Add Seam Allowance to Pattern Tool

What it Does

Draws the cutting line around a pattern piece. The sewing line you drafted stays as it is. The tool adds a new layer with a seam allowance line outside it, using the seam allowance width set on each line and curve. Use this when the piece is finished and you are ready to add the cutting line.

The new seam allowance is made of separate lines, one for each edge. If a corner or curve needs adjusting, you can edit or redraw that one piece without changing the rest.

The shape you select must be closed. A closed shape is a set of lines and curves that join end to end and return to where they began.

To learn more about seam allowances, see Seam Allowances in the Academy.

info

Your original lines are not changed. The seam allowance goes on its own layer.

How to Use

1. Activate the tool by clicking the Add Seam Allowance to Pattern icon.
2. Select the lines and curves that form a closed shape, then select Continue.
3. If the tool says the shape is not closed:
   • The toolbox lists the disconnected points and lines or curves. In the workspace, the points are highlighted purple and the lines and curves blue.
   • Select Reset, then choose lines and curves that connect end to end.
4. If the seam allowance is inside the pattern, select Other Side to move it to the outside.
5. Select a line style for the seam allowance if you want a different one. The default is dark blue.
6. Select Save to keep the seam allowance or Cancel to close the tool without changes.

warning

Every point in the shape must connect exactly two selected lines or curves. If there are gaps or extra lines, the tool cannot add the seam allowance.