# Stitch Authority resource comparison Generated: 2026-07-23T20:11:35.462Z Comparison: 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. PatternLab London Permanent record: Source page: - 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. ## 2. FreeSewing Permanent record: Source page: - Primary job: Find patterns & fit - Area: Patterns & fit - For: Makers - Location or jurisdiction: Global - Access: Open access - Format: Software - Source type: Open-source project - Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21 - Next review due: 2027-01-17 ### Best for Custom-fit home sewing patterns ### What the source establishes FreeSewing's official documentation says the browser editor drafts a selected design in real time from a measurement set rather than scaling or grading a standard-size pattern. Users can adjust design options and export the generated result, including as PDF; saving the pattern to an account is optional and is used to revisit it later. ### Know before using A generated pattern is not independent fit evidence or a production-ready graded block. The result still depends on accurate measurements, the selected design and options, ease assumptions, fabric behavior, construction, and representative test garments. An account stores saved patterns and measurement sets, so review the platform's privacy terms before retaining personal measurements. ## 3. Threadloop Sewing Pattern Database Permanent record: Source page: - 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. Apparel Grade-Rule & Size-Run Validation Record Permanent record: Source page: - Primary job: Find patterns & fit - Area: Patterns & fit - For: Apparel brands - 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 Auditing inherited grade rules or controlling a new multi-size pattern release from approved targets through sample evidence ### What the source establishes The guide cites current ISO body-table, size-designation, and garment-measurement boundaries plus two peer-reviewed studies that tested the relationship between conventional grade rules, anthropometric evidence, and garment fit; it requires product-specific target deltas and validation instead of publishing universal increments. ### Know before using The record does not create a production grade, supply universal increments or breakpoints, validate a CAD file or fit population, reproduce licensed standards, or replace qualified anthropometric, pattern, technical-design, fit, quality, accessibility, safety, statistical, and user-research review. ## 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.