Pattern (sewing)

In sewing and fashion design, a pattern is the template from which the parts of a garment are traced onto woven or knitted fabrics before being cut out and assembled. Patterns are usually made of paper, and are sometimes made of sturdier materials like paperboard or cardboard if they need to be more robust to withstand repeated use. The process of making or cutting patterns is sometimes compounded to the one-word patternmaking, but it can also be written pattern making or pattern cutting.

A sloper pattern, also called a block pattern, is a custom-fitted, basic pattern from which patterns for many different styles can be developed. The process of changing the size of a finished pattern is called pattern grading.

Several companies, like Butterick and Simplicity, specialize in selling pre-graded patterns directly to consumers who will sew the patterns at home. These patterns are usually printed on tissue paper and include multiple sizes that overlap each other. An illustrated instruction sheet for use and assembly of the item is usually included. The pattern may include multiple style options in one package.

Clothing brands make their patterns with in-house patternmakers, third-party specialists, or (often when manufacturing in overseas factories) will rely on the factory’s in-house patternmakers. While commercial production patterns are engineered to fit several standard average body sizes, in bespoke clothing, patterns must be adjusted or developed for each individual client.