I use a small and a large black Sharpie to trace my patterns onto Architectural tracing paper which doesn't bleed through. In order to zero in on the all corners of the pattern piece in my size, I use the smaller Sharpie and mark each of them with an "L" of sorts. That way, I mark the horizontal side and the vertical side to start with. Then, I take my large Sharpie and trace from one "L" (corner) to the next. This helps guide me as I trace. If the pattern is in one color, I'll take another color to periodically mark each of the pattern lines I will be using with a dash here and there along the perimeter of the pattern piece.
On piece B, it looks like a couple of notches were missed (on right curve). I'm only pointing it out because I trace ALL my patterns (rather than cutting the originals) and its such a bother when I realize I've missed a notch, so double-triple check before lifting those tracing weights! Learning to trace patterns is especially useful if you want to grade between sizes and/or make a test-fit toile. If the grading/toile isn't right, you can always go back and make a new trace using different lines. This is really not possible once a graded original pattern has been cut. I'm really looking forward to the patterns in SEWING THE CURVE. I already own AHEAD OF THE CURVE as well as other Cashmerette patterns and am really pleased with the results. I've been sewing for years, but hated doing the FBAs (full bust adjustments) necessary to use other commercial patterns. I love how this tedious task isn't necessary!
So helpful 😊
I use a small and a large black Sharpie to trace my patterns onto Architectural tracing paper which doesn't bleed through. In order to zero in on the all corners of the pattern piece in my size, I use the smaller Sharpie and mark each of them with an "L" of sorts. That way, I mark the horizontal side and the vertical side to start with. Then, I take my large Sharpie and trace from one "L" (corner) to the next. This helps guide me as I trace.
If the pattern is in one color, I'll take another color to periodically mark each of the pattern lines I will be using with a dash here and there along the perimeter of the pattern piece.
Great tips!
On piece B, it looks like a couple of notches were missed (on right curve). I'm only pointing it out because I trace ALL my patterns (rather than cutting the originals) and its such a bother when I realize I've missed a notch, so double-triple check before lifting those tracing weights!
Learning to trace patterns is especially useful if you want to grade between sizes and/or make a test-fit toile. If the grading/toile isn't right, you can always go back and make a new trace using different lines. This is really not possible once a graded original pattern has been cut.
I'm really looking forward to the patterns in SEWING THE CURVE. I already own AHEAD OF THE CURVE as well as other Cashmerette patterns and am really pleased with the results. I've been sewing for years, but hated doing the FBAs (full bust adjustments) necessary to use other commercial patterns. I love how this tedious task isn't necessary!
Am going to share this with a sewing group i belong to on fb
Don’t forget to add size!
Great point!
Do you recommend ironing the patterns from the book to make tracing easier? Or will it harm the pattern paper or ink?
It should be fine to iron the pages on a low heat setting, but I suggest testing it on a corner first to make sure.