When you look at a sewing pattern, the variety of symbols can be overwhelming. But each of these markings is essential to be able to create garments the proper way. You should follow the guides and instructions that come with your sewing pattern to avoid wasting fabric when the wrong guides are cut. The use of symbols in sewing patterns sometimes differs from one pattern maker to another. It is always best to read all the sewing pattern elements carefully, especially if you are just a newbie at sewing. Cutting Lines Cutting Lines The lines that guide you where to cut on the sewing pattern are the cutting lines. When your pattern comes in one size only, the cutting lines are shown as a solid line. The lines where you need to sew on the fabric or the seam lines are shown as a dash or dotted lines. The sewing pattern indicates the size of the seams in the instructions. When the pattern comes in many sizes, the numerous lines can be confusing. The markings for the cutting lines vary in style for each size. For example, a size 12 is a solid line, size 10 is a line of dashes, and size 8 is a line of dots. Usually, in this type of pattern, the seam line is not drawn. Notches Diamond and triangle shapes are also familiar markings along the edges of a sewing pattern. These symbols show the places where you need to connect two pattern pieces that should fit together. Most sewing patterns use single notches to match front pattern pieces and double notches to connect back pattern pieces. Bust, Waist, and Hip Indicators Bust, Waist, and Hip Indicators Small circles with crossed lines at the center are used as bust, waist, and hip indicators in sewing patterns. You can find them at points on the pattern pieces where you need specific body measurements. Many patterns give the actual circumference measurements along with these symbols. Make sure to read the details on your sewing pattern, such as these symbols. You will be sure that the finished garment measurements will be similar to your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Squares, circles, and other shapes Squares, circles, and other shapes You can also find different small shapes such as squares, circles, etc., scattered on your sewing pattern pieces. They are usually located at the necklines or armholes of a pattern. The purpose of these small shapes is to indicate the points where you should match two pieces of the pattern, such as an armhole, into a sleeve. Lengthen/Shorten Lines Lengthen/Shorten Lines Sewing patterns are created with a certain height in mind. You may be shorter or taller than the projected height, so you have to adjust the length. A sewing pattern usually has two horizontal, parallel lines to guide you to shorten or lengthen the pattern to suit your measurements. It would be best to follow the lengthen or shorten lines indicated by the pattern designer than making your own. Changing the pattern by yourself may affect the overall look of your finished garment. Buttonholes and Buttons Buttonholes and Buttons The buttonhole symbol is in its actual location on a sewing pattern. You can identify it by a line that is shaped like an upright or a horizontal capital “I.” You can also find the location of the button along the Line represented by an X. Dart Lines Dart Lines You can find diamond-shaped figures or two lines coming from one point on the pattern. These symbols are called dart lines. Dart lines are found on the front or back bodice to shape the fabric near the waist and bust. It is also useful for skirt patterns to show fabric from the waist to the hips. Tucks Tucks Tucks are formed when you bring two points together to sew a line parallel to the fold line. Gathering Lines Gathering Lines Gathering lines in the pattern are usually shown as either a straight line or a wavy line between two points. You can use the longest stitch on your machine to gather fabric and sew between the two points. You get the measurement of the amount of fabric to gather from the sewing instructions.