Specific rules for patterns, what they are and how to use them (Free download)

I'm Flor Tregnaghi, and today I'm excited to share with you my experience with one of the most important tools in patternmaking: rulers!
Let's start at the beginning, what is patternmaking? Well, it's the magic behind tailoring, the ability to transform creative ideas into tangible molds that will become unique garments. And to enter this exciting journey, we need our trusted tools: the rulers!

To me, patternmaking rules or dressmaker rules are like the fairy godmothers of patternmaking. 🧚‍♀️ Don't underestimate the power of having the right rulers. From the tailor's ruler to the French curved ruler, each one plays a crucial role in ensuring your designs are flawless and fit like a glove. That's why I want to share with you some tips so you can get the most out of this must-have tool on your desk:

👀 Know your rules.
Before starting any project, take some time to familiarize yourself with your pattern rules. Each has a specific purpose, from tracing smooth curves to measuring accurately - learn about their features and uses to select the right ruler for each task!
To help you become more familiar, I've created a guide where I teach you the function of the main patternmaking rulers and how to use them for best results. ✨Download it for free here✨.

Identify which ruler is the most suitable for each situation and use it optimally!

🧼 Keep your tools spotless.
A dirty or damaged ruler can ruin the precision of your strokes - regularly clean your rulers with a soft cloth and protect them in a suitable case when you're not using them!

📏 Be accurate in your measurements.
Accuracy is key in patternmaking. When using measuring rulers, be sure to place them correctly on the fabric or paper and take measurements carefully and thoughtfully - even a small error can affect the fit of the final garment!

🔄 Practice, practice, and practice.
As with any skill, practice is essential to perfect the use of your pattern rules - spend time regularly working on pattern projects and challenge yourself with new designs!
Lastly, I'd like to talk to you about seam allowances, which are a few small details that make all the difference in your creations. The seam allowance is that extra piece of fabric left on the edge of the pattern, don't underestimate it! It's usually usually 1 cm, but you can adjust it according to your needs.

📏 It is convenient to mark it on the pattern rather than on the fabric, as it ensures greater accuracy. And here's a homemade trick: join two pencils with tape to mark a 1 cm seam allowance easily!
Personally, I prefer to design my patterns with Illustrator. With this tool, marking the seam allowance is as easy as a click. 😎👾✨

So that you can continue learning about pattern making and measurements, I invite you to join my course on Domestika, "Patterning with Adobe Illustrator". In this course, you will learn how to create garment and accessory patterns directly in Adobe Illustrator, ready to print at home - imagine the excitement of seeing your designs taking shape on the screen and then in your hands!
So, with the right rulers and the right knowledge, you can conquer the world of pattern making and tailoring. Download your free rulers list, join my course, and we'll bring your ideas to life with style and precision. see you there! ✂️🎨✨