In Threads #174 (August/September 2014), Connie Crawford shares the secrets behind the very useful technique of grading a pattern by hand.

Pattern grading can seem mysterious to home sewers, but it needn’t be. Grading is the proportionate increase or decrease of a pattern from one size to the next. You can grade patterns up (make them larger) or grade them down (make them smaller). Whether you wish to grade a single-size or a multisize pattern, you need to understand the principles by which patterns are graded, as well as the method of hand grading.

Knowing how to grade patterns by hand is an essential skill for any patternmaker, whether professional or home sewer. Even professional pattern graders learn this hand-grading technique before they move on to grading by computer.

Threads Recommended Products

Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Vogue 1642

Pattern A has pleated patch pockets with flaps. Pattern B has side seam zippers. This Vogue sewing pattern kit was designed and printed in the United States and comes with sewing templates, instructions, fabric recommendations, pattern pieces, and sizing guides for (2) shirts and (1) pair of pants. Women's clothing patterns can be made to fit sizes 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14.

Buy at Amazon

Butterick, Misses’ Shirts and Shorts 6946 and 6947

This pattern makes fitted shirts with collar, sleeve, and cuff options, plus pleated shorts with a front zipper. Includes styles with rolled sleeves, turn-back cuffs, or a stitched hem. Sized for misses 4–12.

Buy at Amazon

McCall's 8241

McCalls Sewing Pattern 8241 Tops A (XS-S-M-L-XL-XXL). McCalls-8241-A

Buy at Amazon