Effective Paper Pattern Making Tips: A Guide

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 10 July 2023 6 min read

When it comes to crafting, paper pattern making is a versatile skill that can open a world of creativity. Whether you're interested in fashion design, home decor, or just enjoy do-it-yourself projects, understanding the basics of pattern making can set you up for success. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process step-by-step, offering tips and techniques to make your patterns shine.

Getting Started with Paper Pattern Making

Like any new skill, the key to mastering paper pattern making is starting with a strong foundation. This includes choosing the right materials, understanding the basic terminology, and learning how to use the necessary tools. You don't need to be an expert to get started. Let's break it down:

Choose the Right Materials

First things first: you need to pick the right materials. For paper pattern making, it's typically best to start with lightweight but sturdy paper. Patternmaking paper or dot paper is a popular choice among crafters due to its durability and ease of use. Newsprint or tracing paper can also do the job. Remember, the goal is to choose a paper that can handle the rigors of cutting and tracing without tearing easily.

Understand the Basic Terminology

As with any craft, paper pattern making has its own lingo. For instance, a "pattern piece" refers to the individual parts of a pattern that are later assembled to create the final design. The term "grainline" refers to the direction of the fabric's threads and is essential for accurate pattern placement. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you'll be better equipped to follow pattern-making instructions and tutorials.

Learning How to Use Tools

Last but not least, you'll want to get comfortable with the tools of the trade. A good pair of fabric scissors is a must for clean, precise cuts. A rotary cutter can also be handy for cutting large, straight lines. Additionally, you'll want to have a clear ruler for accurate measurements and a tracing wheel for transferring pattern markings. Remember, practice makes perfect — the more you use these tools, the better you'll get at paper pattern making.

Planning Your Design

Now that you're familiar with the basics of paper pattern making, it's time to start planning your first design. This step is all about letting your imagination run wild while also considering the practical aspects of creating a pattern. Two key aspects of planning your design are sketching the idea and deciding on the scale and size.

Sketching the Idea

Start by sketching out your idea on paper. This doesn't have to be a perfect drawing, but it should give you a general idea of the shape, size, and look of your pattern. You might find it helpful to use colored pencils or markers to differentiate between different parts of the pattern. Remember, this sketch is just a starting point — you can always make changes as you go along.

Deciding on Scale and Size

Once you have a sketch, you need to decide on the scale and size of your pattern. The scale refers to the size of the pattern in relation to the final product. For example, if you're making a pattern for a dress, you'll want to make sure the pattern is the right size to fit the intended wearer. As for the size, consider the size of the paper you're working with and the complexity of your design. Remember, it's always easier to scale up a pattern than it is to scale it down, so when in doubt, start smaller.

Creating Your First Paper Pattern

The next step in the paper pattern making process is bringing your design to life. This involves cutting and assembling the pattern. While this might sound challenging, remember, every expert was once a beginner. So, let's dive right into it.

Cutting the Pattern

With your design planned and sketched out, it's time to start cutting. Make sure you have a sharp pair of scissors that can make precise cuts. Start by cutting out the larger shapes and then move onto the smaller, more detailed cuts. Remember to take your time — accuracy is more important than speed when it comes to paper pattern making. And don't worry if your first few attempts aren't perfect; practice makes perfect.

Assembling the Pattern

Once all the pieces are cut, it's time to assemble them. Here, you can use adhesive or tape to stick the pieces together. The key to successful assembly lies in careful alignment of each piece. Ensure every piece fits perfectly before securing it in place. If you find a piece that doesn't quite fit, don't be afraid to go back and make adjustments. Remember, patience and precision are your best friends in paper pattern making.

Mastering Different Pattern Styles

By now, you've got a good grasp on the basics of paper pattern making. But there's a whole world of pattern styles out there waiting for you to explore. Let's start by diving into geometric and abstract patterns.

Exploring Geometric Patterns

Geometric patterns are a fantastic starting point for beginners in paper pattern making. These patterns use basic shapes like squares, circles, and triangles, and repeat them in a consistent manner. For example, you could create a pattern of alternating circles and squares, or perhaps a sequence of triangles in different sizes. Geometric patterns are not only visually pleasing but also help in honing your precision cutting skills.

Dabbling in Abstract Patterns

Ready for a challenge? Try your hand at abstract patterns. Unlike geometric patterns, abstract patterns don't follow a set shape or sequence. They're all about creativity and personal expression. You could cut out random shapes, or experiment with different arrangements. There's no right or wrong here. So, let your imagination run wild. Just remember, the key to an effective abstract pattern lies in balance and harmony, so aim to create a design that's visually cohesive.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Don't get discouraged if you run into issues while working on your paper pattern making projects. It's all part of the learning process. Let's go through some common problems and discover how to fix them.

Dealing with Pattern Tears

Accidentally tearing your pattern can be frustrating, but don't worry, it's not the end of the world. A simple fix is to use a piece of clear tape on both sides of the tear. However, remember to be gentle while handling the repaired pattern. If the tear is too big, it might be easier to start fresh with a new piece of paper. Practice makes perfect, and each mistake brings you one step closer to mastering the art of paper pattern making.

Fixing Incorrect Sizes

Who hasn't experienced the disappointment of cutting out a pattern piece, only to find out it's the wrong size? It's a common mistake, especially when you're just starting out. One way to avoid this is by double-checking your measurements before you start cutting. A reliable ruler can be your best friend in this situation. If you've already cut out the piece and it's too big, you can simply trim it down. If it's too small, use it as a practice piece and start again.

Resolving Cutting Mistakes

Let's face it, not every cut will be perfect, especially in the beginning. If your cut didn't go as planned, don't stress. If it's a minor mistake, you could potentially disguise it within your design or use an eraser to gently clean up any pencil marks. For bigger mistakes, it's best to use a new piece of paper. Remember, every error is an opportunity to improve. So, keep going!

Fine Tuning Your Skills

Once you've got the basics of paper pattern making down, it's time to up your game. Here's how you can fine-tune your skills and take your designs to the next level.

Practicing Precision Cutting

Accuracy is everything in paper pattern making. The more precise your cuts, the more professional your patterns will look. Start by practicing straight lines, then move on to more complex shapes. Try using a cutting mat and a craft knife for sharp, clean edges. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be too hard on yourself if you don't get it right the first time.

Experimenting with Materials

While most beginners start with regular paper, there's a whole world of materials out there for you to explore. Think about using cardstock for a sturdy pattern, or tracing paper if you need to see through to a design underneath. Don't be afraid to experiment—you might discover a material that perfectly suits your style of paper pattern making.

Exploring Advanced Designs

Once you're comfortable with the basics, why not try your hand at more advanced designs? Geometric patterns can be a great way to challenge yourself. Or perhaps you'd like to try creating abstract designs that really push the boundaries of paper pattern making. The sky's the limit, so let your creativity soar!

If you're looking to enhance your paper pattern making skills, don't miss the workshop titled 'The Art of Paper Cut' by Mar Delmar. This workshop will provide you with valuable tips, techniques, and insights to elevate your paper pattern creations to a whole new level. Transform your craft by exploring the world of paper cutting art today!