How To Align Sewing Pattern Grainlines To Fabric

In order to properly cut your sewing patterns, use a ruler to align pattern grainlines parallel to the fabric's selvage edge. Doing so will ensure that the pieces comprising the garment are cut on the correct grain for optimal fit and comfort.

​Use the following steps to accurately align a pattern grainline parallel to the fabric selvage:

1. Place the sewing pattern on top of the fabric layer such that the grainline is visually parallel to the selvage edge and located as close as possible to the fabric corner. Aligning the pattern into the corner will ensure that you dispose of the least amount of fabric and cut your patterns efficiently. Insert a pin through the grainline and fabric layer(s) underneath on one end of the grainline as shown. 

2. Next, measure from the pinned grainline to the selvage edge and record the measurement. 

3. Using the measurement recorded in Step 2, measure on the other end of the grainline, shifting the pattern until the grainline is positioned at exactly the same distance from the fabric's selvage. 

4. Insert another pin through the grainline and fabric underneath to fully secure the pattern alignment.