If you need to send your patterns off to a pattern making service, here’s a checklist of do’s and don’ts. Nobody I am currently working with is to take any offense, nothing is directed at anyone. This list amounts to an accumulation of experiences. In no particular order:
- If you’re sending your patterns on hard copy (oak tag) send them rolled in a tube or flat. Usually flat patterns can be made to fit into an unfolded cardboard box by using tape on all sides to make a large flat envelope.
- If you’re sending pattern tracings, those can be folded. However, the pattern maker will have to iron those flat. If they must be ironed, you can’t use tape. Get some alpha-numeric paper (third item down the page) which is a roll of paper that is wide enough that you don’t need to tape sheets together.
- Please include a sewn sample or prototype. If you don’t have one, send a technical sketch.
- Each pattern piece must have a size and style number. Piece names would be great if it isn’t obvious what the piece is.
- You need to include a direction card (pdf, also) which is a sort of parts list. You can find this form on page 79 of The Entrepreneur’s Guide. Otherwise, we could be missing pieces and not know it. If you know that the pattern is missing pieces, please so state. The missing piece can most likely be recreated based on accompaniment pieces.
- Speaking of paperwork, fill out pg 139 of the guide. We need to know your seam allowance specifications. In all likelihood we may recommend that you change them but we need to know where you’re starting from.
- Again speaking of paper work, please fill out the form on pg 80 of the book. Indicate the problems you are experiencing. List the corrections you’d like. Make a copy of this for your records.
- If you want to keep a copy of your patterns at the service for safekeeping, you’ll have to ask. We won’t ask because our clients are paranoid enough as it is, so copies will not be kept unless you request it. Also, don’t assume the copies will be kept indefinitely unless you’re an ongoing client. These copies are your property and can be yours for the price of shipping at any time.
- Send only one copy of two-per pieces. In other words, a sleeve is a two per. Only send one sleeve, not two. That will save you some time.
That’s all that comes to mind for now. It’s possible I will be amending this post from time to time so you may want to bookmark it.
This is great timing, Kathleen!
I’m on the island of Andros at Small Hope Bay, going to tour the Androsia Batik factory later today and meet the rest of the staff.
No e access yet, and the bag with your book/pattern stuff is still in transit.
Carol Kimball
thanks again, kathleen. yup, it’s time for yet another re-read of your book!! each time i pick it up again i learn so much more due to being able to intergrate the real life experiences i’ve racked up.
Thanks for this info! Just what I needed.