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- Article author: Fabric Team
- Article tag: Begginer Sewing
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Why Print Placement Matters
We’ve all been there.
You’re walking through a store, glance at a garment, and bam — there it is. A flower, a circle, a bold graphic... sitting right there. Dead center. Unintended bullseye. The kind that makes you do a double take (and not in a good way).
Print placement might sound like a small detail, but once you notice it — there’s no unseeing it. And if you’ve ever cut your pattern pieces without thinking about where the print falls, you know that pit-of-your-stomach feeling when you realize what just happened.
Let’s talk about how to avoid those moments and make your fabric work for you, not against you.
Directional vs. Non-Directional Prints
Knowing whether your fabric is directional (where the design has a clear top and bottom) or non-directional (design works in any orientation) is key before you start cutting.
Non-directional prints are a dream for sewists. Why? Less fabric waste and more flexibility in layout. You can often flip pieces to make the most of every inch - like Summer Slice.
Directional prints like French Botanicals, require you to be more mindful. Every piece needs to be cut facing the same way — especially if it’s a garment like swimwear or dresses where top and bottom matter.
But here’s the fun part: even technically non-directional prints can have a "best" orientation.
Pattern Placement: Make or Break
Even with a non-directional print, placement can make or break a design. When you’re working with larger-scale or bold prints, you want to highlight the fabric — not hide it or create visual distractions.
Case in point? Let’s talk about two of our favourite swimwear prints:
🌿 Leaf It to Me
Think cool, abstract botanical vibes. It’s technically non-directional, so you can flip it any way.But... it honestly looks best vertically. That flow? Chef’s kiss. It’s stunning on a one-piece swimsuit, especially when you take time to place the pattern to show off the print’s movement. Trust us — it’s worth the extra thought.
🏺 Casa Blanca
This one’s all about bohemian elegance with earthy tones and a bold scale. Again, vertically-oriented layout gives the most striking impact. Casa Blanca sings when allowed to take center stage on a one-piece.
Fabric Grain and Stretch Considerations
When working with stretch fabric (like 4-way stretch swimwear), you get even more flexibility. Some prints don’t have a strict grain direction, which means more creative freedom and less waste — win-win!
Still, if you're fussy cutting or matching stripes, patterns, or motifs, remember:👉 You’ll need extra fabric.But oh — when those stripes line up just right? Cue the angelic chorus.
Pro Tips for Smart Sewing with Prints:
Always lay out your pattern pieces and visualize the finished garment before cutting.
Use a full-size printout or make a mockup for big prints.
Consider the visual impact zones (center front, bust, seat, etc.) and avoid placing big motifs where you don’t want attention.
When in doubt: step back. Squint. Does the placement work from a distance?
Final Stitch: Celebrate the Print
Prints are powerful. When thoughtfully placed, they can highlight your shape, tell a story, or add that extra wow to your project. Whether you're working with something abstract like Leaf It to Me or something bold like Casa Blanca, take a few minutes to plan.
A little intention goes a long way — and helps you avoid any hello-look-at-my-bits surprises along the way.
Want to see more swimwear-ready prints?Browse Our Swim FabricsOr check out Leaf It to Me and Casa Blanca directly and start planning your next masterpiece!
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