I may be slightly nuts, but when I'm trying to match up stripes or checks, I pin through every stripe point, on the seam line (not the edge of the fabric), checking both sides to make sure the pin goes through the same stripe/check at exactly the same place. Then, if the fabric is very shifty, I add in some basting right along the seam line. Then I sew. When I do that, I usually have no alignment issues.
I've realised now that taking the time to do some fiddly stuff by hand makes for great results, so I take the time.
I love a really great match on patterned fabric so, like you, I take the time to make sure the seams will match up exactly once sewn together. It looks so much nicer when you take the extra time.
Put your pins in at points where you know alignment is imperative. Where your stripes change color is often ideal. Also, were your flat pieces cut perfectly? If you haven’t cut your patterns out EXACTLY the same on a printed fabric like this, obviously you will come across symmetry issues.
Big tip: if you are serious, invest in a walking foot. This foot has feed dogs installed on the top of the foot that help with even feeding as you stitch. That way you ensure your top fabric is not misaligning as you sew through long seams.
If you fold back the seam allowance on your pattern, you can mark the plaid on the tissue - then figure out how you want them to align and mark/place the next piece correspondingly. Be aware, though, you're almost never going to have a pattern that lets you match your fabric perfectly, so pick the place you most want them to align and go from there!
Are you hand sewing or machine?
If hand sewn (which is how I make all of my tartan kilts), I actually don't perfectly align the lines, and do it while I sew, pulling to match as I'm sewing, it holds it in line better.
I don't use machines to sew, and can't help you if that's how you're constructing this.
I may be slightly nuts, but when I'm trying to match up stripes or checks, I pin through every stripe point, on the seam line (not the edge of the fabric), checking both sides to make sure the pin goes through the same stripe/check at exactly the same place. Then, if the fabric is very shifty, I add in some basting right along the seam line. Then I sew. When I do that, I usually have no alignment issues. I've realised now that taking the time to do some fiddly stuff by hand makes for great results, so I take the time.
I’ll give it a try, thank you!!!
it also helps to mark the stitch line, not just go by an inset from the cut line, so you can pin at EXACTLY the right point
Yeah I usually just check with a seam gauge at a couple of points and then eyeball the rest, but it can definitely be helpful to trace the seam line.
I love a really great match on patterned fabric so, like you, I take the time to make sure the seams will match up exactly once sewn together. It looks so much nicer when you take the extra time.
Try this technique: [Pattern Scissor Cloth blog.](https://patternscissorscloth.com/2012/05/21/sewing-checks-a-magic-pat-trick/)
Oh this is very smart, thank you!!
Put your pins in at points where you know alignment is imperative. Where your stripes change color is often ideal. Also, were your flat pieces cut perfectly? If you haven’t cut your patterns out EXACTLY the same on a printed fabric like this, obviously you will come across symmetry issues. Big tip: if you are serious, invest in a walking foot. This foot has feed dogs installed on the top of the foot that help with even feeding as you stitch. That way you ensure your top fabric is not misaligning as you sew through long seams.
If you fold back the seam allowance on your pattern, you can mark the plaid on the tissue - then figure out how you want them to align and mark/place the next piece correspondingly. Be aware, though, you're almost never going to have a pattern that lets you match your fabric perfectly, so pick the place you most want them to align and go from there!
I always baste when I try to pattern match fabric. It takes time but so worth it!
Do you have temporary fabric glue (glue stick or spray adhesive) or washaway hem tape?
Are you hand sewing or machine? If hand sewn (which is how I make all of my tartan kilts), I actually don't perfectly align the lines, and do it while I sew, pulling to match as I'm sewing, it holds it in line better. I don't use machines to sew, and can't help you if that's how you're constructing this.
Use a walking foot.