Tracing Wheels
with Instructor Steve Butler
Class 158
What is it?
The genesis of almost everything we create when we sew begins with a pattern of some form. Fashion, fashion accessories, heirloom, purses and bags, quilts, home decor, they all use them. In our selection process we identify potential candidates from the perfectly posed pictures on the pattern packaging. The next step is to look at the pattern itself to get an idea of what it will take to complete that project. Some patterns are very complex while others are more simple. Even so, almost all of them have marks on them for making size or shape adjustments or positioning darts, notches, pleats, button holes or even establishing grain lines. Maybe our dress pattern doesn’t have seam allowances marked or perhaps we want to reproduce a worn pattern so we can continue to use it. What now? What is the best way to efficiently and accurately transfer all of these necessary and sometimes complex construction marks to our fabric? Well, fret not. One of the three quality Clover tracing wheels is sure to meet any specific needs that may be encountered.
What does it do?
Clover produces three different tracing wheels, each designed to fit any number of applications from routine to uniquely you. Each tracing wheel is constructed of durable plastic molded to fit comfortably in your hand and a steel wheel mounted to ensure precision performance for years to come.
Tracing Wheel (Serrated Edges) – The serrated edges on this tracing wheel are designed to penetrate. If you are using transfer paper to copy your pattern the result will be a precise dotted line. If you are transferring a pattern directly to a fine fabric the result will be a precise line of fine holes.
Tracing Wheel (Blunt Edges) – The blunt edges on this tracing wheel are designed not to penetrate and will not damage your pattern or fabric. This tracing wheel is primarily used with some type of transfer paper such as Clover Chacopy to leave a more broad, easily defined line.
Double Tracing Wheel – The double tracing wheel is a handy little marvel. With it you can trace off your cut lines and seam allowances in one easy motion. It can also be used to increase or decrease the size of a pattern piece. The wheel position is adjustable so any seam allowance from 1/4″ to 1 and 1/4″ is selectable. Because the two wheels are held together on the same handle the resulting lines will be perfectly parallel every time.
How do I promote it?
Tracing wheels are sewing tools that a lot of people have seen but most are unsure of exactly what they do for us. A story board located by your notions section showing the marks made by each will be real boost. Classes that utilize patterns is a great way to show their utility. Demonstrations showing the uses of the double tracing wheel or how both the serrated and blunt edged tracing wheels can be used to distinguish between sewing lines and cutting lines can be enlightening. Tracing wheels are a definite must in every sewing studio.