Pad sewing steps
This is an overview of the process.
Here are some videos for those who are visual learners.
assemble your pattern
Download your pattern and cut out the paper templates.
1
3 main parts
Each pad has 3 parts: a topper, a core, and a base.
2
draw the sewing line
Trace the stitch lines or turn lines onto the fabric using washable marker or tailor’s chalk.
3
cutting fabic
Rough cut around sewing line. Cut core exactly on pattern line.
4
center core in sewing line
Make sure your stitched core falls within the traced turn/stitch line so it gets enclosed properly.
5
stitch the core to the topper
Sew around the edge of the absorbent core to secure it to the topper using a zigzag or straight stitch.
6
pin right sides together
Lay the base fabric and the topper (with core) right sides together, and pin all around the edge.
7
stitch layers together
Sew around the pad on the marked line, leaving a small gap for turning the pad right side out.
8
trim seam allowance
Trim down the seam allowance to reduce bulk, especially around the curves and wings.
9
little snips to release tension
Cut small notches or slits into the seam allowance at curves to help the pad lay flat when turned.
10
clip off sharp outer tips
Carefully trim the very tips of the wings and corners to help with sharp points when turned.
11
turn the pad right side out
Reach inside the pad through the gap and gently pull it right side out.
12
poke out seams and corners
Use a blunt stick or turning tool to push out all corners and curves fully.
13
align with presser foot
Press the pad flat and topstitch all the way around the edge, closing the turning gap.
14
add wing snaps
Add plastic snaps or sew-on Velcro to the wings so the pad can be fastened around underwear.
15
core layers
This image is a quick reference for how many layers of each fabric type to cut. Always prewash absorbent fabrics before sewing, so they can shrink ahead of time.
