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Member since 8/24/05
Posts: 52
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Posted on: 5/30/06 4:03 PM ET
Hello!
I'm trying to write out pattern directions, including diagrams, and I want to be sure to give the correct measurements for different sizes. (I have no software, books, anything, but that's another subject!)

I know the standard seam allowance is 5/8". So, for example, if I know the final measurements of my garnment, I will add for seam allowance in cutting and sewing. Is it true I should add a half inch on each side for each seam? For eample, if the waist of my skirt is 19", I wil cut it at 20" to allow for side seams. Correct?

I'm sure this is on some thread somewhere, but it's 94 degrees out and I'm at my end with no air conditioning searching for something related to this!

Thanks!
  
Member since 2/17/03
Posts: 1709
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Posted on: 5/30/06 4:10 PM ET
Since you are doing this yourself you can set up whatever seam allowances you want to sew. If your waist is 19 and you use 1/2" seam allowances then you draw a waist of 20 inches.

The big 4 pattern companies usually have 5/8" seam allowances but some of the other companies use 1/2 or even 1/4" seam allowance.

It's your drafted garment and your choice.
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What is Maxine saying??
"I don't iron. If I'm not wrinkle-free why should my clothes be."
  
Member since 10/9/05
Posts: 1411
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Posted on: 5/30/06 4:13 PM ET
Edited to add: Ah, Mary beat me to it. And I toatlly agree with her.


Standard seam allowances notwithstanding, you can make your seam allowances whatever you choose to make them. Just make sure that it is clear in your instructions or on your pattern sheets what the seam allowance actually is.

Yes, the big pattern companies use 5/8" as standard. But Kwik Sew uses 1/4" for knits. Jalie uses 1/4" for the couple of knit patterns I've used.

In industry, different parts of the construction of a garment actually have different seam allowances, and a dressmaker is expected to know what seam allowances are used where.

SO, if your skirt front finished measure should be 19" and you are using 1/2 inch seam allowances, then your pattern piece should be 20".
-- Edited on 5/30/06 4:14 PM --
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Trinity

I probably have too many sewing machines, but how am I supposed to resist when they're either free by the side of the road or people give them to me?

http://thimblesthreadsandneedles.blogspot.com/
  
Member since 8/24/05
Posts: 52
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Posted on: 5/30/06 4:22 PM ET
Thanks so much!
  
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