Absolute Easiest Way to Lay Out Sewing Patterns
Accurately laying out a sewing pattern is an essential part of constructing any project. The guidesheet is like a GPS printout. It explains all the information you need to get from the start of a project to the finish. Refer to the guidesheet as you sew. It will answer any of your questions.
1. Check the guidesheet to see which pattern pieces you need for the view you have chosen.
- Unfold the pattern pieces; take out those you need. Refold and return the others to the pattern envelope.
- If several pattern pieces are printed on the same sheet, cut apart the pieces you need and return the rest to the envelope.
2. Press the paper or tissue pattern pieces with a warm, dry iron.
- Press pattern pieces to remove wrinkles.
- For greatest accuracy, extend the pattern grainline so it’s visible the entire length of the pattern. Fold the tissue pattern along the grainline arrow and press with a dry iron to extend the line the full length of the pattern.
3. Find the correct layout on the pattern guidesheet. To do this:
- Find the view you are making.
- Find the fabric width.
- Find your size.
Note from Nancy
It’s easy to confuse all the different pattern layouts, so circle the correct layout for the view you have chosen. It’s a simple step that eliminates frustration later.
4. Tile pattern pieces, if necessary.
Note from Nancy: Tiling is required when a digital pattern is printed on multiple pages to create one pattern piece. Read more on pattern tiling, here.
5. Fold the fabric as shown on the pattern layout.
6. Lay the pattern pieces on the fabric.
- Start by placing the larger pattern pieces, following the guidesheet layout.
- Locate the grainline arrow. Pin one end of the arrow to the fabric. Measure the distance to the fabric fold or the selvage.
Note from Nancy
I prefer to use a ruler rather than a tape measure when measuring the distance from the selvage to the grainline. The stable ruler is more accurate.
- Measure the distance from the other end of the arrow to the fold or selvage. Both distances must be the same. Shift the pattern until the two distances are equal. Pin the second end of the arrow. The grainline is now parallel to the selvage or fold.
- If a pattern piece has a “place on the fold” line, place that line exactly on the fold of the fabric. Pin the pattern along the fold. Extend pin tips beyond the fold so you don’t accidently cut along the fold of the fabric.
- Some pattern pieces may need to be placed on the fabric with their printed sides down. The guidesheet usually shows these pieces as shaded shapes.
- Pattern pieces may be placed close together, but cutting lines must not overlap.
- After all pattern pieces have been placed on the fabric and all grainlines are straight, smooth each piece and pin its corners. Place pins diagonally.
- Double check the guidesheet to make sure you have included all the pieces needed for the view you are making. Double check that grainlines are straight.
Note from Nancy
Another way to hold pattern pieces to the fabric (without using pins) is by using pattern weights. These weights hold the pattern and fabric together, and are recommended when cutting out large, yet simple pattern pieces, such as bags and totes, with a rotary cutter.
You’ll find these pattern layout techniques and so much more in my book, The Absolute Easiest Way to Sew. It includes a compilation of techniques to make sewing fun and easy for all skill levels.
Watch The Absolute Easiest Way to Sew Part One, Part Two, and Part Three on Sewing With Nancy online.
Bye for now,
Leslie Mink
I WISH we’d had this book back in 1963 when I took my first home ec course and we made wrap around skirts! No one’s skirt fit well, and most left our derrieres partially uncovered and our slip visible (yes, we wore and girdles back then).
I find it SO MUCH EASIER to sew and made quilts in 2016 than 53 years ago! Things fit now that I have learned techniques to alter patterns as well as to make ready wear look better on my much less than perfect frame.
Sewing, like our lives, has been transported by leaps and bounds. Even those of us with arthritic hands can find tools to enable us to still be able to create. Part of it is due to computers and part of it is due to ingenuity of persons like Nancy, who have discovered a better way.
No more holding my mouth just so and praying when I put in a sleeve—the way we were told would NOT work, actually does, and makes a much nicer presentation.
Keep up the good work!
Ellon Quillen
Wow, what an opportunity, I have been wanting to get this item. I watch the NPT program every week, always great tips too.
Thank you for all you do and your love of seeing is inspiring.
Jane McLean
I would love to share this book and DVD with my 13 y.o. granddaughter. Thank you!
