Pattern Weights

Various types of homemade pattern weights are showing up on a number of sewing blogs, so I thought I’d give some a try myself.

Using pattern weights instead of pins is supposed to be a time saver and prevent any undue holes appearing in some fabrics. Some people use them only for rotary cutting; some can happily maneuver their scissors around them.

© June Scroggin, All Rights Reserved

I’m trying the metal washer version to see how it goes; here’s my process in making a set (I made 10):

1. Wash the washers to remove any oily residue from the manufacturing process.
2. Inscribe initials using metal dye stamps.
3. Prime with Rust-Oleum Automobile Primer.
4. Spray paint with Krylon Indoor/Outdoor Gloss (I chose the color Blue Ocean Breeze).
5. Go over the initials with a Sharpie pen (I used the color Berry) to make them easier to see.
6. Give the weights two coats of Miniwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane as a sealant.

© June Scroggin, All Rights Reserved

You can see pattern weights in action at the Sew Inspired blog as she teaches us how to make a t-shirt. If you just want to buy a set of pattern weights, you can find them at such places as Nancy’s Notions.

Resources

• A machine embroidery project set may be found for purchase at DigiStitches
• After the Dress’ thoughts about pattern weights
• Fabric-wrapped pattern weights at Sew Chic blog
• Metal washer weights at Noile
• Pattern weights tutorials (two versions, one sewn and one from the hardware store) at Five Green Acres blog