIPCURVE.pattern drafting tool
This is mainly used to shape the hip line of a skirt or trouser. At times, it can be used to shape the gentle curve of a waistline in a skirt or hemline and lapels.
5.VARY FORM
As the name implies, this can be used to shape a variety of areas in a pattern. Areas like the armhole, neckline, side seam curves, trouser hip curve, etc.
The Llutterloh acrylic pattern rulers are one of my best pattern rulers. I have been using them for over 8 years.These rulers are magic.They combine the job of single and vary-form rulers.
LUTTERLOH ACRYLIC PATTERN RULERS: CLICK PICTURE TO BUY
6.L SQUARE
This is used to create accurate angles and straight edges.It is also the best tool for measuring small fractions when adjusting straight edges.
7. Notcher pattern drafting tool
This is used to make marks on the patterns to distinguish between front and back patterns. It can also be used to mark dart legs, seam allowance, ease, and center lines.
Bluemoona 4 Pcs: PATTERN NOTCHER 45N PROFESSIONAL DESIGNER PUNCH 1/16″ (W) X 5/16″ (L) Pattern Stitch Wheels AWL Tape
4 Stlye Pattern Notcher, Awl, Needle Tracer Overstitch Wheel, and Punch Drill Kit
Hztyyier Pattern Notcher Pattern Making Tool Stainless Steel Designer Tailor Sewing Pliers Pattern drafting tool
8. AWL pattern drafting tool
This can be used to signal the beginning or ending of a dart or button hole.
It is usually used to piece holes in your pattern. The holes pieced by the awl can serve as a guide when measuring curves.The measuring tap can give an accurate measurement when guided through these holes.
It also allows you to hold and manipulate fabric. An example is when guiding a gathered edge under the presser foot of a machine
9.MAGIC MEND SCOTCH AND BLACK TWILL TAPE
Magic mend tape is used to mend pattern work.On the other hand, black twill tape comes in handy during placement of style lines on garments.
10.PUSH PINS.
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These are primarily for pattern manipulation. If you want to cut several patterns at the same time,push pins help to keep them in place.
It stops the patterns from slipping or shifting during the cutting process.
11. PENCILS,WASH-AWAY/FADE-AWAY MARKER PENS,SHARPENER AND ERASER.
These are all useful for pattern drafting: Use Wash away marker pens to transfer pattern marks to fabric.The ink from the marker can be washed away afterwords.
Fade away markers or air soluble pens ,is an alternative to tailors chalk.The ink fades automatically in 48 hours.
12. Straight Pins and Pin Holder
Pins are used for draping and fitting garments on mannequins. Pin holders can be pincushions, which can be tied to the wrist, or magnetic pin holders.
I tend to prefer both. I use the cushion when I am working on patterns.I later use the magnetic holder to pick up stray pins on the sewing table and floor.
13.DRESS FORMS
These allow you to adjust garments to get a better fit before sewing finally.It is best to start with adjustable dress forms.
Linen-covered dress forms, even though good for accurate pattern cutting, are however only available in standard dress sizes. They cannot be adjusted.
Black Female Dress Form Mannequin
Adjustable Mannequin Dress Form
14.SCISSORS.
I mentioned the different types of scissors you need in my blog post about Sewing accessories for the beginner. You could jump over and take a look at that.For pattern drafting, however, you need the paper scissors.
15. DESIGNER CARRY ALL KIT.
Having a bag or kit to put all the items you need for your drafting is a great time saver.
When you have put together a sewing room,It is also advisable and practical, for instance, to get a pattern carry-all bag. This will most importantly keep all your pattern tools in one place
WHY YOU NEED A PATTERN TOOLS CARRY ALL KIT
Whether you are a beginner or a professional fashion designer, you need a pattern tools carry all bag or kit.
The fashion kit bag is an attractive leather portfolio-type case. This case has enough room to accommodate all your pattern tools.
Apart from holding your tools, most importantly,It is made in such a way that it protects your tools from breakage and damage.
The carry-all kit bag can contain virtually all the major pattern tools you need.
CONCLUSION
That is my take on pattern drafting tools and their function.
Whether you are just starting your sewing journey or have been sewing for some time, these tools are useful.
Is there any tool I have not mentioned? Please feel free to comment below.
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