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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: PeytonandWyett
Date: 03-09-2004, 01:50 AM (1 of 38)
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Hello Everyone, What is the best way to use a multiple size pattern without cutting it to the size that I need? Many times when I make clothes for my daughter, the pattern will range from a size 3 to 8. Right now I need a size 4, but I still want to keep all the other sizes intact. So far, I have been taking a straight edge to the top of the pattern and tracing the size I need onto my fabric. This seems to work, but sometimes it rips through the pattern and it's kind of a pain. Is there a better way?? Thanks! |
User: PeytonandWyett
Member since: 02-02-2004 Total posts: 9 |
From: Skye
Date: 03-09-2004, 02:12 AM (2 of 38)
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I usually trace the pattern off. However when impatioent toget things done I have been known to snip the pattern into the cutting line I want and just fold the tissue back - you then have to be careful when handling the pattern Skye |
User: Skye
Member since: 09-28-2000 Total posts: 233 |
From: paroper
Date: 03-09-2004, 09:12 AM (3 of 38)
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I trace the pattern off in the size I need. My sister was married to a doctor, so I managed to purchase some "table" paper" through him. It is thin (so you can see through it) and light (fits easily into the pattern envelope when you are through) and easy to use for tracing paper. It also lasts forever. If you can get it, this is wonderful stuff for tracing patterns.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: sewingrandma
Date: 03-09-2004, 12:21 PM (4 of 38)
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I too, trace my patterns. I just recently switched from tissue paper to the medical table paper and I find that I prefer the medical paper. I lay down white paper on the table, then the pattern I want to trace then the medical paper on top, this way I can see all the marks and lines that have to be traced. I did find that putting a piece of tape to secure the paper to the table at either end is handy for keeping the paper from sliding. Anyone else have any ideas for this?
Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: beach girl
Date: 03-11-2004, 12:22 AM (5 of 38)
| I too trace my patterns with the medical paper. Before I use a new pattern I first iron the pattern to get out all the creases, then I iron on ( wrong side ) a non-woven light interfacing onto the pattern. Not the kind that has a paper backing. The pattern will last for years plus fold easily. If you have trouble folding the pattern to get back in the envelope just put the pattern ( folded ) in a ziplock bag & with the pattern envelope facing where it shows. Hope this helps you some. Theresa |
User: beach girl
Member since: 11-08-2003 Total posts: 72 
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From: MarysRose
Date: 03-11-2004, 12:24 AM (6 of 38)
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where is a good place to buy medical paper?
Laura
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User: MarysRose
Member since: 06-19-2003 Total posts: 37 
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From: sewingrandma
Date: 03-11-2004, 06:54 AM (7 of 38)
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Sorry, can't help you there. I work in a doctors office and I get it thru it.
Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: beach girl
Date: 03-11-2004, 09:51 AM (8 of 38)
| I get my medical paper from a drs. office as well. You might ask if they'd sell you a roll or 2. You can also get it from a medical store that sells things like wheel chairs, saftey stuff for bathrooms plus smaller items people need. I did try that here in Naples but this one only sold it in large amounts. If you know anyone that works for a dr. they could help you find some. |
User: beach girl
Member since: 11-08-2003 Total posts: 72
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From: MarysRose
Date: 03-11-2004, 11:16 PM (9 of 38)
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thanks for the responses; I'll ask my Dr. and then worst case look for a medical supply co. I really live in the boondocks! Laura
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User: MarysRose
Member since: 06-19-2003 Total posts: 37
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From: beach girl
Date: 03-11-2004, 11:40 PM (10 of 38)
| Boondocks can be a good thing. As a rule people are more willing to help so maybe you can get the medical paper easier than someone in a larger area. Lets hope so. Let us know when you get at least one roll. Good luck. |
User: beach girl
Member since: 11-08-2003 Total posts: 72
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From: mamahoogie
Date: 03-12-2004, 02:27 PM (11 of 38)
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I would suggest you buy packages of coloured tissue paper from the dollar store and assign each size to a colour for every pattern you use. So, everytime you trace size 4 on to tissue, make it yellow, size 5, blue, etc. Then when you want to make the pattern again, you will know exactly what pieces you need for each side. The tissue paper can be ironed flat with a dry iron. Violet 
I've decided to live forever - so far, so good.
