Pictorial Guide to Back Basting

Reverse your Pattern

Step 1: First, you will need a pattern that has been reversed. We will be drawing the pattern on the back of our background fabric so it must appear as the design will appear on the back ­ in reverse. Some patterns are already reversed. If this is the case, the pattern should be clearly labeled as a ‘reverse pattern’. Other patterns are symmetrical and will not need to be reversed.

If your pattern has not already been reversed for you, you will need to reverse it yourself. This can be done a number of ways.

• Check the back of your pattern. Is it blank? If so, place the pattern over a light source. The reversed design should be facing you. Then place the background fabric (right side down) over the pattern. Secure fabric so that it doesn’t slip. Can you see the pattern lines? If so, go to the next step. If not, you will need to trace the pattern onto the back of the paper pattern. Place the pattern over a light source and simply trace over the lines of the pattern. This light source can be a light box, a window or a piece of glass on a separated dining room table over a light. I like to use a thin, permanent marking pen.
• Scan the pattern into your computer. Use a graphics or photo handling software to reverse the pattern. Then print it and you are ready for the next step.
• Trace the pattern onto a thin material such as tissue paper or thin interfacing using a thin, dark marking pen. You will be able to see the design on the back of your marked material. If necessary, trace over the lines on the back. Use the backside as your pattern. You are now ready for the next step.