Patternmaking Tools and Supplies

This page describes the tools and supplies I use for patternmaking including the sewing supplies I use for creating test slopers. At the bottom of this page there are links to videos where you can see a description of these tools and supplies.

Measuring Tools

• Copy of my Measurement Chart
     (page 16 of How to Make Sewing Patterns)
• Tape Measure
     Optional small 1/4" tape measure for fashion dolls. (6mm)
• Velcro for marking waist and hips (3 yards)
• Weighted chain (pull chain for light bulbs)
• Two squares
     (These can be made from the mat board used for the scale rulers, see below.)
• Pencil
• Eraser

Patternmaking Tools and Supplies

• Pattern Paper
     (Click here for a PDF Example of the paper I use.)
• 1/4' Graph Paper
     (I use this for fashion doll slopers and scaling patterns.)
• Pencil (Always use a pencil when creating patterns, never a pen.)
• Eraser
• Yard Stick (or other long ruler)
• Ruler
• Scale Rulers (Download a PDF file for the Scale Rulers here.)
• C-Thru Ruler for seam allowances.
• Seam Allowance Gauge
• Paper Scissors
• Flexible Curve (optional for drawing curves)
• Plastic Square
     (You need this for right angles if you don't use the pattern paper I recommend.)

Sewing Tools and Supplies

• Gingham or Muslin (See the course descriptions for specifcs.)
• Bias Tape for DIY (Do-It-Yourself) fittings
• Fabric Scissors
     (or Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat)
• Cork Board and Push Pins (optional cutting system)
• Pattern Notcher (optional--but I love mine)
• Sewing Machine (This is optional but highly recommended.)
• Iron and Ironing Board (This is not optional if you want to do good work.)
• White and Black Thread
• Hand Sewing Needle
• Pins
• Seam Ripper
• Fabric Marking Pens (Felt tip pens are okay.)
• Tracing Wheel and Tracing Paper (Optional but recommended.)
• Camera (Optional but great for checking the final fit and asking for help online.)

To see a description of these tools and supplies, you may view the videos below.