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More About Quarter Scale Patterns

I've talked about quarter scale patterns before, and have even done a video to demonstrate how they're used. 

But I still get a lot of questions about them.  

The question I'm asked most often is, "Once I design my garment using the quarter scale, how do I make it full scale so I can cut and sew it?"

The quick answer is - "You DON'T!!!"

Quarter scales are a tool,  used (by me) to demonstrate how a pattern technique is done, and (by you) to practice and learn that technique. 

That's ALL the small patterns are used for. 

In this video, I explain in more detail how and why the small scale patterns are used. 

The video contains a very quick demonstration of drafting a Princess seam. I go through it quickly because the purpose of the demonstration is not to show you a Princess seam, but to show you how to use the quarter scale patterns to practice and experiment with pattern and fashion design. 

I have a page on this site that also explains the use of quarter scales, and you can download a set of quarter scale dress or pant patterns for your own use. 

I strongly urge you to download a set of patterns, glue them to some cardstock (so they're durable enough to use over and over again), cut them out - and start designing!!! 

Using patterns to design your fashions is every bit as important as making your initial sketch.  And like everything else in life, the key is to practice, practice, practice!  

Best of all, it's actually fun!

More Tips and Techniques Videos

• Why Do I Need a Dress Block? Can't I just re-design a purchased pattern?
• Why Do I Need Darts? They're so UGLY !!
• Using Your Quarter Scale Patterns
• Turning Your Darts into Styling Details
• Slashing and Spreading your Pattern to Add Fullness
• Customizing your Body Form
• Using Basic Pattern Techniques
• What does it mean to "true" your pattern?
• Don't Make MY Mistakes! Do a Proper Muslin Fitting
• The Difference Between Fit Ease and Style Ease
• Flat Pattern vs. draping
• What Are Style Lines?
• Do You Have Trouble Fitting The Bust?
• Where Do You Find Design Inspiration?
• Even the Greatest Style Falls Flat if it's Out of Proportion
• Do You Speak the "Language of Patterns"?
• The Difference Between Sewing Ease and Style or Fit Ease
• Sewing Gifts for Your Friends - or For You!
• How Collars Work
• Patternmaking Tools to Get You Started
• Style vs Fashion - Do You Know the Difference?
• More on How to Use Quarter Scale Patterns
• More on Pattern Manipulations to Move Darts and Add Fullness

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