Drafting & tracing

The best pattern and drafting supplies for 2026

Tracing a pattern instead of cutting it is what lets you sew the same pattern in two sizes. We compare pattern paper, tracing materials, curves, grading rulers and weights.

What we recommend

1. 

   Prym Curved Ruler 52.5 × 16 cm

   The transparent curve for armholes, necklines and hip lines. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.

   Dimensions

   52.5 × 16 cm

   Material

   Transparent plastic

   Amazon reference

   B00PYEFD2M (all six markets)

   • Transparent, so you can see the line you are matching underneath
   • Long enough for a hip curve, not just an armhole
   • One fixed set of curves — it will not match every pattern block

   ≈ $58 / £26 / 21 €

   Check price on Amazon
2. 

   Prym Dressmaker's Pattern Paper

   Trace the pattern, cut the tracing, keep the original. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.

   Type

   Semi-transparent pattern paper

   Format

   Roll

   Amazon reference

   B00DRKTGTG (all six markets)

   • Semi-transparent, so you trace without a lightbox
   • Takes pencil and pen without tearing
   • Creases permanently if folded rather than rolled

   Best for: Anyone who cuts between two sizes, which is most people

   ≈ $12 / £12 / 13 €

   Check price on Amazon