Notcher
A notcher is a manual tool used to make small cuts at the edge of the seam allowance on a pattern to create notches for accurately aligning parts during sewing.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
A notcher is a tool used to cut V-shaped notches and the like into the outer edge of a pattern, especially the seam allowance. Notches are alignment marks that indicate corresponding positions before and after sewing, and are used to align the sleeve cap and armhole, collar and body, front and back side seams, and similar points.
Notches made on the pattern are transferred to the fabric during cutting and help prevent mix-ups and misalignment during sewing. As a rule, cuts are made on the seam allowance side rather than on the finished line.
How to Use
Place the pattern on a flat cutting table, confirm the position where the notch will be made, then hold the seam allowance edge against the blade section of the tool. Make a cut from the edge of the paper in a consistent shape, and align the position and direction on matching left and right parts.
Check notch positions in pairs with the matching pattern piece to be sewn. Changing the number of notches is also sometimes used to distinguish front from back, but it is important to give priority to the notation rules specified by the factory or specifications sheet.
- Use them as guides for easing at curved sections such as sleeve attachment and collar attachment.
- For dart ends, pocket positions, tuck positions, and similar points, use them as needed in combination with other marking methods.
- After revising the pattern, confirm again whether the notch positions match the seam allowance edge and the intended alignment marks.
Types and How to Choose
Manual types include punch-shaped tools that are squeezed to cut in, and types that cut by moving the blade. The shape and depth of the cut differ by product, so choose one that suits the paper thickness of the pattern you use, the required visibility of the notches, and the amount of work.
For small-volume prototyping, prioritize ease of handling; for large-scale pattern making, prioritize grip comfort and stable cutting performance. Since some tools may not be designed to cut thick paper, check the indicated paper type and thickness for each tool.
Care and Safety Precautions
If paper dust or adhesive adheres to the blade section, cutting performance declines and the edge of the pattern may become fuzzy. After use, remove paper dust and store it in a place with low humidity. If blade replacement or disassembly is necessary, follow the tool's instructions.
A notcher is a cutting tool. Do not place your fingers in the blade's path or near the tip; use it on a stable table. When pausing work, protect the blade section and store it where third parties, especially children, cannot reach it.
Differences from Similar Terms
A notcher is a tool for making cuts at the edge of a pattern. A tracing tool is used to make an impression on paper or fabric, and does not create cuts. Chalk and tracing paper are marking supplies used to transfer lines or dots onto the fabric surface.
An alignment mark refers to the mark itself that indicates positioning on a pattern or fabric. A notch is one type of alignment mark, and a notcher is the tool used to make that notch in the pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where on the seam allowance should a notch be made?
In general, it is made from the outer edge of the seam allowance so that the sewing position is easy to identify. If you cut too deeply to the finished line, the cut may remain visible after sewing or affect the strength near the seam, so make it to a depth appropriate for the seam allowance width and the process.
Can alignment marks be made on a pattern without a notcher?
Yes. Instead of making cuts, you can make an impression with a tracing tool or add written marks. However, because the same mark must be reliably carried through from cutting to sewing, standardize the method according to the site's specifications and workflow.
