5 Useful Pattern Drafting Tips

Here are five pattern drafting tips I've discovered to be very helpful when I'm drafting patterns for my own clothes. These tidbits can even be used when just tweaking an existing pattern.

My aim is to show that making your own clothes is surprisingly manageable. It isn't some mystical art that needs to be wrestled from a fire-breathing dragon protecting the dungeon of drafting secrets. You got this! If you're reading this description, let me know down in the comments!
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00:00 — The 90° Rule
02:59 — The 180° Rule
04:39 — The Power of the Triangle
08:41 — The Fabric Matters
11:09 — Listen to the Wrinkles
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#sewing #sewingtutorial #diyfashion
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[NemoTheDreamO]

I’ve been making my own patterns since I started sewing (because I was a kid and did not have money for patterns, lol, but now I just prefer it) and hearing your 180 degree rule suddenly makes every pattern I’ve ever made that just didn’t quite work out make way more sense. Thank you!

[simpleperson]

this man just points out something that was never spoken about often, he's helping so much, thank you for the efforts u make !!

[shopwornbear]

You sew for the same basic reason I do...fit. You, a mishap in your youth that you've selflessly shared with us all through your website. Myself, the product of a generation of chain smokers...I never grew "right", and nothing after the age of 12 fit me off the rack.

You're very generous to put these tips forward. They're not only helpful, they add dimension to these "general fit" sewing patterns we often come across at your local Fabricland.

I have not answered one of your auto generated emails. I'm still trying to compose the "tell me about yourself" question. Not sure why I am struggling to write this, but there it is. Guess it's sort of like trying to relate to a relatable person when you yourself are the polar opposite.

Point?

Yes, there is. You shared a pretty vulnerable fact about yourself with us all by revealing what that accident did to you, and why you sew. For some of us with body and fit issues, that is a lot to take in. It also is inspiring. If you can make it look that good, and wear your sewing projects with such pride, maybe I can do the same?

I dunno, but I do want to thank you, seriously. I am starting to feel as if I am able to create fit and finish for myself that will bring out my own best, even if I don't have the frame to wear things that drape or hang. That is for the lanky guys I guess. Anyway, weirdo here says thanks!

[nefertitidaluna]

i went to a fashion school, and i sucked at pattern drafting never really understood shit😭, and this 13 min video explained everything that i needed to know. thank u so much 🙌❤❤☺☺

[myrenaissance]

Wish all home ec teachers were like you. There would be more happy sewing in the world❣️

[reedehinger]

Just watching the way he talks, his enunciations, little hand motions, etc. He is mesmerizing, very entertaining and relaxing to watch, plus he's the only one on YouTube I've found who makes videos that make sense. Going step by step, explaining every little thing he does so the viewer doesn't get lost, etc. Amazing videos. I've been trying to find more comfortable classical styles (like the English Drape Cut, high waisted trousers) but its so hard because I can't even get the basics of tailoring down. This channel has helped me do that, and now I'm making my own stuff. He's epic.

[saundraweed]

Great practical sewing advice. Many people can sew but don’t know the techniques to make thing FIT

[LeaBrady]

I just stumbled upon your channel and I must say you are fabulous. I love the quirky humour and even though I’ve been home sewing for decades I’m learning so much that I didn’t have a clue about before. You have a great teaching manner. On the plus side I’m from a farm and love the cowboy look.

[CarolynOsborne]

I really like how you teach. I love seeing what happens if you don't do something correctly.

[creaturefeaturecosplay]

I'm so glad I found your channel! I'm just barely learning how to sew, while at the same time running an after school cosplay club for middle school kids. So I'm always looking for things to improve my own sewing while staying one or two steps ahead of the kiddos! You explain things so clearly and I'll definitely pass your tips along

[lynettedaniels]

Ah! I’ve often wondered why some pattern pieces have that tiny straight bit before a curve. Now it all makes sense. Thanks for this video! Your attention to detail really helps me be better!

[GenXDesigns]

Yes they should sponsor you. You b rocking them hats!

[CityofLiebenthal]

Definitely, the hat makes for a more comely tailor. Love your tips!

[Fisklingur]

I'm so used to videos like this being useless clickbait but this was actually very useful!

[abundantlyinspired]

So well done. 🙌🏻I'm so glad I found you! I love your channel; the sewing community always needs fresh unique voices. ☺️❤️❤️

[kl]

Shocked this video doesn’t have more likes

[TheGhostchaser]

Last Halloween at work, I made myself a very cool pirate costume, and my wife a pirate wench outfit. We took second place. For our costumes, I had store bought patterns. This year we are going as Napoleon and Josephine in the hopes of taking first place. I’m using store bought patterns for my wife’s regency dress, Spencer with a train and her chemisette. I, on the other hand am having a heck of a time finding any good patterns for my Napoleon style light cavalry jacket. So… I’m going to try to draft my own pattern using photos of Napoleon’s real uniform, paintings and crude drawings as a reference. It’s going to be a challenge to say the least, but your videos are very informative and I actually think I might be able to pull it off. Thank you for these great videos.

[janfranklin]

A game changer for me was when I realized that it’s not the cut edge that I needs to match but the SEWING line this is especially true at the shoulder seams. I highly recommend basting as well. Great quick adjustments for a better more comfortable fit 👍🏼

[HeikeM-bcee]

Dear Cornelius, you belong on the comedy stage. Even though I don't need your tips (I've been sewing for 55 years) and only understand about 75% of your language, I'm lying under the table laughing. I'm looking forward to your next video.

[alannachristie]

Thank you! I now realise what I did wrong a billion years ago on adding to the tummy area...I added to the side and ended with a pucker at the sides....now I will always add to the front of the pattern and not to the side 😂