Nancy Oppegard
Nancy, I have enjoyed watching you for MANY years and learned so much from you. This information on pattern layout is exactly the way they taught us in Home Ec class in High School and has served me well. I made school clothes, prom dresses, then later, maternity and children’s clothes. Today I am a quilter and have loved sewing all my life. Please keep teaching us and passing along good tips. So glad you are there! Another Nancy.
Megan W.
This is by far the easiest instructions I have seen on how to work with pattern pieces. Thank you.
Lisa Johnsey
I am new to sewing and would love to win this
Lisa Johnsey
I am new to sewing and would love to win this
Kathy Spencer
I love to review techniques to either validate or update my current practice. My 7 year old granddaughter is showing an interest in sewing and this would be very helpful.
Deborah Anderson
Thank you for sharing another great tutorial.
Shelia Ward
Happy New Year to you and yours. I have been sewing since I was 12 years old – I am now 58 – and never have I known to measure from the grain line to the edge of the fabric to make sure the lines are straight. I love this idea and would probably love even more of the ideas in your book. Please keep posting them. Thank you.
E. Ann
Great information!! It’s worth the time to use this procedure to help ensure a quality outcome. I haven’t tried the weights but plan to try.
Thanks again and looking for a great year!!
Mary Jo Hines
Thanks for the tips which are written very clearly. Since I teach sewing, and organize a great group of volunteer seamstresses, this tutorial will be a good item to keep in my tips/techniques binder.
Mary Ellen
Great tutorial. I did garment sewing a lot growing up but have not done so in the past few years. This whets my appetite to begin making my own clothes again! Thank you, Nancy’s Notions, for the giveaway!
Kaaren Lynch
I had a terrific sewing teacher, Miss Nellie Dawes, when in the 7th grade, and 12th grade. She taught me everything just covered in this post. I do everything that way, except the weights. I still pin my pattern pieces. You have wonderful info on these posts, and I enjoy them immensely. Thank you so much!
Kaaren Lynch
krystal grooters
Dear Nancy,
I thank you for the valuable information as I always feel we need to start with basic skill to build a solid foundation and you are showing us the way!
krystal grooters
Cyndi
Nancy has always been a great teacher. I would have loved to have her as a teacher!! Thank you for all your inspiration!
Thank you for the give away!
Patricia Rogers
I would love to win this book. I have the book and CD of Pattern fitting with confidence and it has helped me so much. Thank you Nancy.
Holly Woodcock
Thank you so much for all the great advice you’ve given. I wish I had more time to sew for fun and use all the great tips you share. I’ve watched your show for years and love your techniques! I just inherited my mothers stash of quilting fabrics (picture a small fabric store) and I need to put it to good use in her honor! I’m sure your book would be just what I’d need!
Denise
I have been sewing all my life and love it! My grandma taught me when I was about 8 and Nancy’s tips are like having Grandma sitting beside me everyday! Thanks!
cathy McGrath
Your tips are always so welcome. These were especially good for me as I am getting back into sewing clothing for me personally. I sew something daily but starting clothing again is challenging but I love it. I would also love your book. Thank you, CathyMc
Betty
I love reading (and watching) everything by Nancy! I learn so much as she is so informative n easy to listen to n learn from!
Betty Gilreath
I’ve been sewing off and on for 49 years, and I learned 3 tips in this tutorial today–love it, and love all you do, Nancy! I thank God for the gifts He has given you, and I thank you for your life’s work of sharing them with the world.
Nellene Beaton
You helped me remember some of the things my home ec teacher taught me many years ago—but you added some very good, new tips! Thank you!
Jean Palionis
These instructions are very clear and easy to follow. If the rest of the book follows suit, sewing anything will be a breeze. Thank you!
Linda E in AZ
I had never thought about using a ruler rather than tape measure to check straight of grain. Great tip!
thanks!
Monica AD
What a LOVELY book to have in one’s collection … FIESTA 🙂
BAR
Thanks for the tips, Nancy! I notice some fabrics are being sold at just 42″ wide and am wondering what kind of effect that will have on pattern layouts?
Jan Hobbs
Just yesterday my daughter asked if she could have one of my sewing machines because she has decided she should have as much fun as I have sewing! This would be a perfect teaching and reference book for her since we do not live near each other and I certainly do not claim to know as much as you do, Nancy. In fact, I am not afraid to admit I have been learning from you since I purchased your binder entitled “Sewing with Nancy Transcripts” in 1985! I still have it!