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User: mamahoogie
Member since: 12-25-2002 Total posts: 461 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 03-12-2004, 03:21 PM (12 of 38)
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I have used the packaging paper that comes when you order from mail order. It is harder to trace & doesn't fit back into the envelope but it is free & can be ironed. I just put it into Gallon ziploc bags W/ the envelope. I trace them with a pencil from the top then cut them out.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115 
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From: woodywoodpecker
Date: 03-12-2004, 08:43 PM (13 of 38)
| I use the white plastic "Glad" kitchen catchers for tracing patterns. If it starts moving i just pin it to the pattern when I'm tracing. Depending on the size of the pattern decides where I tape extra plastic where and if I need it. Being as you are only doing a size 4 you likely wouldn't. It works well for me and I usually have the garbage bags on hand anyway so don't have to go looking for paper, and you know how it always seems to run out in the middle of the night. |
User: woodywoodpecker
Member since: 11-07-2003 Total posts: 242 |
From: MartySews
Date: 03-13-2004, 10:19 AM (14 of 38)
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Clotilde.com sells pattern paper on a 21 x 77yd roll for $6.48 plus shipping. It lasts forever and doesn't tear very easily. I have used one roll for over 3 years and still have plenty left. I use multi-size patterns for my growing nieces and nephews and this makes tracing off the correct size or altering my patterns a breeze. Another product that is very good is Do Sew Tracing Material. It comes in a 36 x 5yd roll for about $5. I buy it from one of the sewing machine dealers. I have had great results with both products. Happy Stitching! Marty It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
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From: kwaite
Date: 03-13-2004, 02:50 PM (15 of 38)
| I use rolls of waxed paper that can be bought at any grocery store. The pattern lines are very easily seen through it. I use a permanent marker to draw the pattern off. |
User: kwaite
Member since: 09-25-2002 Total posts: 2 |
From: busylizzycat
Date: 03-13-2004, 04:12 PM (16 of 38)
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OK - I live in the "boonies" too - thank goodness for internet shopping. I do some sewing for 4 grandchildren, all different ages, sizes so I like to use 1 basic pattern for all. Our Dr.'s office nurse sold me a roll of examing table tissue (smooth not crepey). I've used a lot of different papers, etc. over the years but this is my favourite. I like the weight, the transparency, the strength and the width is more manageable than wider stuff. If I'm using a commercial tissue multi-size pattern I iron the pattern, place it over the paper, set a few weights on it or stick a few pins through it into my cutting board to keep it in place. I use Sharpie fine point markers to draw on the lines of the size I want - the ink lines go right through the tissue onto the pattern paper. If I use multi-size patterns on heavy paper e.g. Kwik Sew - I just reverse the same process putting my pattern paper over the pattern and trace the size I want with a Sharpie marker. I even have different colours for each size so they're quick to see and keep the pieces together for each size. I can't take credit for this idea -I read it on the web somewhere but it really works for me - worth a try.
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User: busylizzycat
Member since: 03-13-2004 Total posts: 7 |
From: MaryW
Date: 03-13-2004, 04:24 PM (17 of 38)
Hi busylizzycat, welcome to Sew Whats New. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: vschulz
Date: 03-13-2004, 06:25 PM (18 of 38)
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For using multi-size patterns I use the white plastic rolls of table covering. It comes in a roll about 36" wide and you can see through it. The roll lasts a long time and is easy to use. Just make sure that when you trace out your pattern that you put the size, pattern name and number on each piece. Hope this helps. Ginny Ginny
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User: vschulz
Member since: 03-13-2004 Total posts: 1 |
From: barbch
Date: 03-13-2004, 07:56 PM (19 of 38)
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I have found that it's very easy to use an old fashioned tracing wheel and paper and work directly onto the fabric. I copy a pattern onto freezer paper only if I'm likely to use the same size again for another grandchild. Barb |
User: barbch
Member since: 03-13-2004 Total posts: 1 |
From: Patricia63
Date: 03-13-2004, 08:15 PM (20 of 38)
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Rather then talking with the Doctor you might want to talk with the nurse or office manager. They generally have a better knowledge of how or if you can purchase the paper. However one other thing that works and you can get it from newspapers is the rolls left over from a printing press. Its heavy paper yet see through enough you could trace onto it as well. I also take all my patterns and put them into a plastic ziploc bag or a see through plastic portfolio from the office supply store. I like these envelopes because that are easier to file. 
