Dress or skirt [_] Beach bag or robe, scarf, or apron [_] Thread to match [_] Fasteners, hooks and eyes [_] snaps [_] zipper [_] buttons [_] velcro [_] Pattern, size [_] Scissors [_] Pins, dressmaker [_] Measuring gauge [_] Needles—7-9 sharp [_] Thimble [_] Tape measure [_] Before you start to sew Study your pattern [Illustration: Studying pattern] Study the instruction sheet carefully before you unfold your pattern. This will help you know each piece of your pattern as you unfold it. When unfolding it, put your initials on each piece. You will find an arrow on each piece of the pattern that tells you how the pattern is to be placed on your cloth. This mark is called the “grain line.” Learn to recognize marks for fold, seamline, darts, tucks, hems, center front and center back, buttons, and buttonholes. When you can recognize all the marks on your pattern, trim off the edges and pin it together. Have your leader check it for fit. She will help you make any alterations that are necessary. Straighten your fabric [Illustration: Straight fabric] Study your fabric. You will find there are threads running lengthwise (warp threads) with other threads woven in and out of these (crosswise or filling threads). Each of these threads should be straight, not curved or slanted. If the end of the fabric has not been torn, pull one thread near the end that will go all the way across the fabric. Cut along this line. [Illustration: Pulled thread] [Illustration: Pulling on the bias] Now if the ends of the fabric are not even, have your leader or mother help you straighten the cloth by pulling on the bias, as is being done in the picture. When the cloth is straight, pin the edges together. Now pin the pattern to your cloth. Crease-resistant fabric cannot be straightened. Pin and cut You need a large smooth surface for pinning and cutting. A big table is best, but you can use a clean floor. Study your pattern layout. Fold your cloth and pin your pattern as suggested. Place the big pattern pieces on first. See that the line that shows the straight of the grain is placed exactly on the lengthwise “grain” or thread of the cloth. [Illustration: Pattern placed on fabric] SELVAGE STRAIGHT OF GRAIN