pattern

Paper template used to cut the various pieces of a garment.

dart

Symbol indicating the position and width of the fold on the inside of the fabric that makes the garment snugger.

notch

Marking used to precisely match pieces that go together.

fold line

Marking indicating that the pattern must be placed on the folded edge of the fabric and in the grain direction.

hemline

Line indicating where to fold the fabric to create the bottom of a garment.

zipper line

Line indicating where to position the zipper.

lengthwise grain

Line with arrows indicating how to position the pattern on the fabric so that it lies in the direction of the warp threads.

alteration line

Double line indicating where to adjust the length of the piece of fabric to suit the person who will wear the garment.

seam allowance

Distance between the seam line and the cutting line; it creates a fold on the back of the garment once the seam is stitched.

marking dot

Sewing mark indicating an area that requires special attention.

seam line

Line indicating where to sew a seam.

cutting line

Line indicating where to cut the fabric.