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Resources : General FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find KWIK SEW Patterns in my area?

KWIK SEW patterns may be purchased at better fabric stores and through a variety of mail order and online stores. Please use our on-line store locator to find a dealer near you. <<

Why should I use KWIK SEW patterns versus other brands?

Please visit the KWIK SEW Difference page for more information on what makes our sewing patterns unique. <<

What is the difference between finished garment measurement and body measurements?

The measurements given on the back of the pattern envelope or from the catalogue page are "actual" or natural body measurements. You should compare your measurements with the measurements given on the back of the envelope to determine which size garment to make. Choose the size that is closest to your measurements. If there is ease or extra room for a comfortable fit allowed for a particular garment, the finished garment measurement will be printed on the pattern piece. This measurement will tell you how tight or loose fitting the garment will be when completed. It is very important to compare these measurements to your body measurements as well, to make a final decision on which size to make. <<

Do I really need to use the shorten/lengthen lines on a pattern if I need to change the length?

Yes, we recommend using the shorten/lengthen lines instead of cutting a different size for length. <<

Why do the pattern instructions say never to cut between or blend sizes?

We recommend not to cut between or "blend" sizes by cutting from one size to another. Our patterns are multi-sized, and each size is printed in a distinct colour. For clarity and ease in cutting or tracing, the sizes of a pattern piece may be placed or arranged differently than the piece it will be sewn to. For example: in order to easily identify the cutting lines and pattern markings for an armhole, the sizes on the front pattern piece may share a common line at the shoulder, and the back may share a common line at the bottom edge.

If your body measurements indicate you need a size M for the bust and a size L for the hip, and you start cutting size M for the upper part of the body then go between or "blend" to size L for the hip, the side seams will be different lengths. For best results, find the size on the pattern envelope closest to your body measurements. Also compare your body measurements to the finished garment measurements printed on the pattern piece. From your selected size, cut or trace the pieces and then make any necessary adjustments to the pattern pieces before cutting the fabric. Any time pattern adjustments are made, check the altered pieces that will be sewn to each other for accuracy before cutting the fabric. <<

I need to alter my pattern. Where can I find help?

The information in the following guide can help you with garment pattern alterations: Measuring and Pattern Alteration Guide  <<

I am an experienced sewer; how important is it that I read all the instructions before I begin sewing?

Reading the entire envelope and all of the instructions can be the difference between success and failure on a particular sewing project. We make every effort to supply you with all the information necessary to make your sewing experience a success. Our methods are unique from other pattern companies and the more you understand about the pattern you have chosen and our methods before you begin sewing, the more enjoyable your sewing experience will be. <<

I would like to use a pattern designed for fabric with a stretch, but I want to make it out of a woven fabric. Do you recommend a way to do this?

We don't advise making a garment out of a woven fabric when it is designed for fabrics with stretch and visa-versa. If you make a garment out of a woven when it is designed for a stretch, you will not have enough movement (wear ease) in the fabric to pull it over the body. Also, a knit fabric will have a different drape than a woven, therefore the design ease (what the finished style looks like) will be altered.

If you make a larger size to accommodate for the wear ease, the garment will not have as flattering a fit as it is intended. The recommended fabric types are given on the back of the pattern envelope signifying the type of fabric, amount of stretch etc. for which each pattern is designed. You will achieve the best fitting, most professional results by following the suggested fabric choices for each individual pattern. <<

How do I know what size seam allowances to use?

All of our KWIK SEW patterns have seam allowances included in their design (seam allowance is the measure of fabric from the cut edge of the pattern piece to the stitching line that holds the sewn project together.) Seam allowances are typically 5/8" (1.5 cm), or 1/4" (6 mm). The type of pattern, design, and fabric requirements determines which size seam allowance will be used. The required seam allowance is printed on each pattern piece and also in the general instructions portion of the pattern.

It is very important to use the required seam allowance throughout the construction process for optimum success, unless a different seam allowance is otherwise stated in specific procedures in the instructions. <<

I have a question about a step in the instructions, can I call KWIK SEW for help? Is there a fee?

We pride ourselves on creating easy to use patterns, so it is doubtful that you would ever need to contact KWIK SEW with a question, but in the rare situation where you may have a question, please contact our sewing consultant at +1 612-521-7651. This service is free. <<

What is the difference between a size 18 and a size 18W pattern?

