When choosing fabric for a project consider the scale of the print. To help you visualize if a certain print will work with a project use the pattern template as a guide.
Here’s how:
- Cut out the pattern pieces, removing them from the page.
- Tape where you cut into the page.
- Lay the page on the fabric using the opening as an outline for the project.
- Move the page around the fabric to try out different options for placing the prints on the project.
This process helps you to see if a print is the right scale for the project. It also helps you to decide on the best placement for the print.
Place the paper in a clear sheet protector to make the template more sturdy. It is a great option for taking templates with you shopping for fabric. That way you will be able to visualize how the print will fit on the pattern.
I used these steps to determine where to place the print on the Fringe Swimsuit in this post.
You can use this technique with any doll clothes sewing pattern.
I hope you found this useful!
Happy Sewing,
Anna
Resources: Hearts and Daisies Foil Striped Fabric is from The Fabric Fairy online shop. Read about the shop features here.
Good idea; I’d never have thought of doing this, Anna! Can see where it really helped with the fringe placement on a patterned fabric.
Thanks Marge, I’m glad it’s helpful for you!
I like this idea! If you use a printer, to print the pattern onto Card Stock paper, and cut it out with a razor blade or utility knife, there would be no need for tape, and it would be more sturdy to survive many uses before needing to replace with another.
Lorraine, Card Stock is a great alternative! Love it!
Thanks Anna, I use this technique when I want to “fussy-cut” a fabric to feature a particular design , stripe, plaid, etc when cutting doll clothes patterns.
It is a great method for getting details right where you want them to be!
I love the idea of the template! I am going to do this as I think it will be so helpful with many outfits! Thank you so much! I am going to see if I can find your book. I really need it!
Helen, it is so helpful! I use it all the time! Doll clothes are small, so it’s nice to plan where you want the details! Thank you! If you get the book I would love to see what you make!
Excellent idea. Would work for small childrens’ patterns both for choosing scale of fabric design as well as design style appropriateness for age or size of child. Easier to see if several fabric designs and colors will work well together. I can see too using this ‘stencil’ system for applique, as well as embroidered designs will look ‘right’ for pattern and/or fabric.
Maureen, I love all of your ideas! It saves time and frustration to get an idea before hand what it will look like!