Frequently Asked Questions

How do Cris Wood Sews patterns work? 

All Cris Wood Sews patterns have rectangular pattern pieces. You start by plugging  your measurements into a simple formula to get the dimensions of each piece. 

Appropriate pieces are laid out with the widths along the selvedge. That is why my patterns can accommodate any body measurements, without being confined by the width of the fabric. 

If your body measurements change, just plug the new measurements into the same formulas for your new proportions. There are no sizing limits in either direction. These versatile patterns work for children's clothes as well!  

Why aren't fabric requirements listed for each pattern?

Because of the nature of these patterns (see above), each person will have their own individualized fabric requirement.  I have found that when customers see  fabric requirements on the listing page, it sends the message that there are sizing limits, when there are none!  Generally speaking, the fabric requirements of a Cris Wood Sews pattern are less than a standard pattern because of the unconventional layouts. 

What is a "Zero Waste" pattern? 

A zero waste pattern uses all of the fabric required to make the garment, with none leftover.  In my collection, the Envelope Dress is a true "zero waste" pattern.

What is a "Minimum Waste" or "Low Waste" pattern?

A minimum/low waste pattern uses most of the fabric required, and what is leftover is in a useable rectangular shape for future use. With the exception of the Envelope Dress, all of the patterns in my collection fall into this category.

Why can't they all be Zero Waste?

This simple answer: Size Inclusivity

The constraints of standard fabric widths is a hindrance to designing zero waste patterns without upper size limits. For most truly zero waste patterns, the sizing has an upper limit.  My patterns have none, and I use the minimum waste concept to achieve this. Therefore, they are completely size inclusive. There is no need to wait for a pattern maker to introduce "extended sizing", self-modifying or sadly, leaving an inaccessible pattern behind.

Are your zero/minimum waste patterns good for beginners?

Yes! My patterns are all made using rectangular pattern pieces cut to your exact measurements.  Therefore, there is no paper printing and taping, size decoding, grading across sizing,  or cutting out of paper patterns required.  All the seams are straight lines, and there are no closures.  For a true beginner, the Envelope Dress ,Throw Jacket  and  free patterns, the  Cinch Belt and Start Here Top  are great places to start!

Some of your patterns are described as "Confident Beginner" level.  What does that mean?

A confident beginner has made a handful of garments before, is familiar with and comfortable using diagrams and written instructions and has familiarity with introductory sewing terms. 

Are your patterns easy to "hack" and adjust?

Because of their rectangular shape, reducing or adding seam allowances and adding or reducing ease are easy to do.  

What do I get when I order your patterns?

Cris Wood Sews patterns do not use paper pattern pieces because all pattern pieces are rectangular.  What you will receive is an instruction booklet with instructions on how to size your pieces, fabric requirement formulas, sample layouts and instructions on how to construct the garment.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy sewing these unique and unconventional patterns! 

-Cris