Sewing Pattern Symbols Guide

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Sewing pattern symbols are used to help you achieve accurate results when cutting, matching pieces and sewing. They do vary slightly between designers but these are some universally used sewing symbols to help you get started.

Table of Contents

SEWING PATTERN SYMBOLS

This week we are learning about cutting and marking fabric in the how to sew tutorials.

What are the most common sewing pattern symbols?

The most common sewing pattern symbols are

Grain lines
Fold lines
Notches
Button and buttonholes
Dots, squares and symbol markings
Adjustment lines to lengthen or shorten
Stitching lines
Darts

1. Grain lines

These double-ended arrows tell you to place the pattern piece parallel to the selvage. Measure from the top and bottom of the arrow and ensure they are equal distances from the selvage. For example, if the top of the arrow is 4 inches (10cm) from the selvage, the bottom of the arrow should also be 4 inches from the selvage.

Further Reading: What is Selvage.

2. Fold lines

This symbol rectangular sewing pattern symbol has one open side and means place on the fold. Place your pattern piece on the folded edge of the fabric, making sure the selvages are even on the other side. If you are adding seam allowances, you do not add any to fold lines. Cutting on the fold ensures your pieces are completely symmetrical and is often a good way to minimize the fabric consumption.

Further Reading: How to Cut Fabric

3. Notches

What do the triangles mean on sewing patterns?

Triangles and diamonds are called notches and indicate you need to mark these points to enable you to match up the pattern when sewing. Notches can be single, double and colored or open.

I always recommend you cut outwards but this is a personal preference. See my article on how to cut notches for more information.

4.Button and Buttonholes

Indicate button and buttonhole positions. The sewing pattern symbols of a long bar with vertical ends represent the size and position of the buttonhole and a cross is common for the button sewing position.

Read my articles on sewing buttonholes by machine and how to sew a button.

5. Dots, Squares and Shapes

All shapes need to be transferred onto your fabric and are used for matching up pattern pieces and adding details. You can transfer with tailors tacks, chalk or removable pen. See my blog articles on marking tools in sewing and transferring markings.

6. Adjustment Lines (Lengthen or shorten lines)

These are double lines which are normally accompanied by the words lengthen or shorten here. These are quite common in sewing leotards and pants where length matters.

7. Stitching lines

Stitching lines are not generally found on multi-sized patterns but on single sized patterns they are represented by dotted lines. Generally, there is no need to transfer these lines onto your fabric.

8. Darts

Shown as a dotted triangle or diamond, these show you where to stitch to add shape in areas such as the bust and waist. (Read marking darts, how to sew darts)

HOW TO CUT SEWING PATTERN SYMBOLS

Now you know all about sewing pattern symbols their meaning, it is time to start learning how to cut fabric. This article will show you how to fold your fabric, place it on the grain and how to cut accurately.

If you are a beginner and just building your sewing kit, then you can read about cutting tools in sewing and which are the best ones to purchase.

For those of you that are going to be quilting or cutting a lot of straight edges, learning how to use a rotary cutter may also help.