Inside you will find the instructions (like the above picture) on how to sew your garment and all the pattern pieces associated with it. The pattern pieces are printed on large tissue paper. Let's start off with the instructions so go a head and open them up and take a look. Lots of words, huh? Don't worry, it's not as bad as it seems! Just to be consistent, I'll will be sticking with Simplicity #2813 since that's what I used for Part 1. Remember, we are doing view A.
The instructions begin with pictures of each view available associated with the pattern. To the right of it (sometimes it's listed below) it tells us there are 19 total pieces in this pattern along with a picture of each pattern piece and it's corresponding number. Below the pictures is a list of each pattern piece and which view it belongs to. Some pieces are used for multiple views. For example, this pattern uses the same base dress so the bodice and skirt are used for both views. For some patterns, it will list all the views used with that piece and other patterns will simply say "1-BODICE FRONT" as apposed to "1- BODICE FRONT - A, B". For our view, we will need pieces 1 through 16.
Next you will see definitions. This section sometimes gives you definitions of terms used in these instructions. You can also check out my previous post that has a list of common sewing terms. The list isn't complete but I do go over quite a bit! This pattern does go over some of the symbols used for sewing. If you look at your pattern pieces, there are arrows, lines, dots, notches, and more. I will go into more depth about all the different symbols in the next blog. They also go over some tips for sewing so it's always worth taking a look at it.
Next we have the pattern layout section. This part will show you the best way to lay out the pattern pieces onto your fabric. You don't HAVE to do it exactly like that though. If you have a design that you are trying to match (like plaids), then you might have to lay them out differently. I personally just lay the pieces out on the fabric as I go. It's up to you how you want to do it. They show you layouts for each view; some with 45" fabrics and some with 60" fabrics. There are also some pieces where you need to open up the fabric and fold it differently to fit the piece (like for really long and flowy capes).
And now we have the fun part: sewing directions! There is a small key at the top of this section to show (or remind) you what the different shadings mean in each diagram. If you look at the pictures to the left of the instructions, you'll see its white (wrong side of fabric), gray (right side of fabric), dotted (lining fabric), and/or white with some sort of mesh looking marks (interfacing). Patterns that have multiple views will have its own instructions for parts that are different. Remember how I said the bodice and skirt was the same for both views? If you look at the instructions below, you'll see it starts off with "Dress A, B." Then you'll see "BODICE ALL VIEWS". If you continue on, you will eventually see sections for the different views. So pay close attention when reading these so you don't accidently follow the wrong view!
The instructions are all numbered and have a picture to go with. I find that it's helpful to be able to see what they are talking about. If you come across something that doesn't make sense, do a little research! Darts, gathers, and pleats are a few things you may want to hop onto youtube and find a tutorial (unless you have a sewing buddy to help!). There are tons of video and written tutorials on all sorts of sewing techniques. If it's your first time sewing, start off with something simple. Then work your way up. Challenge yourself and try a pattern that has some new techniques.
That basically sums it up on reading the instructions. Next time I'll go over cutting out your pattern and all the fun markings on them! Before you know it, you'll be a pro! Take care!
~Serenity
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