How to buy sewing patterns

Here are some tips for picking out a sewing pattern that will help you before you start. I'll be referring to aspects of physical patterns (usually come as paper pieces in envelopes) but this should apply to digital patterns as well. A digital pattern should come with everythign that a traditional paper pattern does-- size chart, recommended fabrics, pattern pieces and good instructions. If any of these are missing, it's a dud.

#1 Know your measurements!

You'll want to take your measurements with a measuring tape to choose the right size. For pajama pants, you only need your waiste and hip measurement, but it doesn't hurt to measure your inseam as well. If you don't usually have any difficulty finding pants that are the right length, you'll likely be fine with whatever the pattern comes with. But if you are taller or shorter, you'll want to know this measurement in case you need to lengthen or shorten the pattern. Write your measurements down in a notebook or keep them in a digital note on your phone. Believe me-- if you get into this, those numbers will be a big help in the future!

Each pattern will have a chart on the back (or in the images online) that tell you what your size will be in the pattern based on your measurements. Don't assume your size based on what clothing you've bought at the store.

A note on buying vintage sewing patterns: make sure the listing says they are complete, and make sure they are your size. The description may say it contains your size, but older pattern kits will have a specific size stamped on the envelope:

#2 Recommended Fabrics

The back of the pattern envelope should have a list of recommended fabrics. I can't stress enough that these are wise choices and it will make a big difference in the success of your project that you pick something from this list. You may say, "But what the heck is cotton batiste????" If you don't know what a fabric is, go for one you do know. And always, always, always ask questions at the store. The people that work there know what all the fabric is.

Why does the fabric type matter? If a clothing pattern was designed to be drapey, then a thick, structured fabric is not going to fall against your body the way intended be the designer, and will look boxy instead. Also, if the finished product is meant to hold its shape or be tough, you won't want to use a sheer, drapey fabric. That's why overalls are made out of denim and canvas, not chiffon.

#3 Notions

Notions will also be listed on the pattern package-- those are all the things that aren't fabric or your sewing machine that are required to finish the project. Things like buttons, elastic, lace or zippers. BUY THEM NOW. Don't wait until you are deep into the project-- it's a real buzzkill.

#4 When in doubt, ask questions

If you are in a fabric store, ask questions. The people there want you to buy the thing you need, because a beginner who finished a project will want to start another one. If you are new to sewing, don't feel bad that this isn't all intuitive. It's a new skill you're learning, and it isn't simple and fast. Avoid cutting corners or using a fabric just because it's there. With some forethought and planning, a sewing project can be a lot of fun. Give yourself the gift of patience and planning.

In future posts I'll talk about finding patterns, what to avoid, and ways to find super specific info.

Resources:

Reddit Sewing Pattern FAQ

Search the pattern name/number on Instagram and find other people who've tried it! Sewists love to dish.