How to read our patterns
If you’re new to sewing, pattern markings can look a bit mysterious – but they’re just there to guide you as you cut and sew.
Pattern piece number
Each pattern piece is given a number to help you identify it easily. You can find the full list of pieces on page 1 of your pattern.
Pattern piece name
This tells you what part of the garment or accessory the piece forms, such as “main body” or “handles”.
Pattern name
The name of the full pattern, useful if you’re working with multiple Sunday Sewing Club patterns at once, so you know which piece belongs to which design.
Cutting instructions
These tell you how to cut each piece out of your fabric. You might see multiple lines or just one. The instructions will tell you how many to cut, and in what material. If it says “pair,” you need two mirrored pieces (e.g. 1 pair = 2 mirrored pieces, 2 pairs = 4 mirrored pieces total).
Seam allowance
The extra space included around the edges of a pattern piece for sewing seams. Unless stated otherwise, use this measurement for any seams required in the instructions.
Grainline
This line shows how to position the pattern piece on your fabric. Make sure it runs parallel to the fabric selvedge.
Notch
Small marks that help you match fabric pieces accurately. Single notches usually indicate the front, and double notches the back. Transfer these with a small snip into the fabric edge or mark with chalk.
Gathering
Indicates where fabric will be gathered in the final garment/accessory.
Pleat
Lines showing where to fold the fabric to create a pleat. Transfer these markings carefully to your fabric.
Placement marker
Shows where to attach elements such as pockets, buttons, or trims. Mark these points lightly on your fabric.
Opening placement
This rectangle shows where to create an opening, such as for a zip, pocket, or insert. Transfer the lines to your fabric before sewing.