# Stitch Authority resource comparison

Generated: 2026-07-23T15:57:20.578Z
Comparison: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/compare?ids=hook-needle%2Cpattern-testers%2Cthreadloop%2Cpatternlab-london>

This file preserves the published decision metadata for the selected routes. It is not a recommendation, provider approval, compliance decision, or record of project-specific due diligence.

## 1. Hook & Needle Diameter Reference

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/hook-needle>
Source page: <https://stitchauthority.com/tools/hook-needle-converter>

- Primary job: Learn techniques
- Area: Yarn
- For: Makers
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Open access
- Format: Stitch Authority
- Source type: Stitch Authority
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-16
- Next review due: 2027-07-16

### Best for

Checking which U.S. alias the current Craft Yarn Council table gives a known metric package size before confirming project gauge

### What the source establishes

The lookup reproduces the current public Craft Yarn Council metric and U.S. alias rows and follows the Council's warning that company letter and number labels vary; blank aliases remain blank instead of being inferred.

### Know before using

The reference is not a dimensional measurement, manufacturer inspection, UK or Canadian conversion, steel-hook chart, tool recommendation, yarn assignment, gauge result, or proof that a proposed tool will produce the required fabric.

## 2. Pattern Testers

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/pattern-testers>
Source page: <https://patterntesters.com/>

- Primary job: Find patterns & fit
- Area: Patterns & fit
- For: Apparel brands
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Free + paid
- Format: Software
- Source type: First-party platform
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21
- Next review due: 2027-01-17

### Best for

Coordinating an independent sewing-pattern test

### What the source establishes

Pattern Testers currently offers application intake, tester selection, feedback, photos, approvals, issue tracking, revisions, a reusable tester directory, and release deadlines. The public pricing page shows a limited free plan and paid Pro and Business tiers. Its June 2026 privacy policy lists names, email addresses, measurements, photos, feedback, application history, and assignments among the data processed.

### Know before using

The interface and plan description do not prove tester reach, completion, feedback quality, fit validity, export quality, uptime, support, or suitability for an established release process. Measurements and photos can be sensitive personal data. Run a non-critical pilot, review the current privacy and service terms, define consent and photo rights, test exports and deletion, and keep pattern approval and release responsibility with the designer.

## 3. Threadloop Sewing Pattern Database

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/threadloop>
Source page: <https://threadloop.app/>

- Primary job: Find patterns & fit
- Area: Patterns & fit
- For: Makers
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Free account
- Format: Community
- Source type: Community database
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21
- Next review due: 2027-01-17

### Best for

Searching current and out-of-print sewing patterns

### What the source establishes

Threadloop's official guide describes an independent, fully crowdsourced database covering available and out-of-print sewing patterns. Its search supports pattern type, fabric type, age group, body type, cup size, level, format, file features, language, measurements, availability, and other filters; members can also track a stash, wishlist, projects, reviews, and discussions.

### Know before using

Community members add and quality-control the records, so confirm sizing, measurements, fabric suggestions, format, availability, errata, license, and purchase terms with the designer or publisher. Adding an entry to a stash does not provide the pattern files. Saved searches and private PDF storage are paid Plus features, and a listing or review does not establish pattern accuracy or fit.

## 4. PatternLab London

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/patternlab-london>
Source page: <https://patternlab.london/home/>

- Primary job: Find patterns & fit
- Area: Patterns & fit
- For: Both
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Paid
- Format: Software
- Source type: First-party platform
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21
- Next review due: 2027-01-17

### Best for

Generating an editable custom-measurement block

### What the source establishes

PatternLab London's current drafting page says a user creates a measurement profile, selects a basic block or sloper, adjusts fit, dart placement, length, seam allowance, and sleeve options, then downloads the generated result as tiled PDF, AI, or SVG. The live catalogue names bodice, dress, trouser, and stretch blocks and displays a price before purchase.

### Know before using

A measurement-generated draft is a starting block, not independent evidence of body capture, comfort, mobility, balance, garment ease, or production fit. The result depends on measurement accuracy, supported ranges, formula assumptions, selected options, and output handling. Review the service's privacy terms before storing body data and sew a representative toile before design, grading, or production use.

## Next checks

1. Remove any route whose audience, jurisdiction, access, or scope does not match the job.
2. Open the permanent record and source page for every remaining route.
3. Recheck facts that can change after the listed review date.
4. Verify project-specific capability, terms, test evidence, and legal requirements with the responsible source or provider.
5. Record the reason for the final choice outside Stitch Authority.
