I know... we all just want to jump straight into sewing without all the prep. But trust me, taking a few minutes to do these steps will make a big difference in your final project.

1. BY YOUR PATTERN

Browse the Mimi Sewing Company collection and purchase your favorite PDF sewing pattern.

I strongly recommend downloading and saving your pattern files on your computer as soon as you receive them. If you need a PDF file reader to open your patterns, I highly recommend the free app Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Since each purchase includes a limited number of downloads, keeping all your patterns in a dedicated folder will make them easy to find and save you time whenever you want to sew the project again in the future.

2. MAKE A LIST

The fabric requirements and the required supplies list are included with your PDF pattern instructions. Before heading to your friendly neighborhood fabric store, take a quick look at what supplies you already have at home. We all tend to forget about that extra meter of elastic or those spools of thread hiding in our drawers!

Once you've checked your stash, make a revised list of what you still need. Finally, head out to the store and have fun picking out your fabric and other supplies!

3. WASH YOUR FABRIC

The first thing to do when you get home? Throw your fabric in the wash!

Natural fibers like cotton, linen and bamboo tend to shrink after a first wash, so it's always preferable to wash them before you sew.

Just make sure you follow the care instructions for your fabric`s recommended washing water and drying temperatures.

4. IRON YOUR FABRIC

I know... ironing the fabric isn't very exciting. But it really helps!

A nicely pressed fabric is much easier to cut accurately. It also helps straighten the selvage, making it easier to line up your pattern pieces. When placing your pattern, always measure the distance between the grainline and the selvage to make sure everything is nice and straight.

5. PRINT YOUR PATTERN

While your fabric is washing away, go ahead and print your pattern.

Be sure to read this post prior to make sure you're printing it the right way: How to print your PDF sewing pattern

6. ASSEMBLE YOUR PATTERN

You're almost ready to sew!

The last step before cutting your fabric is assembling your PDF pattern. Follow the following guide for proper assembling and once completed, you’ll be finally ready to start cutting your pieces : How to assemble your pattern.

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