How to Store Pattern Pieces

Patterns are expensive, and reusable, so why not hold on to them a little longer? Learn how to store pattern pieces so they last with these great ideas.

Iron Those Pattern Pieces by Barb Culbertson

When I am sewing and I am done with a pattern piece, I fold it and iron it flat. Then I stick it back into the envelope. No problem! The pieces fit back into the envelope very easy!

Save Those Pattern Pieces by Gene Blythe

Press all pattern pieces with a warm iron. Start folding in middle and fold again. LOOK for words and numbers on pattern piece. Fold the piece down keeping the words (size, Pattern Number etc) showing on the "outside." Keep folding down into a size that fits the envelope. Match the instruction sheet. Keep each piece separate, so you can pick out the piece you need, easily, from the pile, because the words are showing. You never know when you will need to look at a piece for any reason. If you have many patterns going at the same time, you can separate them much more easily to repackage. I press and trim all my patterns the first thing. Even young people can help sort and repackage. Always cut the "notches" outward in case you need that seam allowance to ease out a bit. Patterns cost too much today to not use over, so care for your patterns properly.