Julia
My youngest granddaughter would love to learn how to sew but I am too far away. The book and DVD would be great as I could Skype with her and sew together.
Barbara
Well written instructions – as always! 🙂
Patti McGuffin
This is the way I teach my students to lay out patterns. I did make one thing deliberately off-grain to demonstrate the difference. I’m always looking to improve my techniques and teaching, and I’v learned so much from you over the years.
Thank you for all you’ve given us.
Jade
I have been sewing all my life, but Nancy always teaches me something I didn’t know…here she suggests placing pins diagonally? Not sure why, but I’ll give it try since I trust Nancy!
Margaret Tyree
Nancy, Thank you for these very helpful tips! I’ve been measuring grainline with a ruler for awhile and always use weights. I made a set but often use my cell phone or other objects as weights. Since home ec is rarely offered in schools your guidance is essential!
patricia
Love the directions-used to sew my own clothes many years ago. Now that I’m retired I plan to go back to my sewing. Your directions are so clear and help me remember the hints, etc. I used to know. Thank you!
Jenny Knuth
I learn something each time i watch or read a blog. even when i reread or rewatch! thank you
Debbie B.
I love Nancy’s common sense suggestions and tips for sewing. I would love to win this book so I would have more information to make my sewing easier and more professional looking.
Judie Kapraun
I always enjoy your “lessons”. I have been sewing for over 50 years and love the tips you offer. Since Home Ec/Sewing is no longer offered in most schools it is a blessing to have tools like this book and DVD for those just learning. I would like to have this for my daughter and granddaughter. They are learning, but this would be a confidence booster. Keep up the inspiring shows, videos, books, DVDs and tips. You are very much appreciated.
Sharyn Davis
Love the tip about pinning on the diagonal. I’m just getting back to sewing after many years and need all the tips I can get!
Phyllis Marshall
Would love to have this book to add to my collection. Love watching your show. I always learn something new.
Judy
I would love to learn more from you, Nancy, and this book would really help me. Always look forward to your posts and tips! Thanks!!
J. Cleaver
Excellent instructions! I’ve been sewing 50+ years and learned a thing or two from this article.
Fran Coulson
Love this book. I bought the book and video for my 28 year old Granddaughter who has expressed an interest in learning how to sew. She says it is so easy to understand, that she’s sure she will be on “Project Runway” any day now. Actually, after seeing the book, I wished I had one for myself, even after almost 50 years of sewing.
Lee Ann L.
What a generous giveaway! I am wanting to sew a few skirts and am absolutely terrified. The only thing I ever sewed were quilts and some curtain panels. The curtain panels were so stressful because I never sewed anything (except quilts) before!
Rebecca Monnin
Oh, gosh! Like Leslie Mink’s response, I also took Home Ec in 1963 and we, just like Leslie, made wrap around skirts! They were not the greatest choices for a first project. My hem was described as “cattywampus”! Your layout techniques and associated information (which is always nicely detailed) have filled in the voids in my memory and even extended my knowledge. A lot of the sewing I’ve done over the years has not been making garments but more mending and hemming. I plan on changing that now!
Margaret Carlson
Thank you, I just learned to pin patterns a better way with less pinning! I would love to have this book!!!!!
Cindy Schultz
Your book is so full of useful information. I would love to win a copy. Thank you for the opportunity.
Jean Graham
Your advice is always so easy to follow. I’d love a copy of your book.
Penni Eagan
You & your show are the best!!! I’ve been sewing since junior high in the mid 60’s yet I always learn from you!! I have recently returned back to making garments and would love this book to learn new tips!! You are a blessing Nancy!!
Diana Cleary
I always can learn something new and helpful. Been sewing for years, but arthritis is changing how I am able to accomplish things. By looking at how others do an activity, I’ve been able to adapt to continue doing the things I love.
Marlene Carlson
Really liked the tip about extending the grainline on the pattern pieces–this would be great on the larger pieces.
Kerry
A good refresher and I’m sure there’s more in the book.
Shaela Forbes
trying to get back to sewing for myself–sounds like this book might give me a boost
Starla
Still learning! All your tips have been — and will be — invaluable to me.
