Cutting patterns in preparation for sewing is definitely my least favorite sewing chore but its necessary. So every time I can read up on and think about better ways to get it done I do. And today I’m sharing some of those time (and sanity) saving methods with you in case you’re in the same boat.
Tips for Cutting Patterns in Record Time
Use selvage edges for things like pocket tops or seams that you would have otherwise had to finish
I don’t do this often, but sometimes its such a time-saver. And its a double time saver since that’s one more edge you don’t have to finish later on.
1. Use pattern weights instead of pins
I’ve never gone back to pins since I tried pattern weights. You just plop them down on your pattern pieces, and they keep things from shifting. No more pins in the cutting process. Ever. Again. Use large washers, tape dispensers, your quilting ruler–pretty much anything with weight. I place them around the corners or details of the pattern, and just zip through it. They’re also great for delicate fabrics so you don’t snag anything.
I love these pattern weights and need some more since I use weights all the time. You just plunk them down and cut!
2. Use a rotary cutter
Rotary cutters saves so much time and gives a cleaner cut edge. Use a small size for curves (try the 28mm for awesome smooth curves and no jagged edges). This is another one where I’ve never gone back. I have great dressmaker’s shears and I use them, but not when I’m cutting unless I need to clip corners. The exception to this was when I was making jeans. I used my shears for that, and loved it. I’m not sure why the fabric weight changed my preference on that project.
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I have a couple of rotary cutters and a large mat–here’s what I recommend.
- Cutting Mat: the larger the better. This is the one I use because it fits my table top and I love that its gray instead of green.
- Large Rotary Cutter: Olfa makes great rotary cutters. This one comes in turquoise or purple and cuts great. Also make sure you have fresh blades on hand for fast and super clean cutting.
- Small Rotary cutter: Curved edges are easier with a smaller diameter blade. I love my 28mm blade.
- Dressmakers Shears: You have to have a great pair of shears too. These Ginghers are amazing–you want the bent handle so your blade sits flush with the table for cleaner and more accurate cuts.
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3. Overlap main pieces and pocket piece so the seam lines match up
Tape the main and pocket pieces together for in-seam pockets and cut them as one piece. It saves time in the cutting and then again in the sewing. This can also work with facings.
4. Stack the main and lining fabrics and cut them both out at once
This also works for interfacing. I always hate that I cut all the pieces out of my main fabric then remember I have to cut all over again in lining or interfacing. So this literally cuts cut time in half when you’ve got these pieces.
Look closely here and you’ll see that I have my main (navy), lining (plaid), and interfacing all stacked and folded. So instead of cutting 6 separate pieces, I cut once and got all 6 done in one quick step.
5. If you’re making more than one garment, cut two at once
You know you have a favorite pattern–just go ahead and cut two out a once. Stack your fabrics, place your pattern, and with just one cut you’ve got double the work done.
6. Cut large pieces first
Maybe this is a psychological trick, but getting the big pieces out of the way makes it seem like I’ve done most of the work already. Of course, its also a good idea to do this so you have enough fabric for the big pieces, but it seems like a cutting trick too.
7. Have a cutting session
This isn’t so much about saving time during cutting, but it works for me. Cut out several patterns while you’re in the groove, and then you’ll be able to enjoy the sewing process for longer without having to come back to cutting. I’ll sometimes cut 5 patterns at a time while my kids play at my feet and then when I have a free minute I can sew not cut.
I like to batch tasks like this with taping and cutting patterns and cutting the fabric, and it really makes the whole thing better.
Loving these ideas, thank you for posting them.
Thank you Mary–I appreciate your comment!
Gonna try stacking the fabric/lining/interfacing. My own personal Duh-moment! ha!
I hate going back to cut the interfacing (which I always seem to forget) so stacking them saves me a ton of time.
Going to have to try pattern weights. Question about using a rotary cutter: don’t you use a mat underneath? Moving the mat and adjusting the fabric always seems to take longer that just using a scissors.
Hi Audrey,
Yes, I use a mat and suggest the biggest one you can fit/afford. It’s true that on really big things like adult pants and tunics I have to adjust but my cutting table isn’t much bigger than my mat so I have to do that anyway if I use scissors. But on those bigger things it is easier to use scissors on the floor. Hope that helps!
Ugh! Cutting is the worst! Where are the cutting fairies? I’ll have to finally try weights. I usually take and cut, but weights would eliminate a step.
Cutting fairies would be magical. I vote for that.
Thanks for the tips! Using weights and a rotary cutter really speeded it up for me as well indeed… And, since I don’t have a sewing room, cutting multiple projects in one session is a big help as well, that way I only have to clear the floor and get out my cutting mat, and another time I can sew all through the pile of ready cut projects.
Yes, the clearing so you can cut is a big one. And I love being able to move from one project to another without having to stop and cut again. Its a mental thing that makes me feel like I’m winning. 🙂
Cutting the main and the in-seam pocket in one piece is brilliant! I’ll have to add that to my repertoire.
By the way, do you mind if I link a mini-post back to this? I think my 3 readers would love to know too. 🙂
Link away! I’d love for you to share there and on social media!
Great tips! You’re using Jedi mind tricks about stacking interfacing and cutting larger pieces first.
Jedi mind tricks are my favorite. 😉
I can’t imagine to going back to pinning and then cutting patterns. Rotary cutter FTW!
Yes! Pinning takes so much time!
These are all great tips and many I have jut recently started using…i.e. cutting outer lining and inner together and the big one…using my rotary cutter instead of scissors. This last one also helps with my carpal tunnel! I have not tried the weights. I’ll look into that one! Where do you buy yours?
Hi Gina, I actually just use big washers from a home improvement store and other things laying around. Some day I’ll invest in actual pattern weights. 🙂
Thanks for the great tips. As far as pattern weights – to buy they are really expensive. When I was little my mom used empty old 35mm film (yes I’m that old!) cases and filled them with pennies or BB’s. I bought some really inexpensive screw top plastic containers at Joanns. They were under 50 cents each. I filled them with BB’s that I got at WalMart in the hunting/fishing area. I probably put around $25 into the whole thing and have enough to lay out on my huge cutting table.
I also invested in one of the big mats at Joanns using a 40% off coupon – made it really reasonable. It covers my table perfectly. Love my rotary cutter and metal yardstick (along with other clear rulers).
I use all your cutting tricks except I’ve never tried the pocket/facing trick. GENIUS!
I also use a cordless electric scissors which helps with thick layers and curves – but again they are pricey (I inherited mine from mom).
Happy sewing and thanks again for the tips!
That’s a great idea for pattern weights. I use big washers which are inexpensive and also anything that’s sitting around that’s heavy. Ha! I’m intrigued by your cordless electric scissors…I’ll have to check them out!
Lisa: mine are black and decker cordless power scissors. Amazon sells them for $120. I absolutely love them. Especially for curves on patterns.
I’ve just stumbled onto your blog via Pinterest…what great tips! I haven’t done much sewing lately but want to get back into it. I’ve never tried using a rotary cutter before but will give it a go as like most, cutting isn’t my favourite task! Using weights instead of pins is ingenious!
Hi Victoria, welcome back to sewing! A rotary cutter will change your life–do try it!
Fabulous tips! I so HATE cutting out patterns. Anything to get to the fun part of actually sewing, quicker!
Exactly, Catrina!
Thanks so much for all of your tips!!! I am back sewing after forty years. So many things have changed especially being able to find your website. Thanks again!