Last updated on March 11th, 2022 at 03:36 pm
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Do you still need pattern weights for projector sewing? Yes, they are still an important part of your sewing tools! Getting rid of the paper patterns doesn’t mean you don’t need weights. Although you no longer need to hold paper patterns down, it is nice to have something that holds the fabric down as you cut.
You will probably find that you need heavier or more substantial weights to hold fabric, especially when cutting on the fold. Pattern weights for projector sewing also need to have a low profile so they do not block or distort the projected images.
I currently use little chicken pattern weights that I made a while ago. I love them and they are so cute and nifty to have around. That is when my kids aren’t stealing them! 😊 You can make your own here, if you like them. However, I wish they were a little heavier for projector sewing. Consider filling them with Poly Pellets.
For those looking for the best pattern weights for projector sewing, I have you covered! Here is a list of the best ones that have weight and a low profile! Grab some of these and a free sewing pattern with projector files and get started!
Magnets
Magnets as a pattern weight is the guarantee way that your weights won’t budge! Have you heard about using magnets to hold your material? If not, you are in for a treat! This will require a little bit of prep, but be worth it in the end. You will need to go to your local hardware store, or Amazon, and purchase sheet metal about the size of your cutting mat. A car drip pan can also work in a pinch! Next, buy some small magnets, like these on Amazon.
Put the flat metal sheet under your cutting mat. Then, lay out your material and use the magnets to hold it down. With strong magnets, your material will stay put while you cut around even tight curves!
Washer Pattern Weights
Washers make great pattern weights. They are flat and several can be stacked to make them as heavy as you need. It can be hard to find the larger size at the hardware store. Home Depot doesn’t usually carry the large size, but you may have more luck at Ace! I found the perfect size on Amazon.
Stack a couple on top of each other and wrap with a ribbon. This makes them heavier and pretty! Go an extra step and create a little drawstring bag to keep them in! If you have a cutting machine, add vinyl lettering to the bag so you know what is inside. Here is a free tutorial for a simple drawstring bag.
Painted Rocks
I find painting relaxing. So, if you have an artistic side (or not 😊), then paint rocks for pattern weights. This is also a good excuse to go outside and go for a little stroll. Look for rocks that fit in the palm of your hand and are close to flat. Wash and dry them before unleashing your artistic talent on them!
My nieces like to paint rocks then hide them in parks for people to find. It is a fun summer activity. My kids like to go searching for the painted rocks that others have hid. It is almost as good as finding buried treasure!
Ceramic Tile Coasters
These ceramic tile coasters are great pattern weights for sewing because they are flat. Plus, the possibilities are endless if you want to decorate these. I’ve seen them painted. I have also seen people Mod Podge a favorite fabric design to them. If you own a Cricuit or Silhouette, then use vinyl to put your name, favorite phrase, or a special image on them!
Glass Pattern Weights
Of course, there are many traditional pattern weights that work for projector sewing. One of those are these glass pattern weights. Here are some glass pattern weights available on Amazon.
I also really like these glass pattern weights because they have a little handle on them! It really makes it easy to pick them up and move them. But, they don’t really provide a ton of weight. These are best used on structured fabric that won’t shift a lot while cutting.
Metal Pattern Weights
Have you see these button pattern weights?! They are made out of metal and will surely last a long time. They come in eight different colors and weigh about 0.15lbs. There are a lot of different store-ready pattern weights that work well. Look for something that will have good weight to it so the fabric stays put while you are cutting.
Soft Foam DIY Weights
Donuts, cookies, macarons, cinnamon rolls, the possibilities are endless! But, be careful you may want to eat these! Grab some foam air-dry clay in multiple colors and some large washers. Form shapes around the washers so they are hidden inside and create whatever dessert or creation you would like. A tutorial for the dessert washers can be found HERE.
Conclusion
So, if you are still using soup, beans, or tuna cans for your pattern weights, then maybe it’s time for a little upgrade. (That may or may not be me, wink, wink). Sturdy weights to hold your fabric for projector sewing will help your cutting to run smoothly. Now, it’s time to start sewing! Whatever pattern weights you chose for projector sewing, I hope they bring you joy every time you use them. If not, then it is time to get (or make) some new ones! Happy sewing!