Susan Case
I have sewn for many years but am always glad to pick up new tips and tricks to make my sewing easier, faster, and more enjoyable. I enjoy viewing your TV show and have picked up several tips from it. I am sure your book will be no exception with easy, practical information good for new and experienced sewers alike! Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Lynn
I haven’t had a clothing construction class since I was in college at Stout State University in Menomonie, WI. Last year one was planned at your retail store but then got cancelled. I hope you can offer it again so I can refresh my skills! I fear making expensive mistakes while making clothing.
Mary Zimmerman
I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog. I always lean something new or it is refreshing a skill I forgot as I don’t regular sew.
Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge.
Lillian K
Your tips are Always something that I can use and make my sewing life easier Thank-you.
Jeri Warren
Whenever someone asks who taught me to sew I say “Nancy Zeiman!” I was self taught, reading a book and trying to get every ounce of direction out of pattern instructions. I was 11 years old and trying to learn to sew pants so that the hem reached my shoe. I was very tall and pants were all one length. Home Ec was not offered in my school. Then I found your show on PBS and a new world opened up to me. Basics can never be repeated too often. I always learn something new.
susan
So here I was reading this and thinking, oh this is basic stuff …. stuff I learned years ago. Then BAM, out comes a tip about using a ruler to measure the distance from the fold. BAM, out came a tip about extending the pins for fabric on the folds. A great reminder that there’s always something to learn. Thank you for a great blog!!
Eva Hada
WOW!! Been sewing since 8th grade and celebrated my 50th reunion. Tells you how long. I can’t believe how different things are since learning to sewing. So many new ways. Will I ever learn them all? I need a book to try to help me remember everything I’m trying to comprehend. Thank you for this opportunity to win this book.
Caroline Powser
What a blessing to have this site. At age 80, I am still learning every day. Sewing is my passion and keeps me alert and going!
Jeanne Johnson
Great reminder of some basics. I git a little chuckle remembering the first time I forgot about not overlapping cutting lines. Thank you Nancy.
Rosemary K.
Love your blog, love your show…learn new things all the time! Have been sewing since the late 1950’s. Made most of my clothes in high school and quite a few while working. However, life changes. Now, I’m retired and have time to do sewing, quilting, and other crafts I enjoy. Am always looking for better and easier ways to do things!
I look forward to every Saturday morning to watch your
program. It certainly has inspired me to try things I’ve never done before. Thank you for being there for us.
Ann C
I have been ‘sewing with Nancy’ since 1993 and love every minute or every show! Nancy, you actually taught me how to sew, and I thank God every day for your wisdom. I am what they call ‘plus size’ (ugh!) and sewing clothing for myself gives me better choices than what is available in my size in the local shops. Your fitting tips have made the world of difference in how my clothing fits. Thank you! The tips you’ve given me here will certainly help me in getting my patterns laid out perfectly. I truly appreciate the opportunity to win this book. Thanks again, Nancy. And may God bless you.
Bev M
I always enjoy your blogs. I am short, so I usually can save fabric by not exactly following the guide sheet. Also, I learned in one of my early 4-H projects to not use the center fold from the bolt as a garment center. The fold might be discolored or a leave noticeable crease in the finished garment
Nellie
Started sewing in 7th grade. Self-taught since and now 71 years young. Always on look-out for best and easiest ways. Nancy teaches so well. I would love to have this book for myself, and it would help teach my granddaughter how to sew.
Marge
Thanks for the refresher course in laying out patterns. It’s been awhile since I laid out a pattern so the information was very helpful.
Rita Swart
What a great tip from a greater teacher. Thanks Nancy.
Cindy
Thank you for the great tips. I really appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge and talents so freely!
Pam Hopp
Like so many of the posters, this is a very educational update for those of us who have been sewing for several decades. Tops on my list are extending the grain line, inserting pins diagonally and measuring the grain with a ruler. Thank you!
Linda Pankiewicz
I always learn so much from Nancy’s videos and books. She really clarifies techniques that appear so intimidating at first look. I would love to add her book of easy tips to my collection!
Kathy Zachry
I’d love to give this book to my 14yr old granddaughter who is learning to sew. Nancy’s methods are so logical and easy to understand, I know she’d be in good hands.
Jan N.
Love the tip about extending pin tips beyond the fold so you don’t accidently cut along the fold of the fabric. Nancy, you just taught an old dog a new trick.
Sue Vincent
I have been sewing since I was just a little tyke and my mom taught me to sew simple seams by hand. She was an amazing seamstress and could get so much out of just a small bit of fabric by laying the patterns out very carefully. Now that I am a grandma I am always thinking of easy ways to do things so I can teach my granddaughter. I love the idea of using pattern weights especially if the fabric is very delicate and easily snagged.
