Happy Linda

I have to make a cheat sheet as others have mentioned.

fancifrock

I have the same problems. Quilters do a beautiful job quilting but when it comes to writting instructions well------the ones I have come across really need some help. Of course they are not professional writers so maybe getting some help would be helpful to some

Carol Jean

Some patterns aren't written real clear. They expect us to know it all. I have to read it through the first, and sometimes 2nd time. Then by the 3rd time I know what they mean by breaking down each section of the pattern into smaller increments.

thrums

I'm more of an interactive learner. Patterns can drive me crazy.
I photocopy the pattern and use that when I'm quilting. That way I can mark it up so it makes sense to me. Use various highlighters to mark sections. Sometimes I'll draw my own pics the way I read the directions to see if I come out with the same result. If it looks really wrong I check the pattern site to see if there is an errata sheet.

Sometimes I look for video tutorials (utube etc) when I just don't get it.

And then as earlier remarked, so patterns are just poorly written and tested.

Don't dispair.....keep on sewin'

RkayD

I am a visual learner. I have a hard time reading directions too. If it doesn't click with me..I close my eyes and have someone read it to me while the steps fall into place in my head. It doesn't mean we are stupid~it just means we process differently. Its the creativeness in us. =)

mshawii

I read thru a pattern a few times, and then just do it step, by step, from there on. Getting ahead of yourself can just confuse you too much. Good Luck! Jan

Minnisewta

I have a real hard time reading patterns . When that happens I have my husband or a friend help me figure it out. The other person doesn't have to be a quilter. I'm more visual and learn by doing not by reading.
Don't give up.

maryo1943

Sometimes I have the same problem and then I have my hubby read it. He can usually help out.

Jennifer22206

It depends for me. Sometimes patterns are really horribly written. I like to see what to do at each step, and I work really well with lists.

quiltmom04

I agree with you. I was doing a pattern lately from Gyleen Fitgerald and I just didn't get it. I've been sewing for so many years, so I thought my mind was going. I sent her an e-mail and she kindly sent me photos of the steps. It had been just word directions before, and I guess I just had to see it! See if you can e-mail anyone to get clarification.