Skip to main content
 Add Grainline Tool Icon

Add Grainline Tool

What it Does​

Adds a grainline to a pattern piece. A grainline is a line with arrows that shows how to line the piece up with the threads of the fabric. Use this tool on every piece you finish.

You can draw a new vertical, horizontal or bias grainline, or turn a line you already drew into one. A bias grainline runs at 45 degrees to the fabric threads.

To learn more about grainlines and other pattern markings, see Pattern Markings & Annotations in the Academy.

How to Use​

  1. Activate the tool by clicking the Add Grainline icon
  2. Select the type of grainline, then select Continue:
    • Horizontal
    • Vertical
    • On Bias
    • Convert Existing Line
  3. Place the grainline:
    • Vertical: click in the workspace to locate the top of the grainline
    • Horizontal: click in the workspace to locate the left end of the grainline
    • On Bias: click in the workspace to locate the center of the grainline
    • Convert Existing Line: select the line you want to convert
  4. Select Continue
  5. For a new grainline, enter the length. You can type a number or a formula
  6. Select Preview to see the grainline
  7. Select Save to keep the grainline or Cancel to abort

If you chose Convert Existing Line, there is no length to enter. The grainline appears when you select Continue. Select Save to keep it.

tip

You can click a new spot in the workspace as many times as you like before you select Continue. The last click is the one that counts.