Life is a challange go out and meet that challange!
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User: Patricia63
Member since: 03-13-2004 Total posts: 1 |
From: MaryW
Date: 03-13-2004, 08:51 PM (21 of 38)
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Vschulz, barbch and Patricia63, welcome one and all to Sew Whats New.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Junes2
Date: 03-13-2004, 11:35 PM (22 of 38)
| My favorite is Pattern Ease for tracing patterns. I buy it at Joann's Fabrics in the interfacing section. It's clear enough to see through, but won't tear. |
User: Junes2
Member since: 11-26-2003 Total posts: 2 |
From: mzorn
Date: 03-14-2004, 11:04 AM (23 of 38)
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I too use the Pattern Ease from JoAnn's Fabric. It can be found withthe interfacing and the great part is JoAnn's regularly runs a 50% off sale on all interfacing at least once a month. The draw backs I have found are: *The sharpie ink doesn't soak in or dry well and gets on your hands. * It's a little difficult to see through I like the idea of using leftover newsprint rolls we have a local paper that is always advertising they have tons of these to sell. I might give that a try. Melinda |
User: mzorn
Member since: 04-14-2002 Total posts: 22 |
From: jiterbug73
Date: 03-14-2004, 11:16 AM (24 of 38)
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I don't know the name of the tracing material that I purchase but you can buy it at Wal Mart or Jo Ann fabrics. It is a see-thru lightweight fabric with either red dots or blue lines across the fabric. In between each dot or the lines that are drawn on it measure an inch. You lay it on top of the pattern and trace it making sure you mark the pattern size and piece also. I use a marker to trace on it. It lasts forever and never tears. Another tip for keeping the multible size pattern from becoming torn and frayed is the best idea from Sandra Betzina. Iron onto the back side of the multible pattern pieces the lightest weight and cheapest fusible interfacing you can find. Use a dry iron not steam so you won't stretch the pattern paper. Your pattern will last forever. I use this on all my patterns that I use over and over and they are just like new. The interfacing gives the pattern body so it is easier to handle. I clip my pattern pieces onto a skirt hanger along with a 2 gallon plastic bag with the smaller pattern pieces and the envlope with the instructions. I hope this helps you. Kathy Kathy
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User: jiterbug73
Member since: 09-21-2002 Total posts: 2 |
From: MaryW
Date: 03-14-2004, 12:17 PM (25 of 38)
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Junes2 and jiterbug73, welcome to Sew Whats New. Hope you girls can all stay for a bit, we usually have lots of fun around here. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Junes2
Date: 03-14-2004, 12:40 PM (26 of 38)
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Thanks Mary, I do plan on staying awhile. I've just viewed some other posts and have already learned some new techniques. Junes2 Butler, Pa. USA |
User: Junes2
Member since: 11-26-2003 Total posts: 2 |
From: Tweetybadger
Date: 03-14-2004, 01:46 PM (27 of 38)
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Good Morning, I buy medium weight interfacing, lay it over my pattern and I copy off each size with a pen not pencil as pencil will fade then label each piece of each size & bundle together as I finish each size, after I get all sizes copied off I can put my original pattern away for future reference or to share with friend or relative at later date. I started doing this when I was in the business of making square dance outfits for a club. Hope this is helpful. Tweetybadger
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User: Tweetybadger
Member since: 03-14-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: MaryW
Date: 03-14-2004, 02:49 PM (28 of 38)
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Welcome Tweetybadger, I like your name.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: beach girl
Date: 03-14-2004, 02:59 PM (29 of 38)
| Glad to have you here jiterbug73, junes2 & tweetybadger. Also happy to have another Naples person here. Theresa |
User: beach girl
Member since: 11-08-2003 Total posts: 72
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From: Tweetybadger
Date: 03-14-2004, 04:02 PM (30 of 38)
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Thanks Mary, I'm a tweety fan. I like your column.
