Please Note: For questions relating to the Body Scanner click here. (You will be re-directed to the Unique Scan site).

Sewing

What is the Guide to Fit?

The Guide to Fit is an educational booklet that gives you an understanding of the interaction between your body, your pattern and your fabric choice. We strongly recommend to clients that they read it prior to making their first pattern purchase. It is also available in .pdf format from uniquepatterns.com

Can all the patterns designed by your partners, Simplicity and New Look, that I see in their pattern book be customized for me?

Only the patterns listed in the Unique printed material and on the Unique website can be customized. We add patterns throughout the year so watch our website for new additions.

Can you recommend a pattern?

We would be more than pleased to assist you in selecting a Unique Pattern. First, ask yourself the following questions: "What garment do I have the most trouble fitting?" "What style of garments do I prefer? Business, casual, dressy?" "What kind of garment do I wear the most?" With the answers to these questions, we can guide you to the most appropriate patterns. Also, we will be happy to show you how understanding your body shape will lead to better Unique Pattern choices. The Guide to Fit will also answer many of these questions.

What about ease?

Ease is drafted into all patterns. The pattern description gives the amount of ease at the applicable bust/waist/hip areas so you can make an informed decision based on your ease preferences. To learn more about your ease preferences, see the Guide to Fit.

How can I tell from the pictures on the Website what the design details are?

The written descriptions give design details and the line drawings are guides to help you envision the style of the garment. In the case where there seems to be a discrepancy, always follow the written description over the picture.

Why do different patterns seem to use the same line drawings?

Although the pictures look the same, there are differences in eases and design details. Unique Patterns also have different eases built into the armholes of jackets, blouses/ dresses and sleeveless garments. Remember to read the pattern descriptions carefully.

When will I get my pattern?

Your initial pattern order will be shipped within 4 weeks from the date the order was placed.

Why are there no pattern layouts, fabric requirements and notions included with the pattern?

Because the pattern is custom drafted, the minimum fabric requirements and optimal layout will change with each person's pattern (so that is the reason that presently there are no layouts). You can find approximate yardage information by clicking on the Yardage Chat/Supply List.pdf in the education section of the website. For the best layout and fabric usage, you might want to cut your pattern out and take the pieces with you to the fabric store or do a sample layout at home. The required notions can be found with the pattern description on the website but remember that these are suggestions only. The number of buttons down the front of a blouse may change with the length of your custom-fit pattern. It is always best to look your pattern over carefully before you go shopping.

What is the seam allowance?

The seam allowance on all Unique, Simplicity and New Look patterns is the traditional 5/8" (1.5 cm) seam allowance.

Are the customized patterns marked with darts, notches, dots, etc.., the same as a standard-sized commercial pattern? What about the written instructions?

Except that the pattern is uniquely customized for your exact body, you will find few differences between the custom pattern and standard sized patterns from the same company. All patterns come with standard instructions.

I have trouble fitting my... will your patterns take this into account? OR I'm a size ? on top and a size? on bottom. Will your patterns take this into account?

Yes, Unique Patterns are custom fit and based on individual measurements (size is not an issue). However, to get the best fit possible, we also believe that understanding and being educated on how to read the pattern descriptions and the concept of "wearing ease" will also improve the chances of you being satisfied with your custom-fit Unique Pattern.

I am exceptionally large busted. Is that a problem?

No, bust darts will be added to your patterns to ensure the patterns to fit you better.

What if I gain or lose weight?

Typically, only a few measurements fluctuate with weight changes (e.g. waist, hips, or bust). Meanwhile, your posture, height, leg length and shoulder slope remain relatively the same. All you need to do is re-check your measurements and send those which have changed to us. There is no charge for this update. Please call Client Services at 1-800-543-4739 for more information.

I have a curvature of the spine, what will be done for me?

Please speak with a Unique Patterns Representative to ensure your curvature of the spine is noted so that we can ensure this is considered in the drafting of your patterns.

What do I do if my pattern does not fit?

Please contact Client Services at 1-800-543-4739 or email us at clientservices@uniquepatterns.com with specific details of your fit issues. One of our consultants will be glad to assist you.