Pattern Question

[jen143]

Hello all!

I have a question about pattern copying. I bought a pattern on sale at JoAnn's for $.99. It has six sizes in it and will do well for my girls. However, I want to copy all the sizes b/c my girls love dresses and it's a mix and match pattern that I can use in many combo's for many years. What do you use to copy a pattern and not have the store pattern rip? They are so delicate! My mom told me a friend uses newspaper but I would think that would be confusing with words, lines blending ,etc and dirty on the fabric. I wouldn't want to wash it and have it get stained. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Jen

[Linda Lou]

I have a roll of tissue paper, like they use at the doctors office on the exam tables. Works well, because you can see through it to copy the patterns. It is also stronger than regular tissue paper. When I worked at a fabric store years ago, we sold pattern paper that was like pellon interfacing, but with one inch grid on it. My husband also got some sort of nice paper in a roll that is good for patterns at an office supply place.
If you want to reinforce your regular pattern, then freezer paper is good. You can just iron it on, the waxy side melts and sticks to the pattern. Makes a nice, firm pattern. The white freezer paper is good for making patterns, too.

[jen143]

Oh, wow! Thanks for the advice. I hate to waste if I don't have to!


Thanks again!

Jen

[Bilby]

I use the non waxy lunch wrap as you can also see though that to copy pattern you do need to sticky tape it together first though and cut out.
A good tip I think is for when making a pattern up I always write a note with a date and for whom I made it, so that I know if I need to add a little extra for if the kids have grown.
I also note for myself on a pettern so that I know that it was a good fit or next time, or make a little longer, narrower etc.