How to Use Sewing Patterns (Digital & Traditional)

This video will walk you through the differences between traditional and digital sewing patterns with examples of the same pattern in both forms. Take a look by pressing the play button on the box below.

Traditional patterns are the type you can buy in stores. They usually come in packets containing the pattern and pattern instructions.
 

A traditional sewing pattern includes pictures of the finished design on the front and information about what you'll need before starting on the back of the packet.

Inside, you'll find the instructions on newspaper print style paper. You will also find the pattern on tissue paper.

How to use traditional sewing patterns/tips:

1. Be careful when unfolding as it can tear easily. There may be several sheets depending on the pattern.
    
2. Use scissors to carefully cut out the pattern pieces and then follow the directions.

Pros of using traditional sewing patterns: It's physical so no printing or digital tools are needed. The full pattern is in one package. Brands have (usually) assured the pattern directions are clear and correct.

Cons of using traditional sewing patterns: No duplicates unless multiple packets are purchased. A tear in the tissue pattern piece could ruin the entire process.
 

Digital patterns are printable from the internet. These can include brand patterns (and you can get some of the same patterns digitally as you can in physical form) or bloggers who have created printable PDFs for their original designs.
 

Digital patterns are all different but the end result should be the same. Included with digital patterns should be materials needed, instructions, and pattern print-outs.

How to use digital sewing patterns/tips:

1. Download the pattern and locate the file on your computer.
    
2. Read all of the instructions for printing first.
    
3. Assure your paper size and scale is correct before printing. Print the test pattern first if available to make sure the pattern will print correctly. 
    
4. Once printed, follow the assembly guides (such as bars, rectangles, or lines) for cutting. Using regular paper scissors, cut the excess margins or printing lines off first. Then tape them together as directed.
    
5. Cut out the full set of paper pattern pieces and follow directions for the pattern.

Pros of using traditional sewing patterns: It's digital, so it can be printed multiple times if needed. No need to leave your home for your next sewing project. The thicker paper (vs tissue) is easier to cut, use, and store.

Cons of using traditional sewing patterns: A computer/smart device and printer are needed. You may need to download additional software to get or print the pattern, depending on the website/brand. Some designers/bloggers may miss instructions for their original designs.