Learning to Read Sewing Patterns

Dear users, dear authors,
This is the place to post your questions about sewing patterns.
Have fun!

A sewing pattern on a multi-size sewing pattern sheet is relatively easy to read, because each size has its own diagram. It’s either -.-.-.-., ---------, >>>>>>, or ............. Depending on the size, a symbol is assigned, and there are usually two colors—either red and black, red and blue, or red and green—depending on who created the sheet. These sheets usually also have their own labeling—for example, Sheet 1 is labeled A1, the back of the sheet is B2, and so on, depending on how many sheets there are. Each pattern has a number; a blouse pattern, for example, is Pattern No. 8. The instructions might then say: “Pattern No. 8 on Sheet 2D in red with this line -.-.-.” or in another color. You look for Sheet 2D, check the edge to see where the “8” is marked, then follow the “8” straight down or across and look at the pattern. Keep it in mind so you can trace it off or transfer it with a tracing wheel, depending on your preference and how you like to work.

Best regards, Inge

@ Inge:
It sounds sooo easy when you say it. But as a beginner, it’s actually a bit tricky. When I first started sewing, I took a class. They explained how to “read” the sewing pattern there. Then came the individual step-by-step instructions.
Now I can read, cut out, and glue together the sewing patterns just like you explained. And when I manage to get the whole thing lined up correctly on the fabric, I’m already proud of myself.
But what still gives me trouble is the seam allowance. Why don’t they just include it in the pattern right from the start????
I admire everyone who can sew as well as you do.
But I’m not giving up—I’ll just keep trying.
Love, Petra

aks I always calculate the seam allowance to be just the width of the presser foot. There are these little chalk wheels—you run them along the edge of the pattern and can set the measurement for how wide the seam allowance should be. I’ll have to see if I still have mine; if so, I’ll take a picture.

Best regards, Inge

Here’s the little chalk wheel

Best regards, Inge

Unfortunately, I’ve never taken a class before. Back then, I wanted to take one in our town, but it was canceled. I was offered classes elsewhere, but taking the train 🚆 and 🚌 bus 🚍 just isn’t practical when you also have to carry a heavy bag.

I tried that once, too....
Decades ago, there was a little skit on “Verstehen Sie Spaß” where they “sold” a cutting layout to different people as if it were a city map, and nobody noticed. ... That’s exactly how I felt when reading this cutting layout... I had no clue with soooo many symbols and lines.... Ever since then, my sewing machine has been sitting in the corner, gathering dust.
But who knows—maybe I’ll work up the courage to give it a try someday....
How great that Inge is here 💖—we can pepper her with questions. It’s really impressive how perfect the things she sews are; I can only dream of that....

My daughter and I also thought the “Uster” sewing pattern looked like a city map; we’d only just finished our journeyman’s exams at the time. We both had stomachaches from laughing so hard.