Essential Pattern Making Tools: Rulers vs. French Curves Reviewed

Pattern making is a crucial step in fashion design, and having the right tools can significantly enhance the accuracy and quality of your work. Two essential tools for this purpose are rulers and French curves. Each serves a specific function in the pattern-making process. Here’s a detailed comparison of both.

Rulers

Review: Rulers are fundamental tools in pattern making, used primarily for measuring and creating straight lines. They come in various types, including straight, clear, and grid rulers, each with its own advantages.

Pros:

• Versatility: Rulers can be used for a wide range of tasks, including measuring, drawing straight lines, and marking seam allowances.
• Ease of Use: They are simple and straightforward to use, making them suitable for beginners and experienced designers alike.
• Accuracy: Rulers help ensure precision in measurements and straight lines, which is essential for creating accurate patterns.
• Variety: Available in different lengths and styles (e.g., clear rulers for visibility), allowing for flexibility based on individual preferences and needs.

Cons:

• Limited to Straight Lines: Rulers are not designed for curved lines, which can limit their use in more complex designs.
• Requires Skill: While they are easy to use, achieving perfect straight lines still requires a steady hand and practice.

FULL VIDEO REVIEW 1:

French Curves

Review: French curves are specialized tools used to draw smooth, curved lines in pattern making. They come in various shapes and sizes, designed to assist in creating armholes, necklines, and other rounded features.

Pros:

• Precision for Curves: French curves are specifically designed to create accurate, smooth curves, which is essential for many garment designs.
• Variety of Shapes: Different curves can help designers achieve various shapes and sizes, offering flexibility in pattern design.
• Enhances Creativity: Using a French curve can inspire creativity by allowing designers to experiment with unique curves and shapes in their patterns.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Using a French curve effectively may require practice, especially for those who are new to pattern making.
• Limited Use for Straight Lines: While excellent for curves, French curves are not suitable for drawing straight lines, necessitating the use of a ruler in conjunction.

FULL VIDEO REVIEW 2:

Conclusion

Choosing between rulers and French curves ultimately depends on the specific needs of your pattern-making projects:

Rulers are essential for anyone working with patterns, offering versatility, ease of use, and accuracy for straight lines and measurements. If your patterns primarily involve straight edges or you are just starting out, a good ruler is a must-have tool.

French Curves are invaluable for designers who frequently work with curves and want to ensure precision in areas like necklines and armholes. If your designs include a lot of curved lines, investing in a set of French curves will greatly enhance your pattern-making process.

For best results, many pattern makers use both tools together, leveraging the strengths of each to create precise and professional patterns. Your choice should reflect the complexity of your designs and your personal style in pattern making.