KayZee
A good refresher course…thanks, Nancy.
Diane S.
Thanks so much Nancy for all of your wonderful tips. I have used them for over 30 years and am still watching.
Grandma B
My 15 year old granddaughter wants me to teach her to sew clothing now after making some quilts. I know it will stick better with her if she has a book from a professional teacher to refer to. Enjoy all your help over the years. Thanks !
Joyce
I love watching your videos and I learn something from each and every one of them. You have so many very clever tips. Thanks you for all you do!!
Gail Beam
Thanks Nancy for all of the tips!! I love watching your videos and reading all your tips. There is always something that I learn that is new or how to do something better.
Lorij
Even when you’ve been sewing for years is nice to have a refresher course.
Debbie Hair
I have been sewing since 1964 and a lot of what I learned has been from sewing with Nancy. Today I have the priviledge and joy of teaching my daughter and grandaughter how to sew. That will be 3 generations of sewing. I am thrilled to be able to leave my family with a sewing legacy. The book will help me pass on some newer methods to them. Thank you Nancy for all of the years of wonderful teaching.
Samm Seals
I very much appreciate these posts and the comments that follow. You have followers with great skills willing to share their hints and experiences. Learning to sew accurately is a difficult challenge for me and your Face book page is my classroom. Lessons are not in the budget. Your work is a blessing, I’m so glad you chose to pursue an interest of value to so many of us.
Karrie Smith
This would be perfect for me!! I often end up crying when attempting to make clothes. It would be nice to actually complete a garment.
Anne
Well written instructions. It’s easy to forget that if the basics aren’t correct then your garment cannot be. I’m a relative beginner now trying to help my even more of a beginner youngest daughter. This book would come in handy. Thank you.
Peggy
Nancy, I am not a trendy dresser and am getting back to sewing my clothes. I am 5′ tall and have trouble finding clothes to fit and I plan to buy some of your patterns. The tips you gave in this blog will be useful as I get back into sewing clothing. I make quilts and other items for the house as well as gifts and now in 2016 I plan to use a lot of your tips and ideas. Thank you for sharing your tips and giving of yourself.
Carol Y
Thank you so much for the refresher! Even if you have done something for a long time, someone else will show you a new way, or a new trick. thank you
Joyce Parkison
I recently retired and have started sewing more and more. I have always loved the challenge and creativity of putting together a garment or home item. My only training has been junior high home economics classes and years of experience. Although I have moved away from other hobbies, I have never lost my love for sewing. The reminders about laying out a pattern are great. I even picked up a couple new ideas–using a ruler and placing pins diagonally. Thanks, Nancy, for encouraging sewists!
LadyD
Some great layout tips in this post. I would love a copy of the book.
Enid
Thank you for all the tips. I love pattern weights.
Monica W
New to sewing and I would looooove a copy of this book! So excited about crafting all kinds of neat pieces for myself and loved ones.
Chris Ranvik
I haven’t sewed in many years, but after watching your TV show, I’ve started sewing again. Sewing techniques have changed so much that this book would be a great help.
Mercedes
Thanks for all the great information. I thought I new how to cut out a pattern, but I learned a lot of the proper way to do it. I can’t wait to apply what I learned to my next pattern cutting. I would really appreciate a copy of the book. I hope I win!
Frances
Thanks for the tips, especially placing pins diagonally. Love using pattern weights. Th
Frances
That should have finished with:
Thanks for the giveaway!
Elaine Huntsinger
Having been sewing 50+ years, you continue to teach me new tricks to make it easier and more accurate. Thanks a bunch!
Marty
My mother taught me (then a high school sophomore) to pay very close attention to fabric grain and then to determine the best placement for the pattern pieces on my own without using the provided guide. I’m so very petite; after altering pattern pieces to fit me, we discovered that layouts on the guides provided by pattern companies usually wasted a lot of fabric because of the odd pieces that remained. Even if I purchase the suggested amount of fabric, by knowing how to properly do my own fabric-saving layout, I always have larger pieces of the leftover fabric to make other things.
Gma Cma
Thanks for the tip on extending the grain line the full length of the pattern! I noticed that you pin only the corners of the pattern instead of the whole cutting line? For convenience or does it make for a better fit?