A size 18 and 18W may fit bodies with the same circumference body measurements at the Bust, Waist & Hip.

Size 18 was developed from a base size for a slim, lean figure, and the size 18W was designed for a curvy, full figure with consideration taken for body areas such as fuller arms, back, above bust, midriff, etc. <<

What is the best way to trace your book master patterns?

In order to trace sewing patterns, we suggest KWIK Trace® cloth. This is a specialized, non stretch cloth specially developed for tracing patterns. It is vastly superior to tissue paper. KWIK Trace® cloth is available at many KWIK SEW dealers. If a dealer is out, they may special order it for you. <<

Where are the back views and line drawings in the online catalogue?

Our website does have the line drawings and back views for our patterns. On each web catalogue page, click on Fabric Requirements, Backview. The files are in PDF format and a free viewer may be downloaded if needed. The PDF files are an exact copy of the counter catalogue pages. <<

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Is it possible to buy a discontinued pattern?

Yes. Once a pattern is discontinued, we keep a limited supply in our warehouse. In addition we offer reprints from our 40+ year archive of patterns. Almost all patterns ever produced by KWIK SEW can be ordered. Contact your local KWIK SEW office for more information. <<

Archive Pattern Request Form

Can I purchase just a pattern piece for a pattern?

We are sorry, but it would be cost prohibitive for us to stock and sell individual pieces from our patterns. If you lose a pattern piece you will need to purchase the entire pattern again. If you are doing extensive modifications to a pattern, you may wish to trace the pattern onto KWIK Trace® cloth first. <<

I have the pattern, but I lost my instructions. Can I purchase just the instructions for my pattern?

Yes. Please contact KWIK SEW for help on replacing your instructions. We do not fax or email copies of the pattern instructions. <<

Do you sell current catalogues?

You can purchase a counter catalogue through us directly by calling your local KWIK SEW office. You can also view all of our patterns online. Our online catalogue features a Fabric Requirements, Backview link for each pattern which allows you to view and print the counter catalogue page, including back views and line drawings. We no longer have home catalogues available because all of our pattern information is on our website. <<

I need a new master pattern for a book, can I order just the pattern?

Yes, we sell additional master patterns for our current sewing books. To check if you have a current version or an older version compare the cover photo with the cover photo of the books in our online catalogue.

Contact the KWIK SEW offices in your country to order. <<

Can I use your patterns for making and selling ready to wear garments?

Our patterns are licensed for:

·Personal, non-commercial use

·One item sold per pattern purchased

You may not sell multiple items produced from one pattern. If you would like to make and sell garments or crafts based on a KWIK SEW design, we do have a commercial licensing agreement. Please contact KWIK SEW for more information. <<

I have created a few patterns, do you buy designs?

We are sorry, but in order to maintain consistency across our entire line of designs, we do not purchase pattern designs; all our our designs are created in house at our design studios in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

If you are interested in publishing your own sewing patterns, we do offer contract printing and packaging. We have complete printing and bindery facilities in house and can print patterns, books etc. Please contact KWIK SEW for more information. <<

I would like to use your graphics in a newsletter article, advertisement, website, blog etc. How do I get permission?

Please visit our guidelines page for information on the use of KWIK SEW graphics. As long as you abide by the requirements published there, you may use our graphics. We do ask that you send a copy to us for our records. If you require higher resolution images (e.g. for printed materials) contact KWIK SEW and we will provide the high resolution photos and artwork. Our entire library of photos and artwork is available in digital format. <<

Can I link directly to a pattern page from a forum posting at a different site?

To link to a particular pattern use the following format: http://www.kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3612 (This example links to pattern 3612)

On our own Sewing Lounge forums, there is a special formatting tag to make linking easier.

Please remember that once a pattern is discarded it will longer long be listed in our online catalogue. <<

I am having trouble viewing the website. Why?

First, check that you have the latest web browser version. The site has been tested in Firefox, Internet Explorer, Safari and Google Chrome.

Second, check is that you have Cookies enabled in your browser. The KWIK SEW site uses cookies to display patterns that are available in your country and provide certain features (like Recently Viewed.)

Third, enable JavaScript if you have disabled it. Pages, menus etc. may not display correctly if JavaScript is turned off. <<

This FAQ didn't answer my question. I still would like to contact KWIK SEW.

Visit our Provide Feedback page and send us a note! Be sure to include your email address so we may reply back to you. <<

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