Storing sewing patterns: Tips & Tutorial

In our Facebook sewing group, the question comes up every now and then: How do you actually store sewing patterns? I'll share my tips and tricks with you!

It's obvious: creases in patterns are annoying!

But how can you store those painstakingly traced patterns without them getting crinkled and creased everywhere?

First of all: Use the right pattern paper

If you sew clothes often, you will notice that the fit of a garment doesn't just depend on the fabric used, but also on every single millimeter. To achieve a perfect fit, you need pattern paper that clings to the fabric, is transparent, and is easy to write on.

My best experience has been with—admittedly a bit more expensive, but unbeatable—Swedish tracing paper.

Swedish tracing paper^* is the secret tip among sewing pros for great results. And rightly so, I think. This is what it looks like:

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Advantages of Swedish pattern paper

The sturdy paper is beautifully transparent and allows for precise tracing of sewing patterns and patchwork elements.

Unlike freezer paper, Swedish paper is not ironed on, but fixed with sewing weights or pins. You can use it like embroidery paper, glue it, write on it, and pin it.

It lies nice and flat—even though it comes in rolls. A special feature is that it takes pencil very well while remaining stable and flexible.

How do I store sewing patterns?

Below, I’ll show you my tips for keeping your sewing patterns in the best possible condition.

Storing small sewing patterns

For small patterns, a compartment folder works very well. Many of the SewSimple patterns are in A4 format, which makes them easy to sort.

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Compartment folders are available, for example, in A4 size...^*

...or in the elegant A3 version^* with ribbons for larger patterns

Storing clothing patterns

For large patterns, however, a different solution is needed.

And it's not just simple and practical—it's also very inexpensive:

DIY pattern cuffs!

For the pattern cuffs you need

• Empty cardboard tubes (e.g., from paper towels or toilet paper)
• Fabric scraps
• Glue (I used Mod Podge Fabric^*; I had some left over from our fabric coating test series!)
• Paper strips
• Thread
• Scissors

Instructions: Crafting pattern cuffs to store sewing patterns

• Cut the cardboard tube and fabric to the desired size

• Apply Mod Podge to the fabric
  

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• Now wrap the cardboard tube in the fabric strip, also coating the ends with Mod Podge and letting them overlap slightly

• Cut off excess fabric

• Roll up the sewing pattern and slide it into the pattern cuff
  

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• Label and decorate! Now the rolls can be stored standing up or lying down.

Do you like our tips on how to store sewing patterns?

Don't forget to leave us a comment—if you like!

Happy simple sewing,

your Sabine