Thanks for your dedication to teaching the best methods and keep up the good work!
Blessed be!
Vicki B.
Great tips! I hate cutting out patterns and these tips should help.
Dorothy Steingrubey
I haven’t done any major sewing for awhile and I would like to start again. I enjoyed reading this column on laying out your pattern. I would like to win the book above. Thank you.
Dorothy Steingrubey
I haven’t done any major sewing for awhile and am anxious to try my hand at it again. I found the above column very informative and would like to win the book. Thank youl
Mary Wippold
My daughter is just learning to sew. This would be a great book to give her since she thinks I’m too old to know anything.
Louise Johnson
I agree with Marty. I have often discovered more efficient layouts for my specific pieces, fabric, and size. I then usually have much bigger leftovers to use on related or different projects. Sometimes I have to do so because I have a slight shortage of yardage. No matter what, we should never neglect the proper placement of the grainline and/or possible nap or print direction.
Janet Duff
Thank you as always for the invaluable tips!
Cheryl
I am a self-taught sewer and quilter and my first sewing book was by Nancy Zieman as was my first quilting book. I am still learning from you and passing it on to my granddaughter, Avery.
April Lubbock
Am teaching some of my grandchildren to sew, this book would be a nice addition
Pamela Miller
Nancy, I love your sewing tips and techniques. I have been sewing for 53 years, but I am always learning new and more efficient ways to do things. I have watched your tv show for many years and have learned so much from you. Thanks for a chance to win this book/DVD. I’m so glad you are feeling better now and I wish you the best. Happy New Year to you and your family and staff.
Roxanne Macioci
Very helpful. Easy to read and understand.
LOU BIDELMAN
I am always looking for newer, improved or a review of techniques. I have learned many things throughout the years & wish to learn more, and to review some older things I may have already learned but have forgotten. Thank you Nancy. Your show & books have all been very helpful.
Lou Ann Bidelman
Deb
I’ve been sewing for years and enjoy reading your articles as I usually learn something each time. Why is it that I can never come up with the simple, common sense tips you do!?! 🙂
Jo Ann R.
This would be a great resource to have on my bookshelf. I would love to start making my own clothes again. It has been a long time since high school.
Jo Ann Rust
This book would be an awesome reference for clothing construction. I have not made my own clothes since high school.
Heidi K
Thank you for your wonderful tips!
I always learn something new.
You are an invaluable resource!
Karen T
Great review for pattern piece placing.
Lorri
Love using pattern weights. It makes things go much quicker.
Mamie
Thank you for these hints.
Tina
As I novice, I need all the tips I can get! Thanks! This looks perfect for me.
Peggy R
I am a better than a beginning sewer, but not an advanced sewer either. I really enjoyed these tips. I had not heard of measuring the edges in finding the grain line. I was always eyeballing it. Thank you so much!
Joyce
Thank you for this opportunity.
Judy Kirkpatrick
I want to learn how to do better to bolster my confidence. I’m 76 and need reminders how to do the best (Nancy) thing.
Judy Kirkpatrick
I want to hone my skills to sew for my grand-kids. I’m 76 and need help remembering.
louie
I find that center fold is a permanent line on the finished garment…refold just the width of pattern-yes it takes a bit more time-but that pesky line is minimized on the finish garment. Taught my daughter to sew -I’m petite/she is tall-Nancy, this book would would such a help.
Cherie
Just when you think you know a lot, leave it to you, Nancy to teach me more. I never heard of placing the pins in a diagonal fashion. Great tip! Thank you for sharing.
Judy S
Thank you, Nancy, for great tips and easy to follow instructions.
Joan Patterson
Would love to receive the book to use in teaching my granddaughter how to sew. Enjoy your programs so much.
Sharon Keller
Hi Nancy,
I want to thank you, for presenting the opportunity to win this beautiful book ! I’m a 61 year old black woman, that has been with you from the beginning of your PBS adventure, from the kids on the set, to the cooking tips, I’ve loved it all! I desperately miss you on the regular daily PBS show, I lived to see, but I’m proud to see how you’ve evolved and stayed current.
I love you Nancy, for all that you do, for us in the sewist community, and our community at large, the world! I’m looking forward to seeing you soon, on the create channel quilting show coverage! I’m retired due to health problems, and ready to once again pursue the loves of my life, sewing, gardening, and traveling! I need this book so I can make cute, clothing quick.
