When you purchase a Twig + Tale pattern, you'll receive pdf files containing the tutorial - a step-by-step guide to sewing your project - as well as the pattern file in different formats (A4 print at home, A0 copyshop, and projector).
Let's take a closer look at how to decipher all the different information that is included on the pattern pieces.
We'll begin with the Pixie Hat, which is a simple example because it has only one pattern piece.
First of all, look for the Size Key and Scale Check boxes on the printed pattern (or projected pattern, if using a projector). For the Pixie Hat, it looks like this:
After printing your pattern, it's always good to measure the Scale Check box to make sure that it printed properly. It should measure exactly 1 inch or 2cm (depending which box you measure). If it's even slightly off, it can make a surprisingly big difference to the size of your final garment.
Each size has a different line style, as shown in the Size Key, so you can easily identify which line corresponds to the size you would like to cut out.
Now, let's have a look at the other information included on the Pixie Hat pattern piece:
Cutting instructions - the pattern piece tells you how many pieces you'll need to cut, and from which fabric. Using this pattern piece, you'll know to cut 2 pieces from exterior fabric (the outside of the finished hat) and two pieces from lining fabric (the inside of the finished hat).
Another important cutting instruction is that the fabric pieces should be mirrored in order to get a left piece and a right piece. This can easily be accomplished by folding your fabric in half and cutting out both pieces at the same time.
Seam allowance - the pattern piece indicates that the seam allowance for this project is 3/8" (1cm). This means that when you're sewing the hat, you'll sew the seams 3/8" (1cm) from the edges of the fabric.
Grain line - the vertical line with arrows on either end is called the grain line. It's purpose is to help you line up the pattern piece with the the straight grain of your fabric. This is important, because cutting pattern pieces off the grain can result in fitting issues.
Now, let's take a peek at markings that you might see on a slightly more complex pattern, like the Scenic Top.
Notches - these little T-shaped marks (pictured above) are used to indicate alignment points. In this case, the notches are used to indicate the front, shoulder seam, and back of a sleeve head, and assist with properly aligning the sleeve with the body of the top (corresponding single and double notches are marked on those pattern pieces).
When cutting out pattern pieces, transfer the notch markings onto your fabric with a fabric marker.
Cut on fold - This marking indicates that the pattern piece should be placed on the fold so that when the piece is opened out it will be perfectly symmetrical along the centre line. The folded fabric may be the original centre fold (off the bolt of fabric) or a fold you create yourself, which is often done to get the most efficient pattern piece layout on the fabric.
Placement marker - An octagon with a + symbol in the middle, this indicates where buttons/buttonholes or snaps should be placed. It can also be used to mark the bust apex on a top or coat.
These are the basic labels and markings used on Twig + Tale pattern pieces. You may occasionally see other symbols as well, but the good news is that they are always labelled with a description of what they mean.
T+T patterns are known for being beginner-friendly - almost like a sewing class. If you come across sewing terms you aren't familiar with, scroll to the end of the tutorial to find the glossary, which provides descriptions of each term.
Find our entire Learn to Sew series here. A comprehensive collection of resources for beginner sewists!
