A Perfect Matching

Plaids, stripes, checks, some prints, and napped fabrics require extra fabric and a little extra work especially in the cutting and matching stages. Select a pattern that is suited to and has been designed for plaids, stripes, checks, or napped fabrics.

Buy the yardage (or meterage) listed under "with nap" on the pattern chart. If there is no listing for "with nap" and you want to use one of thes fabrics be sure that the pattern is suited to this type of design or fabric. The general rule for matching small designs is to purchase 1/8 yard extra (0.15 meters); medium designs, stripes and small plaids require 1/4 yard extra (0.30 meters); large plaids and large spaced prints require 1/2 yard (0.45 meters) or more extra fabric.

Follow the guide for the "with nap" layout exactly. To be sure the plaids match at seams, place thepattern pieces which join with corresponding notches on the same color stripe as underarm nothces front and back, skirt side notches, center fronts, sides, and center back. Also, place sleeve notches on the same stripe as bodice front underarm notch and bodice back underarm notch.

Matching requires a more careful eye and attention to the details of assembling the pieces. Be careful but if you do like plaids, stripes, and checks, give it a try.

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