Tweetybadger
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User: Tweetybadger
Member since: 03-14-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: habanerohutch
Date: 03-14-2004, 08:23 PM (31 of 38)
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When the local medical supply store would no longer sell me exam table paper in anything less than case lots, I tried the paper from Nancy's Notions. It turned out to be absolutely identical to the exam paper in every respect: width, number of yards on the roll, etc. Except it cost a few cents less from Nancy. I also use newsprint for rough drafts since I do a tremendous amount of slash and spread type adjustments. Then when I cut out the fabric, I place the exam table paper underneath and cut the garment and a clean pattern copy at the same time. If it's a pattern I would want to use again, I fuse the cheap interfacing to the final clean copy. They are stored in gallon plastic zip bags, along with a scrap of the garment fabric. Lala Chile Pepper from Texas
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User: habanerohutch
Member since: 07-01-2000 Total posts: 49 |
From: palouse
Date: 03-14-2004, 11:30 PM (32 of 38)
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I use non fusaible interfacing to trace on- especially if I know it is a pattern I know I will be using over and over-which is usally the case since I have 5 kids. If I am out of interfacing then I use news paper. I have to use a larger envelope (5x7) and glue the picture on the outside of the envelope. I have also used zip lock bags like someone else already mentioned. Palouse |
User: palouse
Member since: 03-10-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: Blackrockbear
Date: 03-15-2004, 08:24 AM (33 of 38)
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I use a dressmakers tracing wheel and the chalk type tracing paper to trace directly onto the fabric. Its faster and easier than a pencil. I will make a copy of the pattern using Pattern ease, Do Sew or tissue paper (much less durable than the others) if I plan to make the same size many times. Jean
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User: Blackrockbear
Member since: 01-17-2002 Total posts: 1 |
From: MOMAKAT
Date: 03-15-2004, 12:39 PM (34 of 38)
I have never been part of any forum chats before but this was something I knew something about. I also use Pattern Ease which I buy 10 yards at a time. It is not expensive and I have never had any tears on the patterns I have also use Pellon interfacing light to med weight and they also don't tear I do make alot of scrub top to the nurses and other departments at the hospital and of course they are not all the same size and the pattern is usesd alot. I love all the replys and really enjoy this site
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User: MOMAKAT
Member since: 03-17-2002 Total posts: 4 |
From: beach girl
Date: 03-15-2004, 01:59 PM (35 of 38)
| Welcome to the group momakat. Everyone is so nice & helpful. |
User: beach girl
Member since: 11-08-2003 Total posts: 72
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From: PeytonandWyett
Date: 03-15-2004, 02:24 PM (36 of 38)
| WOW!! Thank you to everyone for the great advice. I didn't think I would get this many replies. You all are great. This has really helped me a lot. I am going to try several of the suggestions. Thank you so much! |
User: PeytonandWyett
Member since: 02-02-2004 Total posts: 9 |
From: Sharie
Date: 03-17-2004, 10:18 PM (37 of 38)
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WOW! Marty I book marked that website!! I LOVE these boards!!! 
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User: Sharie
Member since: 03-01-2004 Total posts: 39
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From: JEAN
Date: 04-02-2004, 01:21 PM (38 of 38)
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In addition th all the wonderful advise I've found here, which I already use, I like to use a felt tip pen to mark my pattern paper, and weight the papers with available small books, various scissors, of cans of food so the papers don't shift. Now go out there and HAVE FUN!
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User: JEAN
Member since: 01-20-2000 Total posts: 225 |
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