Pattern Markings

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What are notches?

Triangular symbols extending from the cutting line into the seam allowance. To mark notches, draw a line with washable marking pen or chalk in the middle of the triangle.

What are directional stitching arrows?

They are located on the seam line and show which direction to stitch seams.

What are dots?

They are circles which mark points to be matched. Matching can also be on the stitching line.

What are letters or numbers?

They are printed on each pattern piece to identify the pieces

What are darts?

Broken lines meeting at a point. Some patterns also include a solid centre fold line.

What are solid lines?

They show pocket and button hole placement, and mark the waistline, centre front, centre back, or where to fold the fabric.

What is the grainline?

A straight line, parallel to the selvage, ending in arrow heads.

What is the place on fold?

It indicates pieces that are placed on the fold of the fabric when cutting out patterns. DO NOT cut the fold.

What are lengthen or shorten lines?

Two parallel lines where the pattern pieces can be made longer or shorter.

What are cutting lines?

Solid lines along the outer edge.

What are seam lines?

Broken lines usually 1.5 cm from the cutting line.

What is seam allowance?

The area between the seam line and cutting line.

What is hem allowed?

It tells you how much fabric to turn up for the hem. This line may also be indicated by a solid line.

What are button holes?

They indicate where buttons holes are to be made.

What is the centre front?

It indicates where the centre front of the body is.

What is the fold line for darts?

The middle of the dart.