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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can design fabric pattern pieces.

      Key learning points

      1. Designs can be measured in mm, cm or inches.
      2. A seam allowance of 15mm is needed in designs.
      3. Pattern pieces can be made from paper as a prototype.

      Keywords

      • Pattern piece - a paper shape that shows you how to cut fabric

      • Seam allowance - extra fabric allowed for joining, usually 15 mm

      • Accurate - exact, without mistakes

      Common misconception

      A seam allowance is included in the sizing measurements.

      A seam allowance needs to be added to the sizing measurements.

      Teacher tip

      Make sure pupils allow space around each pattern piece to add on the seam allowance. Some pupils may be able to add the seam allowance to measurements before drawing.

      Equipment

      Large sheets of paper (newsprint works well), pencils, rulers, scissors.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Which is the net of this 3D shape?

      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz
      An image in a quiz

      Q2.
      What is a pattern piece?

      Correct answer: a guide to help cut shapes
      a quick drawing
      a way to test a fabric's properties
      a model of a product

      Q3.
      What is a prototype?

      a drawing to show how a design will look
      Correct answer: a model to test a design before it is made
      a list of things a product must have
      a finished product

      Q4.
      Why are insulating fabrics good for winter clothing?

      An image in a quiz
      they are stretchy
      they don't rip easily
      they stop water getting through
      Correct answer: they stop heat from escaping

      Q5.
      Which three words remind us how to look after the environment?

      reshape, rework, remake
      remind, rewind, reward
      Correct answer: reduce, reuse, recycle
      reduce, remake, rework

      Q6.
      Match the centimetres (cm) to the equivalent millimetres (mm).

      Correct Answer:3 cm,30 mm
      Correct Answer:10 cm,100 mm
      Correct Answer:8.5 cm,85 mm
      Correct Answer:five and a half centimetres,55 mm

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the measurements.

      Correct Answer:540 mm,54 cm
      Correct Answer:140 mm,14 cm
      Correct Answer:270 mm,27 cm
      Correct Answer:370 mm,37 cm

      Q2.
      On a straight-sided brimmed hat, the width of the crown is the same size as the centre of the ...

      An image in a quiz
      peak.
      side panel.
      Correct answer: brim.
      crown.

      Q3.
      What size is a typical seam allowance?

      An image in a quiz
      150 mm
      1.5 mm
      15 cm
      Correct answer: 15 mm

      Q4.
      What does the word accurate mean when measuring?

      Correct answer: exact size, without mistakes
      estimated size
      a guess
      rough size, not to scale

      To help you plan your 4 design and technology lesson on: Simple pattern pieces, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...