Nancy, be well ! Health and prosperity for you and your family in 2016 and on.
Bye for now
Michael Rutledge
Thanks. I’m trying to learn to sew as the garment industry doesn’t seem to make tall size clothing in medium or small sizes.
kpcsews
Love your shows and your catalog. Learned a lot and I am now teaching two friends to sew. This book will help me to remember to teach as so much is automatic, I don’t want to not teach.
Susie Burgess
Thank you so much, Nancy ! It’s been a while since I sewed for myself and I need to make an evening kimono for a wedding. I think my pattern will be cut straight now. 🙂 Susie
Cindy Holthaus
Love her posts. They are straightforward and easy to understand. Keep sending all the info you have because they are very helpful. Even if it is info I have learned years ago, an update is always useful.
Bernita
I’m just getting back into sewing after many, many years. This book looks like it would have tons of great information for a refresher course
Lynda Adair
As an older seamstress, I’ve found you can never review enough old and develop new techniques when it comes to garment sewing. When I started sewing years ago, I just sewed clothing. Repeated skills helped me to improve, and each new garment looked and fitted more professionally that the previous. Today, with easy home decor, craft, and gift sewing, garment sewing skills may not be as carefully practiced. This book reminds me of the basics, with great visual layouts, easy to understand instructions, as well as new ideas to construct clothing right the first time. Thanks Mrs. Nancy for another great basic sewing resource!
Cindy Clarke
I would loveto win this package. I hope I am not too late to enter. My MIL recommends Nancy’s techniques all the time.
Karen
Love your easy to follow instructions! Thanks! xxKaren
Debbie Kolpa
Hi Nancy,
Just came across a show on sewing on PBS so immediately went to your website. I received a beautiful Brother sewing machine with many whistles and bells to replace my 38 year old Singer for Christmas. I am very anxious to relearn to sew as I was never a good sewer before so need a lot of guidance and help. I am very interested in your book and will probably buy it. Thank you for all you do to help sewers. Debbie
JuliaJuedes
Thanks for clear instructions. It is easy to be in a hurry and skip over a step! This results in wasted fabric and time. Not to mention frustration! I usually quilt but recently have returned to sewing clothing for grandchildren. This was a nice refresher!
Christine
I have been so helped over the years by the sewing tips Nancy gives. Before I could afford a ruffler and was sewing curtains, I zig zagged over dental floss and it worked brilliantly. No more broken bobbin threads, drawing up great lengths of ruffle.
MJ Dombrowski
I make lots of clothes for my grand daughters & their mom. I have another grand daughter who has always wanted me to teach her sewing. The pattern lay out is the way I have done it for years. My mother taught me. I’ve gotten other How To books from Nancy Z and love them! Would love to get this book and use to teach my grand daughter.
Thank you, Nancy for sharing your expertise.
Tammy Fincher
As so many others have commented, I used to sew for my kids when they were little. That was 31 years ago and I now want to get back into sewing and embroidering for my grandbabies ! However, many things have changed and I sure could use some refreshing tips and some of your extreme knowledge that you have acquired over the years !
Lorraine
Thanks for the clear quide
Evelyn
I had weight loss surgery and I have lost 180 lbs. Now nothing fits me. I have started sewing again so I can have clothes that fit. I would like to know how to fit my new body. My shape is not a perfect hourglass now. Actually, it never was but it was much closer than now. I would like to know how to alter patterns and make clothes fit.
Cath T.
I have been away from sewing apparel for 25+ years, and was only a beginner even then. After a lot of weight loss, I find I need to consider making clothes that fit me (well). Women vary so much in shape and size. I am tall, with very long legs, but short waist. I’d love to be able to learn to make clothes that actually fit me. Can you suggest any pattern line that makes shirt patterns with ties, or adjustability for those changing size during weight loss?
I’ve enjoyed watching you for years. Thank you for this opportunity.
Janet Godwin
Nancy, I have watched your programs and learned so many helpful hints to add to improve my sewing. I would love a copy of your book. Your ideas are so down to earth, they work. Sewing is my relaxing time. I sew for grandkids & now sewing for 3 great grandchildren. I have been sewing for over 50 years, starting with 4-H and Home Ec. class. I spend a lot of time in my sewing room with my fabric stash. Thank You for all of your terrific ideas! Jan