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Fabric-covered sewing pattern weights

Fabric-covered sewing pattern weights
Pattern weights are used while cutting the fabric for a garment or craft sewing project.  The pattern weights hold the pattern down to the fabric,allowing you to cut without having the pattern shift.  And they're faster than using pins. 

Pattern weights can be bought from sewing and craft stores, but usually cost $10 for 4 weights, e.g. this set on Amazon.   Like many crafters I use heavy, metal washers as weights because they only cost $.25 - .5 each.  Naturally I wanted to decorate my weights, and here's how you can too.
 
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Step 1Supplies

Supplies
You will need:
  • 1 or 2 heavy washers for each weight.  I used 2" wide washers
  • Something to mark a circle with.  This should be twice the width of your washer
  • Fabric scraps at least double the width of your washers in both directions
  • 1 large 'shank' button for each weight
  • a needle
  • thread
  • fabric cutter or scissors
  • thread snips or scissors
  • Hot glue gun, or just regular craft glue if you're more patient than me

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7 comments
Apr 16, 2012. 12:04 PMmaltesergr8 says:
I've been looking at different fabric weights & these are brilliant!! Thanks for such a great 'ible ;)

Beth
Dec 18, 2011. 1:53 PMnancyCpants says:
I'm a new sewer and I never thought of using washers! Brilliant!
Nov 24, 2011. 11:31 AMsaffron69 says:
This is great!
Im doing applied apparel technology and our school finally got us some "weights" (off cuts from the steel from the construction section) these are great... but this would have been so handy to know instead of waiting for school supplies.
Thanks so much for this ible.. Im going underthe house to see if I can find any large washers =D
Nov 19, 2011. 11:15 AMgrannyjones says:
This so cute!
I did a similar thing several years ago-winding variegated yarn around pairs of heavy washers--but the embellishment make yours way prettier.
Nov 20, 2011. 7:58 AMcraftknowitall says:
Great idea, I never used washers, neverthought about it. I used knives and forks from my silverware drawer. I just found a new project. Thank you!
Nov 18, 2011. 7:11 PMPenolopy Bulnick says:
That is a really creative idea! And very cute!

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Author:Laneyh(The Woman of 1,000 Hobbies)
I am mostly a crafting dilettante. But despite wanting to try every new craft, I do have a few I've stuck with for a long while, including sewing and glass bead making.