In the field of tailoring and fashion design, printed pattern paper plays a leading role. In fact, this tool for tailors and designers is not just a design media, but significantly influences the accuracy and final result.
For this reason, choosing paper for tailoring patterns means paying close attention to its 3 main characteristics: numerical references, grammage, and transparency. So let’s explore these three factors in depth to identify the best printed paper for tailoring patterns.
The importance of numerical references on pattern paper
When working with pattern paper, accuracy is everything, so having numerical references on the printed paper ensures accurate alignments, both during cutting and assembly. In fact, printed pattern paper, designed to facilitate the work of fashion professionals, has numbers and letters 2 cm apart, often accompanied by measuring scales.
Of course, once made, patterns are often reused, so the numbering must be printed crisply and be resistant to abrasion so that the references remain legible even after numerous uses.
The grammage of printed pattern paper.
Another aspect to consider carefully when choosing printed pattern paper is the grammage, or the consistency of the backing. In fact, too light a grammage, such as that of tissue paper, can make the pattern paper backing too fragile and difficult to handle, while conversely, too high a grammage is likely to complicate tracing and cutting.
Usually, the ideal grammage of pattern paper sheets is around 60 grams per square meter, so as to ensure a perfect balance between strength and flexibility, and to allow you to work with precision.
Printed paper for paper patterns: transparent and semi-transparent substrates
Another essential feature of printed paper for patterns is transparency. When tracing patterns, in fact, it is essential to be able to see through the backing to ensure maximum precision in cutting and stitching. A transparent paper, as long as it is not too flimsy, is therefore an excellent solution for overlaying the fabric.
Many professionals, however, prefer semi-transparent tailoring papers, which combine visibility and strength. These pattern tracing papers, in fact, allow the drawn lines to stand out, even when the backing is used on very dark fabrics.
Alternative to tailor-specific paper
A good alternative to pattern paper is plotter paper. Although it was created to make large-format prints, this medium offers rolls with a weight of 60 gsm, which guarantees both transparency and strength. In addition, being a single sheet, it allows the desired amount of paper to be cut from time to time, promoting better pattern management than pre-cut sheets.
So if you are looking for a versatile and efficient solution to make your paper patterns, and you want to consider our solutions , please contact us: we will help you choose the best support for your paper patterns.